Surprising Causes of A UTI

Posted on April 4, 2023 by Xavia Malcolm

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a common infection that affects the urinary system, which includes the bladder, ureters, urethra, and kidneys.

Urinary tract infections develop when bacteria from outside the body (most commonly from the rectum or skin) enter the urethra and infect the urinary system.

Although anyone can get a UTI, women are more at risk than men. It is estimated that around 50% to 60% of women will experience an infection in their lifetime.

The risk of developing a UTI can be minimized if you know the risk factors and take measures to prevent an infection. These factors include:

Eating excessive amounts of sugar
Having diabetes
Hormonal changes such as menopause
Holding in your urine for too long or not emptying your bladder completely
Wiping the wrong way (It is recommended that you wipe from front to back. Going the opposite way can track bacteria from your anus to the urethra)
Frequently wearing thong or string-bikini underwear
Frequently wearing tight pants
Frequent sexual intercourse
Not urinating after having sexual intercourse
Not drinking enough water
Using certain forms of birth control such as a diaphragm, spermicide, or unlubricated condoms
Catheter use
Taking certain medications such as some antihistamines or antipsychotic drugs
Frequently riding a bicycle

Some risk factors are easier to address than others and some are unavoidable, but there are steps you can take to help lower the risk of a UTI. Drinking plenty of water helps dilute urine and makes you urinate more often, which flushes bacteria out of the urinary system. Wiping front to back after using the bathroom is also helpful. Other measures include reducing your sugar intake, changing your method of birth control, managing your diabetes, avoiding holding in your urine and urinating after intercourse.

If you are frequently experiencing urinary tract infections, you should make an appointment to see your doctor. To schedule an appointment at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-670-5486.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

How MS Can Affect Oral Health

Posted on March 28, 2023 by Xavia Malcolm

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic disease that affects the central nervous system (brain, spinal cord, and optic nerves).

The disease causes the immune system to attack the central nervous system, disrupting signals to and from the brain.

MS affects each person differently; however, common symptoms of the disease include motor impairment and heightened levels of inflammation in the body; both of which can contribute to the deterioration of a person’s dental health.

Motor impairment caused by MS often involves decreased dexterity, muscle weakness, or loss of coordination. These deficits can affect a person’s ability to brush and floss their teeth properly. People living with MS that have lost control of their muscles may find it difficult to do either action well.

Gingivitis and other gum diseases are more prevalent in individuals with MS. This is due to the increased levels of inflammation in the body, resulting from a deteriorating immune system.

Medications used to treat MS can also contribute to poor dental health. Side effects of these prescriptions often include dry mouth which makes a person more susceptible to dental problems.

Living with MS and maintaining good oral health can be challenging. However, complications can be avoided by making adjustments to a dental regimen, such as sitting down while brushing and visiting a dentist routinely.

To schedule an appointment with a dentist at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call (718) 670-5521.

Differences Between Psychologists, Psychiatrists and Licensed Mental Health Counselors

Posted on March 14, 2023 by Xavia Malcolm

Taking care of your mental health and well-being is just as important as taking care of your physical health. If you are feeling overwhelmed, or experiencing anxiety or other symptoms of a mental health disorder, it is highly recommended that you seek the help of a licensed professional.

Mental health professionals can help you to assess challenging life events and explore how they may be affecting you. They are trained to diagnose mental health conditions and provide the tools needed to manage emotions, phobias, compulsions, or addictions.

There are several types of mental health professionals available to help with your concerns. The most common are licensed mental health counselors, psychiatrists, and psychologists. Understanding the key differences in their training and the delivery of their services can help with deciding what is best for you.

Psychologists- have advanced, doctoral degrees in the study of the human mind and behaviors. They are qualified to provide counseling and psychotherapy, perform psychological testing, and treat mental health disorders. Psychologists are not medical doctors; therefore, they generally (except for a few states) do not prescribe medications and cannot perform medical procedures.
Psychiatrists– are medical doctors who are trained in the field of psychiatry (the branch of medicine that focuses on preventing, diagnosing, and treating mental health and emotional disorders). Psychiatrists typically treat more complex mental health disorders than psychologists and are trained to differentiate mental health problems from other underlying medical issues that present symptoms similar to psychiatric conditions. Psychiatrists can prescribe medications and other medical treatments as part of a patient’s treatment plan.
Licensed Mental health counselors- have master’s degrees in a field of study related to mental health such as counseling or psychology. They work with individuals, couples, or families to identify triggers, improve overall mental well-being or cope with mental health issues. They are not medical doctors; therefore, are unable to prescribe medications.

If someone you know is experiencing mental health problems, please encourage them to seek the assistance of a mental health professional.

To schedule an appointment with a Mental Health Professional at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, call 718-670-5562.

What To Expect: Colonoscopy

Posted on February 28, 2023 by Xavia Malcolm

A colonoscopy is a procedure that physicians use to examine the inside of the large intestine (colon). During an examination, doctors can investigate changes in the large intestine and possible causes for a variety of symptoms. Most importantly, physicians can use this procedure to look for precancerous or cancerous polyps on the inside of the colon’s lining.

Before the procedure, your doctor will require that you consume a clear liquid diet for at least 24 hours ahead of the time for your exam. You will also have to take a laxative to help clear the intestines. In some instances, your provider may perform an enema before the test. Please be sure to inform your doctor of any medications you are taking so that adjustments can be made if needed before your procedure.

When you arrive for your colonoscopy, you may be given medications to sedate you or make you feel sleepy. It is highly recommended that you have someone available to drive you home for this reason.

Your physician will begin the procedure once you are sedated. A colonoscope is the tool your healthcare provider utilizes to conduct the examination. The device is a long, flexible tube with a camera and light on the end. During the procedure, your physician will insert the colonoscope into your rectum and move it into your colon to look for polyps or other signs of a potential health problem.

Once the examination is completed, your healthcare team will transport you to a recovery room for a few hours. It is common for patients to experience mild cramps or bleeding in the first stool after the procedure. Please contact your doctor if bleeding and cramping persist.

Pelvic Organ Prolapse

Posted on February 14, 2023 by Xavia Malcolm

Pelvic organ prolapse (POP) is a type of pelvic floor disorder. It occurs when the muscles and tissues that support a woman’s pelvic organs become weak and no longer capable of holding those organs in place.

A woman’s pelvic organs include the rectum, uterus, bladder, cervix, and urethra, all of which are held in place by pelvic floor muscles. However, these muscles can become stretched or torn as a result of childbirth or other factors including:

Pelvic floor injuries
Chronic constipation and straining during bowel movements
Aging
Obesity
Hormonal changes
Hysterectomy
Genetic disorders that weaken connective tissues
Having a condition that causes frequent coughing

When pelvic floor muscles are no longer able to hold pelvic organs in position, they drop lower in the pelvis. This creates a bulge or prolapse into the vagina, and in severe cases may cause pelvic organs to bulge onto other organs or outside the body.

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, “POP affects 1 in 4 women in their 40s and 1 in 3 in their 60s. By the time women reach their 80s, POP affects half of all women.” Some may experience symptoms that include:

Lower back pain
Pressure of pain during sexual intercourse
Problems inserting tampons
A feeling of pressure, fullness or aching in the pelvis
Incontinence
Spotting or bleeding of the vagina
Feeling or seeing a bulge coming out of the vagina

POP is diagnosed by conducting a series of tests that include a pelvic examination. There are various treatments available such as inserting devices called pessaries to support the pelvic organs, pelvic floor therapy, or surgery to support or close the vagina.

Flushing Hospital Medical Center offers a wide variety of treatments for POP, this includes sacrocolpopexy, a surgical procedure that can be performed with the assistance of a surgical robot by our highly trained surgeons.

For more information about robotic surgery or procedures performed by our surgeons, please contact Flushing Hospital’s Department of Surgery at 718-670-3135.

Dementia Home Safety Tips

Posted on January 17, 2023 by Xavia Malcolm

Dementia is a general term used to describe the loss of cognitive functioning, this includes memory, language, reasoning, and other mental abilities. It is also common to experience changes in vision, depth perception, hearing, and sensitivity to temperatures. Although dementia occurs more commonly in the elderly, it is not a normal part of aging.

Symptoms of dementia can affect a person’s ability to conduct normal activities. They can also pose a threat to personal safety.

Individuals with dementia may get lost in a familiar neighborhood, become confused, forget the name of objects around the house, have trouble with balance, or may not be able to complete tasks independently. Following these tips can reduce the risk of potential hazards and help keep someone living with dementia safe at home:

Display emergency numbers and your loved one’s home address near all telephones.
Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors throughout the home, and make sure they are in working order.
Avoid clutter.
Keep plastic bags out of reach.
Remove or lock up all guns or weapons.
Install safety locks on guns or remove ammunition.
Keep all medications in a locked cabinet or drawer.
Install grab bars in showers, bathtubs, and on toilets.
Secure large furniture to prevent tipping.
Mark the edges of stairs with neon-colored, glow-in-the-dark tape.
Place stickers or decals on glass doors.
Place “STOP” signs on all doors leading outside.
Install alarms on doors and windows.
Place deadbolts or latches on doors above eye level.
Keep car keys hidden.
Keep potentially dangerous kitchen tools such as knives locked up.
Remove the knobs from stoves.
Install appliances with an automatic shut-off feature.
Throw away decorative food or toxic plants that may be mistaken for real food.
Lower the temperature setting on water heaters.
Cover heating pipes and radiators.

These tips will help loved ones remain safe in their homes and live independently for as long as possible. As the disease progresses, safety precautions will have to be adjusted to adapt to a person’s abilities.

Supplements That May Raise Blood Pressure

Posted on December 7, 2022 by Xavia Malcolm

Supplements are often taken in an effort to increase the intake of nutrients and improve overall health. Although supplements can provide some health benefits, they can also be harmful, especially for those diagnosed with medical conditions such as high blood pressure.

Several supplements are known to increase blood pressure or interfere with drugs intended to lower blood pressure. Here are a few:

Licorice
Caffeine pills
Ginseng
Guarana
Arnica
Ephedra
John’s wort
Bitter orange
Evening primrose
Saw palmetto
Hawthorn

It is always recommended that you speak with your doctor before adding supplements to your health routine. Your physician can explore potential risks to your health and contraindications with the medications you are taking.

To schedule an appointment with a doctor at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-670-5486.

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

Posted on December 6, 2022 by Xavia Malcolm

The National Library of Medicine defines cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) as, “a combination of two therapeutic approaches, known as cognitive therapy and behavioral therapy.” The principle of this approach to therapy is, “What we think, how we feel and how we behave are all closely connected – and all of these factors have a decisive influence on our well-being.”

The goal of CBT is to work with a licensed mental health provider to change behavioral and thinking patterns over time by applying strategies that may include:

Identifying and coping with challenges
Learning about your mental health condition
Learning how to practically address rational concerns
Learning ways to identify and manage emotions
Identifying and reshaping negative or inaccurate thinking
Facing fears instead of avoiding them
Practicing new coping skills that can be used in real-life situations
Setting goals
Using problem-solving skills
Learning relaxation or stress-reducing techniques

Cognitive behavioral therapy has proven beneficial in helping to improve a variety of mental health conditions and disorders such as:

Depression
Anxiety disorders
Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Post-traumatic stress disorder
Eating disorders
Phobias

CBT is appropriate for adults and children. It can be conducted in one-on-one or group settings and delivered in person or online. According to Psychology Today, it may take 5 to 20 weekly sessions of about 45 minutes each for cognitive behavioral therapy to be effective. However, treatment may continue for additional sessions if needed. Cognitive behavioral therapy may be used alone or combined with medication therapy to address a person’s needs.

To learn more about cognitive behavioral therapy or to schedule an appointment with a mental health provider at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call (718) 670-5316.

Tardive Dyskinesia

Posted on November 22, 2022 by Xavia Malcolm

The National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) defines tardive dyskinesia (TD) as, “a movement disorder that causes a range of repetitive muscle movements in the face, neck, arms and legs.”

TD often develops as a side effect of long-term use of certain medications (most commonly antipsychotic medications used to treat schizophrenia and other mental health disorders). Tardive dyskinesia may also develop as a result of prolonged use of medications used to treat nausea and neurological disorders such as Parkinson’s disease.

The symptoms of TD are beyond a person’s control and can affect their quality of life. Symptoms may include uncontrolled:

Jerky movements of the face
Neck twisting
Smacking or puckering the lips
Tongue movements
Chewing
Frowning
Eye blinking
Hand and leg movements

Some people are more likely to develop TD than others. You may have a higher risk if you:

Are born female at birth
Misuse drugs or alcohol
Are Asian American or African American
Are of the age of 55
Have gone through menopause
Have a family history of TD

If you are experiencing symptoms of tardive dyskinesia, your healthcare provider may run a series of tests to rule out other movement disorders.

Treatment for TD involves monitoring medications and making adjustments when needed. In some cases, your physician may recommend that you stop taking certain medications. If symptoms persist, other treatments such as botulinum toxin injections, deep brain stimulation, or medications used to treat movement disorders may help.

10 Foods That Can Help Lower High Blood Pressure

Posted on November 15, 2022 by Xavia Malcolm

Hypertension (high blood pressure) develops when the force of the blood pushing against the arteries or flowing through the blood vessels is consistently too high. This can lead to complications such as stroke, heart failure, kidney disease or heart attack.

Hypertension is treatable and manageable through medication and making certain lifestyle changes. One of the most effective lifestyle changes a person living with hypertension can apply is following a healthy diet rich in the following foods:

Salmon and other types of fatty fish
Green, leafy vegetables such as spinach and broccoli
Citrus fruits
Oatmeal
Beets
Berries
Low-fat yogurt
Seeds such as pumpkin, flax, and sunflower seeds
Garlic
Legumes and beans

Adding these foods to a diet can help with managing high blood pressure when combined with exercise and a treatment plan recommended by a doctor.

To schedule an appointment with a doctor at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-670-5486.