What are Shin Splints?

Posted on November 30, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

Dancers, runners, and other athletes are at a heightened risk for a variety of different physical injuries and conditions affecting the feet and legs. Shin splints (also known as medial tibial stress syndrome) are a particularly common type of athletic injury, though anyone can get them.

People with shin splints typically experience soreness, tenderness, pain, and swelling along the inner side of the shin bone and lower leg. Rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain medication are often enough to treat shin splints, but if left untreated, they may lead to a stress fracture.

Although you’re likely to experience shin splints at some point as an athlete, there are several steps you can take to reduce your risk or the severity of your injury. These include:

Exercising in moderation: Shin splints are strongly tied to excessive workouts involving running or other high-impact activities. Work out at a consistent, moderate intensity to allow your muscles, joints, and bones time to recover.

Using supportive footwear: Shoes, arch supports, and insoles also play a significant role in preventing injuries to your feet and legs. You should periodically replace the shoes you wear while exercising, use arch supports to manage shin splint pain, and use shock-absorbing insoles.

Include lower-impact activities in your workout: You can reduce your risk of sustaining shin splints by adding less intense activities, such as walking or biking, to your workout. Strength training can also help your feet and legs withstand the effects of high-impact exercises.

Ease into changes in your workout routine: Shin splints often occur in athletes that have made sudden changes to their workouts. You can reduce your risk by making more gradual changes to your routine.

If you start to experience pain in your lower legs that may indicate shin splints, you can schedule an appointment with a podiatrist at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center by calling (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.

Thanksgiving Food Safety Tips

Posted on November 23, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

An important part of making happy memories with your family this Thanksgiving is avoiding risks such as food poisoning that may commonly occur at this time of year.

One in six people throughout the United States becomes sick from food poisoning annually. Common Thanksgiving staples such as turkey, beef, and gravy can transmit contaminants such as salmonella and clostridium perfringens, leading to a variety of potential symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and fever.

Contamination can occur before your purchase, during food prep, or at any other point up until dinner is eaten, meaning that preventing foodborne illness will require effort from your whole family in a few different ways.

During food prep, you should:

Store frozen turkey at zero degrees Fahrenheit or below until it’s ready to thaw.
Thaw your turkey safely in the refrigerator, microwave, or cold water.
Wash your hands before and after preparing your turkey.
Keep produce or other foods on separate plates and cutting boards from raw turkey.
Thoroughly wash all items used to handle raw turkey before using them for other items.
Cook all food thoroughly at a safe temperature.
Use a meat thermometer on the innermost part of your turkey’s wing and thigh and the thickest area of its breast to ensure that it’s cooked fully to 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Store leftovers at 40 degrees Fahrenheit or lower within two hours of cooking them.
Eat leftovers within four days of cooking them.

If you’re enjoying Thanksgiving dinner as a guest this year, you should:

Wash your hands frequently throughout the day, especially before touching food.
Point out or avoid eating any food that seems undercooked.
Keep unfinished food in your host’s refrigerator until you’re ready to return home.

If you experience symptoms of foodborne illness that aren’t going away, you can schedule an appointment with a doctor at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center by calling (718) 670-5486. If you experience severe symptoms such as bloody vomit or diarrhea, extreme stomach pain, or blurry vision, dial 911 or get to an emergency room immediately.

Happy a happy and safe Thanksgiving!

Everything You Need to Know About CBD Oil

Posted on November 2, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

Cannabidiol (also known as CBD) oil, one of over a hundred chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant, is often touted for its various potential health benefits. While current research suggests that this may be the case with regard to certain conditions, there are several factors you should consider before using it.

Although CBD can be found in marijuana, it does not get you high on its own. The compound responsible for this sensation is THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. THC is similarly extracted from cannabis and sold in a variety of products.

The only CBD product currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration, Epidiolex, is primarily used as an anti-seizure medication for people that are one year of age or older who have Lennox Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, or tuberous sclerosis complex.

CBD may also help relieve symptoms of anxiety disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder and social anxiety. Although evidence of its benefits when it comes to depression is limited, current research suggests that it can reduce symptoms in people suffering from cannabis use disorders. In addition to these effects, CBD oil has been linked to benefits for alleviating certain cancer-related symptoms, neurological disorders, high blood pressure, and sleep disorders.

Some studies suggest that CBD could also help reduce pain and inflammation related to arthritis and rheumatic diseases such as fibromyalgia, although research into these benefits is ongoing.

CBD oil can cause certain harmful side effects. According to the Food and Drug Administration, research has linked CBD oil with liver damage, drowsiness, gastrointestinal problems, and negative shifts in mood.

Additionally, there is a long list of unanswered questions about other ways in which CBD oil may affect your health, such as the effects of continuous daily use and different methods of consumption, as well as how a young person’s developing brain may be affected by it.

It’s best to discuss how CBD oil may affect your health with your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks with your medical history in mind, particularly if you’re investigating it as a way of managing symptoms you’re suffering from. You can schedule an appointment with a physician at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center by calling (718) 670-5486 now.

Protecting Our Skin’s Barrier

Posted on October 31, 2022 by Xavia Malcolm

Our skin is the largest and one of our most important organs. It helps to prevent several external threats such as bacteria from entering the body and excessive amounts of water from leaving the body.

There are three layers of protection that make up our skin. The first or outermost layer is called the epidermis, the second layer is called the dermis, and the third is the hypodermis.

The epidermis acts as our protective barrier —our first line of defense. Without its protection, harmful toxins, irritants, and other substances could penetrate our skin. This layer of skin also helps to retain moisture and keep us hydrated.

Damage to the skin’s barrier could lead to several health problems including infections, inflammation, dryness, sensitivity, redness, acne, or premature aging.

Given the importance of the skin’s barrier to our health, it is important that we take good care of it. Here are 10 ways we can achieve this:

Apply sunscreen daily
Remove impurities by gently cleansing the skin (avoid using cleansers that contain sulfates)
Avoid using harsh chemicals on the skin such as retinoids for extended periods
Use plant oils such as coconut oil or almond oil to replenish the skin barrier
Use products that include ceramides and humectants
Use moisturizers that include hyaluronic acid
Avoid long hot baths or showers
Avoid over-washing and over-scrubbing skin
Drink daily recommended amounts of water
Eat healthy foods

To maintain the health of our skin’s barrier, most dermatologists recommend a simple care routine that involves gently cleansing the skin morning and night and using moisturizers that are rich in active ingredients such as glycerin, ceramides, or hyaluronic acid.

If you are experiencing skin damage for a prolonged time, it is best to see a dermatologist to assess the root of the problem and determine the appropriate course of treatment. Your doctor may recommend removing certain products from your skin routine, using simple but effective products, or making lifestyle changes.

3 Dangerous Social Media Health Trends to Avoid

Posted on October 5, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

Popular social media sites such as Instagram and TikTok often give rise to a variety of health and wellness trends. However, many of these trends offer questionable medical benefits and, in some cases, can lead to harmful consequences. Three recent examples of these trends include dry scooping, sunscreen contouring, and cooking chicken in NyQuil.

Dry scooping involves eating pre-workout powders with high volumes of ingredients such as caffeine, creatine, and beta-alanine without mixing them into a liquid. This practice has gained traction over the past year among online fitness communities and influencers, as it’s believed to increase the body’s absorption of the compounds in a powder and allow a person to exercise at increased intensity.

You may, however, find yourself unable to swallow the powder due to its texture and accidentally inhale it, causing inflammation in your throat and nasal passages as well as potentially infecting your lungs. Additionally, this method of ingesting the powder introduces a large amount of caffeine into your body more quickly than drinking it in liquid form, increasing your risk of heart problems. Dry scooping also increases your risk of suffering from digestive issues.

Sunscreen contouring is another dangerous trend that’s emerged through social media this year. It involves applying sunscreen to the high points of your face and staying in the sun to allow tan lines to form and produce a contoured effect.

The primary danger of this trend is that it significantly increases your risk of receiving sunburrns and developing skin cancer. Cumulative ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun over time can cause basal cell and squamous cell skin cancers to form. Sunburns, particularly severe ones that cause blistering, can also become melanoma later in life.

NyQuil chicken recently re-emerged as a TikTok trend after first appearing several years ago on the popular website Reddit. It involves cooking chicken in the cold medicine NyQuil.

As the chicken is cooked and the NyQuil boils in the pan, certain compounds evaporate, leaving behind a concentrated amount of other ingredients that may cause toxic side-effects such as seizures, liver disease, and even death.

Avoid these trends and do what you can to prevent family members and friends, particularly young people who may be more vulnerable to them, from attempting them.

If you experience immediate adverse effects from these practices, dial 9-1-1 and get help immediately. If you’re concerned about cumulative effects from these trends, please schedule an appointment at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center by calling (718) 670-5486.

Over-The-Counter Hearing Aids

Posted on September 20, 2022 by Xavia Malcolm

Hearing loss affects millions of people living in the U.S. It is a common health problem that occurs in older adults. In fact, almost half of adults ages 65 and older suffer from some degree of hearing loss. Unfortunately for some individuals, there are barriers to obtaining affordable and effective hearing aids.

In an effort to improve access to safe, effective, and affordable hearing aids, the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recently issued a ruling to allow over-the-counter (OTC) purchases of the devices. According to the FDA, “This action enables consumers 18 years of age and older with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss to purchase hearing aids directly from stores or online retailers without the need for a medical exam, prescription, or a fitting adjustment by an audiologist.”

The FDA also stated that consumers may be able to purchase hearing aids at traditional drugstores and pharmacies as well as online retail stores as soon as mid-October. Consumers are being encouraged to learn more about over-the-counter hearing aids before making a purchase. Here are some important facts potential buyers should know:

OTC hearing aids are only intended for adults with perceived mild to moderate hearing loss.
OTC hearing aids may not help you if you have trouble hearing loud sounds such as power tools or have trouble hearing conversations in quiet places.
OTC hearing aids are not intended for use by children with hearing loss.
OTC hearing aids should not be confused with personal sound amplification products (PSAPs). Hearing aids are medical devices designed to help a person with or compensate for impaired hearing, while PSAPs are electronics that are used by non-hearing impaired persons to amplify sounds in certain environments.
Although most OTC hearing aids will be designed to fit most, choosing the best device for you may take some trial and error.

If you are experiencing hearing loss, it is recommended that you see a doctor. Your physician can rule out any serious causes including earwax buildup or certain medical conditions. A doctor can also help you to determine if you are a good candidate for OTC hearing aids.

You should also see a doctor if you are experiencing the following symptoms: dizziness, ringing, roaring or beeping in the ear, the drainage of fluid or pus from the ear, or persistent pain or discomfort in the ear.

What Are Bone Spurs?

Posted on September 19, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

Bone spurs, also known as osteophytes, are small growths that often develop along the edges of bones in the joints or spine. They commonly occur in conjunction with certain arthritic conditions.

Bone spurs sometimes protrude from their position, causing you to feel bumps or knobs in the spots where they’re present and interfering with your range of motion in the affected area. In most cases, you may not experience any symptoms. However, if they do occur, they may include pain, numbness, weakness, or tears in tendons that rub against or come into contact with bone spurs.

The most common cause of bone spurs, osteoarthritis, is also the most common form of arthritis. It often affects adults aged 50 or older, though people of any age can suffer from osteoarthritis and, by extension, develop bone spurs.

Osteoarthritis isn’t the only form of arthritis that can cause bone spurs. Ankylosing spondylitis causes spinal inflammation and the fusion of your vertebrae, causing spinal bone spurs to form.

Bone spurs that aren’t causing painful symptoms likely won’t require treatment, but if they’re significantly interfering with your daily life, a doctor can prescribe medication and physical therapy or recommend surgery to remove them. Additionally, applying ice to the affected area, taking over-the-counter pain relievers, losing weight to reduce pressure on your bones and joints, and using equipment such as supportive shoes or inserts can all help you manage your symptoms.

The best way to prevent bone spurs is to prevent the conditions that cause them. This can be achieved by maintaining a healthy weight, exercising to maintain your range of motion, controlling your blood sugar, and making an effort to preserve your joints through stretching and the use of protective equipment.

You can schedule an appointment with a doctor at Flushing Hospital’s Ambulatory Care Center to receive a diagnosis or explore your treatment options by calling (718) 670-5486.

Healthy Aging Month

Posted on September 14, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

For this year’s Healthy Aging Month, Flushing Hospital Medical Center is taking the opportunity to provide our community with information that can help you maximize your potential health benefits as you age.

Some of the best ways to stay healthy as an older person include staying physically active, maintaining a nutritious diet, consistently socializing with supportive friends and family, and routinely visiting your doctor to prevent potential health risks.

Many people gradually engage in less physical activity as they get older, with half of all women and one third of all men aged 75 and older becoming completely inactive. Keeping up with light or moderate physical activity such as walking or weight-lifting is associated with significant health benefits, including better-maintained muscles, bones, and joints, a reduced risk of physical injury, improved blood pressure, and a more positive mood.

Nutrition also factors into your physical and mental health way as you age. A healthy diet full of fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and water can be helpful for staying active and reducing your risk of developing chronic medical conditions.

Socialization is also important when it comes to your health. Friends and family can act as a safety net in times of need, support the activities that keep you healthy and provide companionship that can help you maintain a positive state of mind.

Finally, routine check-ins with your doctor can help identify and promptly treat any medical issues that may arise as you age. You can schedule an appointment with a doctor at Flushing Hospital’s Ambulatory Care Center by calling (718) 670-5486.

What are Sebaceous Cysts?

Posted on August 12, 2022 by Flushing Hospital

A sebaceous cyst is a white or yellow bump under the skin. Sebaceous cysts can be found anywhere on the body, most commonly on the face, the neck, or the torso.

Sebaceous cysts occur when a sebaceous gland or its’ duct becomes blocked due to minor trauma. They contain a liquid or semi-liquid substance called sebum.

Cysts are typically harmless; however, if they become infected, they may become larger, tender, and turn red.

Treatment of a sebaceous cyst may not be necessary because many heal on their own. If the cyst becomes large and tender, it may be necessary to have it drained by a medical professional. Never try to burst the cyst on your own as this may spread the infection and make it worse. A physician may have to prescribe an antibiotic and remove the cyst.

Methods of excising the cyst include:

Laser excision – performed with a laser
Minimal excision – minimal scarring
Punch excision – a small hole is created and the cyst removed
Wide excision – the whole cyst is removed and can leave a large scar.

If you think you have a cyst and it is not improving, do not diagnose it yourself. Seek professional care from a medical provider. If you would like to be seen by a physician at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-670-5486.

National Immunization Awareness Month

Posted on August 10, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

August is National Immunization Awareness Month, and we’re here to help you learn more about what makes getting vaccinated so important, which immunizations you should receive, and what they protect you against.

Vaccinations against prevalent, dangerous diseases are an important part of protecting both your own health and the health of those around you. Issues like pneumococcal disease, hepatitis A and B, chickenpox, and more can introduce potentially lifelong complications that may reduce your quality of life or even shorten it.

The benefits of vaccinations hold true at any age, though some immunizations are more important at certain ages than others.

Children whose immune systems are still developing, for instance, need them not only as a protective measure for themselves, but often as a requirement for enrolling in school and participating in other activities. As another example, adults over 60 years of age may still need pneumococcal vaccines, seasonal flu vaccines, and more.

Though the list of necessary immunizations evolves as new diseases are discovered and researched, the most common vaccinations recommended by the CDC include:

HepA, HepB (Hepatitis A and B)
DTaP (Diphtheria, tetanus, and whooping cough)
Hib (Haemophilus influenza type B)
IPV (Polio)
PCV (Pneumococcal)
RV (Rotavirus)
Varicella (Chickenpox)
MMR (Measles, mumps, and rubella)
Influenza (flu)
Meningococcal conjugate
HPV
Zoster

If you or your child aren’t up to date with your immunizations, schedule an appointment with a physician at Flushing Hospital’s Department of Internal Medicine or your primary care physician as soon as possible.