Health

Senior Summer Health Tips

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Rising summer temperatures can be unbearable for everyone. They can be even worse for senior citizens because they can be severely affected by heat-related illnesses. Some heat-related illnesses include:

  • Heat exhaustion
  • Heatstroke
  • Heat syncope
  • Dehydration
  • Heat cramps
  • Heat edema
  • Heat rash
  • Sunburn

Older adults are at higher risk for heat-related illnesses and death. Factors that put older adults at greater risk include:

  • Health problems such as heart, lung, or kidney disease.
  • Skin changes that are caused by normal aging.
  • Any illness that causes weakness or results in a fever.
  • Drugs such as diuretics, sedatives, tranquilizers, and some heart and high blood pressure medications can make it harder for the body to cool itself off.
  • Being on several prescription drugs at the same time.
  • Being obese, overweight, or underweight.
  • Drinking alcoholic beverages.
  • Living in places without air conditioning or fans.
  • Dehydration.

Hot summer days can make it difficult for the body to regulate its temperature. Especially for older adults. Here are some tips to keep them safe and prevent heat-related illnesses:

  • Stay away from direct sun exposure as much as possible.
  • Spend as much time in air-conditioned spaces as possible.
  • Stay hydrated.
  • Wear loose and light-colored clothing and a wide-brimmed hat.
  • Take cool showers and baths.
  • Avoid exercising outdoors and other physical activity when it’s hot.
  • Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen that is SPF 15 or higher and reapply throughout the day.
  • Find out if certain medications can contribute to heat-related illnesses.

If you are experiencing any heat-related symptoms, you can schedule an appointment at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center’s Cardiology Department by calling (718) 206-7100. If you are experiencing an emergency, please dial 911 right away.

 

 

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.

Anaerobic Exercise

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Anaerobic exercise is any short, fast high-intensity exercise that uses stored energy to supply working muscles instead of oxygen.

Some types of anaerobic exercises include:

  • High-intensity interval training (HIIT)
  • Heavy weightlifting
  • Sprinting
  • Plyometrics: jumping, hopping, skipping, jumping squats, and jumping lunges
  • Calisthenics: bodyweight exercises like push-ups, pull-ups, and dips

Anaerobic exercise benefits the cardiovascular system, muscles, and joints. These benefits include:

  • An increase in muscle strength and power.
  • An increase in fat loss and muscle mass.
  • An improvement in bone mineral density.
  • A decrease in joint stiffness.
  • Corrected muscle imbalances and improved posture.
  • An improvement in circulation and heart and lung function.
  • A decrease in high blood pressure.
  • A decrease in inflammation throughout the body.
  • An improvement in mood and energy.
  • A decreased risk of developing conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
  • Lowered blood sugar, high cholesterol, and triglycerides.

Anaerobic exercise isn’t easy, it may be helpful to find a certified fitness trainer to help you create a program based on your medical history.

If you want to create a program on your own, here are some basic weightlifting tips to consider:

  • Warm up for at least five minutes.
  • Start with large muscle groups first.
  • Do one to three sets of eight to 15 reps.
  • Complete eight to 10 exercises following the proper technique.

Please note that when beginning or increasing the amount of anaerobic exercise, get cleared to do so by your healthcare provider. Start slowly and gradually increase your physical activity level over time.

If you experience medical problems while exercising, you can schedule an appointment with a doctor at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, 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.

Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month

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July is Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month. Arthritis isn’t just an older person’s disease. Children can suffer from it as well.

Juvenile arthritis or pediatric rheumatic disease is an umbrella term that describes the inflammatory and rheumatic diseases that develop in children 16 years and under.

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is an autoimmune disease where the immune system attacks the joints instead of fighting viruses and germs. It is the most common type of arthritis in children.

Other types of juvenile arthritis include:

  1. Juvenile myositis- is an inflammatory disease that causes muscle weakness. There are two types:
  • Juvenile polymyositis
  • Juvenile dermatomyositis
  1. Juvenile lupus- is an autoimmune disease that affects the joints, skin, internal organs, and other areas. The most common form is systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
  2. Juvenile scleroderma- describes a group of conditions that cause the skin to tighten and harden.
  3. Vasculitis- is a disease that causes inflammation of the blood vessels that can lead to heart complications. According to the Arthritis Foundation, Kawasaki disease and Henoch-Schonlein purpura (HCP) are the most common vasculitis in kids and teens.
  4. Fibromyalgia- is a chronic pain syndrome that causes widespread muscle pain and stiffness. It also causes fatigue, disrupted sleep, and other symptoms. It is more common in girls and rarely diagnosed before puberty.

The symptoms of juvenile arthritis can vary depending on the type. The most common symptoms include:

  • Joint pain
  • Joint swelling
  • Joint stiffness
  • Fever, swollen lymph nodes, and rash

It can be difficult to diagnose juvenile arthritis in children because joint pain can be caused by many different problems. Here are some ways it is diagnosed:

  • Physical exams
  • Blood tests
  • Imaging scans

There is no cure for arthritis. However, it can be treated. Treatments include:

  • Medications
  • Physical or occupational therapies
  • Surgery
  • Self-care

If you believe your child is experiencing arthritis symptoms, visiting a pediatrician as soon as possible is important. You can schedule an appointment at Forest Hills Pediatric Specialists by calling (718) 704-5020

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.

Grilling Safety Tips

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Let the summer cookouts begin!

We all enjoy delicious food fresh off the grill. Whether you’re using a charcoal or a gas grill, here are some tips to help you grill safely:

  • Grill in well-ventilated areas. Never use an outdoor grill indoors.
  • Open your gas grill before lighting to make sure gas doesn’t build up under the top.
  • Wear proper clothing.
    • Don’t wear any loose clothing.
    • Roll up your sleeves.
    • Pull your hair back.
    • Tie and secure apron strings.
  • Keep a fire extinguisher within reach.
  • Keep combustibles like lighter fluid and cooking sprays at a safe distance away from the grill.
    • Never add lighter fluid to hot coals.
    • Never use gasoline or kerosene as a starter fluid.
  • Create a safe zone around the grill.
    • Keep children, pets, and play areas away from the grill.
    • Mark a three-foot “No Kids Zone” around your grill.
  • Keep the grill at least 10 feet away from buildings.
  • Check the grill for leaks if you are using a gas grill.
  • Make sure the grill is on a flat and level surface.
  • Always clean the grill after use to remove grease that can start a fire.
  • Keep a spray bottle full of water next to the grill to extinguish any small flames before they spread.
  • Never leave the grill unattended.
  • Never use the grill while intoxicated.
  • Place used coals from the grill in a metal can with a lid once they have cooled off.

If you or someone you are with are experiencing an emergency, call 911 immediately.

 

 

 

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.

The MediSys Health Network Launches New Healthcare App

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The MediSys Health Network (Comprised of Jamaica Hospital Medical Center and Flushing Hospital Medical Center) is pleased to announce the launch of its new application and comprehensive patient platform, MediSys Connect.

The MediSys Connect app is an ideal companion for patient health. The app is integrated with an intuitive platform that gives patients a smooth and hassle-free experience, allowing them to manage their healthcare conveniently from their mobile devices.

With MediSys Connect, patients can seamlessly search for healthcare providers and schedule their appointments in just a few clicks.  The platform’s Find-A-Doctor feature offers a wide selection of providers, with over 100 specialties to choose from. Patients can also utilize a messaging tool within the app to securely and directly communicate with their physicians.

Other key tools allow patients to:

  • View test results
  • View medication lists
  • Request medication refills
  • Stay informed about past and upcoming appointments
  • eCheck-in for upcoming appointments
  • Enroll for paperless statements
  • View billing account summaries and statements
  • View signed and scanned documents
  • Manage payments
  • Effortlessly retrieve medical records.

In addition to these user-friendly tools, MediSys Connect provides access to newsletters and podcasts. Here, patients can stay informed by reading articles or listening to trusted healthcare experts discuss various medical and lifestyle topics.

The MediSys Health Network encourages patients to download the MediSys Connect app and explore the state-of-the-art features.

Whether you’re a guest user, a Medisys Connect member, or have a MyChart account, the platform is easy to navigate. It is designed to provide a positive and personalized healthcare experience.  Information provided on the platform is available in multiple languages to help members of the network’s culturally diverse patient population manage their health.

New users can download the app from the Apple Store or Google Play. They can sign up by providing their name, birth date, and address. MyChart users can download the app from the Apple Store or Google Play and log in with their existing credentials from MyChart.

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.

Top Summer Health Concerns and How to Prevent Them

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Summer is in full swing, so most of our time will be spent outside doing various activities. However, there are many health concerns to consider.

Here are some summer health concerns and how to prevent them:

  1. Dehydration

Up to 78% of the human body is made of water, when it doesn’t get enough of it, it can’t function properly. In high heat, dehydration can become severe and fatal.

To prevent dehydration, it is important to stay hydrated. You can do this by drinking water and eating water-rich foods. Staying properly hydrated can also prevent kidney stones.

  1. Sunburns

A sunburn is when UV or ultraviolet rays from the sun cause a radiation burn on the skin. Sunburns can contribute to premature aging of skin and skin cancer. It can also lead to dehydration, sun poisoning, and infection from severe burns.

To prevent sunburn, wear sunscreen containing titanium oxide or zinc oxide every day, even on overcast days. Make sure to cover your entire body, including your ears, eyelids, lips, scalp, and if exposed, the top of your feet.

  1. Heat illnesses

Spending time in the sun doesn’t only bring the risks of sunburn and dehydration. It also brings the risk of heat illnesses which include:

  • Heat rash- a red stinging rash that develops when sweat gets trapped in your glands.
  • Heat cramps- are painful muscle cramps that occur when you sweat so much that your body loses salts and fluids.
  • Heat exhaustion- is when your body can’t cool itself through sweating. If it’s not treated, it can quickly turn into heatstroke.
  • Heatstroke- or sunstroke, is when your body temperature climbs to dangerous levels. It’s the most severe heat-related illness and can be fatal.

To prevent heat illnesses, limit the time you spend outdoors. Also, take any symptoms you observe in yourself and others seriously.

  1. Bee stings and insect bites

Since insects are more active during the summer, there’s a higher risk of encountering them. Especially for:

  • Bee stings
  • Mosquito bites
  • Tick bites
  • Ant bites

To prevent bugs from stinging or biting you, wear an insect repellent with the active ingredients DEET or picaridin. Other ways to prevent stings and bites include:

  • Avoid using scented products.
  • Drain any standing water.
  • Put on protective clothing.
  • Don’t leave any food uncovered outside.
  1. Drowning

We want to spend more time near water to cool off as temperatures rise. However, it is important to follow proper safety precautions to avoid drowning risks.

Here are some ways to prevent drowning risks:

  • Learn CPR
  • Use drain covers on pool drains.
  • Wear life jackets
  • Sign up for swimming lessons.
  1. Unsafe summer foods

Everybody loves a good summer barbecue or cookout, but sometimes the food we eat doesn’t always love us back.

The smoking process that gives smoked meats their flavor also creates harmful substances called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons or PAHs and heterocyclic amines or HCAs. The National Cancer Institute warns that PAHs and HCAs are mutagenic, meaning they can cause changes to your DNA that put you at risk for certain types of cancer.

You can prevent ingesting these harmful substances by using liquid smoke as an alternative marinade for your meats.

Foodborne illness can be a concern for cookout food as well. This is the case for food left out or leftover sitting in the “temperature danger zone” of 40 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. These temperatures allow bacteria to grow that can make you sick.

You can prevent foodborne illness by cooking meats to a safe temperature and throwing any food that has sat out too long in the trash.

  1. Seasonal allergies

Pollen is a huge problem in the summer as the weather gets warmer and trees, grass, and flowers pollinate.

To prevent seasonal allergies, try taking allergy medications before the season starts so your body can build its defense.

These preventative measures can help you enjoy your summer and keep you safe.

If you or someone you are with are experiencing an emergency, call 911 immediately.

 

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.

Flushing Hospital Completes Phase 1 Of ER Renovation Project

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Flushing Hospital Medical Center recently completed the construction of Phase 1 of its ER renovation and expansion project.

Once completed, the project will double the size of the hospital’s Emergency Department, which will feature state-of-the-art equipment, as well as a dedicated bariatric treatment space and enhanced infection control measures that include two negative pressure isolation rooms. The expanded area also includes two new triage rooms and comfortable, private treatment spaces for patients in a beautifully renovated, calming environment.

Flushing Hospital’s new ER will have separate walk-in and ambulance entrances. The walk-in side will quickly treat patients of lower acuity, while the ambulance entrance side will treat more critically ill patients and contain a trauma and behavioral health room.

In 2023, Flushing Hospital’s Emergency Department received 42,000 ER visits, that number will greatly increase once the ER expansion project is completed.

In addition to expanding its ER, Flushing Hospital completed a renovation and modernization project for its entire fifth floor, which includes the labor, delivery, and recovery suites, mother/baby unit, neonatal intensive care unit, and newborn nursery.

Flushing Hospital’s continuous growth and optimization of services reflects its commitment to meeting the needs of its community, a commitment that has been upheld since 1884 when the hospital first opened its doors.

 

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.

Employee Spotlight Shines on Rekha Lall

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This month, our employee spotlight shines on Rekha Lall, Head of Ultrasound in our Radiology Department. Rekha has been working at Flushing Hospital Medical Center for the past 36 years. She was born in Delhi, India where she attended elementary school through college. She moved to New York at the age of 18, where she completed her graduate studies and remains today.

Rekha has two children and two grandchildren. She also has a dog whose name is Whiskey. In her free time she enjoys painting, cooking and spending time with her grandchildren. Her favorite food is pizza. Rekha enjoys music, especially Bollywood and Bhangra. One of the  things that is most important to Rekha is her family at home. Her family gives her the encouragement that fuels her determination and enriches every aspect of her life.

Equally important to her is her work family. They are extremely compassionate and very dedicated to taking care of their patients. Rekha’s  patients occupy a profound place in her heart and priorities. Her patients entrust her with their health and well-being and this is a responsibility  she holds with great reverence.

Rekha has always wanted to work in healthcare. It is a passion that has guided her through the journey of  life since she was a child. She feels incredibly fortunate to wake up each day and pursue what she loves most. Rekha feels truly blessed to have a career that fulfills her professionally and personally. It allows her to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of others. We are fortunate to have Rekha working with us at Flushing Hospital for 36 years and we look forward to her continuing for many more years in the future.

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.

Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis

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Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is a lung disease that occurs when lung tissue becomes scarred and damaged. The scarring of the lung tissue causes stiffness, making breathing difficult. The word “idiopathic” means it has no known cause, but there are many causes of pulmonary fibrosis.

Some causes of pulmonary fibrosis include:

  • Long-term exposure to certain toxins
  • Radiation therapy
  • Some medicines
  • Certain medical conditions

How fast pulmonary fibrosis worsens over time and how severe the symptoms are vary from person to person. These symptoms include:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Dry cough
  • Extreme tiredness
  • Unintended weight loss
  • Aching muscles and joints
  • The widening and rounding of the tips of the fingers or toes, called clubbing.

Pulmonary fibrosis has been found in children and infants, but this is not common. Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis is much more likely to affect middle-aged and older adults. Other types of pulmonary fibrosis caused by connective tissue disease, can occur in younger people.

Certain factors increase the risk of pulmonary fibrosis. They are:

  • Smoking
  • Certain types of work
  • Cancer treatments
  • Genetics

Pulmonary fibrosis can cause many complications including:

  • High blood pressure in the lungs
  • Right-sided heart failure
  • Respiratory failure
  • Lung cancer and other lung problems

Pulmonary fibrosis is diagnosed when your doctor or other healthcare professional reviews your medical and family history and performs a physical exam.

Some other ways pulmonary fibrosis can be diagnosed include:

  • Imaging tests
  • Lung function tests
  • Biopsy/Tissue sample collection
  • Blood tests

The scarring and thickening of the lungs from pulmonary fibrosis cannot be repaired. And no current treatment has prevented pulmonary fibrosis from getting worse over time.

Treatments for pulmonary fibrosis are focused on:

  • Medicines
  • Oxygen therapy
  • Pulmonary rehabilitation
  • Lung transplant

Being actively involved in your treatment and staying as healthy as possible are essential to living with pulmonary fibrosis. It is important to:

  • Stop smoking and avoid other irritants to the lungs
  • Eat well
  • Exercise regularly
  • Take time to rest
  • Get vaccinated
  • Follow your treatment plan

Pulmonary fibrosis is a lifelong condition that worsens over time. It can cause fear, depression, and stress.

Here are some tips to help you cope with your diagnosis:

  • Learn about your condition.
  • Spend time with family and friends.
  • Talk to your doctor or other healthcare professionals.
  • Join a support group.
  • Learn about palliative care services.

If you need medical attention for symptoms of pulmonary fibrosis or other lung diseases, schedule an appointment with a pulmonologist at our 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.

The Physical and Mental Health Benefits of Gardening

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It has been known for a long time that gardening offers many benefits both to a person’s physical and mental health. It has been used by hospitals as a form of therapy and by senior centers to help keep people engaged in physical and social activities. Schools have also used gardening as a way to involve students with nature.

Physical activities associated with gardening often includes: digging, bending, raking, mowing, and carrying items to be planted. Some of the benefits of these activities are strengthening muscles, keeping joints functioning properly, improving manual dexterity, burning of calories and increasing lung function. When a person works outdoors they tend to absorb more vitamin D from sunlight which is also beneficial to bone strength and to lowering blood pressure.

Gardening is also beneficial from a mental health perspective. Gardening has been shown to:

  • Improve relaxation
  • Improve self esteem
  • Reduce stress and anxiety
  • Improve socialization
  • Decrease depression
  • Diminish PTSD
  • Improve thought processes

Gardening clearly offers many benefits to a person’s all around well-being. It doesn’t take much to get started and the results will provide endless opportunities to enjoy the effort that goes into it.

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.