What is Alzheimer’s?

Posted on September 16, 2015 by Sage Robinson

Many people confuse memory loss and “forgetfulness” with Alzheimer’s. A lot of people have trouble with memory — this does NOT mean they have Alzheimer’s. Alzheimer’s is the most common form of dementia, a general term for memory loss. Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States and those with Alzheimer’s live an average of eight years after their symptoms become noticeable, but can live longer depending on age and other health conditions.

The majority of people with Alzheimer’s are 65 and older. The most common early symptom of Alzheimer’s is difficulty remembering newly learned information as Alzheimer’s typically affects that part of the brain first.

Scientists aren’t sure what causes Alzheimer’s, but believe plaques and tangles, greater than the normal amount that occur due to aging, form in the brain, blocking nerve cell communication and causing cell death. As the disease advances, the severity of symptoms increase. These include serious memory loss, mood and behavior changes, disorientation, confusion about events, time and place; unfounded suspicions about family, friends and caregivers. People with late stage Alzheimer’s often have difficulty speaking, swallowing and walking.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of dementia, make an appointment with a physician. Only a doctor can diagnose Alzheimer’s. There is currently no cure, but treatments for symptoms are available that can temporarily slow the worsening of dementia symptoms and improve quality of life.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s or a related dementia, you are not alone. The Alzheimer’s Association is the trusted resource for reliable information, education, referral and support to millions of people affected by the disease. Call their 24/7 Helpline: 800.272.3900

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.

Men’s Health — Common Prostate Problems

Posted on September 16, 2015 by Sage Robinson

Men of all ages can experience prostate problems. The prostate, a small gland about the size of a walnut located below the bladder, helps make semen, which carries sperm from the testicles when a man ejaculates.

One problem is prostatitis, an inflammation or infection of the prostate. Prostatitis can affect men of all ages and is the number-one reason men under the age of 50 visit a urologist. In some cases, prostatitis is considered chronic if it lasts more than three months. It can follow an attack of acute prostatitis or may also be related to other urinary tract infections.

Some men don’t experience any symptoms, however, the primary symptom of chronic infectious prostatitis is usually repeated bladder infections.

Additional symptoms include:

. Frequent urge to urinate

. Difficulty urinating

. Pain or burning during urination

. Chills and fever

Other symptoms may include pain that comes and goes low in the abdomen, the anus, the groin, or the back. The prostate may swell, causing a less forceful urine stream. Sometimes blood in the urine, pain with sexual intercourse, and painful ejaculation are other symptoms of prostatitis.

If your doctor suspects that you have prostatitis or another prostate problem, he or she may refer you to a urologist (a doctor who specializes in diseases of the urinary tract and the male reproductive system) to confirm the diagnosis. A comprehensive exam will help evaluate whether the prostate gland is enlarged or tender and what treatment is best for you. Prostatitis is a treatable disease, and treatment can include anti-inflammatory drugs, warm baths, beta blockers, hormones or antibiotics, depending on the diagnosis.

The Harmful Truth about High Heels

Posted on September 16, 2015 by Flushing Hospital

High heels can make you look long and lean, and can definitely add some glitz to your outfit—but unfortunately, that’s not all they’re doing.

Prolonged wearing of high heels can lead to foot pain, ingrown toe nails, bunions, nerve damage, or damage to leg tendons. Additionally, lower back pain, osteoarthritis of the knee, and overworking an injured leg muscle can also result from wearing high heels over time.

These problems are likely to develop because the feet are forced into an unnatural position when they are in high heels, therefore placing increased weight on the toes. The incorrect redistribution of weight causes the body to lean forward and puts a strain on the back, knees, and hips. In addition, the change in posture also puts pressure on the nerves which can trigger numbness and pain throughout the entire body.

The conditions that result from wearing high heels don’t develop immediately. They occur from frequent high heel wear. Eliminating high heels from a wardrobe may not be favorable for some, however following these recommendations can reduce some of the issues they may cause:

wear a sensible heel height or consider a wedged shoe
use insoles to help reduce the impact to your knees
wear the correct size shoe
wear heels on days you expect limited walking or standing
alternate shoes throughout the day or from day to day
stretch your calf muscles and feet a few times a day

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They’re Baaaack! How to Prevent and Treat Head Lice

Posted on September 16, 2015 by Sage Robinson

For parents of preschool and elementary school aged children, going back to school can sometimes result in your child bringing home some new friends: head lice.

Head lice, which can’t jump or fly, are transmitted by direct physical contact with the hair of an infested person, feeding on blood and attaching their eggs to the base of hair shafts. Head lice do not spread disease, and getting head lice is not related to the cleanliness of your child or your home.

Contact can occur among children during play at school or sporting activities or by sharing hats, scarves, combs or brushes. Some studies suggest that girls get head lice more often than boys, probably due to more frequent head-to-head contact. Infestation with head lice is much less common among African-Americans than among persons of other races.

Permethrin is an over-the-counter treatment used to treat lice. Recently, 25 states, including New York and New Jersey, have reported head lice that don’t respond to permethrin, but don’t be discouraged. The good news is that prescription medications that don’t contain permethrin are still effective including benzyl alcohol, ivermectin, malathion, spinosad, and lindane shampoo. Prescriptions might be pricier, but will save you money in the long run.

Treatment for head lice is recommended for all household members and all should be treated at the same time. Hats, scarves, pillow cases, bedding, clothing, and towels worn or used by the infested person in the 2-day period just before treatment should be machine washed and dried using the hot water and hot air cycles. Lice and their eggs are killed within five minutes of exposure to temperatures greater than 53.5°C (128.3°F). Items that cannot be laundered may be dry-cleaned or sealed in a plastic bag for two weeks. Vacuuming furniture and floors can remove an infested person’s hairs that might have viable nits (louse eggs) attached.

Peer Pressure: Teen Smoking

Posted on September 14, 2015 by Sage Robinson

Adolescents feel social pressure in various ways, from wearing the latest clothing trends and styles to current music choices. Your child’s friends are one of the strongest influences during this time in their lives, especially when it comes to risky behaviors like tobacco use.

During the pre-teen and teenage years, your child is asserting their independence and exploring their identity. Yet they still crave the approval of their peers and often worry about being rejected. Peer pressure makes them feel they are being pulled in two directions. When it comes to smoking cigarettes, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services noted the rate among teens that have three or more friends who smoke is 10 times higher than those that reported none of their friends smoke.

However, based on behavior recent research, teenagers who don’t smoke say one of the main reasons is their parents. Your influence is real and as a parent, you can help your child as he struggles with peer pressure, examines their options, and becomes a mature independent thinker.

Some helpful tips for your teen to avoid caving into peer pressure are:
• Set boundaries: Place smoking on the list of things they shouldn’t do. Make sure they understand smoking’s health risks, know the consequences for breaking the rules and enforce them.
• Know your child’s friends: Pay attention to how your teen interacts and observe. Are the relationships equal and respectful? If not, make time to about them.
• Manage stress: Be on the look-out for signs of stress. Empathize with their feelings, and help them prioritize their activities.
• Encourage independent thinking: The more they trust themselves, the less vulnerable they will be to peer pressure.
• Show and teach empathy: By showing empathy for your child’s feelings, you teach them how you value their thoughts and in turn will teach them to trust themselves.
• Get them involved: Try having them become involved in groups or clubs that fit their interest and reduce the chances of boredom while gaining a new set of strengths.

Your influence can bring a world of difference. If you are a smoker and are interested in quitting, look into a local smoking cessation group or contact Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center at 718-670-5486 to make an appointment with a pulmonologist.

Home Remedy – Ginger For Nausea

Posted on September 9, 2015 by Sage Robinson

The Chinese have used ginger to treat nausea and digestive issues for over 2,000 years. While research has debated the extent of its effectiveness as a natural remedy, it’s thought that active components, such as gingerol, directly affect the digestive and central nervous systems.

Most doctors and herbal medicine practitioners agree that using fresh ginger in teas and water or natural ginger candies will help relieve nausea, especially during pregnancy. Some studies suggest it is an effective treatment for post-operative and chemotherapy-related nausea, as well.

Ginger also has anti-inflammatory properties that may help boost immunity. Bottom line, there are no disadvantages to ingesting a little ginger to help ease nausea and digestive issues.

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month

Posted on September 2, 2015 by Sage Robinson

Suicide is the third leading cause of death for youth between the ages of 10 and 24 in the United States. It is estimated that 4,600 lives are lost each year. These numbers are cause for great concern but with awareness and prevention can be decreased.
With the reported average in occurrences and recent high-profile suicides, the question of what is suicide and can it be prevented have become popular topics in conversation. It is of the utmost importance that trained mental health professionals address concerns through public education and advocating for the awareness of suicide and suicide prevention.

Know the signs:

. Feelings of hopelessness or helplessness

. Changes in sleep patterns

. Irritability or anger

. Lack of interest in daily activities, grooming and things they were once passionate about

. Talking about harming themselves

. Reckless behavior

. Increased use of drugs and/or alcohol

. Preoccupation with death and organizing of affairs in preparation for death

. Visiting or calling people to say goodbye

If you or someone know know if having suicidal thoughts or demonstrating suicidal behaviors, get help immediately. Call 911, 1-800-SUICIDE, or 1-800-273-TALK

Soy and Amaranth Salad Dressing for Whole Grains Month

Posted on September 2, 2015 by Sage Robinson

In honor of Whole Grains Month try this delicious and easy salad dressing made with amaranth. Amaranth is technically a seed, but is considered a grain in the sense that oats and wheat are because its nutrient profile is similar to that of cereals. Amaranth is high in protein. In some studies it has been shown to lower cholesterol, and may have cardiovascular benefits.

This dressing is great on baby greens. You can store it in the fridge for up to two weeks which will increase the garlic flavor. Adjust the garlic and soy sauce to taste.

Ingredients

1 cup olive oil or canola oil

1 cup amaranth

2 garlic cloves, crushed and sliced

3 tbsp soy sauce or tamari

Toast amaranth in a small frying pan on top of the stove. Don’t leave it unattended and continue to agitate the pan while it toasts. When you hear it “pop” and see it start to brown remove it from heat.

Blend the oil, garlic and soy sauce in a bowl or container. Add the toasted amaranth and let marinate for an hour. Shake or stir before pouring over salad.

Obesity and Arthritis: What is the Relationship?

Posted on September 1, 2015 by Flushing Hospital

When asked what health problems are directly attributed to obesity, the most common answers are hypertension, heart health, and diabetes, but obesity has a large affect on another condition – arthritis.

One out of five Americans has been diagnosed with arthritis, but according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), that number nearly doubles among those considered obese. Obesity not only raises the risk of getting a certain type of arthritis; but for those who already have arthritis, obesity makes the condition worse.
Here’s a look at what fat does to arthritis, as well as some tips to put you on the road to losing weight.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis, affecting approximately 27 million Americans. It is characterized by the breakdown of cartilage – the flexible but tough connective tissue that covers the ends of bones at joints. Age, injury, heredity and lifestyle factors all affect the risk of OA.

OA has a logical link to obesity: The more weight that’s placed on a joint, the more stressed the joint becomes, and the more likely it will wear down and be damaged.
Every pound of excess weight exerts about 4 pounds of extra pressure on the knees. So a person who is 10 pounds overweight has 40 pounds of extra pressure on his knees. If a person is 100 pounds overweight, that is 400 pounds of extra pressure on the knees, causing those who are overweight to be at greater risk of developing arthritis in the first place. Once a person has arthritis, the additional weight causes even more problems on already damaged joints.

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Strange but True — Alice in Wonderland Syndrome

Posted on August 31, 2015 by Sage Robinson

Alice in Wonderland Syndrome is a rare, but real condition, but it doesn’t involve the Mad Hatter or the Cheshire Cat.

Alice in Wonderland syndrome (AIWS) is a neurological condition where the sufferer has temporary episodes of a distorted perception of their own size and the size of things around them. People with this condition visualize themselves as big as giants or as small as insects. The objects around them also appear abnormally large or small. For instance, someone with AIWS will perceive a teacup either as big as a car or as small as a thimble.

This hallucination-like state typically lasts anywhere from five to 30 minutes. People with AIWS also may experience an impaired sense of space, with objects suddenly seeming very close or far away. In some cases, the sense of touch and sound may also be distorted.

The syndrome references the adventures from the famous novel by Lewis Carroll, where the title character Alice experiences strange events in Wonderland. Many believe that the Carroll himself suffered from this disease and was the inspiration for the story.
The cause of the condition is unknown, although the episodes have been closely associated with the onset of migraine headaches or epilepsy. AIWS can affect anyone, but it is most common in children and young adults. Episodes stop for most over time, but those who experience symptoms are recommended to see a doctor immediately.