February is American Heart Health Month

Posted on February 12, 2019 by Joann Ariola

Over 50 years ago President Lyndon B. Johnson proclaimed the month of February to be American Heart Month in order to bring attention to one of the leading causes of death in the United States. This tradition has been carried on by every President since.

Each year over 800,000 lives are taken as a result of heart disease, stroke and other cardiovascular diseases. Every 84 seconds someone in the United States dies from the disease and each year approximately 750,000 people experience a heart attack and of those, about 115,000 will not survive.
The American Heart Association recommends the following behavioral modifications to prevent heart disease:
• Avoid smoking
• Engage in some form of daily physical activity
• Follow a healthy diet
• Maintain a healthy body weight
• Control cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar levels
The death rate from heart disease has been improving slowly over the last decade due to advances in medications, better diagnostic capabilities, and better access to health care, but the statistics are still pretty alarming. If you would like to schedule an appointment with a cardiologist at Flushing Hospital, 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.

National Organ Donor Day

Posted on February 12, 2019 by Andrew Rubin

There are currently over 120,000 people in the United States who are awaiting an organ donation that could potentially save their lives.

It all started in 1998 when the Saturn company joined together with the United Auto Workers and supported by the U.S. Department of Health to recognize the need. Every year February 14th is a day designated as National Organ Donor Day that serves to make the public aware of the importance of how an organ donation can save a life for someone else.

There are different types of donations:
• Organs
• Tissue
• Marrow
• Platelets
• Blood

Flushing Hospital Medical Center supports organ donation. To find out how you can register to become an organ donor, go to www.liveonny.org for more information.

How can using a humidifier affect your health ?

Posted on February 6, 2019 by Andrew Rubin

A humidifier works by adding moisture to the air, especially in cold weather when the air indoors tends to be dry. One of the benefits of having a humidifier is that when used properly they can lessen the risk of colds and flu germs. This is due to the fact that viruses tend to spread more easily in air that is dry, which is more common in cold weather.

Other benefits of having a humidifier include relieving:
• dry skin
• dry throat
• chapped lips
• irritation of the nasal passages
• nose bleeds
• headaches
• sinus problems

The proper room humidity level is between 30 and 50 percent. This is important because too much humidity can cause respiratory problems, mold and mildew to grow, and allow the growth of dust mites.

There are risks of using a humidifier if not used properly. Burns can occur if a person comes in contact with the steam. If the water tank isn’t cleaned properly, bacteria can grow and spread throughout the home.

Speak to your doctor about using a humidifier in your home. You can also schedule an appointment with a doctor at Flushing Hospital Medical Center by calling 718-670-5486 if you would like to discuss ways to keep healthy during the winter months.

Benefits of Oat Milk

Posted on February 6, 2019 by Joann Ariola

Moooove over cow and goat’s milk, oat milk is the latest lactose-free, protein enriched, low in fat, flavorful choice for the vegan and lactose intolerant lifestyle.

Oat milk is a dairy-free milk alternative that is made from oats. It has a ratio of 1 cup of oats to ¾ cup of water. The mixture is then strained to create a liquid.

According to, oat milk is a healthy alternative to whole milk and skim milk. It is rich in vitamin D, iron, calcium, potassium and fiber. One cup of store bought oat milk may have up to 120 calories, 5 grams of fat, 3 grams of protein, 14 grams of carbohydrate and 2 grams of fiber.

Comparatively, cow’s milk contains 3.5% fat, 146 calories, 11 grams of carbohydrate, 8 grams of protein and 8 grams of fat and skim mild has 83 calories, 122 grams of carbohydrate, 0.2 grams of fat and 8 grams of protein. Even though the numbers for skim milk seem better than oat milk, skim milk still contains lactose.

Consumers are turning to oat milk because it can be a healthier choice for those who are allergic to the lactose in milk, as well as nuts and gluten. Oat milk can be purchased or homemade. Some opt for the homemade version so there is less risk of cross contamination with wheat, rye, barley and nuts at the manufacturing plant. This is of great importance for those with allergies or celiac disease.

Oat milk tastes good, comes in flavors and can be used for coffee, cereal or in any way you would use cow’s milk or a milk alternative.

Lunar New Year at Flushing Hospital Medical Center

Posted on February 5, 2019 by Joann Ariola

This year to celebrate Lunar New Year (The Year of the Pig), Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Food and Nutrition Department handed out Mandarin oranges with a Happy New Year card to patients, visitors and staff. This gesture is in keeping with FHMC’S commitment to cultural sensitivity. The Chinese word for mandarin is kam, which sounds similar to the word for gold. Therefore, having mandarin oranges with you around New Year is thought to bring fortune into your life. The patients, staff and visitors were all appreciative.

Happy Lunar New Year!!!

Employee Spotlight – Gregory Buie

Posted on January 30, 2019 by Joann Ariola

This month, Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s (FHMC) Employee Spotlight shines on Security Officer Gregory Buie. Gregory has been a security officer for three years and is tasked with securing the hospital premises, protecting its personnel, monitoring the hospital’s closed circuit TV (CCTV), and checking that the proper hospital identification is being displayed on each employee.

Gregory is married, has four children and two grandchildren. When he is not at work, he enjoys traveling, basketball, football and being active in his church.

“The most rewarding part of my job is helping people. Although there can sometimes be differences with personalities, I always remember that the person I’m speaking with may not be feeling well or is worried about a loved one they are there to visit and they deserve my respect and patience.”

We thank Gregory Buie for his valuable services to Flushing Hospital, and recognize him as a great asset to our team.

Department Spotlight – Department of Medical Records

Posted on January 24, 2019 by Joann Ariola

January’s Department Spotlight shines on the Medical Records. Under the leadership of Deborah Corwin, Director and Dolores Chin, Assistant Director, the hard working employees of this department make sure that the cataloging and dispersment of medical and personal information within the medical record of every patient is handled confidentially.

Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Medical Records Department is located 4500 Parsons Blvd., on the first floor adjacent to the hospitals main lobby and their hours of operation are Monday to Friday, from 9AM to 5PM. If you are interested in a copy of your medical records from Flushing Hospital Medical Center, call 718-670-5424 or 5425.

Things to Consider When Taking Oral Contraceptives

Posted on January 24, 2019 by Andrew Rubin

Oral contraceptives, also called birth control pills, are one of the most popular forms of birth control used today. These oral contraceptives work by inhibiting ovulation and are considered to be safe when used properly.
Some studies have shown that the risks of breast cancer and cervical cancer might be increased when taking oral contraceptives. This is due to the fact that the female hormones estrogen and progesterone which are used to make the oral contraceptives, when found in higher levels in the body, are linked to the increased risk of cancer occurring. Conversely, the higher levels of these hormones may lower the risks for endometrial, ovarian and colorectal cancer.
Other complications from taking oral contraceptives while rare, may also include blood clots, stroke, heart attacks, and liver tumors.
There are some situations where combination oral contraceptives shouldn’t be used. These include:
• Women who smoke
• Have a history of breast cancer
• Experience uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Have liver disease or uncontrolled diabetes
Oral contraceptives are prescribed by a physician. It is important that a full medical history be taken and a physical examination be performed prior to starting to take them. If you are considering taking an oral contraceptive and would like to discuss this with a physician at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-670-5486 to schedule an appointment.

Dr. Tips on Cold and Flu Prevention

Posted on January 16, 2019 by Joann Ariola

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) flu season runs from October through May, with the most recorded cases usually identified during the month of February.

With cold and flu season upon us, Dr. Alexander Kintzoglou, Chairman of the Department of Medicine at Flushing Hospital Medical Center would like to share some cold and flu prevention tips.

Flu Shot – The best measure to take against getting the flu is to get a flu shot. The CDC states that, “Flu vaccines have been updated to better match circulating viruses.”

Hand hygiene – No matter what your daily routine is, you will most likely come in contact with other people. By washing your hands frequently, with soap and water, you can prevent receiving germs that may cause the cold or flu. If you are unable to access soap and water, you can use hand sanitizer in a pinch. Just make sure the product has an alcohol base.
Sanitize – By keeping your surrounding area clean ( i.e. computer station, key board, door knobs, light switches, etc.) you will lessen your risk of catching a cold or the flu.
Shaking hands – Be cautious when shaking hands, especially with people who are sick. Remember to wash your hands after an encounter.
Keep a healthy lifestyle – There is no better immunity builder than good nutrition. By eating right, your body will have the natural antibodies to fight off the cold or flu.
Smoking – By triggering your allergies, which can cause an upper respiratory infection that can weaken your immune system, smoking may make you more susceptible to getting a cold or the flu.

According to Dr. Kintzoglou, “Nobody gets the flu from the flu vaccine.” He further states, “Receiving a flu shot protects not only yourself, but your friends and family.” He urges everyone to get vaccinated.

If you would like to get a flu shot, call the Flushing Hospital Medical Center Ambulatory Care Center at 718-670-5486 to schedule an appointment.

Pregnancy and Gastrointestinal Issues

Posted on January 15, 2019 by Xavia Malcolm

Gastrointestinal issues are common during pregnancy. This may be due in part to several factors such as an increase in hormones or the limited amount of abdominal space available for digestive organs to function normally.

As your baby grows, your organs will rearrange themselves to accommodate uterine growth. The enlarged uterus displaces the stomach, esophagus and intestines which can contribute to reflux of gastric contents or other digestive problems.

Hormonal changes can also contribute to digestive problems. Pregnant women produce high levels of the hormone progesterone. This hormone causes bowel muscles to relax and can affect their ability to work efficiently.

These changes in a woman’s body during pregnancy may cause the following symptoms to develop:

Nausea and vomiting
Constipation
Acid Reflux
Diarrhea

If you are experiencing these symptoms, speak with your doctor right away. Your doctor will determine if they are pregnancy-related and recommended the best treatment options for your health.

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