Category Archives: lifestyle

Centering Pregnancy at Flushing Hospital

Posted on by

Flushing Hospital Medical Center is committed to providing the best possible prenatal care to our patients. That is why we are offering Centering Pregnancy to our expectant parents. 

Centering Pregnancy is an innovative prenatal model designed to promote the overall health and well-being of the mother and baby. Unlike traditional one-on-one prenatal visits, this approach incorporates small-group sessions for medical care, education, and emotional support, fostering meaningful relationships between participants and clinicians. 

After an initial private visit with a provider, participants in the centering pregnancy program, all of whom are in similar stages of their pregnancy, meet in a small group setting for their prenatal appointments. Here, participants share with and learn from each other during the course of their pregnancy. Each of the ten-centering prenatal care group sessions is approximately 90 minutes long. This group dynamic gives each of the participants the advantage of having more time with their provider. 

At the beginning of the session, our facilitator will guide each patient to get weighed, have their blood pressure checked, and record their values for the provider to review. The provider will listen to the baby’s heartbeat and review the pertinent patient-specific information. After this information is collected, the 8-12 participants will form a circle and begin the fun and interactive educational session. 

Some of the topics covered in these sessions, designed to promote health and well-being during the pregnancy and postpartum period, include: 

  • The progression of their pregnancy 
  • Relaxation techniques 
  • Common discomforts and how to resolve them 
  • Nutrition during pregnancy 
  • What to expect during labor and delivery 
  • Newborn feeding, including breastfeeding 
  • Newborn care 

Games are played to help the learning process and to assist in building friendships between the participants. After the educational session, there is a question-and-answer period. 

Expectant mothers are actively involved in their care as they share similar experiences with women during the same stage of pregnancy. Moms and providers can relax and get to know each other. Many long-lasting friendships are formed from being involved in Centering Pregnancy. 

Studies show that women who participate in Centering Pregnancy programs tend to experience: 

  • Fewer preterm births (33 percent fewer, according to some research) 
  • Lower rates of emergency C-sections 
  • Higher rates of breastfeeding 
  • Better engagement in their own health 
  • Improved spacing between pregnancies 
  • Better well-child visit attendance and immunization rates 
  • Lower rates of postpartum depression 
  • Dramatically reduced racial disparities in preterm birth, especially among African American women 

“The Centering Pregnancy has proven to be overwhelmingly positive, with participants expressing satisfaction with the group setting and the support they receive. Expectant women learn together, feel less isolated, and share their questions and experiences. Empowering women and allaying fears throughout pregnancy and after birth has been a benefit of Centering Pregnancy,” said Maria DeMarinis Smilios, MSN, CNS, RNC, IBCLC, Director of Nursing-Maternal & Child Services and Ambulatory Care 

These are the many benefits of Centering Pregnancy compared to traditional care. There is no extra charge for this type of prenatal care when compared to traditional prenatal care. 

For more information and to schedule for Centering Pregnancy, call 718 670-8992. 

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.

Preeclampsia Awareness Week

Posted on by

May is Preeclampsia Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness of this potentially fatal pregnancy condition.  

Preeclampsia is a complication of pregnancy that occurs around the 20th week during pregnancy and lasts about six weeks after birth. It is characterized by symptoms, such as high blood pressure and protein in the urine, and can cause major difficulties for the mother and baby if the condition isn’t monitored and managed.   

Other symptoms of preeclampsia include: 

  • Severe headache 
  • Swelling in the hands and face 
  • Vision problems 
  • Nausea and vomiting 
  • Pain in the stomach or abdomen 
  • Sudden weight gain 
  • Shortness of breath 

Symptoms of postpartum preeclampsia include: 

  • Severe headache 
  • Vision changes 
  • Swelling of the hands and face 
  • Difficulty breathing 

It is important to note that the shorter the time between diagnosis and treatment, the better the outcomes for the mother and baby.  

Preeclampsia and related hypertension diseases of pregnancy (HDPs) affect approximately 76,000 mothers and 500,000 newborns every year and are the leading cause of maternal and infant illness and death in the U.S. and worldwide.  

According to a report done by the Preeclampsia Foundation based on survey data, which analyzed knowledge from almost 3,000 new and expectant mothers that closely represent the demographics of the U.S. population, found that 80% of new and expectant mothers are aware of preeclampsia as a dangerous high blood pressure condition related to pregnancy. However, only 8% of them can correctly name all its major symptoms, and only 29% expressed fear that it may impact their own pregnancy.  

Here are some additional statistics about preeclampsia: 

  • Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy complicate 5%-10% of all pregnancies worldwide. They include: 
  • Preeclampsia, with or without features 
  • Eclampsia 
  • Hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets (HELLP) syndrome 
  • Gestational hypertension 
  • Black women experience severe maternal morbidity events at 2.1 times the rate of white women 
  • Most maternal and infant deaths caused by HDPs occur in low- and middle-income countries 
  • The U.S. ranks 47th worldwide for maternal mortality, and is the only industrialized nation with a rising maternal mortality rate 
  • Sixty percent of hypertension-related maternal deaths are potentially preventable, which highlights missed opportunities for appropriate, recommended care of maternal hypertension 

There are several ways to improve outcomes for women affected by preeclampsia, including: 

  • Screening for risk factors and early hypertension control, nutrition, and exercise, which may help decrease rates of preeclampsia 
  • Providing easy-to-understand preeclampsia signs and symptoms education tools to improve patient understanding of these, and to discuss with their healthcare providers 
  • Supporting prenatal quality collaboratives that help hospitals to implement care practices that reduce early delivery and reduce severe pregnancy complications 
  • Providing access to midwives, doulas, and other trained childbirth attendants throughout the prenatal, labor, and delivery, and postpartum periods. This can improve pregnancy outcomes for all moms, especially those in the BIPOC community 
  • Encouraging and instructing prenatal and postpartum patients on self-measured blood pressure protocols. Pregnancy is the perfect time for women to check, know, and share their blood pressure readings 
  • Standardizing and providing care guidelines on the leading causes of maternal mortality, including hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. This has been shown to decrease maternal illness and death 

Preeclampsia rates in the U.S. are on the rise. It is important that all women know the signs, symptoms, and risk factors for developing high blood pressure during pregnancy, but also know they don’t need to have risk factors to develop it. 

Flushing Hospital’s Women’s Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology offers comprehensive, multi-disciplinary, and culturally sensitive care. Our services are provided by a highly skilled team of OBGYNs. For more information about gynecological services at FHMC’s Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, call us at (718) 670 8994. 

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.

Older Americans Month- Mobility Exercises as You Age

Posted on by

May is observed as Older Americans Month. It is a time when the contributions of older adults are recognized across the country.  

As we get older, our joints may feel stiffer, and our balance and reactions might be slower. According to recent studies, over 30% of adults 65 years of age and older experience some form of mobility limitation.  

Mobility for older adults usually means the ability to move freely and independently. It’s all about different aspects of activities and movement like walking, bending, reaching, and balancing.   

For older adults, balance is extremely important, and those with limited mobility are at a higher risk of experiencing a fall. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), falls are the leading cause of death for older adults, with about one in four adults 65 years and older experiencing a fall every year.  

One way to reduce the risk of falling is by doing mobility exercises. Mobility exercises are low-impact movements that are designed to improve how joints move through their natural range of motion, while maintaining control and balance.  

Mobility exercises promote active movement and coordination, and usually focus on: 

  • Balance and coordination to prevent falls  
  • The ankles and feet for walking stability 
  • The hips and knees for standing, stepping, and going up and down stairs 
  • The spine for posture and reaching 
  • The shoulders for overhead and daily arm use 

Doing mobility exercises regularly may help support:  

  • Better balance and control of posture 
  • Reduced stiffness from long periods of sitting  
  • Easier walking and smoother transitions, such as going from sitting to standing and turning 
  • Improved confidence when engaging in daily tasks 
  • Long-term joint comfort and movement quality 

Here are some mobility exercises to help improve joint movement, balance, and coordination: 

  • Head rolls 
  • Shoulder rolls 
  • Arm circles 
  • Ankle circles 
  • Standing or seated hip circles 
  • Standing or seated marches  
  • Wrist flexibility exercises 
  • Standing side leg swings 
  • Heel-to-toe rocking 
  • Sit-to-stands 
  • Chair or floor cat-cows 
  • Seated leg raises 
  • Seated torse twists 
  • Supported single-leg stands 
  • Wall shoulder slides 

It is important to note that you should stretch before engaging in any physical activity, so you don’t injure yourself. It is also important that you keep mobility training safe and effective by: 

  • Moving slowly and with control 
  • Using a chair, wall, or rail for support 
  • Staying within a comfortable, pain-free range 
  • Wearing supportive footwear 
  • Stopping if dizziness, sharp pain, or discomfort occurs 

Mobility exercises don’t just help maintain and improve strength, flexibility, and balance to prevent falls. They also help improve your mental well-being, heart health, and overall quality of life.  

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.

Why Aren’t Children Getting Enough Sleep?

Posted on by

Sleep plays a crucial role in a child’s development as it is an important building block for their mental and physical health. It has a direct effect on a child’s overall wellness, as research shows that sleep can impact their alertness and attention, cognitive performance, mood, resiliency, vocabulary acquisition, and learning and memory. In toddlers, napping is necessary for memory consolidation, executive attention, and the development of motor skills. What’s more, sleep crucially affects their growth, especially in early infancy.  

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) estimates that 25% to 50% of children and 40% of adolescents are affected by sleep problems, such as: 

  • A new sibling 
  • Teething 
  • An illness, such as the cold or an ear infection 
  • Sleeping in a different place 
  • A new caregiver 
  • A change in schedule 
  • Allergies 

In addition to these sleep problems, a significant number of children also suffer from sleep disorders at some point. Sleep disorders are connected to mental and physical issues, with one amplifying the other in a pattern that can be difficult to stop. The most common sleep disorders in children include: 

  • Sleep apnea  
  • Snoring 
  • Nightmares and night terrors 
  • Sleepwalking and sleep talking 
  • Restless leg syndrome 

Another reason why children aren’t getting enough sleep is that they aren’t sleeping for the number of hours recommended. According to research data released by the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) from their 2026 Sleep in America poll in March of this year, 44% of children in the U.S. do not consistently get the recommended amount of sleep for their age. Younger children especially fall short. 

In 2015, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) looked at the sleep behavior in middle and high school students and found that around 60% of middle school and 73% of high school students were getting less than the recommended 9-12 hours a night for children 6 to 12 years old and 8-10 hours a night for children 13 to 18 years old.  

Several issues have been discovered as the contributing factors of why children within this age group aren’t getting the recommended amount of sleep, including: 

  • The use of electronic devices 
  • Changes in their internal clocks 
  • Early school start times 
  • Caffeine consumption 

A child’s daytime habits also affect sleep. To promote restful sleep for a child, you can follow these sleep hygiene rules: 

  • Keeping a regular bedtime  
  • Arranging a balanced schedule with alternating moments of rest and play 
  • Creating a no-screen zone in the child’s bedroom, even during the day 
  • Providing them with a healthy diet 
  • Setting the thermostat at a slightly cooler temperature 
  • Using dark curtains to block out light, or a nightlight if they’re afraid of the dark 
  • Keeping the bedroom quiet, or using a white noise machine to block out outside sounds 
  • Avoiding caffeine, large meals, and sugary snacks before bedtime, choose a healthy bedtime snack instead 

Practicing good sleep hygiene can help your child get into a consistent bedtime routine and help them sleep better. 

If your child is having trouble sleeping, you can receive treatment 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.

Celiac Disease Awareness Month

Posted on by

May is Celiac Awareness Month. It is observed as a time to raise awareness for the more than three million Americans living with celiac disease, an autoimmune condition that causes the immune system to react to gluten, a protein found in foods containing wheat, barley, and rye. 

 It is estimated that up to 83% of Americans who have celiac disease are undiagnosed or misdiagnosed with other conditions. 

When a person has celiac disease, eating gluten triggers an immune response to the gluten protein in the small intestines. The immune system sends inflammatory cells and antibodies to destroy the gluten molecules. Over time, this reaction can damage the lining of the small intestine, which prevents it from absorbing nutrients. This condition is called malabsorption. It can also lead to malnutrition and several other conditions resulting from a lack of nutrients. 

The symptoms of celiac disease can vary greatly. They can also be different in children and adults. Digestive symptoms for adults include: 

  • Diarrhea 
  • Fatigue 
  • Weight loss 
  • Bloating and gas 
  • Belly pain 
  • Nausea and vomiting 
  • Constipation 

However, more than half the adults with celiac disease have symptoms that are not related to the digestive system, including: 

  • Anemia 
  • Osteoporosis 
  • Dermatitis herpetiformis 
  • Mouth ulcers 
  • Headaches and fatigue 
  • Nervous system injury, including numbness, tingling in the feet and hands, as well as possible problems with balance, and cognitive impairment 
  • Joint pain 
  • Hyposplenism 
  • Elevated liver enzymes 

Children with celiac disease are more likely than adults to have digestive problems, including: 

  • Nausea and vomiting 
  • Chronic diarrhea 
  • Swollen belly 
  • Constipation 
  • Gas 
  • Pale, foul-smelling stools 

For children who aren’t able to absorb nutrients, it may cause: 

  • Failure to thrive in infants 
  • Damage to tooth enamel 
  • Weight loss 
  • Anemia 
  • Irritability 
  • Short stature 
  • Delayed puberty 
  • Neurological symptoms, including attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities, headaches, lack of muscle coordination, and seizures 

Celiac disease is most commonly found in people of Northern European descent. It is estimated to affect 1% of the populations of Europe and North America. A person has a 10% chance of developing the disease if they have a first-degree relative, such as a parent or child, who has it. About 97% of people diagnosed with celiac disease have a recognizable gene variant associated with it. 

A person’s genes, combined with eating foods with gluten and other factors, can contribute to celiac disease. However, the precise cause isn’t known. Sometimes celiac disease becomes active after surgery, pregnancy, childbirth, viral infection, or severe emotional distress. 

Several risk factors cause celiac disease to be more common in people who have: 

  • A family member with celiac disease or dermatitis herpetiformis 
  • Type 1 diabetes 
  • Down syndrome, Williams syndrome, or Turner syndrome 
  • Autoimmune thyroid disease 
  • Microscopic colitis 
  • Addison’s disease 

Many people with celiac disease don’t know they have it. However, two blood tests can help diagnose it: 

  • Serology testing 
  • Genetic testing 

It is important to be tested for celiac disease before trying a gluten-free diet. Eliminating gluten from your diet might make the results of the blood tests appear in the standard range. 

The first and most important step in treating and the only way to manage celiac disease is to stop eating gluten and adopt a strict, lifelong gluten-free diet. You can’t change the way your body reacts to gluten, but you can prevent gluten from triggering a reaction. Additional treatments may include: 

  • Nutritional supplements 
  • Specific medications 
  • Corticosteroids 
  • Continuous follow-up care 

To schedule an appointment with a gastroenterologist or dietitian 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.

Metabolic Syndrome and How it Can Lead to Heart Disease

Posted on by

Metabolic syndrome is a group of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and other health problems.  

The number of people with metabolic syndrome is increasing, as up to one-third of adults in the U.S. have it. 

When a person is diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, they have three or more risk factors, such as: 

  • High blood pressure 
  • High blood sugar  
  • Low levels of HDL, or good cholesterol  
  • High triglyceride levels in the blood 
  • A large waist circumference or an apple-shaped body 

Although each of these conditions is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease, when a person has three or more of them and is diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, the chances of them developing a serious cardiovascular condition increase.  

There are several underlying causes of metabolic syndrome, such as: 

  • Being overweight and being obese 
  • Having an insulin resistance 
  • Being physically inactive 
  • Genetic factors 
  • Increasing age 

Metabolic syndrome is a serious health condition; however, there are ways to reduce your risk of developing it, such as: 

  • Being more physically active 
  • Losing weight 
  • Eating a heart-healthy diet that is rich in: 
  • Whole grains 
  • Fruits and vegetables 
  • Fish  

Another way to reduce your risk of developing metabolic syndrome is working with your healthcare team to monitor and manage your blood sugar, blood cholesterol, and blood pressure. 

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of metabolic syndrome, you can receive treatment 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.

Things You Should and Shouldn’t Do After Bariatric Surgery

Posted on by

Bariatric surgery is a life-changing procedure. Following your doctor’s post-operation instructions and making healthy lifestyle changes are essential to avoiding complications and achieving long-term weight loss success. 

Patients should expect to have a new lifestyle that combines healthy eating, exercise, and attending regular visits with their healthcare providers. They should also consider these dos and don’ts after bariatric surgery: 

  • What you should do after bariatric surgery: 
    • Eat slowly and chew food well 
    • Aim to drink 64oz of fluids daily, taking small sips 
    • Eat 60g or more of protein daily, starting every meal with it 
    • Make fruits and vegetables the priority of your diet 
    • Start walking for five minutes every hour after surgery 
    • Aim for a goal of 30 minutes of exercise daily after it is allowed to do so 
    • Take all medications and supplements as prescribed, they will need to be taken for the rest of your lifetime 
  • What you shouldn’t do after bariatric surgery: 
    • Skip any meals 
    • Eat red meat early in recovery 
    • Engage in any strenuous activities 
    • Lift any objects over 10 lbs. for the first four to six weeks after surgery 
    • Eat fast food 
    • Eat or drink anything with natural sugar 
    • Drink liquids within 30 minutes after eating 
    • Eat bread, rice, pasta, bagels, or dumplings 
    • Allow yourself to get too hungry 
    • Take a bath or go swimming for two weeks after surgery 
    • Smoke cigarettes or drink alcohol 
    • Eat snacks loaded with empty calories 
    • Get pregnant for 12 to 18 months after surgery 
    • Stop taking medications as directed by your healthcare provider 

Bariatric surgery can be a life-changing and life-altering event for those who are trying to lose weight and live a healthier lifestyle. Making diet changes, modifying exercise routine, and following the guidelines set by your healthcare provider and surgical team can lead you to long-term success. 

For more information about the Bariatric Surgery Services at Flushing Hospital or procedures performed by our doctors, please call 718-408-6977 or 718-670-8908. 

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.

Home Devices to Help with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Posted on by

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that affects more than just the joints. This condition can damage several of the body’s systems, including the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels, causing symptoms, including: 

  • Pain  
  • Swelling  
  • Tenderness in more than one joint 
  • Joint stiffness 
  • Fatigue 
  • Weakness 
  • Fever  

Treatment for rheumatoid arthritis helps maintain or improve joint function, as its most important goal is to reduce joint pain and swelling. Treatment options include: 

  • Medications, such as disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and corticosteroids  
  • Physical or occupational therapy 
  • In cases of severely damaged joints, surgery, such as knee replacement, hip replacement, and other surgeries that correct a deformed joint.   

A healthcare provider may also suggest rheumatoid arthritis-friendly gadgets or assistive devices, which can be found at a pharmacy or medical supply store, online, or at home, which can help ease the strain on your joints, help make daily tasks easier, and help you regain your independence, such as: 

  • Assistive devices that help you when getting dressed: 
    • Long-handled shoehorns   
    • Slide-in shoes 
    • Sock aids, which help you put on and remove your socks 
    • Clothes fasteners  
    • Long-handled combs with a coated grip  
    • Pull-on or front-closure bras 
    • Bracelet buddies 
    • Elastic-waisted pants 
    • Elastic shoelaces 
  • Assistive devices for personal care: 
    • Electric toothbrushes and flossers  
    • Easy-open medication bottles 
    • Soap and shampoo pump bottles 
    • Wash mitts  
    • Shower safety aids, such as a handlebar or a stool 
    • Blow dryer holder 
    • Cosmetic tools with longer, fatter handles and silicone or foam grips  
  • Assistive devices to help you in the kitchen: 
    • Lightweight two-handled pots and pans  
    • Adaptive utensils  
    • Wash mitts 
    • Jar and bottle openers 
    • Rocking T knives  
    • Milk carton holders  
    • Automatic vegetable peelers  
    • Grabbers  
  • Assistive devices for shopping: 
    • Motorized shopping carts  
    • Grabbers 
    • Reusable shopping bags  
  • Assistive devices for driving: 
    • Steering wheel grips 
    • Key holders 
    • Beaded seat covers 
    • Panoramic or wide-angle rear and side-view mirrors  
    • Seatbelt extenders  
    • Handybars  
  • Assistive devices for hobbies and leisure activities: 
    • Padded fingerless gloves 
    • Easy action scissors 
    • Playing card holders  
    • Bookrest pillows  
    • A grippy cellphone case and PopSockets  
  • Assistive devices for walking: 
    • Wheelchairs and electric scooters 
    • Canes and walkers 
    • Knee braces and splints 
  • Assistive devices for work: 
    • Ergonomic desk and chair 
    • Adaptive computer equipment 
    • Pens and pencils with a wider grip 
    • Headset or earbuds 
    • Speech-to-text 

Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms can affect even the simplest daily tasks. Utilizing assistive devices can help improve the quality of life for those suffering from this disorder. 

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, you can receive treatment 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.

Perimenopause

Posted on by

Perimenopause is the transitional period before menopause. During this time, a woman’s body is preparing to stop having periods.   

During this transition, the number of hormones a woman’s ovaries produce varies. Perimenopause can last two to eight years. The average is about four years. The hormone changes can cause symptoms that include: 

  • Irregular periods 
  • Vaginal dryness 
  • Hot flashes 
  • Night sweats 
  • Sleep problems 
  • Mood changes 
  • Trouble finding words and remembering, also known as brain fog 
  • Dry skin, dry eyes, dry mouth 
  • Worsening premenstrual syndrome (PMS) 
  • Breast tenderness 
  • Decreasing fertility 
  • Changes in sexual function 
  • Loss of bone 
  • Changing cholesterol levels 

Perimenopause is caused by changes in two key female hormones: estrogen and progesterone. As a woman goes through perimenopause, these hormones fluctuate, and many of the changes they have during perimenopause are caused by lower estrogen. 

Menopause can happen earlier in some women than in others, like before the age of 40, or between the ages of 40 and 45. Certain factors may make it more likely for perimenopause to start at an earlier age, such as: 

  • Smoking 
  • Family history 
  • Cancer treatment 
  • Hysterectomy 

Some health conditions may make early menopause more likely, such as: 

  • Thyroid disease 
  • Rheumatoid arthritis 
  • Other autoimmune diseases 

Perimenopause is a gradual change, and there is no single test or symptom that tells it has started. A healthcare provider looks at many things to diagnose perimenopause, including: 

  • Age 
  • Menstrual history 
  • Noticeable symptoms or body changes  

Some healthcare providers may order tests to check hormone levels. However, other than checking the thyroid, which affects hormone levels, hormone testing isn’t usually helpful to know if a woman is in perimenopause. That is because hormone levels in perimenopause change unpredictably.  

The treatment for perimenopause usually consists of medicines that treat perimenopausal symptoms, such as: 

  • Hormone therapy 
  • Vaginal estrogen 
  • Antidepressants 
  • Gabapentin 
  • Fezolinetant 
  • Oxybutynin 
  • Birth control pills 

If you are experiencing symptoms of perimenopause, call  (718) 670 8994 for more information about gynecological services at FHMC’s Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology. 

 

 

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’s Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Posted on by

Rehabilitation therapy is a form of patient-centered healthcare that is designed to restore, maintain, or improve a patient’s physical, cognitive, and emotional abilities after illness, injury, surgery, or chronic conditions. The Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Flushing Hospital Medical Center offers a comprehensive range of outpatient services. The team’s experienced staff includes physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech language pathologists, and audiologists. 

The department has physiatrists who are highly experienced rehabilitation physicians. They are board-certified in physical medicine and rehabilitation, brain injury medicine, and electrodiagnostic medicine.  

Physical therapists provide outpatient services at the hospital. They assess each patient’s unique needs and determine a care plan to address the functional deficits identified. Goals for therapy are based on the patient’s specific needs.  

Common diagnoses treated on an outpatient basis include neck/back pain, joint pain/arthritis, musculoskeletal diseases, and neurological conditions such as stroke and nerve injuries.  

Flushing Hospital’s Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation utilizes therapeutic exercise and movement-based interventions to improve patient outcomes. Electrotherapeutic equipment and thermal modalities, such as hot/cold packs, work as adjuncts to manual therapy techniques. Therapists are trained in manual techniques such as myofascial release and joint mobilization. Exercise techniques using equipment and resistance modalities are taught to the patient as a home exercise program to improve their overall function. 

Dedicated occupational therapists evaluate patients’ self-care skills for activities of daily living (ADLs). They develop care plans to improve the patient’s ability to perform these tasks to lead a more independent lifestyle. 

The speech-language pathologists provide communication, cognitive, and swallowing evaluations and treatment to patients of all ages. Care plans are individualized and patient-centered. Patients with dysphagia (difficulty swallowing) may also be referred for instrumental swallow evaluation, specifically Modified Barium Swallow (MBS) tests, to objectively assess swallowing, make appropriate food and liquid recommendations, and develop a targeted swallowing therapy plan. 

The audiology department provides comprehensive audiological evaluations to patients of all ages, from newborn through geriatric age ranges. Recommendations are made based on the individual’s needs and may include referral/recommendation for possible hearing aids. These patients are given appropriate referrals and guided in the follow-up process.  

Flushing Hospital’s Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation is committed to providing the highest quality care and helping individuals improve their quality of life by regaining mobility, strength, and independence. For more information, please call us at (718) 670-5515. 

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.