Summer Recipe: Rigatoni with Summer Bolognese

Posted on June 3, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

Summer is approaching, and many fruits and vegetables are coming into season. Here is a recipe for rigatoni with summer bolognese made with seasonal vegetables, a flavorful way to enjoy a relaxing summer evening.

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.

Labile Hypertension

Posted on May 29, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

Labile hypertension means your blood pressure goes up and down in a way that can be difficult to predict and manage with medications. This is not an official diagnosis. Instead, it is more of an informal, descriptive term.

Blood pressure normally fluctuates throughout the day, even within minutes, based on what you are doing. However, sudden emotional distress, such as feeling very stressed or anxious, causes your sympathetic nervous system to react.

The exact triggers for labile hypertension vary from person to person. Some people have emotional triggers. Other people can have triggers, such as:

Physical activity

Salty foods

Alcohol

Lack of sleep

Your body position

To support normal blood flow, your body must adapt to these changes. However, with labile hypertension, your blood pressure spikes to levels that would not be healthy if you had them all the time.

There is no reason to worry if your blood pressure is in the normal range. Labile hypertension usually isn’t dangerous and doesn’t require treatment. However, it is a good idea to tell your healthcare provider about any high blood pressure readings, so they are aware of them. Your healthcare provider may want to keep a closer eye on your blood pressure in case you need treatment at some point.

You can have labile hypertension without noticing. However, it is common to experience symptoms that come on rapidly, in response to stress, and dissipate once you feel better emotionally. You may feel symptoms such as:

A headache

Heart palpitations

Heavy sweating

Flushing or a warm sensation in the upper body

A healthcare provider may determine that you have labile hypertension if they observe a pattern of blood pressures that fluctuate unpredictably, which can make it difficult to manage.

A healthcare provider may perform tests such as “orthostatic” vital signs, which means checking your blood pressure while you’re in different positions.

A healthcare provider may also consider looking for neurological causes of labile blood pressure or evidence of stiffening in your aorta and blood vessels, as both can lead to sudden changes in blood pressure.

If your blood pressure spikes while at home, you can use a home blood pressure monitor that saves a history of your readings to share with your healthcare provider. They may ask you to do ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, which measures your blood pressure many times over 24 hours. Ambulatory blood pressure monitors show your average readings during the day and night, which can show if you have high blood pressure all the time or only at certain times.

There isn’t a threshold for what is considered to be labile hypertension. However, research shows that it is common to have a systolic blood pressure of 160 mm Hg or higher.

A healthcare provider will prescribe medicine to keep your blood pressure at a healthy level. It may take several tries to prescribe medications to level your blood pressure throughout the day. Prescription medications may include taking certain, longer-acting blood pressure medications. A healthcare provider may also suggest taking medications at certain times of the day, such as at specific times in the morning, at night, or with certain triggers.

It is difficult to treat labile hypertension. However, documenting your blood pressure readings accurately and working with your healthcare provider can help make a difference.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of labile hypertension, you can receive treatment at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486.

GLP-1 Microdosing

Posted on May 27, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

Glucagon-like peptide-1 or GLP-1 antagonists are, however, a class of medications that mainly manage blood sugar levels in people with Type 2 diabetes. Medications, such as semaglutide and tirzepatide, have become popular over the past few years to help people lose weight.

Recently, however, some people have been microdosing GLP-1 medications as their preferred way to take these medications. Microdosing means taking much smaller doses than those approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

People may microdose GLP-1 medications for many reasons, including:

They have hit their target weight goal

They have concerns about the cost of the medications

They are sensitive to the side effects of the medications

They want to just suppress their appetite

They are worried about the supply of the medications

Microdosing GLP-1 medications can come with real risks, including:

Inaccurate doses

Reduced effectiveness

Unpredictable outcomes

Possibility of regaining weight

No data on the long-term effects of microdosing

Minimal oversight

Large clinical trials have confirmed that the standard GLP-1 doses work well when helping people lose weight and manage Type 2 diabetes. What’s more, precise doses have proven benefits for heart, liver, and kidney health. Taking very low doses may not provide the same results.

Additionally, smaller GLP-1 doses may help reduce symptoms such as nausea or an upset stomach. However, microdosing may prevent you from reaching the effective dose needed to make significant changes in your body weight or blood sugar levels. In many cases, the side effects of GLP-1 treatment are temporary. GLP-1 dosage schedules are intended to increase doses gradually to help balance their benefits and potential side effects.

GLP-1 medications affect people differently. Some people may see substantial benefits even at lower doses. However, other people may not see their benefits at full doses.

Before you consider microdosing GLP-1 medications, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider who is knowledgeable about these treatments. Here are some things to consider:

If the GLP-1 medication is off-label, it is an unproven treatment

The health benefits for those who don’t have Type 2 diabetes or a high body mass index (BMI) are unproven

Taking smaller doses doesn’t make them risk-free

As an alternative to taking GLP-1 medications, here are some proven ways to support metabolic and overall health naturally:

Exercising regularly

Eating a healthy, balanced diet

Managing stress

Getting enough restful sleep

Eating certain foods and taking supplements

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.

Shigella Virus

Posted on May 21, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

Shigella virus or infection is an illness that affects the intestine and is caused by a group of germs called Shigella bacteria.

A Shigella infection mostly affects children under the age of five, but it can happen at any age. The germs that cause a shigella infection are easily spread through an infected person’s stool. An infection occurs after the germs are swallowed after either touching your mouth, drinking tainted water, or eating tainted food, or due to them being present on fingers, surfaces, or in food or water.

The main symptom of a Shigella infection is diarrhea, which can be bloody or long-lasting. Other Shigella infection symptoms can include:

Fever

Stomach pain or cramps

An upset stomach or vomiting

A feeling of needing to pass stool even when the bowel is empty

The symptoms of a Shigella infection tend to last for up to seven days and sometimes longer. Some people can have no symptoms after they have been infected with Shigella; however, the germs may be able to spread through stool for up to a few weeks.

It may take weeks or months before you return to your usual bowel habits, and most Shigella infections clear up without leading to other complications, such as dehydration, seizures, rectal prolapse, hemolytic uremic syndrome, toxic megacolon, reactive arthritis, and bloodstream infections.

It is important to call your healthcare provider or go to urgent care if you or your child has the following:

Bloody diarrhea

Diarrhea along with a fever of 102 degrees Fahrenheit or higher

Diarrhea that causes weight loss and dehydration

Frequent vomiting that prevents you from keeping liquids down

Terrible cramps or tenderness

Dehydration symptoms, such as little or no urination, very dry mouth or throat, or a feeling of dizziness while standing

If you have a weakened immune system with any symptoms of a Shigella infection, call your healthcare provider, as the illness will make you sicker for a longer period.

Diagnosing a Shigella infection involves a physical exam and tests to determine if you have the illness, as many other health conditions can cause diarrhea or bloody diarrhea. A stool sample can be collected by you or your healthcare provider; it will be sent to a lab to check for Shigella germs or toxins, which are harmful substances the germs make.

Treatment for a Shigella infection depends on the severity of the illness. An illness caused by a Shigella infection is usually mild and gets better within seven days. If the illness is mild, you may only need to replace lost fluids from diarrhea, especially if you are in overall good health.

Talk with your healthcare provider before taking any non-prescription diarrhea medicine, as these medicines could make some conditions worse.

If a lab test is positive for the Shigella virus, non-prescription medicines containing bismuth subsalicylate can help pass stool less often and shorten the length of the illness. However, it is not recommended for children, pregnant or breastfeeding people, or people who are allergic to aspirin.

Additionally, do not take diarrhea medicines such as loperamide or medicines containing the combination of diphenoxylate and atropine, as they are not recommended for a Shigella infection. This combination of medicines can lower the body’s ability to clear Shigella germs and make your condition worse.

Antibiotics are prescribed by a healthcare provider if there is a serious Shigella infection. However, some Shigella bacteria can resist the effects of these medicines, so your healthcare provider may not recommend them unless your infection is very bad.

To help prevent a Shigella infection, follow these steps:

Wash your hands often

Try not to swallow water from ponds, lakes, or untreated pools

Throw away soiled diapers in a covered, lined garbage can

Disinfect all diaper-changing areas right after use, especially if the diaper spills or leaks

Do not have sexual contact with anyone who has diarrhea or who has recently recovered from diarrhea. Wait at least two weeks

If you or your child has diarrhea or a known Shigella infection, take these steps to prevent the spread of germs:

Keep washing your hands often

Do not prepare food for others

Keep children with diarrhea home from school, childcare, or play groups

Stay home from healthcare, food service, or childcare jobs while sick

Do not go swimming until you have fully recovered

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of a Shigella infection, you can receive treatment at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486.

Older Americans Month- Mobility Exercises as You Age

Posted on May 7, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

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.

Celiac Disease Awareness Month

Posted on May 1, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

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

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.

Metabolic Syndrome and How it Can Lead to Heart Disease

Posted on April 29, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

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.

Things You Should and Shouldn’t Do After Bariatric Surgery

Posted on April 23, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

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.

Home Devices to Help with Rheumatoid Arthritis

Posted on April 22, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

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.

Flushing Hospital’s Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation

Posted on April 17, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

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.