Category Archives: seasonal

Halloween Safety Tips

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Tomorrow is Halloween, and it is a day for dressing up, eating candy, and having fun with friends and family. Unfortunately, there can be several risks when going trick-or-treating. Here are some tips to keep you and your children safe this Halloween: 

  • Wear costumes that say “flame-resistant” on the label. If you make your costume, use flame-resistant fabrics like polyester or nylon. 
  • Wear bright, reflective costumes, or add strips of reflective tape so you’ll be more visible. 
  • Wear makeup and hats rather than costume masks that can obscure your vision. 
  • Always accompany young children when trick-or-treating. 
  • Cross the street at corners, using traffic signals and crosswalks. Look left, right, and left again when crossing. 
  • Stay on well-lit streets and always use the sidewalk. 
  • Always walk on sidewalks or paths. If there are no sidewalks, walk facing traffic as far to the left. 
  • Put electronic devices down and keep your head up while you walk. 
  • Caution kids to never enter a home or a car for a treat. 
  • Wait until children are home to sort and check treats before eating them. 
  • Don’t eat candy until it is inspected at home. 
  • If a child has a food allergy, check the label to ensure the allergen is not present. Tell children not to accept or eat anything that isn’t wrapped correctly. 
  • Parents of young children should remove any choking hazards such as gum, peanuts, hard candies, or small toys from their Halloween bags. 

Follow these important tips to ensure you and your loved ones stay safe this Halloween. If you experience any problems, visit Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486. If there is an emergency, please call 911. 

 

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.

RSV

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Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. RSV is a seasonal virus that spreads in fall and winter alongside other respiratory viruses, usually peaking in December and January. 

RSV symptoms can be difficult to distinguish from the common cold or other respiratory viruses like the flu or COVID-19. RSV usually causes mild cold-like signs and symptoms that most commonly appear about four to six days after exposure to the virus, including: 

  • Congested or runny nose 
  • Dry cough 
  • Low-grade fever 
  • Sore throat 
  • Sneezing 
  • Headache 
  • Lack of energy 
  • Decreased appetite 

Severe cases of RSV affect babies 12 months and younger, older adults, people with heart and lung disease, or anyone who is immunocompromised. Severe infection can spread to the lower respiratory tract, causing pneumonia or bronchiolitis. Signs and symptoms include: 

  • Fever 
  • Severe cough 
  • Wheezing 
  • Rapid or difficult breathing 
  • Cyanosis or bluish color of skin due to the lack of oxygen 

Infants are affected most severely by RSV. Signs and symptoms of severe infection in infants include: 

  • Short, shallow, and rapid breathing 
  • Struggling to breathe 
  • Cough 
  • Decreased appetite 
  • Unusual tiredness 
  • Irritability 

RSV is very contagious and can easily spread while symptomatic, which is usually a period of three to eight days. RSV can enter the body through the eyes, nose, or mouth. It is spread through respiratory droplets when you cough or sneeze and through direct contact, such as shaking hands. 

RSV can infect anyone and can cause many complications, such as hospitalization, middle ear infection, asthma, and repeated infections. However, there are ways to prevent those who are at risk of getting severe infections, including: 

  • Protection for babies and high-risk children 
    • Antibody product called nirsevimab 
    • Vaccines for pregnant people 
  • Vaccine for older adults 
  • Lifestyle habits that can prevent the spread of infection 
    • Washing your hands often 
    • Avoiding exposure 
    • Keeping surfaces and common areas clean 
    • Not sharing drinking glasses with others 
    • Not smoking 
    • Washing toys regularly 

A healthcare provider can diagnose RSV based on results of a physical exam and the time of year the symptoms occur. They will listen to your lungs with a stethoscope to check for wheezing or other abnormal sounds. Lab and imaging tests aren’t usually needed, but they can help diagnose RSV complications and rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms. These tests can include: 

  • Blood tests to check white cell counts or to look for viruses, bacteria, and other germs 
  • Chest X-rays to check for lung inflammation 
  • Swab secretions from inside the mouth or nose to check for signs of the virus 
  • Pulse oximetry to detect lower-than-normal levels of oxygen in the blood 

Treatment for RSV usually involves self-care and supportive care measures to make your child more comfortable. Some self-care and supportive care treatment measures include: 

  • Over-the-counter medication 
  • Nasal saline drops 
  • Using a humidifier 
  • Drinking fluids 
  • Staying away from cigarette smoke 

Hospital care may be needed if severe symptoms occur and may include treatments, such as intravenous fluids, humidified oxygen, and a breathing machine. 

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of RSV, 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.

BBQ Food Safety Tips

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Summer is a time when we have and/or attend several barbecues or cookouts. However, whether you are hosting or attending, eating outdoors in warm weather can present food safety challenges. 

Bacteria in food multiply faster at temperatures between 40°F and 140°F, so the summer heat can create problems. Here are some tips to follow to help keep you and others safe from foodborne illnesses: 

  • Washing your hands is very important. Wash your hands if you are preparing food, serving food, or after using the bathroom. Wash your hands and forearms with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. If you are in an outdoor setting without access to a bathroom, use a bottle of water, some soap, and paper towels, or use hand sanitizer.  
  • Keep raw food separate from cooked food to avoid cross-contamination.  
  • Don’t use any plates or utensils that have potentially touched or have been contaminated by raw meat, poultry, or seafood. It is recommended to wash utensils that have touched raw meats if they must also be used to handle cooked meats 
  • Marinate food in the refrigerator, instead of out on the counter. If you want to use some of the marinade as a sauce on your food after it is cooked, keep a separate portion of it to use later. Do not reuse the marinade that contained raw meat 
  • Cook food thoroughly to kill any harmful germs and bacteria that may be present. E. coli and Salmonella can still be present in undercooked meats such as hamburger and chicken, and can cause severe illness, even death. Each food should be at a certain temperature for it to be fully cooked: 
    • Chicken 165o F 
    • Hamburgers 160o F 
    • Pork 150o F 
    • Hot dogs 140o F 
    • Leftovers 165o F 
    • Eggs 145o F 

Use a food thermometer to check the temperature of the food. Insert the thermometer into the center of the meat, which is the least cooked part. To check the temperature of hot dogs, go from the end of the hot dog to the center. Be careful not to pass through the meat and touch the cooking surface because you will get a false high temperature reading. 

  • Refrigerate or freeze food immediately, as you shouldn’t leave food out of the refrigerator, cooler, or off the grill for more than two hours. Never leave food out for more than one hour when the outside temperature is above 90°F 
  • Keep hot food hot and cold food cold. Hot food should be kept at or above 140°F, wrapped well, and placed in an insulated container. Cold food should be held at or below 40°F. Foods such as chicken salads and desserts that are in individual serving dishes should be placed directly on ice or in a shallow container set in a deep pan filled with ice. Drain off any water that pools as the ice melts, and replace the ice frequently 
  • Wipe surfaces often, especially after using them for food preparation, as germs from undercooked meat can grow on vegetables cut or washed on the same surface as meat. Mix and use a sanitizing solution of one capful of chlorine bleach per gallon of water for cleaning work area surfaces. If possible, use separate cutting boards or surfaces for foods that will not be cooked, such as salad 
  • Keep flies away by covering trash containers, and not storing meat wrappers and other trash in open cardboard boxes or uncovered containers, even for a short period of time 
  • Don’t use fly spray or “No-Pest” chemical strips, as they can contaminate your food 
  • Don’t keep food containers out in the open. Instead, place them in a shaded area 
  • Keep plates, cups, utensils, and food covered until they are ready to be used 
  • Handle plates, cups, and utensils where they won’t come in contact with any food 
  • Don’t prepare and serve food if you have been sick with vomiting or diarrhea within the past 24 hours 
  • Don’t wear loose finger or wrist jewelry or fake nails while working with food 
  • Keep plenty of paper towels handy for cleaning your hands and surfaces 

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of a foodborne illness, 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.

Summer Skin Problems

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Summer is here, and we will all be spending more time outdoors enjoying the warm weather and sunshine. However, spending more time outdoors means there is increased exposure to sunlight, insects, and other elements of summer, which can lead to common skin conditions. 

Some common summer skin conditions include: 

  • Sun skin damage- sun safety is a priority when it comes to summer skin care. Even a few bad sunburns can increase the risk of skin cancer, premature wrinkling, and aging. Some ways to protect your skin include: 
    • Using a good, broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen on your face and other exposed areas, even on cloudy days. 
    • Apply generously, and remember not to forget the lips, rims of the ears, the back of the neck, and the tops of the feet 
    • Choose a sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 
    • Reapply about every two hours and after swimming or sweating 
    • Covering up with sun-protection clothing and always wearing a hat and sunglasses 
    • Staying inside or in a shaded area during peak sunny hours 
  • Insect bites and stings can leave the skin with painful welts and can even spread disease. A tick bite can spread Lyme disease. Wasp, bees, hornets, and yellow jacket stings can be painful, especially if you are allergic. Mosquito bites can make summertime gatherings miserable. 

To help prevent insect bites and stings, you can follow these steps: 

  • Use repellent to keep bugs off your skin 
  • Use a fan to circulate the air to help keep bugs from biting 
  • Treat bites with an anti-itch medication, as scratching bug bites can cause infection, break the skin, and leave scars 
  • Rashes and skin irritations- things such as summer heat, poison ivy, swimming in certain bodies of water, perspiration, and other factors can cause skin irritations and rashes.  

Hot summer air and sweat can cause and/or aggravate certain skin conditions, such as acne, tinea, and prickly heat.  

Plants such as poison ivy, poison oak, and poison sumac are plentiful in the summer. If you go for a run or hike, or go camping, be mindful that the oils from these plants can cause an allergic reaction that can be severe, with redness, swelling, and intense itchiness. The best way to prevent coming in contact with these plants is to learn what they look like so you can avoid them while outdoors. If you are exposed to these plants, wash your hands and clothes thoroughly to remove as much oil as possible.  

Bodies of water can contain bacteria, parasites, and other irritants that can cause certain water-related rashes, such as: 

  • Swimmer’s itch 
  • Sea lice 
  • Chlorine rash 

Some general summer skin care tips to keep your skin healthier during the summer months include: 

  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water to keep your skin healthy and moisturized from the inside out 
  • Limit your exposure to the sun 
  • Take cool showers and dry off when you’re hot and sweaty 
  • Use a mild cleanser daily and avoid heavy makeup 

If you are experiencing symptoms of a summer skin condition, you can receive treatment at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486. If you or someone you are with is experiencing an emergency, call 911 immediately.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Fourth of July Recipe

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The Fourth of July is this weekend, and many of us expect to spend time with our family, friends, and loved ones, while eating some delicious food, and watching the fireworks. If you are bringing food to your get-together and need some ideas, here is a recipe for tasty, mouthwatering teriyaki wings to enjoy while celebrating Independence Day. 

Teriyaki Chicken Wings Recipe | Tyler Florence | Food Network

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.

Summer Health Concerns and How to Prevent them

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

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

  1. The human body is made of up to 78% of water, and when it doesn’t get enough, it can’t function properly. In high heat, dehydration can become severe and fatal. To prevent dehydration, it is important to stay hydrated. You can do this by drinking water and eating water-rich foods. Staying properly hydrated can also prevent kidney stones.
  1. Sunburns occur when ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun cause a radiation burn on the skin. Sunburns can contribute to premature aging of the skin and skin cancer, and can also lead to dehydration, sun poisoning, and infection from severe burns. To prevent sunburn, wear sunscreen containing titanium oxide or zinc oxide every day, even on overcast days. Make sure to cover your entire body, including your ears, eyelids, lips, scalp, and, if exposed, the top of your feet.
  1. Spending time in the sun doesn’t only bring the risks of sunburn and dehydration. It also brings the risk of heat illnesses, including:
  • Heat rash- a red stinging rash that develops when sweat gets trapped in your glands.
  • Heat cramps are painful muscle cramps that occur when you sweat so much that your body loses salts and fluids.
  • Heat exhaustion occurs when the body can’t cool itself through sweating. If it’s not treated, it can quickly turn into heatstroke.
  • Heatstroke, or sunstroke, occurs when a person’s body temperature climbs to dangerous levels. It’s the most severe heat-related illness and can be fatal.

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

  1. Insects are more active during the summer, which means there’s a higher risk of encountering them. Especially for:
  • Bee stings
  • Mosquito bites
  • Tick bites
  • Ant bites

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

  • Avoid using scented products.
  • Drain any standing water.
  • Put on protective clothing.
  • Don’t leave any food uncovered outside.
  1. We want to spend more time near water to cool off as temperatures rise. However, it is important to follow proper safety precautions to avoid drowning risks. Here are some ways to prevent drowning risks:
  • Learn CPR
  • Use drain covers on pool drains.
  • Wear life jackets
  • Sign up for swimming lessons.
  1. Everybody loves a good summer barbecue or cookout, but sometimes the food we eat doesn’t always love us back. The smoking process that gives smoked meats their flavor also creates harmful substances called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons or PAHs and heterocyclic amines or HCAs. The National Cancer Institute warns that PAHs and HCAs are mutagenic, meaning they can cause changes to your DNA that put you at risk for certain types of cancer. You can prevent ingesting these harmful substances by using liquid smoke as an alternative marinade for your meats. Foodborne illness can be a concern for cookout food as well. This is the case for food left out or leftover sitting in the “temperature danger zone” of 40 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. These temperatures allow bacteria to grow that can make you sick. You can prevent foodborne illness by cooking meats to a safe temperature and throwing any food that has sat out too long in the trash.
  1. Seasonal allergies caused by pollen is a huge problem in the summer as the weather gets warmer and trees, grass, and flowers pollinate. To prevent seasonal allergies, try taking allergy medications before the season starts so your body can build its defense.

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

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of heat-related illness, you can receive treatment at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486. If you or someone you are with is experiencing an emergency, call 911 immediately.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Exercising Outdoors

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Spring has arrived, and the weather is starting to warm up. This means we can spend more time exercising outdoors rather than at the gym or at home.  

Outdoor exercise is a great way to work out. It offers many benefits to our physical and mental health, such as: 

  • Reducing stress and anxiety 
  • Improving sleep 
  • Boosting vitamin D levels 
  • Boosting self-esteem 
  • Improving memory 
  • Lowering chronic disease risk 

Here are tips that can keep you safe while exercising outdoors: 

  • Drink plenty of water and avoid caffeine and alcohol 
  • Wear clothes that let the air circulate and moisture evaporate 
  • Stay sun safe by wearing sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat 
  • Know the signs of heat-related illnesses 
  • Wear proper footwear for the activity you are engaging in 

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.

Spring Superfoods: What’s In Season?

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Spring is a time for renewal and rejuvenation. So why not rejuvenate your diet by adding spring superfoods to receive their benefits?  

Seasonal superfoods are the key to maximizing nutrients, improving digestion, and staying connected to nature. The reason to eat superfoods during the season they are most prominent is that they are at the peak of their nutritional value. Foods grown and eaten in season are fresher, more flavorful, and full of vitamins. Eating greens that are abundant in the spring can detoxify and cleanse your body. Here are some spring superfoods to add to your diet: 

  • Asparagus is rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, and is a good source of folate and fiber, which benefit the digestive system by flushing out toxins and help to promote healthy skin 
  • Spinach is high in fiber and iron and contains vitamins A, C, and K, which combine to support eye, blood, immune, metabolic, and gut health 
  • Radishes contain vitamins C and K, as well as calcium and potassium, which help support liver health and digestion 
  • Artichokes contain fiber, potassium, magnesium, and vitamin C, which help support liver function and gut health, as well as support energy production, metabolism, and maintain healthy nerve and heart function 
  • Strawberries are rich in antioxidants and an excellent source of vitamin C, potassium, and folate, which help reduce free radicals linked to cancer and diabetes, and other conditions  
  • Spring onions are a great source of antioxidants, which can help prevent heart disease and cancer, and reduce the risk of developing chronic disease 
  • Sweet peas are a great source of fiber, protein, vitamins C and A, which are good for eye health 
  • Rhubarb is full of vitamins A and K, and B vitamins, which are good for immune, skin, eye, and bone health, and support a healthy metabolism 
  • Fennel contains fiber, potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, and vitamins C and A, which help with digestive problems, such as cramping, bloating, and gas, support eye, muscle, and bone health, boost brain health, control blood pressure, and strengthen the immune system  
  • Fava beans are a great source of magnesium, protein, and fiber, which are good for heart, bone, immune, and blood health, as well as support digestive and weight management functions, and provide neurological and brain support 
  • Garlic scapes contain glutathione, sulfur compounds, and other flavonoids, which help reduce oxidative stress which is linked to cancer, liver and kidney disease and other illnesses 
  • Fiddleheads contain the B vitamin niacin, which is essential for a healthy metabolism, nervous system, hair, skin, and eyes 
  • Mint contains vitamins A and C, iron, calcium, flavonoids, and rosmarinic acid, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that protect cells from oxidative stress and may support overall immune function, as well as being high in menthol, which helps soothe inflammation and ease gastrointestinal symptoms 
  • Salmon is a great source of omega-3s, which can help protect the heart, brain, and more due to its anti-inflammatory benefits 
  • Blackberries are packed with fiber, potassium, and vitamin C, as well as anthocyanins, and support gut, heart, and immune health 
  • Carrots contain beta and alpha carotenes, which may help reduce cancer risk, and are full of fiber, potassium, and vitamin C for an extra boost in gut, heart, and immune health 
  • Mushrooms are a good source of vitamin D, which supports bone health and immune function 
  • Arugula contains vitamins A and K, beta-carotene, and calcium, which help with digestion, eyesight, and bone health  

If you would like to learn more about superfoods and their health benefits, you can schedule an appointment at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care 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.

Sore Throat Vs. Strep Throat

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A sore throat and strep throat may feel similar. However, they are not the same thing.

Most sore throats are caused by viruses, such as the common cold virus, and will go away in about a week or so. A sore throat can also stem from a bacterial infection. When this occurs, it is known as strep throat, which is caused by an infection from the group A Streptococcus bacterium. Symptoms of strep throat will last much longer than those caused by viral infections

Allergies, a dry environment, and smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke can also cause sore throats.

When you have a sore throat, the inside of your mouth, throat, and lymph nodes around the neck and head become inflamed and swollen. You may also notice that the inside of your mouth appears to be red from the inflammation. Other symptoms of a sore throat include:

  • Dryness
  • Hoarseness
  • Painful swallowing
  • Scratchy feeling in the throat

Symptoms of strep throat, on the other hand, can seem similar; however, the difference is that there are tiny red spots called petechiae on the roof of your mouth or white patches on your tonsils, which are the usual signs of a strep throat infection. Other symptoms of strep throat include:

  • Painful swallowing
  • Swollen lymph nodes and/or tonsils
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Loss of appetite
  • Nausea
  • Rash
  • Stomach pain

There are many ways to relieve the pain caused by a sore throat, including:

  • Gargling with salt water
  • Hot tea
  • Honey
  • Taking over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen
  • Ice chips or popsicles
  • Using a humidifier to add cool mist to the air
  • Getting plenty of rest
  • Drinking plenty of water
  • Lozenges

It is important to note that you should never give honey to children under one year old or lozenges to children under the age of four.

The same treatments used for a normal sore throat can be used to soothe a sore throat caused by a strep throat infection. However, the best treatment for strep throat is prescribed antibiotics as they are necessary to effectively treat a strep throat infection and prevent complications.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of a sore throat, 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.

Winter Skin Care

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Winter can be difficult to deal with when temperatures drop to bone-chilling levels and are accompanied by frigid winds. The temperatures and wind can also be difficult on our skin due to low humidity, causing it to become cracked and dry. Even the heat in our homes and cars makes skin dryness worse because it removes moisture from the air.  

According to the Columbia University Irving Medical Center, the outermost layer of the skin, called the stratum corneum, acts as a protective barrier that helps retain water. As the stratum corneum loses moisture, the skin can become red, irritated, and cracked. This especially affects older adults as their aging skin is thinner and produces fewer natural oils, which makes it more prone to losing moisture.  

Here are some dermatologist-recommended tips to help prevent any further loss of water and restore moisture to your skin barrier: 

  • Using a humidifier at night to help prevent your skin from drying out 
  • Wearing gloves while cleaning or washing dishes to prevent hot water and detergents from stripping away the skin’s natural oils 
  • Using a cream instead of a lotion to moisturize your skin 
  • Using moisturizers containing hydrating ingredients such as hyaluronic acid, ceramides, and cholesterol 
  • Applying moisturizer after showering to help lock in moisture while your skin is still damp 
  • Using a petroleum- or lanolin-based ointment and apply at night to the hands and feet, and covering them with cotton gloves or socks 
  • Drinking water helps you stay hydrated from the inside out 

Here are some tips on what to avoid as you try to care for your skin this winter: 

  • Scented products and some anti-aging ingredients, as fragrances, can draw moisture from the skin and cause irritation 
  • Long showers using hot water can worsen dryness. Dermatologists recommend using lukewarm water and avoiding prolonged baths or showers 
  • Wool fabrics can cause itching and irritation when it rubs against the skin. The National Eczema Association recommends wearing layers that are cotton-based in the winter and removing any damp clothing immediately 

If you are having issues with your skin, 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.