Pulmonary Rehab for COPD

November is national COPD Awareness month. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is a general term that describes progressive respiratory diseases including emphysema and chronic bronchitis. COPD is characterized by decreased airflow over time and increased inflammation of the lungs.

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A decrease in airflow often results in shortness of breath, which at times makes performing minimal physical activities difficult. One of the most recommended forms of treatments used to improve this issue is pulmonary rehabilitation for COPD.  A respiratory therapist can assess the severity of a patient’s condition before enrollment into a program by administering tests such as a pulmonary function test.

This form of treatment involves a series of exercises that teaches people breathing techniques that help them build physical fitness and lung strength.

Most pulmonary rehab programs include:

  • Exercise-This is one of the key components in pulmonary rehab. Patients are required to do a series of physical activities such as:
  1. Exercises to strengthen and improve breathing muscles
  2. Upper body exercises
  3. Lower body exercises
  4. Strength training
  • Smoking cessation- In order to improve quality of life and lung function, smoking cessation is often a goal or prerequisite in pulmonary rehab. Quitting is the most important thing a smoker can do to slow the progression of COPD.
  • Education-Programs offer education in either a group setting or on an individual basis. Education sessions are designed to teach people ways to manage their COPD or include lessons on understanding medication as well as using oxygen therapy.

Patients who participate in pulmonary rehab programs gain several benefits. Most see significant improvement in their breathing. It is suggested that participants continue the exercises even after completing a program by incorporating them in to their daily life. Those who do not may experience a decline in its benefits.

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.

November is Diabetes Awareness Month

November is designated American Diabetes Awareness Month by the American Diabetes Association (ADA). Diabetes affects nearly 30 million people in the United States which is ten percent of the total population. There are 86 million more people who have pre-diabetes, and are at risk of developing Type 2 diabetes during their lifetime.

There is no cure for diabetes, but there are many ways for people who have been diagnosed with the disease to live long, healthy lives, if it is controlled properly. Learning to live with diabetes is one of the most important components for managing the disease. Proper nutrition, regular physical activity, daily blood sugar monitoring, and taking medication to control diabetes are some of the ways that complications can be prevented. Uncontrolled diabetes is the leading cause of blindness, non traumatic amputations, kidney disease and increased risk for heart attacks.

During the month of November, the ADA sponsors events around the country helping to raise awareness about the risk factors and the warning signs of diabetes. For more information on events taking place, please see the American Diabetes Association’s website at www.diabetes.orgDiabetes Awareness.

It is important to have regular medical exams to manage diabetes successfully.To schedule an appointment with a physician or nutrition expert, please call Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center at 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.

Warm up with healthy Thai Pumpkin Soup!

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Pumpkin is a delicious and healthy fall vegetable. Warm up with this Thai Pumpkin Soup recipe courtesy of Sur La Table.

Serves: Makes 8 cups

Ingredients:

  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
  • 3 cups (720 ml) chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup (160 g) chopped onion
  • ¾ cup (180 ml) coconut cream
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • ¾ cup (180 ml) coconut milk
  • 2½ cups (610 g) canned pumpkin
  • 1 tablespoon chopped green chilies
  • 2 tablespoons (30 g) chopped fresh ginger
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 garlic clove, peeled, chopped
  • Salt and pepper

Procedures:

For an appetizing presentation, and an authentic dash of extra flavor, garnish this soup with chopped cilantro, chopped peanuts and sour cream.

Sauté onion in olive oil until soft. Add tomato paste, pumpkin, ginger, garlic, broth, coconut cream and coconut milk. Combine until thoroughly heated through.

Place mixture into the Vitamix container. Add chilies and lemon juice and secure lid.

Select purée program.

Switch machine to start and allow machine to complete programmed cycle.

Season to taste with salt and pepper.

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.

#TBT A look back at the early days of Flushing Hospital

 

 

 

 

With roots in the community since 1884, here’s a rare photo of the Flushing Hospital ambulance stables circa, 1910.

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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.

Asthma and Alcoholic Drinks

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For most people, a glass of wine, beer or distilled liquor is a nice way to relax, but did you know that for a person with asthma it can cause an attack?  Many people end up in hospital  emergency departments with alcohol related asthma attacks.

Alcohol contains varying amounts of chemicals, such as histamines and sulfites, that can cause people with asthma to have an attack. They trigger a tightening of the airway which makes it hard to take full breaths. Alcoholic may also cause acid reflux which occurs when liquid in the stomach goes back up in to the esophagus. This reaction can lead to irritation of the airways causing them to swell..

Anyone who knows that they have asthma should be aware of these reactions and should use extra caution when drinking alcohol. Speak to your physician about what to do in case you have this type of reaction and they may be able to recommend a medication that will help to alleviate the symptoms.

 

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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.

POLL QUESTION: Have you ever tried coining?

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Though not utilized in western medicine, coining, or “gua sha,” is a Chinese medicine technique used in treating many illnesses since ancient times. It is a form of dermabrasion therapy still widely practiced in China and South East Asia. This massage treatment is employed to rid the body of “heatiness” or “negative energies.”

The practice of coining involves stroking highly lubricated skin with a smooth edge, such as a coin or spoon. It is used to alleviate symptoms of muscle discomfort, headaches and fever.  It is effective in improving blood circulation in the treatment area. However, coining in children has sometimes sparked allegations of child abuse by teachers and caregivers unfamiliar with the practice.

If you have a fever, we recommend you consult with your physician before trying coining.

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.

#MotivationMonday: The Benefits of “De-cluttering” Your Life

Life is busy. Sometimes we neglect our home, office space, or car, and allow items to pile up. These items soon become part of the scenery and clutter your space.  Did you know that clutter can lead to a stressful lifestyle? Take a moment to “de-clutter”- your mental, and physical, health may depend on it.

Clutter is an excessive viClutter_176640492sual and physical stimulation.  A study conducted by neuroscientists at the Princeton University Neuroscience Institute observed people’s task performance in an organized versus disorganized environment. The results of the study exhibited that physical clutter in your surroundings competes for your attention, resulting in decreased performance and increased stress.

Stress can reveal itself in various ways demonstrating physical, emotional, behavioral and even cognitive symptoms. These symptoms can include being moody and frustrated, feeling overwhelmed, inability to focus, forgetfulness, and even procrastination. Long term health effects of stress can affect your mental health creating depression and anxiety. Physical stress can suppress the immune system causing fatigue and high blood pressure.

What can you do to “de-clutter”? Some helpful suggestions are:Clutter_89880708

  • Create a three pile system – place items that are cluttering your space into three categories: keep trash or donate. Try using this system once a month or even once a week- this can enhance mental clarity; this is a good idea for home and work.
  • Clear your desk before going home – make sure to file away certain items in a designated area, shred documents you no longer need, and create a ‘To-Do’ list to remind you of the things you need to tackle the following day.
  • Set an alarm – setting an alarm reminds you to carve out a designated time to clear out a specific area, either in your home or office or car. It can make all the difference to avoid wasting your precious time out with your family and friends.

A little time spent organizing can go a long way in providing some peace of mind, creating clarity and focus on the more important things in your life and career.

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.

Will a Cup of Coffee Help Reduce the Risk of Skin Cancer?

 

ThinkstockPhotos-92572283A recent study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute has found that drinking coffee is associated with a slightly reduced risk for melanoma, the most serious kind of skin cancer and leading cause of skin cancer death in the United States.

Using health and dietary data, researchers concluded that the more caffeinated coffee consumed, the lower the risk of melanoma. Drinking four or more cups of coffee was associated with a 20 percent risk reduction compared with those who drank none.

While the results are encouraging, more research is needed. There are some health risks associated with excess caffeine intake, so please consult with your doctor before increasing your caffeine intake. The best way to reduce your risk of skin cancer is to limit sun and ultraviolet light exposure, and make sure you or your dermatologist perform a skin check. Usually, skin cancer is not painful. A change on the skin is the most common sign of skin cancer. This may be a new growth, a sore that doesn’t heal, or a change in a mole or old growth.

To make an appointment with a dermatologist, please call Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center at 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.

Acupuncture for Smoking Cessation

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Trying to stop smoking? Why not try acupuncture! Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medicine procedure that involves inserting thin needles in the skin in specific parts of the body to improve well-being.

Traditionally used to treat pain and diseases, recent studies suggest that acupuncture is effective as part of an overall strategy in smoking cessation. It eases symptoms of nicotine withdrawl, such as cravings, fatigue and irritability.

If you need help to stop smoking, please call Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center at 718-670-5486 to make an appointment with a counselor.

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.

At What Age Should Kids Walk To School Alone?

 

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Parents make a lot of difficult decisions regarding the safety of their children, but one of the most debated is at what age should you let your child walk to school alone?

Experts agree there is no one perfect age for when kids can walk or bike to school without an adult. Children should have good cognitive and reasoning skills, as well as the ability to follow directions.  The general consensus seems to be that 5-year-olds are too young, 6- and 7-year-olds should walk in a group and that by age 10 most kids are ready.

Your child could walk to school as early as first grade if the route is easy. You should base your decision on the distance to school, the availability of sidewalks, and how safe your neighborhood and surrounding streets are.  If you don’t think your child’s ready to walk to school alone yet, organize a Walking School Bus. It can be a fun compromise for your child and other kids who live nearby.

Before your child heads off to school by themselves (or with friends), here are a few safety precautions you should take:

. Never let a child under age 10 cross the street alone.

. Teach your child to recognize and obey traffic signal, pavement markings, and to always look both ways before crossing.

. Choose the safest route between home and school and practice walking it with your child until he/she can demonstrate traffic-safety awareness.

. Stick to well-traveled streets, use the same route every day and avoid shortcuts through wooded areas, parking lots or alleys.

. Carry backpacks and bags close to their body, not dangling by the straps.

. Put a wallet in an inside coat or front pants pocket, not a back pocket.

. Don’t wear shoes or clothing that restrict movement.

. Cross streets only in crosswalks; never enter streets from between parked cars or from behind shrubbery. Use crosswalks with crossing guards when available.

. Teach your child about good and bad strangers. Don’t speak to strangers; if a stranger approaches, tell a teacher, a school principal, a policeman or another mom with small children. These are good strangers.

. Give your child a cell phone for emergencies and teach them how to use 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.