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Strange But True — The Walking Dead?

Posted on October 19, 2015 by Sage Robinson

Do zombies really exist? Walking Corpse Syndrome (also known as Cotard’s Syndrome) is a rare neuropsychiatric disorder in which the afflicted person believe he or she is dead, missing their soul, organs, blood or other body parts, and being in a state of existence denial. Conversely, some patients may have delusions of immortality.

For people with this condition, entertainment like cable TV’s “The Walking Dead” may be too close for comfort.

Studies indicate that the disease is more prevalent in older patients and women with depression. It is also more likely to occur in patients with disorders such as:

Schizophrenia
Bipolar disorders
Brain injury
Brain atrophy
Seizure disorders
Depression
Brain tumors
Stroke
Migraine

Lesions in the frontal and temporal regions (front and sides) of the right hemisphere of the brain have been associated with the disease. However, Cotard’s Syndrome is so rare that it is difficult to pinpoint the mechanisms that cause it.

Tests are used to diagnose associated diseases and rule out other conditions. Current treatment for Cotard’s Syndrome involves medication with antidepressants, antipsychotics and mood stabilizers. Electroconvulsive therapy, in combination with medication, has been reported to be more effective than medications alone.

Fortunately, patients with Cotard’s Syndrome can experience a complete recovery, even in severe cases.

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 — The History of Magnetic Resonance Imaging or MRI

Posted on October 12, 2015 by Sage Robinson

Physicians often send patients for Magnetic Resonance Imaging or MRI’s to help them diagnose certain medical conditions, but do you know what an MRI is?

In 1977 the first human scan was performed in a prototype MRI machine. An MRI is a computerized map of harmless radio signals emitted by the human body. MRI works by creating a strong magnetic field where protons in the nucleus of the hydrogen atoms are magnetized. It is excellent for viewing soft tissue and seeing any defects that may be present.

The rotating magnetic field was discovered by Nikola Tesla in 1882. This eventually led to the definition of the Tesla Unit which describes the strength of a magnetic field. MRI machines, which were developed almost a century later, are calibrated in Tesla Units. The stronger the magnetic field, the stronger the amount of radio signals that are given off by the body’s atoms. The stronger the radio signal will lead to a better quality of the MRI image.

Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Department of Radiology offers a wide variety of state-of-the-art diagnostic and specialty services performed by Board Certified, Fellowship trained, Radiologists, and highly trained licensed and registered Technologists.To schedule an appointment for a MRI test or for more information about the MRI, please call 718-670-8851.

Is There Medicinal Power in Herbs? Bay Leaf Tea

Posted on October 7, 2015 by Sage Robinson

There are many benefits of drinking bay leaf tea. Some of the most widely known benefits are:

1. Bay leaves are a rich source of vitamin A, vitamin C, iron, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. Also regular inclusion of bay leaves in meals promotes general health.

2. They have been proven to be useful in the treatment of migraines.

3. Bay Leaf contains enzymes that help to breakdown proteins and digest food faster, helping to calm indigestion.

Recipe for Bay Leaf

16 oz water
3 bay leaves
Juice of 1 large or 2 smaller lemons

Place ingredients, together, in a pot and bring to a boil.
Drink, after it cools down

A hot cup of bay leaf tea can be very comforting. The aromatic fragrance that the leaves release is calming and the essence of the spiced tea makes bay leaf tea delicious.

MYTH OR FACT: Can people really cry tears of blood?

Posted on October 7, 2015 by Sage Robinson

FACT: Tears of blood, or haemolactia, is an extremely rare condition described as bleeding from the eyes. Because it is so rare, not much is known about the condition, but bleeding from the eye could a sign of tumors in the lacrimal sac, located in the groove between your nose and eye socket. Infection of the sac, bacterial conjunctivitis, a ruptured capillary of the eye lid or any other eye vein , possible due to high blood pressure, can also be a cause.

National Depression Screening Day

Posted on October 7, 2015 by Sage Robinson

October 8 is recognized as National Depression Screening Day. Started in 1990, the day helps promote awareness of the signs and symptoms of depression and provides those who need it mental health information and access to support services.

Though many mental health conditions are treatable, many people go through life not seeking help because they are undiagnosed. Medical professionals estimate that one in five Americans has a mental health condition in any given year and less than half will receive treatment.

Depression affects one in 10 adults and is more common in women than in men. Depression can be categorized either as Major Depression which interferes with the ability to sleep, eat, work and study or as Persistent Depressive Disorder which lasts for at least two years having varying levels of severity and which does include Major Depression during this time. Depression is caused by a combination of genetic, biological, environmental, and psychological factors.

Signs and symptoms of depression include:

• Waking up and feeling exhausted
• Sleeplessness
• Difficulty concentrating
• Short temper
• Always worrying or anxious
• Lack of energy
• Sadness

Take this quick and easy depression screening tool to see how you are doing.
(This screening tool © Copyright Mental Health America”)

Depression is real and there are ways to treat it. Treatment options include therapy with a trained professional and in some situations medication may be prescribed. If you would like to make an appointment to speak to one of the mental health professionals at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-670-5562.

Diabetes and Gastroparesis

Posted on October 7, 2015 by Sage Robinson

People with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes can be affected by gastroparesis, a condition in which the muscles of the stomach and intestines do not work normally and the movement of food is slowed or stopped.

Diabetics with neuropathy, or nerve damage, to the vagus nerve, which supplies nerve fibers all over the body including the throat, lungs, heart and intestinal tract, can suffer from gastroparesis.

Symptoms of gastroparesis may be mild or severe and include:

. Heartburn

. Nausea

. Vomiting of undigested food

. Early feeling of fullness when eating

. Weight loss

. Abdominal bloating

. Erratic blood glucose (sugar) levels

. Lack of appetite

. Gastroesophageal reflux

. Spasms of the stomach wall

Gastroparesis makes it more difficult to manage blood glucose which in turn can worsen diabetes. When food that has been delayed in the stomach finally enters the small intestine and is absorbed, blood glucose levels rise.

Your doctor can diagnose gastroparesis through a variety of different tests including a barium x-ray or blood tests. The most important treatment goal for diabetes-related gastroparesis is to manage your blood glucose levels as well as possible. Treatments include insulin, oral medications, changes in what and when you eat, and, in severe cases, feeding tubes and intravenous feeding.

The Benefits of Tai Chi

Posted on October 7, 2015 by Sage Robinson

Tai chi is an ancient Chinese martial art that has been practiced for thousands of years. This low-impact, mind-body exercise combines breath control, meditation, and movements that stretch and strengthen muscles.

The practice of tai chi involves meditation and fluid movements in conjunction with deep breathing that focuses on the area just below your navel. Tai chi theory believes that this area is the body’s storage point for energy, or chi. Tai chi can be gentle or vigorous, depending on the style you practice (there are several different types).Tai chi can be done either in class or at home once you learn the postures, but group sessions are usually preferred.

Some health benefits of tai chi include:

. Improved balance and coordination

. More flexibility

. Increased muscle strength

. Better stamina

Tai chi also helps relieve stress and can even ease chronic lower back pain, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, and tension headaches.

Healthy Whole Wheat Pumpkin Beer Bread

Posted on October 5, 2015 by Sage Robinson

October conjures up images of falling leaves, Halloween and fall cuisine. Try this healthy, light whole wheat pumpkin beer bread courtesy of SheKnows.

Yields: 8 slices

Ingredients:

1 cup whole wheat flour
2 cups all-purpose flour
3 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
2-3 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
2 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons white sugar
12 ounces beer (I used Sam Adams Oktoberfest)
1 cup canned pumpkin
2 tablespoons melted margarine (*optional)
Cooking spray

Directions:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. Grease a loaf pan with cooking spray.
Combine flours, baking powder, salt, pumpkin pie spice and sugars. Gradually add the beer and canned pumpkin. Mix until fully combined. Add additional pumpkin pie spice for flavor.
Pour mixture into the loaf pan and then pour melted margarine over it.
Bake for 50-60 minutes until loaf is fully cooked (a toothpick comes out clean when inserted).

Skin Changes During Pregnancy: What to Expect

Posted on October 2, 2015 by Flushing Hospital

470822057 pregnant woman During pregnancy, a woman’s body undergoes a complete transformation. Many of these changes are due to hormonal shifts and altered blood flow. Women may experience several changes in their skin.

Often, changes in pigmentation are among the most pronounced skin changes during pregnancy. Dark patches may begin to appear on a woman’s face, particularly along the cheekbone, forehead, nose, chin, and upper lip. This is known a chloasma, or the mask of pregnancy. This occurs because estrogen and other hormones stimulate glands that produce more pigment, but since the pigment is not produced evenly, it results in a blotchy look. While chloasma is not preventable, the effects can be minimized by avoiding exposure to the sun or using sunblock.

Many women also develop acne during pregnancy. This is due to hormonal changes, but is usually not as severe as during adolescence. To combat pimples, simply wash your face with a mild, oil-free cleanser multiple times a day. Avoid abrasive scrubs and exfoliants because your skin during pregnancy is often more sensitive. Check with your physician before using ante-acne prescription medications.

Other skin conditions that women experience during pregnancy include stretch marks, heat rash, spider veins, and the development of a reddish hue to the palms of your hands and soles of your feet, known as palmer erythema.

Regardless of the issue, skin conditions during pregnancy will improve or resolve within weeks or months after your baby is born.

To minimize adverse skin conditions during pregnancy, try following the “pregnancy diet”, a diet that offers women just the right balance of nutrients during pregnancy. Other suggestions include drinking plenty of water and only using “noncomedogenic” and unscented makeup and skin care products. A supplement of B6 might also be helpful for someone with severe skin issues.

For more information about changes to your skin during pregnancy, speak to your obstetrician. If you do not have one, you can make an appointment at Flushing Hospital’s Women’s Health Center by calling 718- 670-8994.

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Backpack Comfort and Safety Tips for Parents

Posted on September 30, 2015 by Sage Robinson

Backpacks are essential back-to-school items for kids. Available in all different colors, sizes and shapes, they are the preferred way for most children to carry their belongings.

Backpacks are preferred by many in comparison to shoulder bags because when worn correctly, they evenly distribute weight across the body. However, if worn incorrectly they can cause back pain or injuries and eventually lead to poor posture.

To prevent problems associated with improper backpack use, parents should first purchase a backpack that is lightweight and has the following features:

Wide and padded straps
Multiple compartments
Padded back
Waist belt

A backpack should also be the correct size for your child, it should never be wider or longer than your child’s torso. Practicing these safety tips will further reduce the chance of back pain or injuries caused by backpacks:

When packing, heavier items should be placed to the back and center of the backpack. Lighter items should be in front. Sharp objects such as scissors or pencils should be kept away from your child’s back. Utilizing different compartments can help in distributing weight.
Do not over pack. Doctors recommend that children should not carry backpacks that weigh more than 10-15% of their body weight.
Ensure that children use both straps. Using a single strap can cause muscle strain.
Adjust the straps so that the backpack fits closely to your child’s back and sits two inches above the waist. This ensures comfort and proper weight distribution.
Encourage children to use their lockers or desks throughout the day to drop off heavy books.

The Pediatric Orthopedic Society of North America recommends that parents should always look for warning signs that indicate backpacks may be too heavy. If your child struggles to put on and take off the backpack, they are complaining of numbness or tingling or if there are red strap marks on their shoulders -It may be time for you to lighten their load.