Plaque Psoriasis

Posted on August 6, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Plaque psoriasis is a chronic autoimmune condition that causes thick patches, or plaques, on the skin, including the elbows, back, knees, and scalp. In severe cases, plaque psoriasis can affect the entire body, including:

The face

The feet

The genitals

The hands

The legs

Plaque psoriasis can affect anyone. However, a person may be more likely to have it if they:

Are white

Drink alcohol

Experience stress or depression

Have a relative with psoriasis

Have obesity

Smoke or use tobacco products

Symptoms of plaque psoriasis include:

Raised, discolored (red, brown, gray, or purple) plaques with a white or silvery surface

Cracks (fissures)

Bleeding

Itchiness

Irritation or pain

Plaque psoriasis is a problem with the immune system. The immune system overreacts, causing inflammation, which leads to new skin cells growing too fast.

New skin cells typically grow every 28 to 30 days. However, if a person has plaque psoriasis, new cells grow and move to the skin’s surface every three to four days.

Plaque psoriasis flare-ups can differ from person to person. No one knows what exactly causes them, but common plaque psoriasis triggers can include:

Certain foods or drinks

Certain prescription medications

Dry skin

Emotional stress

Skin injuries, such as cuts, scrapes, or surgery

Sun damage

A healthcare provider will diagnose plaque psoriasis by examining the affected areas and looking for common signs. They will also ask about symptoms, family history, and if you have recently started or stopped using a product or medication just before a flare-up.

They may also perform several tests to rule out other conditions that could cause your plaques, such as eczema or dermatitis. This series of tests is a differential diagnosis. Tests may include:

Allergy test

Biopsy

Blood tests to check for causes of a rash unrelated to plaque psoriasis

Unfortunately, there is no cure for plaque psoriasis. Treatment is used to provide relief for symptoms. An anti-inflammatory diet may help to limit plaque psoriasis flare-ups. Foods that have anti-inflammatory properties include:

Oily fish, such as mackerel, salmon, or sardines

Leafy greens, such as spinach and kale

Olive oil

If you are experiencing symptoms of plaque psoriasis, you can visit 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.

Pain While Breastfeeding

Posted on August 5, 2025 by Flushing Hospital

It is common to experience some discomfort while breastfeeding during the first few days after giving birth. You may feel pain, soreness, or tenderness in your breast or nipple, but these issues should improve over time with proper care and breastfeeding techniques.

Breastfeeding should be a comfortable and enjoyable experience for both mother and baby. Therefore, if you continue to experience pain or discomfort while breastfeeding, it may indicate a more serious problem that should not be ignored.

It’s crucial to investigate the cause or seek assistance from a lactation consultant. One of the most frequent causes of nipple pain is an incorrect latch. Signs of a poor latch include:

– Nipple pain
– Clicking or smacking noises from your baby
– Your baby sucking in their cheeks
– Your baby is showing signs of hunger after feeding

Other potential causes of breast or nipple pain during breastfeeding can include:

– Mastitis (inflammation in the breast)
– Breast abscess
– Clogged milk ducts
– Engorgement
– Thrush
– Cracked nipples
– Tongue-tie (when the baby has a short frenulum)

If you are experiencing breast or nipple pain, it is advisable to consult an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. A consultant can help address breastfeeding challenges such as low milk supply, latching issues, or other barriers to successful breastfeeding.

Health Benefits of Summer Fruits

Posted on August 5, 2025 by Xavia Malcolm

Summer fruits are exceptionally flavorful this time of year because they are in season, having ripened naturally before being harvested.

In addition to offering us a delicious treat, summer fruits provide nutrients, antioxidants, and minerals that are good for our health.

Here is a list of summer fruits along with their health benefits:

Mangoes are rich in vitamins A and C, and other nutrients that support the immune system. They are also a good source of folate and copper, as well as polyphenols that act as antioxidants, which protect our cells against free radicals.
Cherries offer various health benefits. They are rich in antioxidants, which help reduce inflammation in the body and protect against cell damage. Cherries also contain melatonin, which helps improve sleep quality.
Apples are an excellent source of pectin, which is a type of fiber that aids digestion. They are also rich in antioxidants such as quercetin, which may help lower blood pressure and help regulate the immune system.
Peaches are a good source of minerals such as magnesium and potassium. They are rich in vitamins A, C, and E. Peaches are also packed with antioxidants that help protect our cells from damage and may help reduce inflammation.
Apricots offer a wide range of health benefits. They contain several essential vitamins, including A, C, and E, and minerals such as potassium. Additionally, apricots are rich in fiber and antioxidants, which fight free radicals in the body.

Adding summer fruits to a balanced diet can benefit our health. The recommended amount of fruit we should consume daily varies based on factors such as our age, sex, weight, height, and physical activity level. For general recommendations, you can visit https://www.myplate.gov/myplate-plan. You can also receive a personalized care plan from a dietitian at Flushing Hospital Medical Center by calling 718-670-5486

World Lung Cancer Day

Posted on August 1, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

August 1st is observed as World Lung Cancer Day. It is a day dedicated to the global initiative of raising awareness about lung cancer, its impact, and the importance of prevention, early detection, and advanced treatments.

According to the World Health Organization, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among both men and women, and it is so prevalent that more people die from it than from colon, breast, and liver cancers combined every year.

World Lung Cancer Day was established in 2012 by the Forum of International Respiratory Societies (FIRS) in collaboration with other health organizations. The day focuses on educating the public about risk factors such as smoking, air pollution, and occupational exposures, while advocating for research and improved access to care.

World Lung Cancer Day serves as a platform to support those affected by the disease and to emphasize the critical need for collective action in the fight against lung cancer.

Lung cancer screening helps to identify cancer at an early stage when treatment can be most effective. Early detection through a low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) scan can improve survival rates in individuals with the disease.

The MediSys Health Network is committed to improving the morbidity and mortality associated with lung cancer. For more information about our program, please contact the Lung Cancer Screening Program at 718-206-LUNG (5864).

Summer Recipe: A Delicious and Refreshing Summer Pasta Salad

Posted on July 30, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

As summer continues, there are going to be more gatherings with family and friends. Here is a recipe for a delicious and refreshing summer pasta salad.

Summer Pasta Salad Recipe | Food Network Kitchen | Food Network

How to Avoid Common Kid Injuries in the Summer

Posted on July 23, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

The summer is a fun time for kids as they have more free time and can enjoy outdoor activities. However, more time for outdoor activities can create more opportunities for injuries at a higher rate.

Here are some common summer kid injuries and how to avoid them:

When kids are at the beach or pool, it is important to watch them when they are in and around the water. Keep young children and weak swimmers within arm’s reach of an adult. Make sure more experienced swimmers are with a partner every time. Designate a Water Watcher by choosing an adult to be responsible for watching children in or near the water for a certain period, such as 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, select another adult to be a Water Watcher.

It is also important to teach children how to swim. Every child is different, so enroll them in swimming lessons when they are ready. Consider their age, development, and how often they will be around water. Learn CPR and be ready in case of an emergency.

Sun exposure during daily activities and play can cause the most sun damage. Overexposure to sunlight before the age of 18 is most damaging to the skin. UV rays are strongest during summer months when the sun is directly overhead; this normally occurs between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

Use an SPF of 15-30 or higher sunscreen to block the sun’s rays. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before going outside and reapply it often during the day. Use broad-spectrum sunscreens that block the greatest amount of UVA and UVB rays.

The risk of a head injury is higher in the spring and summer months, with popular activities such as bike riding, skating, and skateboarding. Parents should seek medical attention for their child should any of the following occur after a head injury:

Vomiting

Alteration in mental state

Increased irritability, fussiness

A seizure

Weakness in parts of the body

A bad headache

Wearing a helmet can prevent brain injuries and should become a habit. Helmets that fit properly can reduce the risk of head injuries by at least 45%.

Summer is a rare time when children can enjoy trampolines. However, trampoline jumping can pose a high risk of injury for children. The activity can result in sprains and fractures in the arms or legs, as well as head and neck injuries. If you allow your child to use a trampoline, follow these important safety rules:

- Always have adult supervision when children use the trampoline

- Use safety nets and pads. Cover the trampoline’s frame, springs, and surrounding landing surfaces

- Place home trampolines at ground level, as a fall from a higher surface can increase the risk of injury

- Make sure the trampoline is set at a safe distance from trees and other hazards

- Allow only one person to use the trampoline at a time

- Don’t allow flying somersaults or other potentially risky moves on the trampoline without proper supervision, instruction, and proper use of protective equipment such as a harness

- Don’t allow unsupervised jumping. If you use a trampoline ladder, always remove it after use to prevent unsupervised access by children

Summertime fireworks can be fun on holidays like the Fourth of July. However, it is important to make sure everyone knows about fireworks safety. If not handled properly, fireworks can cause burns and eye injuries in kids and adults. The best way to protect your family is not to use fireworks at home. Attend public fireworks displays, and leave lighting fireworks to the professionals

When barbecuing or grilling, it is important to make sure children stay a safe distance from the grill. Make it a point to:

- Keep children and pets away from the grill area by declaring a 3-foot “kid-free zone” around the grill

- Keep all matches and lighters away from children. Teach your children to report any loose matches or lighters to an adult immediately

- Be aware of charcoal that may still be hot in grills and fire pits. They can burn children even when there isn’t a fire

- Always supervise children around outdoor grills

If your child has suffered an injury, you can schedule an appointment with Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Pediatric Ambulatory Care Center by calling 718-670-3007. If they are experiencing an emergency, call 911 immediately.

Employee Spotlight Shines on Sal Sica

Posted on July 23, 2025 by Andrew Rubin

This month, we are proud to shine our Employee Spotlight on Sal Sica, RPh, Lead Pharmacist in the Pharmacy Department. Sal has been employed at Flushing Hospital Medical Center for over 43 years. He began his career at the hospital in the medical library in 1982 and for the past 38 years he has been employed as a pharmacist.

Sal grew up in the Flushing / Auburndale area of Queens and still resides there. He attended St. Kevin’s Elementary School, Holy Cross High School, and received his pharmacy degree from St. John’s University. Sal has three children, two boys and a girl and also has a 3-year-old granddaughter and an almost 2-year-old grandson. He also has a dog whose name is Francesca.

Sal’s family is very important to him and he enjoys spending his free time with them. He also likes going to concerts, Broadway shows and watching all kinds of sports. When he was younger he played softball. His vacations always include his family and some of the places they have been to are Florida and Italy. His favorite city in Italy is Florence. Family dinners are always something Sal enjoys, especially homemade Italian meals. He likes music from the 1970’s, his favorite performers being Neil Diamond and Elvis.

Sal enjoys working at Flushing Hospital because having spent the last 43 years there, it feels like his second home. He likes the special relationships he has formed with his colleagues in the pharmacy, and throughout the hospital. We are fortunate to have Sal as a member of our team and we look forward to him remaining with us for many more years.

5 Medications That May Interact With Coffee

Posted on July 22, 2025 by Xavia Malcolm

Many people enjoy coffee for its caffeine content, which provides a stimulating effect. While this caffeinated beverage is generally safe to consume, it may interact with certain medications, potentially affecting how well the medication works for you.

Here are five medications that may interact with caffeine:

Blood thinners- caffeine can slow blood clotting; therefore, mixing it with blood thinners can increase your risk of bleeding.
Thyroid medications – caffeine can reduce the absorption of certain thyroid medications, which makes them less effective. This may lead to inconsistent thyroid levels and symptoms such as joint pain, fatigue, or weight gain.
Asthma medications – having coffee or other caffeinated beverages along with certain asthma medications can reduce their absorption. Mixing the two may also worsen side effects that may result from these medications.
Blood pressure medications – drinking coffee around the same time as taking certain blood pressure medications may cause your body to absorb less of these medications. Caffeinated coffee may also increase blood pressure levels, which makes it harder for medications to work.
Antidepressants- caffeine may affect how well your body absorbs certain antidepressants, lessening their effect or benefits. Combining coffee with some of these medications may also increase the risk of side effects.

If you are taking any of these types of medications, you should speak with your doctor or pharmacist about consuming coffee or other sources that have a high caffeine content. Caffeine may reduce the effectiveness of medicines and exacerbate the symptoms of health conditions being treated.

Meet Our New Beginnings Team Member Dr. Ipsita Chauhan

Posted on July 22, 2025 by Andrew Rubin

This month, we are proud to highlight Dr. Ipsita Chauhan, an attending OB/GYN physician in the New Beginnings Unit at Flushing Hospital Medical Center. Dr. Chauhan has been a valued member of our staff since 2016. Her journey began here as a resident, and the strong sense of community and commitment to patient care inspired her to stay on as an attending physician.

Over the years, she has seen the Labor and Delivery unit transform into a modern facility that remains welcoming and supportive, with a home-like culture that makes it truly special. Patient safety and comfort are always her top priorities. Dr. Chauhan also takes pride in fostering a strong learning environment for our OB/GYN residents.

Beyond deliveries, she is passionate about helping women achieve long-term health and well-being. She focuses on managing PCOS, supporting sustainable weight management, and recently became certified in menopause care. One of the most rewarding aspects of her work is guiding patients as they transition from pregnancy to lifelong care—helping them feel empowered, supported, and heard at every stage of life.

We are honored to have Dr. Chauhan as a member of our New Beginnings team and look forward to her continued dedication for many years to come.

Suicide Prevention- Pay Attention to The Signs

Posted on July 21, 2025 by Flushing Hospital

Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Many individuals who died by suicide had mental health disorders that were treatable but went unnoticed..

Suicide may be prevented if the signs of mental health disorders are recognized and addressed immediately.

Here are a few warning signs of suicide we should not ignore:

Feelings of hopelessness
Self-loathing
Changes in sleep patterns, which can either be excessive sleep or a deprivation of sleep
Irritability or anger
Talking about harming themselves
Loss of interest in daily activities or things they were once passionate about
Reckless behavior
Increasing use of alcohol or drugs
A preoccupation with death
Getting their affairs in order in preparation for death
Verbalizing thoughts such as “ Everyone will be better without me” or “I have nothing to live for.”
Visiting or calling people to say goodbye

If someone you know exhibits the following behaviors, do not dismiss them as a passing phase. These actions are a cry for help.

It is essential to let your loved one know that you have noticed changes in their behavior, they are not alone, and you are there to support them through this challenging time. Speak openly about what they are feeling and reassure them that they will not be judged because they feel suicidal. Seek the help of a mental health professional immediately. Insist on accompanying this person to their consultation or treatment. Continue to demonstrate your support during treatment by reminding them to take their prescribed medications, attending physician appointments, and encouraging a healthy lifestyle.

If you or someone you know is having suicidal thoughts or demonstrating suicidal behaviors, get help immediately. Call 911, or 988.