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How Safe is Hookah Smoking?

Posted on March 18, 2015 by Sage Robinson

Hookah smoking is a growing trend among teens and young adults. Though the practice of smoking specially-made, and usually flavored tobacco, from water pipes is believed by many to be a safe alternative to cigarette smoking, medical research has shown otherwise.

When one smokes hookah, tobacco is heated by charcoal in a smoke chamber. The smoke then passes through water and is drawn through a rubber hose to a mouthpiece. The variety of flavored tobaccos, like apple, mint, cherry, chocolate, and coconut, used in hookah smoking makes the practice more attractive to teenagers and college age students. Hookah smoking typically takes place in a group setting and generally lasts about an hour.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “hookah smoking delivers the addictive drug nicotine, is as toxic as cigarette smoking, and poses several health risks.” In a typical hookah session, smokers take approximately 200 puffs, compared to cigarette smokers who average 20 puffs a session. Additionally, the volume of smoke inhaled during a hookah session is much higher than the smoke inhaled while smoking a cigarette, 90,000 milliliters compared to 600 milliliters.

It is also believed that the charcoal used to heat the tobacco increases toxicity levels of various compounds, including carbon monoxide and heavy metals. Therefore, hookah smoking is linked to lung and oral cancer, as well as reduced lung function. These are the same harmful health effects as cigarettes. Since hookah smoking involves using, and often sharing a mouthpiece, there is also the risk of developing and spreading infectious diseases, such as herpes, influenza, and hepatitis.

Although research on hookah smoking is still developing, there is enough evidence that suggest it is just as dangerous as cigarette smoking, if not worse. Hookah smoking and its use of flavored tobacco is marketed to young adults but it’s important to understand there is no such thing as smoking hookah safely.

Join us on Facebook.com/FlushingHospital or follow us on Twitter @FHMC_NYC for more information on smoking cessation and tips on fitness and health.

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.

March 24 is Diabetes Alert Day. Can a Diabetic be Vegetarian/Vegan?

Posted on March 18, 2015 by Sage Robinson

Tuesday, March 24 is Diabetes Alert Day, a one-day wake-up call to inform the American public about the seriousness of diabetes, particularly when diabetes is left undiagnosed or untreated. Often times, diabetics wonder if they can be a vegetarian or vegan? The answer is yes, it is possible.

There are many different types of vegetarian diets. The most common types are:

Vegan- This group does not eat meat, eggs, or dairy products.
Lacto-vegetarian- This group does not eat meat or eggs. However, they will eat dairy products.
Lacto-ovo vegetarian- This group does not eat any meat. However, they will eat both dairy products and eggs.

If diabetics decide to become vegetarian or vegan, their diets should be rich in protein, iron, vitamin B12, calcium and vitamin D. Eating a good mix of vegetables, fruits, beans, whole grains, nuts, and low-fat dairy products guarantee the body receives the vitamins and proper fuel required to normally function. As a vegetarian or vegan, this kind of diet should not solely concentrate on simple carbohydrates rich in starches, such as potatoes, white rice and white bread or even fruits, which can have the opposite effect on blood sugar levels for diabetics. A focus on a well-rounded diet can help to improve blood sugar levels and make the body more responsive to insulin. It can also help with weight management which can be a concern to many diabetics.

The key to a healthy vegetarian/vegan diet as a diabetic is balance and planning. Every person who has diabetes has his, or her, own individual energy and nutrient needs. Anyone interested in changing their dietary lifestyle should consult with their health care professional.

March 24 is World TB Day

Posted on March 18, 2015 by Sage Robinson

Tuesday, March 24 is #WorldTBDay. Many people in the United States believe that #tuberculosis, or TB, was eradicated along with other diseases like smallpox and polio. Although the overall rate of TB in the United States has declined, it might surprise you to know that Western Queens has the highest incidence of tuberculosis in New York City.

TB is an airborne respiratory disease which can spread rapidly when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks. It mainly affects the lungs, but other organs such as the kidneys, spine, or brain are sometimes involved.

TB impacts all ages, races, income levels, and both genders. Most TB cases in the U.S. are brought in from foreign countries, but those at risk include people who live or work with others who have TB, including healthcare workers, the homeless, and those in group settings like nursing homes. Those with impaired immune systems like Intravenous drug users, the elderly, and HIV patients are also at risk. For someone with diabetes, the risk of contracting TB is 2-3x more likely. However, repeated exposure to the germs is usually necessary before a person will become infected.

TB is diagnosed with a TB skin test. Additional tests to determine if a person has TB disease include X-rays and sputum tests.

Stages of TB are:

Exposure — contact or exposure to another person who is thought to have or does have TB. The exposed person will have a negative skin test, a normal chest X-ray, and no signs or symptoms of the disease.

Latent TB infection – diagnosed TB bacteria infection, but no symptoms of the disease. TB organisms can remain dormant in the body throughout life in 90 percent of people who are infected. This person would have a positive skin test, but a normal chest X-ray.

TB disease — signs and symptoms of an active infection determined by a positive skin test and a positive chest X-ray.

The symptoms of TB may resemble other lung conditions or medical problems. If you’d like to make an appointment for a TB skin test, please contact the Ambulatory Care Center at Flushing Hospital Medical Center at 718-670-5486.

For more health and fitness information and tips, follow us on Twitter @FHMC_NYC and like us on Facebook www.facebook.com/FlushingHospital

What is Creative Arts Therapy?

Posted on March 16, 2015 by Sage Robinson

Mandala created by arts therapy patient

Creative arts therapists guide patients to create and reflect on art and the artistic process. They help people increase awareness of themselves and others, and enhance cognitive abilities, as well as cope with the symptoms of stress, illness and trauma. Patients gain improved self-esteem, develop more effective communication skills and create new options for coping with problems.

Celebrate Creative Arts Therapy Week March 16-21, 2015.

Why Do We Get Goosebumps?

Posted on March 13, 2015 by Flushing Hospital

goosebumps164109706 Answer: To raise the body’s temperature. When we are cold muscle fibers around the hair follicles contract- giving us goosebumps. This activity produces heat and raises the body temperature.

Is Your Child An Internet Addict?

Posted on March 13, 2015 by Flushing Hospital

It’s often difficult for parents to know how much time their children spend online.Often children play video games, view videos and browse social networking sites.

Spending too much time online can lead to the deterioration of your child’s school work and can cause problems with their relationships with family and friends.

Experts at Jamaica Hospital Medical Center warn that time spent online is at an all-time high, and rapidly increasing with children, tweens and teens.

“It’s easy to see why parents can be overwhelmed by their child’s excessive internet use,” said Dr. Fermin Gonzalez, Psychiatrist at JamaicaHospital Medical Center. “According to a recent study by the Kaiser Family Foundation, children ages 8 to 18 spend an average of 7 hours and 38 minutes a day consuming media for fun, including TV, music, video games and other content. About two-thirds of 8 to 18 year-olds had no rules on the amount of time spent watching TV, playing video games, or using a computer.”

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that parents limit their kids screen time for entertainment to less than two hours per day and children under 2 have no TV or internet exposure.

Research shows that academic failure correlates with addictive video game play, and to a higher incidence of attention problems. Conversely, academic achievers spend less time online. Research has also revealed that child and adolescent video game addiction correlates with functional impairment, emotional problems, poor conduct, hyperactivity and peer problems, as well as with depression and social phobia. In addition, several studies have proven a relationship between excessive video game play and obesity and poor diet among children in grades 4 through 6.

Parents should discuss with their children their expectations for responsible online usage and set limits on how much time can be spent online. Dr. Gonzalez suggests the following rules for internet use:

Regularly determine how much time your kids are online every day.
Don’t put a computer or game console in your child’s bedroom—rather put them in the living room.
Avoid online activity before bedtime.
Charge children’s cell or smart phone or other handheld devices overnight in your bedroom.
Be a role model. Set an example with your own internet usage.
Use an alarm clock or timer to limit your child’s time online.
Provide alternatives to online activity and video games: sports, reading, play dates, time with pets, etc.
Set a rule: no handheld devices at the table during meals.

For more information or to schedule an appointment for your child with one of Jamaica Hospital’s Child Psychiatrists, please call 718-206-5575.

For more health and fitness tips find us on Facebook.com/FlushingHospital and follow us on twitter @FHMC_NYC.

Three Surprising Foods to Help Improve Memory

Posted on March 12, 2015 by Sage Robinson

As we age, it’s not unusual to forget things like where you left your car keys or the password to your email account. Researchers suggest that by adding certain foods to your diet you can help improve both your overall health and your memory. During #BrainAwarenessWeek, check out these three surprising foods that might help boost your brain:

Avocado – Avocados contain monounsaturated fat that contribute to healthy blood flow and lower blood pressure. Hypertension is a risk factor for decline in cognitive abilities, and research suggests that foods like avocado that are rich in antioxidants vitamin E and vitamin C are associated with a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
Sunflower seeds –Sunflower seeds are also good sources of vitamin E. One ounce of dry-roasted sunflower seeds contains 30% of your recommended daily intake.
Sage – For centuries, people were known to take the herb sage for memory loss, and drank teas and tinctures containing extracts of the herb. A study published in Pharmacology Biochemistry and Behavior saw improved memory with just the smallest doses of sage.

If you are experiencing age-related memory problems, The Center for Acute Geriatric Medicine at Flushing Hospital Medical Center offers a comprehensive range of services, including a weekly Ambulatory Memory Disorder and Geriatric Clinic available to senior citizens. Please call the Ambulatory Care department for additional information at 718-670-5486.

Can Hypertension Lead to Dental Problems?

Posted on March 12, 2015 by Sage Robinson

Managing your high blood pressure with the appropriate medications is very important for your overall health, but sometimes those medications can negatively affect your dental health.

Often, medications that are used to treat hypertension can have side effects in the oral environment. Some of these medications can reduce the amount of saliva you produce, causing xerostomia, or dry mouth. Without the proper amount of saliva, the mouth can become irritated and inflamed. Dry mouth can also increase the risk of developing infection, gum disease, and the development of plaque, and therefore cavities.

Gum swelling or gingival overgrowth is another possible side-effect of medications used to treat high blood pressure. Gingival overgrowth occurs when gum tissue becomes so swollen that it begins to grow over the teeth. Swollen gum tissue creates a favorable environment for bacteria because plaque can easily get trapped underneath the gums, making it hard to brush and maintain good oral hygiene.

It is import to inform your dentist about any health conditions you have, and the medications you are taking. Good oral hygiene and more frequent visits to the dentist can help lower your chances of developing complications.

Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Dental Department provides preventive dentistry programs to school children, as well as adults and seniors. Oral cancer screening programs are also frequently performed at all our community health fairs. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 718-670-5521.

Tips to Prevent Unintentional Poisoning at Home

Posted on March 12, 2015 by Sage Robinson

March 15-21 is designated National Poison Prevention Week. According to the Center for Disease Control, over 300 children in the United States are treated in ER’s every day, and two children die, as a result of being poisoned. Products commonly found in the household can potentially become deadly if not used and stored with caution. In a recent study published in the journal Pediatrics, more than 17,000 children under age six ingested, inhaled, or squirted into their eyes, the contents of single-load laundry detergent packets in just one year.

Here are some simple prevention tips:

. Keep all products in original containers — Never transfer dangerous products like bleach or paints to soft drink bottles or other containers used for food and drink without a child-resistant closure.

. Keep foods and household products separate — Cleaning fluids, detergents, insecticides and other household products should be stored away from food and medications, and out of sight of children in a cabinet or closet that locks or has a child-resistant latch. Use child-resistant packaging, and remember to reseal the package after every use.

. Never call flavored medicine “candy” — Children may look for and find the bottle and eat or drink its contents.

. Read the label — Follow label directions and read all warnings before giving medicines to children.

. Don’t keep it if you don’t need it — Safely dispose of unused, unneeded, or expired prescription drugs and over the counter medications. To dispose of medicines, mix them with coffee grounds or kitty litter and throw them away. You can also turn them in at a local take-back program or during National Drug Take-Back events.

. Know the number — If you suspect poisoning has occurred, immediately call the Poison Help Hotline at 1-800-222-1222, or 911 if you have a poison emergency.

For more health and fitness information, join us on Facebook.com/FlushingHospital and follow us on Twitter @FHMC_NYC

Does One Part Alcohol + One Part Breast Milk = Bad For Baby?

Posted on March 9, 2015 by Sage Robinson

Women have been warned not to consume alcohol during pregnancy. There is sufficient research that confirms drinking alcohol, while pregnant, poses several, avoidable risk to an unborn baby. However, the risks of consuming alcohol while breastfeeding are not as well defined.

Breastfeeding mothers often receive conflicting advice about whether their alcohol consumption can have an adverse effect on their baby. This leaves mothers with more questions than answers. A good resource to start looking for answers is the La Leche League. Their article, The Womanly Art Of Breastfeedingsays: The effects of alcohol on the breastfeeding baby are directly related to the amount the mother ingests. When the breastfeeding mother drinks occasionally, or limits her consumption to one drink or less per day, the amount of alcohol her baby receives has not been proven to be harmful.

The League further published:

Alcohol passes freely into mother’s milk and has been found to peak about 30 to 60 minutes after consumption, 60 to 90 minutes when taken with food. Alcohol also freely passes out of a mother’s milk and here system. It takes a 120 pound woman about two to three hours to eliminate from her body the alcohol in one serving of beer or wine. The more alcohol that is consumed, the longer it takes for it to be eliminated. It takes up to 13 hours for a 120 pound woman to eliminate alcohol from one high-alcoholic drink.

Opposing research from the Mayo Clinic suggests that breast-fed babies, whose mothers drank, as few as, one drink a day may present with impaired motor or development and that alcohol can cause changes in sleep patterns.

Also, to dispel any notion that encourages drinking alcohol to improve milk production. Facts show that the presence of alcohol in breast milk can cause the babies to drink about 20 % less.

Remember, research has shown that breast-feeding is an optimal way to feed your newborn and is recommended until a baby is at least age one.