Health Beat

Anti-Itch Ingredients to Look for (and Avoid) for Eczema

Posted on November 9, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

Eczema is a common skin condition characterized by patches of itchy, dry, blistering skin. It affects approximately 31 million Americans and up to 20% of all infants. The symptoms of eczema can range from mild to severe, often occurring in periodic “flare-ups” that cause them to temporarily worsen before subsiding.

While effective treatments for eczema such as steroid injections, oral medications, and even light therapy are available, many cases are treated through over-the-counter topical skin care products such as lotions, moisturizers, antihistamines, pain relievers, topical hydrocortisone, and shampoo.

These types of products can help prevent flare-ups of eczema by hydrating the affected areas of your skin and reducing inflammation. They often include ingredients such as:

Aloe
Glycerin
Hyaluronic acid
Vitamin E
Petrolatum
Humectants
Niacinamide

However, not all lotions, moisturizers, fragrances, or other skin care products may be beneficial for eczema-affected skin, as certain common ingredients can cause or worsen flare-ups, even if they’re beneficial for other types of skin conditions. These include:

Ethanol and alcohol
Lanolin
Propylene glycol
Retinoids
Essential oils
Urea

If you’re suffering from eczema, it’s best to work with a dermatologist that can help you find the most effective treatment options for your condition. You can schedule an appointment with a dermatologist at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center now by calling (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.

What is Sundowning?

Posted on November 7, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

If a friend or loved one is displaying symptoms of confusion that occur or worsen in the late afternoon and evening, they may be experiencing sundowning, also known as sundown syndrome.

Sundowning is typically characterized by problems with memory, thinking, reasoning, and mood regulation which present themselves through behaviors such as pacing, wandering, or closely following someone, in addition to more dramatic outbursts of yelling, crying, or violence. A person experiencing sundowning may suffer from paranoia, delusions, or insomnia, as well. Although these symptoms usually occur in the latter half of the day, they can also appear during the morning.

Over 20% of people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia suffer from sundown syndrome. The exact causes of sundowning are unknown, but physical discomfort, infections, sleep cycle disruptions, overstimulation, and low lighting can all worsen its symptoms.

Managing triggers is the best way to prevent or decrease the severity of sundowning episodes. Light therapy, music therapy, and familiar environments can also help. Additionally, antidepressant, anti-anxiety, or antipsychotic medications may provide relief in some cases. For people whose sundowning symptoms are linked to sleep-related triggers, melatonin can be used to help restore a normal sleep cycle.

It’s important to get a loved one suffering from sundown syndrome to a doctor as soon as possible and to advocate for them throughout the treatment process to ensure that any issues they can’t communicate on their own are identified promptly. Schedule an appointment at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center now by calling (718) 670-5486.

What is RSV?

Posted on November 4, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

RSV (respiratory syncytial virus) is a respiratory illness that is typically most prevalent during the fall, winter, and early spring seasons. Most children born in the United States will have experienced it at some point before their second birthday.

The virus often presents symptoms similar to those of a cold, including a runny nose, coughing or wheezing, fever, and decreased appetite. These symptoms usually appear approximately four to six days after infection, but may not appear all at once.

While it usually does not lead to hospitalization, RSV can be particularly dangerous to children if it causes bronchiolitis or pneumonia to develop; it’s the most common cause of both of these illnesses in children under the age of one. If an infant develops either of these conditions, becomes dehydrated, or experiences significant difficulty breathing, the situation could become more serious and require hospital care.

RSV can also be especially dangerous for older adults, accounting for approximately 177,000 hospitalizations in adults over the age of 65.

The virus is usually spread through:

Bodily fluids such as mucus, saliva, or droplets
Surfaces that have the virus on them
Direct contact such as kissing an infected person

The best way to decrease the risk of an older adult or infant developing RSV is to prevent as many means of transmission as possible and promptly get them medical care if their symptoms seem to be worsening.

People and children who are at risk of developing severe cases of RSV should:

Avoid close contact with infected people and, if possible, close-contact settings such as daycare centers where RSV can more easily spread
Frequently wash their hands with soap and water for 20 seconds and refrain from touching their face until after they’ve done so

If you are sick with RSV, you should:

Avoid close contact with non-infected people
Frequently clean surfaces you’ve touched with disinfectant
Wear a mask and/or cover coughs and sneezes with a sleeve or tissue
Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for 20 seconds

If you or someone you know has developed RSV symptoms that require medical attention, you can schedule an appointment at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center by calling (718) 670-5486 now.

November is National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month

Posted on November 2, 2022 by Andrew Rubin

In 1983, President Ronald Reagan designated the month of November as National Alzheimer’s Awareness Month. This designation serves to bring awareness of the disease to the general public.

Alzheimer’s disease is a progressive brain disorder that is not a normal part of aging. At the current time, more than six million Americans are living with Alzheimer’s and it is estimated that by the year 2060 this number is estimated to exceed 14 million people. There is no cure for the disease but there are treatments being studied.

If you think that you or a person you know may be experiencing memory loss that could be an early sign of Alzheimer’s disease, speak to your physician about a screening exam. To schedule an appointment with a physician at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-670-5486.

Everything You Need to Know About CBD Oil

Posted on November 2, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

Cannabidiol (also known as CBD) oil, one of over a hundred chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant, is often touted for its various potential health benefits. While current research suggests that this may be the case with regard to certain conditions, there are several factors you should consider before using it.

Although CBD can be found in marijuana, it does not get you high on its own. The compound responsible for this sensation is THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis. THC is similarly extracted from cannabis and sold in a variety of products.

The only CBD product currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration, Epidiolex, is primarily used as an anti-seizure medication for people that are one year of age or older who have Lennox Gastaut syndrome, Dravet syndrome, or tuberous sclerosis complex.

CBD may also help relieve symptoms of anxiety disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder and social anxiety. Although evidence of its benefits when it comes to depression is limited, current research suggests that it can reduce symptoms in people suffering from cannabis use disorders. In addition to these effects, CBD oil has been linked to benefits for alleviating certain cancer-related symptoms, neurological disorders, high blood pressure, and sleep disorders.

Some studies suggest that CBD could also help reduce pain and inflammation related to arthritis and rheumatic diseases such as fibromyalgia, although research into these benefits is ongoing.

CBD oil can cause certain harmful side effects. According to the Food and Drug Administration, research has linked CBD oil with liver damage, drowsiness, gastrointestinal problems, and negative shifts in mood.

Additionally, there is a long list of unanswered questions about other ways in which CBD oil may affect your health, such as the effects of continuous daily use and different methods of consumption, as well as how a young person’s developing brain may be affected by it.

It’s best to discuss how CBD oil may affect your health with your doctor to weigh the benefits and risks with your medical history in mind, particularly if you’re investigating it as a way of managing symptoms you’re suffering from. You can schedule an appointment with a physician at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center by calling (718) 670-5486 now.

Protecting Our Skin’s Barrier

Posted on October 31, 2022 by Xavia Malcolm

Our skin is the largest and one of our most important organs. It helps to prevent several external threats such as bacteria from entering the body and excessive amounts of water from leaving the body.

There are three layers of protection that make up our skin. The first or outermost layer is called the epidermis, the second layer is called the dermis, and the third is the hypodermis.

The epidermis acts as our protective barrier —our first line of defense. Without its protection, harmful toxins, irritants, and other substances could penetrate our skin. This layer of skin also helps to retain moisture and keep us hydrated.

Damage to the skin’s barrier could lead to several health problems including infections, inflammation, dryness, sensitivity, redness, acne, or premature aging.

Given the importance of the skin’s barrier to our health, it is important that we take good care of it. Here are 10 ways we can achieve this:

Apply sunscreen daily
Remove impurities by gently cleansing the skin (avoid using cleansers that contain sulfates)
Avoid using harsh chemicals on the skin such as retinoids for extended periods
Use plant oils such as coconut oil or almond oil to replenish the skin barrier
Use products that include ceramides and humectants
Use moisturizers that include hyaluronic acid
Avoid long hot baths or showers
Avoid over-washing and over-scrubbing skin
Drink daily recommended amounts of water
Eat healthy foods

To maintain the health of our skin’s barrier, most dermatologists recommend a simple care routine that involves gently cleansing the skin morning and night and using moisturizers that are rich in active ingredients such as glycerin, ceramides, or hyaluronic acid.

If you are experiencing skin damage for a prolonged time, it is best to see a dermatologist to assess the root of the problem and determine the appropriate course of treatment. Your doctor may recommend removing certain products from your skin routine, using simple but effective products, or making lifestyle changes.

Halloween 2022 Safety Tips

Posted on October 28, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

Halloween is a family-favorite holiday full of spooky fun and lots of candy. However, it can also present many opportunities for injury as kids take to the streets in pursuit of trick-or-treat goodies.

Statistics show that roughly four times as many children between the ages of five and 14 are killed while walking on Halloween evening compared to other evenings of the year. Injuries due to falls and other accidents are also common among children on Halloween.

Parents can help minimize the risk of children getting injured on this holiday by following these safety tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the National Safety Council.

On Halloween, children should:

Go only to well-lit houses.
Remain on porches without actually entering a house.
Travel in small groups accompanied by an adult.
Use flexible, non-sharp plastic props for costume pieces such as knives and swords.
When walking through neighborhoods trick-or-treating, use flashlights, stay on sidewalks, and avoid crossing yards.
Cross at appropriately-designated crosswalks and do not cross between parked cars.
Be sure to stop at all corners and stay together in a group before crossing.
Wear clothing or costumes that are bright, reflective, and flame-retardant.
Consider using face paint instead of masks that can obstruct a child’s vision.
Avoid wearing hats that will slide over children’s eyes.
Avoid wearing long, baggy, or loose costumes or oversized shoes that may cause kids to trip.
Be reminded to look left, right, and left again before crossing a street.

On Halloween, parents and adults should:

Supervise trick-or-treating for children under the age of 12.
Avoid giving choking hazards such as gum, peanuts, hard candies, or small toys as treats to young children.
Ensure the safety of pedestrian trick-or-treaters.
Make sure children under the age of 10 are supervised as they cross the street.
Drive slowly.
Watch for children in the street and on medians.
Exit driveways and alleyways slowly and carefully.
Have children get out of cars on the side of the sidewalk, not the street.

Follow these tips to keep both your children and yourself safe this year. Have a happy and fun Halloween!

What Are Doctors Checking for During a Physical Exam ?

Posted on October 27, 2022 by Flushing Hospital

During a physical examination, doctors inspect different parts of our bodies to check for symptoms or potential health problems. They may peer inside our ears, shine a light in our eyes, and look inside our mouths for tell-tale signs, here are some of the medical reasons why they do so:

Shining a light in your eyes- Our eyes can reveal a great deal about our health. Doctors shine a light in our eyes to evaluate how well our pupils respond. In healthy eyes, the pupils will shrink and maintain their round shape. Doctors may also look at the color of your eyes during an examination. Red eyes mays signal irritation and yellow eyes can serve as a warning sign for liver problems.
Peering into your ears – By using an otoscope, doctors can check for signs of infection. Some otoscopes can send a puff of air into the ear canal, this helps doctors to see your eardrum and how it moves when there is pressure in your ear canal.
Pressing your stomach-Doing so can help doctors determine if the size of your internal organs is normal. Additionally, your doctor may check for pain, tenderness, or firmness. Doctors may also listen to your stomach with a stethoscope to check for bowel problems.
Looking into your mouth- Our mouths can also tell us a lot about our health. Doctors look at the back of our throats to see if there are any infections. They also look at the color and texture of our tongues which can be indicative of infections or other underlying medical conditions.
Listening to your heart or lungs – By using a stethoscope, your doctor may listen to your heart to check for heart murmurs, irregular rhythms, or signs of congestive heart failure. Doctors listen to your lungs to check for wheezing, fluid build-up, or infections.

Getting an annual physical is very important for your health. A physical examination can help your doctor to detect problems that can pose a serious threat to your overall wellness.

To schedule an appointment with a doctor at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-670-5486.

What is Chorionic Villus Sampling?

Posted on October 26, 2022 by Jacob Lobosco

Approximately 120,000 babies are born each year with a genetic defect, leading to one in five children dying within their first year of life. This is why genetic testing is an essential component of effective pre-natal care and a valuable means of identifying potential health issues for your child early. One such diagnostic method is chorionic villus sampling.

This test takes a tissue sample from the placenta to determine whether your baby may have chromosomal abnormalities or other genetic problems. It’s typically performed between the 10^th and 12^th weeks of pregnancy and is followed by a blood test between weeks 16 and 18 to check for neural tube defects.

Chorionic villus sampling may be conducted in two ways. The first, referred to as transcervical chorionic villus sampling, obtains a tissue sample from the placenta through a catheter inserted in your cervix. The second method, transabdominal sampling, obtains this sample through a needle inserted through your abdomen and uterus.

If you have a family history of genetic disorders, you may be recommended to undergo this procedure. It may also be recommended if your other genetic and diagnostic tests have shown abnormal results or if you will be 35 years of age or older by your pregnancy due date.

If your doctor does not make a recommendation for you to receive this test, you may still choose to do so. However, this procedure is invasive and comes with some risks, such as cramping, bleeding, infection, preterm labor, and rarely, more serious problems such as infant limb defects or miscarriage.

You should discuss the benefits and risks of chorionic villus sampling with a doctor. You can schedule an appointment with an OB/GYN at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Women’s Health Department by calling (718) 670-5702.

Hyperglycemia

Posted on October 25, 2022 by Xavia Malcolm

The American Diabetes Association defines hyperglycemia as the technical term for having high blood glucose or high blood sugar.

High blood sugar can occur in people with diabetes as a result of eating certain foods, skipping, or not taking the correct dosage of insulin. Other causes are taking certain medications, infections, or severe illnesses.

Symptoms of hyperglycemia do not present immediately in most cases. They typically develop slowly, over several days or weeks. According to the Mayo Clinic, hyperglycemia usually doesn’t cause symptoms until blood sugar (glucose) levels are high — above 180 to 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), or 10 to 11.1 millimoles per liter (mmol/L).

Symptoms of hyperglycemia can include:

Increased thirst
Dry mouth
Fruity-smelling breath
Frequent urination
Blurred vision

It is important to pay attention to symptoms because hyperglycemia can become a serious health problem if left untreated. Ongoing high blood sugar levels can lead to nerve damage as well as damage to blood vessels and organs. Potentially life-threatening complications such as ketoacidosis (diabetic coma) could also occur.

If you are experiencing symptoms of hyperglycemia, consult your physician right away. To schedule an appointment with a doctor at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call 718-670-5486.