BBQ Food Safety Tips

Summer is a time when we have and/or attend several barbecues or cookouts. However, whether you are hosting or attending, eating outdoors in warm weather can present food safety challenges. 

Bacteria in food multiply faster at temperatures between 40°F and 140°F, so the summer heat can create problems. Here are some tips to follow to help keep you and others safe from foodborne illnesses: 

  • Washing your hands is very important. Wash your hands if you are preparing food, serving food, or after using the bathroom. Wash your hands and forearms with soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. If you are in an outdoor setting without access to a bathroom, use a bottle of water, some soap, and paper towels, or use hand sanitizer.  
  • Keep raw food separate from cooked food to avoid cross-contamination.  
  • Don’t use any plates or utensils that have potentially touched or have been contaminated by raw meat, poultry, or seafood. It is recommended to wash utensils that have touched raw meats if they must also be used to handle cooked meats 
  • Marinate food in the refrigerator, instead of out on the counter. If you want to use some of the marinade as a sauce on your food after it is cooked, keep a separate portion of it to use later. Do not reuse the marinade that contained raw meat 
  • Cook food thoroughly to kill any harmful germs and bacteria that may be present. E. coli and Salmonella can still be present in undercooked meats such as hamburger and chicken, and can cause severe illness, even death. Each food should be at a certain temperature for it to be fully cooked: 
    • Chicken 165o F 
    • Hamburgers 160o F 
    • Pork 150o F 
    • Hot dogs 140o F 
    • Leftovers 165o F 
    • Eggs 145o F 

Use a food thermometer to check the temperature of the food. Insert the thermometer into the center of the meat, which is the least cooked part. To check the temperature of hot dogs, go from the end of the hot dog to the center. Be careful not to pass through the meat and touch the cooking surface because you will get a false high temperature reading. 

  • Refrigerate or freeze food immediately, as you shouldn’t leave food out of the refrigerator, cooler, or off the grill for more than two hours. Never leave food out for more than one hour when the outside temperature is above 90°F 
  • Keep hot food hot and cold food cold. Hot food should be kept at or above 140°F, wrapped well, and placed in an insulated container. Cold food should be held at or below 40°F. Foods such as chicken salads and desserts that are in individual serving dishes should be placed directly on ice or in a shallow container set in a deep pan filled with ice. Drain off any water that pools as the ice melts, and replace the ice frequently 
  • Wipe surfaces often, especially after using them for food preparation, as germs from undercooked meat can grow on vegetables cut or washed on the same surface as meat. Mix and use a sanitizing solution of one capful of chlorine bleach per gallon of water for cleaning work area surfaces. If possible, use separate cutting boards or surfaces for foods that will not be cooked, such as salad 
  • Keep flies away by covering trash containers, and not storing meat wrappers and other trash in open cardboard boxes or uncovered containers, even for a short period of time 
  • Don’t use fly spray or “No-Pest” chemical strips, as they can contaminate your food 
  • Don’t keep food containers out in the open. Instead, place them in a shaded area 
  • Keep plates, cups, utensils, and food covered until they are ready to be used 
  • Handle plates, cups, and utensils where they won’t come in contact with any food 
  • Don’t prepare and serve food if you have been sick with vomiting or diarrhea within the past 24 hours 
  • Don’t wear loose finger or wrist jewelry or fake nails while working with food 
  • Keep plenty of paper towels handy for cleaning your hands and surfaces 

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of a foodborne illness, you can receive treatment at 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.

Tonsil Stones

Tonsil stones are small, pebble-like lumps of calcified minerals, food debris, and germs, such as bacteria and fungi, that form in the tonsils.  

The most common symptom of tonsil stones is bad breath. Other symptoms can include: 

  • Sore throat 
  • Cough 
  • Difficulty swallowing 
  • Earache 
  • Bad taste in your mouth 
  • The feeling of something stuck in your throat 

Tonsil stones form when debris gets trapped in the tonsillar crypts, or the folds in the tonsils, and calcifies. You are more likely to develop enlarged tonsillar crypts if you have chronic tonsillitis. 

Anyone can get tonsil stones, but a person is more likely to develop them if they have dehydration or are a teenager. 

Tonsil stones are generally harmless. However, large or chronic tonsil stones can cause swelling and make it difficult to swallow, as well as trigger other types of infections.  

A healthcare provider can diagnose tonsil stones by: 

  • Performing a physical exam and looking inside your mouth and throat 
  • Taking an imaging scan if they can’t see the tonsil stones easily 
  • Dislodging them with a dental pick 

In many cases, tonsil stones can be removed at home by: 

  • Gargling with warm saltwater 
  • Using a water flosser to flush them out 
  • Using a cotton swab to push them out gently 
  • Coughing vigorously to dislodge them 

If they can’t be removed at home, a healthcare provider can remove them during a visit to their office. If you get tonsil stones frequently or if they cause uncomfortable symptoms, your healthcare provider may recommend other treatments, such as: 

  • Medications, such as over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers or antibiotics 
  • A tonsillectomy to remove your tonsils 

Tonsil stones can’t always be prevented. However, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing them, such as: 

  • Brushing and flossing regularly, as well as brushing your tongue 
  • Staying hydrated 
  • Gargling with warm salt water after eating 
  • Quitting smoking  

If you are experiencing symptoms of tonsil stones, you can schedule an appointment at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Department of Dental Medicine. Please call (718) 670-5521. 

 

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.

Robot-Assisted Prostatectomy

A prostatectomy is a surgical procedure that is performed to remove all or part of the prostate gland. It is used to treat prostate cancer and other prostate conditions.  

A robotic prostatectomy is a type of prostatectomy performed by a surgeon using surgical tools attached to robotic arms that assist in removing the prostate gland during the procedure.  

A robotic prostatectomy differs from a traditional open prostatectomy, which requires a large eight-to-ten-inch incision. Instead, a minimally invasive approach called laparoscopy allows the surgeon to operate with precise movements and allows the surgeon to operate by way of a one-to-two-inch incision and five much smaller incisions in the lower stomach.  

Although it is less invasive than open surgery, robotic prostatectomy is considered a major surgery.  

A robotic prostatectomy can be performed by using different approaches, depending on the condition that needs treatment, including: 

  • Robot-assisted radical laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP) is used to treat prostate cancer by removing the entire prostate gland, surrounding tissues, and sometimes nearby lymph nodes 
  • Nerve-sparing prostatectomy is a surgical approach that takes the prostate gland while not trying to injure the nerves that play a role in erections. However, this may not be possible if there is cancer very close to the nerves. A non-nerve-sparing prostatectomy may be needed 
  • Simple robotic prostatectomy or partial prostatectomy only removes the inner part of the prostate, leaving the outer part intact. This procedure is performed to ease symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), which is an enlarged prostate 

A partial prostatectomy eases urinary symptoms and complications resulting from blocked urine flow, such as: 

  • Urinary tract infections 
  • Trouble starting urination 
  • Stopping and starting while urinating  
  • An urgent need to urinate often 
  • Prolonged urination 
  • Urinating more than usual at night 
  • The feeling of not being able to fully empty the bladder 
  • Not being able to urinate 

It is possible to survive or live without a prostate. And like any surgery, robotic prostatectomy comes with some risks and side effects, and your healthcare team will work to lower these risks. 

A robotic prostatectomy has several benefits, as it can cause less pain and bleeding than traditional open surgery and allow for a shorter recovery time. 

To learn more about our robotic surgical procedures or schedule an appointment, contact Flushing Hospital Medical Center at (718) 670-5000. 

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.

Fourth of July Recipe

The Fourth of July is this weekend, and many of us expect to spend time with our family, friends, and loved ones, while eating some delicious food, and watching the fireworks. If you are bringing food to your get-together and need some ideas, here is a recipe for tasty, mouthwatering teriyaki wings to enjoy while celebrating Independence Day. 

Teriyaki Chicken Wings Recipe | Tyler Florence | Food Network

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.

Summer Health Concerns and How to Prevent them

Summer is in full swing, so most of our time will be spent outside doing various activities. However, there are many health concerns to consider.

Here are some summer health concerns and how to prevent them:

  1. The human body is made of up to 78% of water, and when it doesn’t get enough, it can’t function properly. In high heat, dehydration can become severe and fatal. To prevent dehydration, it is important to stay hydrated. You can do this by drinking water and eating water-rich foods. Staying properly hydrated can also prevent kidney stones.
  1. Sunburns occur when ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun cause a radiation burn on the skin. Sunburns can contribute to premature aging of the skin and skin cancer, and can also lead to dehydration, sun poisoning, and infection from severe burns. To prevent sunburn, wear sunscreen containing titanium oxide or zinc oxide every day, even on overcast days. Make sure to cover your entire body, including your ears, eyelids, lips, scalp, and, if exposed, the top of your feet.
  1. Spending time in the sun doesn’t only bring the risks of sunburn and dehydration. It also brings the risk of heat illnesses, including:
  • Heat rash- a red stinging rash that develops when sweat gets trapped in your glands.
  • Heat cramps are painful muscle cramps that occur when you sweat so much that your body loses salts and fluids.
  • Heat exhaustion occurs when the body can’t cool itself through sweating. If it’s not treated, it can quickly turn into heatstroke.
  • Heatstroke, or sunstroke, occurs when a person’s body temperature climbs to dangerous levels. It’s the most severe heat-related illness and can be fatal.

To prevent heat illnesses, limit the time you spend outdoors. Also, take any symptoms you observe in yourself and others seriously.

  1. Insects are more active during the summer, which means there’s a higher risk of encountering them. Especially for:
  • Bee stings
  • Mosquito bites
  • Tick bites
  • Ant bites

To prevent bugs from stinging or biting you, wear an insect repellent with the active ingredients DEET or picaridin. Other ways to prevent stings and bites include:

  • Avoid using scented products.
  • Drain any standing water.
  • Put on protective clothing.
  • Don’t leave any food uncovered outside.
  1. We want to spend more time near water to cool off as temperatures rise. However, it is important to follow proper safety precautions to avoid drowning risks. Here are some ways to prevent drowning risks:
  • Learn CPR
  • Use drain covers on pool drains.
  • Wear life jackets
  • Sign up for swimming lessons.
  1. Everybody loves a good summer barbecue or cookout, but sometimes the food we eat doesn’t always love us back. The smoking process that gives smoked meats their flavor also creates harmful substances called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons or PAHs and heterocyclic amines or HCAs. The National Cancer Institute warns that PAHs and HCAs are mutagenic, meaning they can cause changes to your DNA that put you at risk for certain types of cancer. You can prevent ingesting these harmful substances by using liquid smoke as an alternative marinade for your meats. Foodborne illness can be a concern for cookout food as well. This is the case for food left out or leftover sitting in the “temperature danger zone” of 40 to 140 degrees Fahrenheit. These temperatures allow bacteria to grow that can make you sick. You can prevent foodborne illness by cooking meats to a safe temperature and throwing any food that has sat out too long in the trash.
  1. Seasonal allergies caused by pollen is a huge problem in the summer as the weather gets warmer and trees, grass, and flowers pollinate. To prevent seasonal allergies, try taking allergy medications before the season starts so your body can build its defense.

These preventative measures can help you enjoy your summer and keep you safe.

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of heat-related illness, you can receive treatment at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care CenterTo schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486. If you or someone you are with is experiencing an emergency, call 911 immediately.

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.

Skin Products that Increase Sensitivity to UV Rays

Summer is upon us, and with it comes days with increased ultraviolet (UV) radiation, which can put you at risk of skin damage and skin cancer, even with limited exposure.  

Using certain skin products can increase our skin’s exposure and sensitivity to harmful UV rays. When a person has heightened skin sensitivity or an unusual reaction to UV radiation from sunlight, it is called photosensitivity.  

There are two types of photosensitivity reactions: phototoxic and photoallergic.  

A phototoxic photosensitivity reaction is the most common reaction, usually occurring when a medication taken orally or topically is activated by UV light, causing skin damage that can look and feel like a sunburn or rash. It can also be triggered by certain ingredients in skin care products. The reaction can happen within minutes or after hours of exposure and is usually limited to the skin that has been exposed.  

Photoallergic photosensitivity is much less common and occurs when UV rays interact with ingredients in medicines or other products that are applied directly to the skin. The body’s immune system recognizes changes caused by sun exposure as an external threat, triggering a reaction, causing the body to generate antibodies and attacks. This reaction can leave a rash, blisters, red bumps, or even oozing lesions one to three days after application and sun exposure.  

A person can develop photosensitivity as a result of prescription or over-the-counter medications or when using certain types of skin care products.  

Certain ingredients in skin care products we use to take care of our skin, such as retinols, alpha hydroxy acids like glycolic acid, or benzoyl peroxide, remove the outermost layer of skin to fight lines or acne. Skin brighteners like vitamin C may decrease the melanin, the substance in the skin that serves as a natural defense against the sun’s rays, causing photosensitivity and increasing the risk of skin damage due to sun exposure.  

You can avoid the risk of photosensitivity when using retinol by: 

  • Only using retinol at night 
  • Avoid daily use, unless your skin has built up a tolerance to it 
  • Condition your skin to retinol by gradually increasing the strength and frequency at which you are using it 
  • Stop using it during the hot summer months when spending time outside, and seven or more days before and after a vacation at the beach 
  • Not using retinol at all if you are pregnant or breastfeeding 

As an alternative, use bio-retinol, which contains botanical ingredients and has the same benefits as retinol. 

Instead of using products that contain alpha hydroxy acids, use products containing beta hydroxy acids as they are sun-friendly alternatives. 

There are several ways to protect your skin from photosensitive sun damage due to UV radiation exposure, including: 

  • Taking care of your skin by shielding it from the sun on sunny days
  • Wearing a broad-brimmed hat and sun-protective clothing  
  • Using a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 on all exposed skin, and not forgetting the back of the hands. Reapply sunscreen every two hours 
  • Minimizing your exposure to UV radiation, especially during the peak hours of 10 am to 4 pm 
  • Checking your skin monthly and visiting a dermatologist at least once a year for a professional skin exam 

Understanding what photosensitivity is and what causes it can help you protect your skin and limit exposure to UV radiation.  

If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of skin damage from photosensitivity, you can receive treatment at 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.

Acetaminophen vs. Ibuprofen

Acetaminophen and ibuprofen are common over-the-counter pain relievers in our medicine cabinets. We use both medications for many things, such as getting rid of headaches or reducing a fever. However, acetaminophen and ibuprofen work differently, and it is important to know which medication to use when you need to alleviate pain, as they are not interchangeable. 

Acetaminophen is an analgesic, which means it reduces pain signals within the nervous system and not at the site of the pain itself. It can reduce pain for conditions such as: 

  • Headaches 
  • Sore throat 
  • Osteoarthritis  

Acetaminophen can have many side effects, including:  

  • Nausea 
  • Vomiting 
  • Headache 

Acetaminophen is metabolized by the liver and isn’t a great pain relief option for people who have issues with their liver. 

Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that blocks the production of prostaglandins, which are the chemicals that cause inflammation. It reduces inflammation symptoms such as swelling, redness, heat, pain, and/or loss of function at the site or source. Ibuprofen can relieve pain for conditions such as: 

  • Muscle sprains and strains 
  • Menstrual cramps  
  • Sinus infections 
  • Back and neck pain 
  • Earaches 
  • Toothaches 

Common side effects of ibuprofen include: 

  • Heartburn 
  • Constipation 
  • Nausea 
  • Stomach pain 

Taking ibuprofen at high doses or for a long time can increase the risk of more serious side effects, such as: 

  • Blood clots 
  • Kidney damage 
  • Heart attack and/or stroke 
  • Ulcers 

Ibuprofen is metabolized by the kidneys and isn’t a great pain relief option for people with kidney issues. 

Most research suggests that acetaminophen and ibuprofen bear similar results when used to control fevers in adults. However, ibuprofen works better as a fever reducer for children. It is important to follow the dosage guidelines on the label for your child’s age and weight before giving them ibuprofen.  

The recommended max dosage for adults taking acetaminophen is 3,000 to 4,000 milligrams per day, and 2,400 milligrams of ibuprofen per day.  

Acetaminophen and ibuprofen can also be hidden in several over-the-counter medicines, including cough and cold medications, if you are taking more than one medication. Read the drug labels carefully for active ingredients and use the medications that fit your symptoms and type of pain you have, so you don’t go over the recommended dosage.  

If you are experiencing pain and would like help determining which medication is best for relieving your pain, you can receive treatment at 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.

How as Few as Two Cigarettes Per Day Increases Risk of Heart Disease

Smoking tobacco products, such as cigarettes, is the leading preventable cause of disease and death in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, an estimated 480,000 people die from cigarette smoking in the U.S. each year, with many of them dying from cancer. What’s more, people who smoke die about ten years earlier than those who have never smoked.  

Smoking doesn’t just cause cancer. It can also cause several other diseases and can damage nearly every organ in the body, including the lungs, blood vessels, reproductive organs, bones, mouth, eyes, and skin. 

Smoking tobacco can also damage the heart, as it can increase a person’s risk of developing heart disease. 

According to a study conducted by researchers at Johns Hopkins University, who looked at the smoking habits of more than 300,000 adults for almost twenty years, it was discovered that men and women who smoked as few as two cigarettes daily had a 60 percent increased risk of death from any cause compared to those who never smoked. 

Additionally, the study also found that the group of smokers participating in the study had a 50 percent risk of heart disease.  

According to Dr. Jennifer Miao, a cardiologist at Yale University, “tobacco use is a very well-established risk factor for heart disease. It really damages the blood vessel lining and accelerates the development of plaques and coronary disease.” 

Smoking can also cause heart rhythm issues, such as atrial fibrillation and stroke. 

Unfortunately, the study found that cutting back on cigarette smoking may not be enough to undo the harm it causes. Despite current smokers having a higher risk of death than former smokers, former smokers still had an increased risk of heart disease more than twenty years after they had stopped smoking, according to the study. 

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, quitting smoking is the most important action a person could take to improve their health, as it reduces the risk of premature death and smoking-related diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). 

Treatments such as smoking cessation counseling and nicotine replacement therapy medications, including over-the-counter patches, gum, lozenges, and prescribed inhalers and nasal sprays, can help manage nicotine withdrawal symptoms and cravings, and help you quit smoking.  

Flushing Hospital Medical Center provides extensive assistance for people willing to quit smoking. It offers a free smoking cessation support group and one-on-one sessions, both in person and by phone. For more information, please call 718-206-8494.

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.

Scoliosis Awareness Month

June is Scoliosis Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness, share stories, and advocate for early detection and treatment of scoliosis, a spinal disorder that causes an abnormal curvature of the spine resembling the letters “S” or “C”. 

The most common type of scoliosis is idiopathic scoliosis, which means the cause is unknown but is thought to be genetic. There are three types of idiopathic scoliosis: 

  • Infantile idiopathic scoliosis- occurs from birth to three years old. 
  • Juvenile idiopathic scoliosis- occurs from three to nine years old. 
  • Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis- occurs from 10 to 18 years old. 

Some other forms of scoliosis include: 

  • Congenital scoliosis- when scoliosis is present at birth. 
  • Neuromuscular scoliosis- when scoliosis is caused by an underlying systemic condition such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, spina bifida, spinal cord tumors, or paralysis. 
  • Syndromic scoliosis- when a unique group of spine conditions causes scoliosis. The most common diseases that cause syndromic scoliosis are: 
  • Marfan’s syndrome 
  • Ehlers-Danlos syndrome 
  • Osteogenesis Imperfecta 
  • Neurofibromatosis 
  • Prader-Willi syndrome 
  • Arthrogryposis 
  • Riley-Day syndrome 

Scoliosis affects one in 40 children and up to one in three adults. Many have gone undiagnosed for years. That is why earlier detection is important, as it can lead to improved treatment options and a better quality of life. 

There is a wide range of causes and ages at which scoliosis can occur. However, scoliosis may appear during the main growth years for children (years 10 to 12), which is the growth spurt period for children before puberty. 

During this time, scoliosis will often present with the following symptoms: 

  • One of the child’s shoulder blades is higher than the other. 
  • The appearance of the child’s head is not centered on the rest of the body. 
  • Uneven hips or one hip may stick out more than the other. 
  • Pushed-out ribs 
  • Difficulty breathing due to a reduced area for lung expansion. 
  • Back pain and discomfort 
  • When the child bends forward, it appears that the two sides of the back are at different heights. 

The main goal for patients with scoliosis is to get an early diagnosis. Scoliosis is diagnosed when a pediatric orthopedist uses a physical exam and X-rays to diagnose early-onset scoliosis. 

Scoliosis can be treated non-surgically and surgically. Some non-surgical treatments for scoliosis include: 

  • Observation 
  • Bracing 
  • The Risser cast 

Some surgical treatments for scoliosis include: 

  • Spinal fusion surgery 
  • The growing rod technique 

Scoliosis is treatable, and the sooner a child is diagnosed, the less likely they will need surgery and the healthier they will be. 

If you think your child may have an abnormal spine curvature, you can visit Flushing Hospital’s Pediatric Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, call (718) 670-3007. 

 

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.

How to Reset and Regulate Your Nervous System

Our nervous system is our biological survival system, our first line of defense that is designed to respond to any stimuli, such as an environmental or psychological threat that we may encounter. It works to protect and keep us safe, as it continually processes information and responds to both internal and external stimuli.  

The autonomic nervous system controls all automatic or involuntary functions of the body. It is made up of two main parts, the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. 

The sympathetic nervous system, or “fight-or-flight” system, is responsible for preparing the body to respond to anything that may be seen as a threat, triggering the release of the stress hormones adrenaline and cortisol. These hormones activate our automatic survival responses, which include fight, flight, freeze, or fawn, causing us to experience symptoms, such as rapid heart rate, shallow breathing, and upset stomach, among others. 

The parasympathetic nervous system, or “rest and digest” system, plays an essential part in counteracting the fight-or-flight response and regulating the body’s stress response. It promotes relaxation and recovery, which helps the body calm down. 

It is important to note that our nervous system doesn’t know the difference between a real threat and a non-life-threatening stressor. 

Stress can be healthy, as it can motivate us into action and help us rise to any challenges. However, many people are being pushed beyond the desirable levels of stress and into a state of distress. Our sympathetic nervous system gets sent into high gear because we continue to be on high alert, constantly reacting to stressors after stressors, and not giving our parasympathetic nervous system time to do its job to calm the body. Due to this, many people are not recovering as they may need to. 

Without sufficient ways to reset and recover, we go from manageable stress to unmanageable distress. This persistent trigger can gradually lead to anxiety, irritability, fatigue, exhaustion, and eventually burnout. 

There will always be times when our fight-or-flight response gets triggered. That’s why it is important to have ways to engage the parasympathetic nervous system and regulate the body back into a state of calm and balance so that we can function properly.  

Here are a few ways to reset and regulate our nervous systems: 

  • Breathwork is a deep breathing practice that signals safety to the brain, helping to calm the body and mind. Examples of breathwork include: 
  • Long exhale breathing 
  • Physiological sighing 
  • Birthday cake breathing 
  • Physical movements, such as walking, gentle stretching, or yoga, can reduce cortisol levels and promote the release of endorphins, and get rid of the stress and tension that has accumulated in the body 
  • Spending time in nature can start to re-regulate your nervous system, as it helps lower blood pressure, reduce stress hormones, and improve mood 
  • Crying is a self-soothing behavior that helps to expel stress hormones from the body, providing relief.   
  • Prioritizing sleep is an important way to give the brain and body time to repair and restore themselves 
  • Social connections with people who make you feel safe, calm, and supported can help regulate the nervous system 
  • Intentionally slowing down your pace to signal to the brain that there isn’t any immediate danger 

Many of us may spend a lot of our days in an increased state of activation, as we continually react to the stressors around us, instead of responding to them. Stress is inevitable. However, having ways to reset and regulate our nervous system can help us better cope with our stress. 

To find out more about our mental health services or to schedule a virtual appointment, call (718) 670-5316 to speak with our intake coordinator or call (718) 670-5562 to reach the clinic. 

 

 

 

 

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.