What You Should Know about Lupus

Calendar May 16, 2012 | Posted by laicos

Lupus is an inflammatory disease that affects the autoimmune system. When a patient is affected by lupus, his immune system begins to attack his own healthy tissue and organs. Untreated, a severe case of lupus can have serious or fatal consequences. Since May is Lupus Awareness Month, this is a great time to learn about this condition.

Symptoms
Symptoms of lupus can be confusing.  Patients can react to this disorder in a variety of ways, with different parts of the body being affected first or strongest. Symptoms can often mimic other diseases, making the path to a correct diagnosis difficult. The most common tell-tale symptom of lupus is a rash on the face that some might say looks like a butterfly. This rash typically spreads across both cheeks, but not all lupus patients will develop it. Other symptoms might include:

  • Joint pain
  • Fever
  • Fatigue
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Discoloration in the fingers or toes
  • Dry eyes
  • Chest pain
  • Headaches
  • Confusion
  • Memory loss

If any of these symptoms persist, consult your doctor for a diagnosis.

Causes
Unfortunately, some patients are genetically predisposed to experiencing lupus. For these patients lupus can be triggered by environmental causes, such as a prolonged exposure to sunlight or certain medications. In many cases, the cause of this disorder is unknown.

Treatment
Currently, there is no cure for lupus, but treatment is available. Symptoms such as pain, swelling, or fever can be relieved with over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). If these pills don't ease your discomfort, your doctor can prescribe a stronger medicine.

For serious cases of lupus, your doctor may suggest an immune suppressant. This medication may be able to limit damages to your tissue or organs, but it can also leave you susceptible to other diseases or infections. Talk with your doctor about how to stay healthy if taking an immune suppressant.

Do your symptoms match up with the possible signs of lupus? Maybe you need answers or a second opinion. Palms West Hospital is ready to help. Call our free Consult-A-Nurse® service at 1-888-256-7723 with your questions. Physician referrals are available upon request.

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Top Tips for Managing Arthritis

Calendar May 11, 2012 | Posted by laicos

If you're living with arthritis, you're not alone. In fact, the Arthritis Foundation estimates that more than 30 million Americans have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and many other types of this disease. If you experience pain and stiffness on a daily basis, you may feel discouraged. But there is good news. Some simple lifestyle changes can help you face your arthritis and keep it under control.

Consider this advice:

  • Watch your weight. Extra pounds put extra pressure on your joints, which can lead to more pain. If you need to lose weight, talk to your doctor about a healthy diet and exercise plan that will help you meet your goals.
  • Stay active. While you may be tempted to rest your achy joints, they actually need to move. Exercise can help keep your joints lubricated, and it can also strengthen your muscles, which will help protect your joints. You can benefit from stretching, strength training, and weight-bearing activities. Try walking, biking, swimming, and using weights or resistance bands. You may also enjoy a gentle yoga or tai chi class. For exercise ideas, check out these videos from Arthritis Today.
  • Eat healthy. Research suggests that certain foods can help you reduce the inflammation of arthritis. Some foods to try include fish, flaxseed, olive oil, whole grains, as well as fruits and vegetables such as apples, strawberries, broccoli, and onions. Steer clear of shellfish, sugar, and certain oils, such as sunflower, soybean, safflower, and corn oils, which are high in omega-6 fatty acids.
  • Get enough rest. Allow your body time to recover each day by getting approximately 8 hours of sleep each night. If you are exhausted, your joints will feel it.
  • Manage pain. If you still suffer from everyday pain, talk to your doctor about what medications may help. You may benefit from over-the-counter or prescription medications, depending on your individual condition.

May is Arthritis Awareness Month, so take time to understand this medical issue. If you have questions about arthritis, the team at Palms West Hospital is ready to help. Our Rehabilitation Center offers a wide array of services including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and aquatic therapy, which can help you treat your condition. Visit us online or call Consult-A-Nurse at 1-888-256-7723 for a physician referral.

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Tasty Ways to Add More Fiber to Your Family’s Diet

Calendar May 2, 2012 | Posted by laicos

If you read the news or watch TV, you've likely heard over and over that fiber is good for you. What does it do?

  • Fiber keeps your digestive system running smoothly.
  • It helps fill you up and keep you full longer, which promotes weight loss.
  • It can lower your "bad" cholesterol.
  • It may help prevent colon cancer.
  • It helps keep your blood sugar at safe levels, reducing your risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

That's all great, right? Yes, indeed. But the sad truth is that most Americans don't get nearly as much fiber as they should. In fact, most experts recommend 20-35 grams of fiber a day, and many of us get only half of that.

So how can you add more fiber to your family's day?

  • Breakfast: Start with oatmeal or a whole-grain cereal, not a sugary one. Then top it with berries, bananas, raisins, or other fruit. Want a quick liquid meal? Try a smoothie made with frozen fruit, yogurt, and a tablespoon of flaxseed blended in.
  • Lunch: For a sandwich, switch your white bread for whole grain and add fresh spinach, tomatoes, and peppers for extra crunch. Or treat yourself to a big leafy salad with cucumbers, black beans and walnuts.
  • Snacks: Ditch the chips and opt for fresh fruits and veggies or nuts instead. Try carrot sticks with hummus. If you're on the go, grab a crisp apple or a handful of almonds.
  • Dinner: Make sure half of your plate is filled with good-for-you fruits and veggies. Try green beans, squash, and cauliflower. If you're making pasta, use the whole-grain variety and add broccoli to your marinara sauce. Have a sweet tooth? Enjoy kiwi, pineapple, or grapes on the side or for dessert.

Remember to consider fiber each time to prepare a meal or reach for a snack. With little changes, you can enjoy tasty food and improve your family's health, too!

Need more ideas for adding fruits and vegetables? Check out the Health Library at Palms West Hospital. And if you want to talk over your nutrition questions, just call Consult-A-Nurse at 1-888-256-7723. We can offer general health advice, as well as a physician referral.

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Has Your Teen Had the Meningitis Vaccine?

Calendar April 18, 2012 | Posted by laicos

If you're like most parents, you'd do just about anything to protect your children. You make sure they eat right, get enough sleep, and wear the best safety equipment when playing sports. With your teens' safety in mind, make sure you know enough about meningitis. April 24 is World Meningitis Day, so this is a good time to learn about this disease and how to protect your family from it.

What Is Meningitis?
As the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention explains, meningitis is a disease that occurs when the meninges are inflamed. The meninges are the protective membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. Inflammation can develop when the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord are infected. 

There are five main types of meningitis: bacterial, viral, fungal, parasitic, and non-infectious. The most dangerous type is bacterial meningitis. It is caused by bacteria such as Neisseria meningitidis (meningococcus) and Streptococcus pneumoniae. This form of meningitis can be life-threatening and requires immediate medical attention.  Viral meningitis can also be serious but is seldom fatal. It is caused by viruses such as herpes simplex and enteroviruses. 

What Are the Symptoms?
Bacterial meningitis often begins with symptoms that are similar to the flu, with aches, stiff neck, fever, nausea, and vomiting. Seizures, sensitivity to light, and impaired thinking often accompany the flu-like symptoms. 

Meningitis can progress quickly, resulting in shock, hearing loss, brain damage, and even death. Anyone who experiences a combination of these symptoms should seek medical help immediately.

How Is Meningitis Treated?
Meningitis must be treated quickly with strong antibiotics. Anyone who has been in contact with the infected person should also receive treatment. This disease can be difficult to spot right away, but a quick diagnosis is critical to complete recovery. 

Can Meningitis Be Prevented?
The most effective way to protect you and your family from bacterial meningitis is to get immunized. The CDC suggests a first vaccination for children between the ages 11 and 12, then a booster at age 16. Those who get the first dose of the vaccine between 13 and 15 should get a booster between ages 16 and 18. Teens should get the vaccine five years or less before starting college. Teens and young adults are at a 15% higher risk for meningitis than other subgroups in the population. Some younger children and adults (those with certain medical conditions, travelers and military) are also advised to get the vaccine. 

If you have questions about vaccinations, Palms West Hospital can help. Visit us online or call Consult-A-Nurse at 1-888-256-7723  to discuss vaccination recommendations for your family. 

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How Is Occupational Therapy Different from Physical Therapy?

Calendar April 11, 2012 | Posted by laicos

When you are hurt or recovering from a medical condition, what kind of rehabilitation do you need? There are actually many different types of therapy that people can benefit form. Physical and occupational therapy are two active types of therapy that help people in a variety of situations. Learn more about PT and OT this April during Occupational Therapy Month.

What Is Physical Therapy?
Physical therapy is a program for people who have physical limitations or problems due to injury, illness, disease, or other disability. The focus of physical therapy is to reduce pain and regain mobility, strength, and flexibility. PT focuses on physical exercises and training activities that rebuild physical functions.

What Is Occupational Therapy?
Occupational therapy is a special type of program that helps people to reclaim their independence. OT can benefit people who have been injured in accident, were born with a birth defect, suffer from a cognitive impairment, have a developmental delay, or suffer from emotional problems. OT helps people in their home with daily tasks including bathing, grooming, dressing, cooking, eating, and household chores. OT can help at school or in the workplace by making it more accessible and manageable with tools, equipment, or environmental modifications. Occupational therapists help people manage their anger and emotions, interact socially, communicate, and improve their memory, concentration, and reasoning skills. OT is a full body and mind program. People may learn new skills or modification strategies, use special equipment or tools, and participate in physical exercises.

What Do PT and OT Have in Common?
Both programs require that practitioners have a master’s degree, complete of an accredited program, pass a national certification test, and get licensed in state. Physical therapy and occupational therapy can help people live independent and satisfying lives. Both programs are available to people of any age, from children through the elderly. Both PT and OT seek to improve overall quality of life.

How Is PT Different from OT?
The main focus of physical therapy is pain management, strength building, range-of-motion improvement, increasing endurance, and improving the function of gross motor skills. Occupational therapy focuses on the fine motor skills, hand-eye coordination, visual skills, perception and social skills, thinking and reasoning skills, and overall daily life skills.

Whether you need to reduce pain from an injury or get back into the workplace, there is a therapy just right for you. At Palms West Hospital we offer a comprehensive rehabilitation program, complete with a 5,500-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility and a 15-foot by 30-foot heated rehab pool. For more information, visit us online or call 561-792-8067. 

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Is Breastfeeding Right for You?

Calendar April 4, 2012 | Posted by Palms West

A new baby is a joy for the whole family. From the moment he or she arrives, life will be forever changed. There are a few different options when it comes to feeding your new baby. Breastfeeding has been the go-to option for moms since the beginning of time; however, it’s not right for everyone.

The Centers for Disease Control and World Health Organization both recommend breast feeding if possible. The CDC recommends breastfeeding for at least 12 months, and longer if desired. The WHO suggests breastfeeding for at least 2 years.

Benefits of Breastfeeding
According to WomensHealth.gov, there are many reasons to breastfeed your baby. Here are some positive aspects to consider:

  • Mom’s body naturally makes it.
  • Breast milk adapts as baby grows, so it always has the perfect balance of nutrients, fat, and protein.
  • Breast milk contains special nutrients and antibodies in the colostrum that baby needs for a strong immune system.
  • Breastfeeding lowers the risk for diarrhea, infection, necrotizing enterocolitis, asthma, obesity, and type 2 diabetes.
  • Baby can digest breast milk more readily than cow’s milk.
  • Mom benefits from breastfeeding, including having a lower risk for type 2 diabetes, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and postpartum depression.
  • There is no cost (other than pumping supplies, if necessary), and families can save up to $1500 a year.
  • Breastfeeding doesn’t require sterilizing bottles, heating formula, or measuring, so it can save valuable time.
  • Mother and baby spend special time bonding.
  • Medical costs are often lower for breastfed babies since they tend to get sick less. Mothers miss less work due to an ill child.
  • Breast milk can be pumped and stored for a short time so other family members can experience the feeding bond by using breast milk in a bottle.

Difficulties with Breastfeeding
In spite of all the benefits, not every mom will find breastfeeding to be possible. Here are some common obstacles:

  • Breastfeeding may be uncomfortable for some mothers, especially at first.
  • Mothers may experience sore nipples or engorged ducts.
  • Some mothers may have not enough milk, while others have excess that needs to be pumped.
  • A plugged duct may occur and cause discomfort; if not properly treated, it can lead to infection.
  • Mastitis, or breast infection, can occur along with flu-like symptoms, which can require a doctor's treatment.
  • Some babies may refuse to nurse at times, so it may be necessary to consult a lactation expert.
  • It is possible for babies to be allergic to breast milk.
  • Jaundice may occur when breast milk prevents bilirubin from being excreted from the body. It may last up to a month, but is rarely harmful.
  • With work and other obligations, some mothers may not feel comfortable pumping and storing breast milk or breastfeeding in public places.

Palms West Hospital has an online Breastfeeding Support center you can visit to find out more about breastfeeding. If you’re a new mom with any concerns about your health or your baby’s, call Consult-A-Nurse for a referral to a lactation expert or physician.

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Understanding Asthma Triggers

Calendar March 28, 2012 | Posted by Palms West

Your chest tightens and you can't catch your breath. You may start coughing and feel unable to stop. If you have ever suffered an asthma attack, you know how frightening the experience can be. But there is good news: You can reduce asthma symptoms by knowing and understanding your asthma triggers.

Inflammation causes an asthma disorder. Asthma is characterized by swelling and narrowing of the lungs, resulting in coughing, wheezing, tightness, and difficulty breathing. An asthma attack occurs when the air passing through your airways is restricted by narrowed passages.

Common Symptoms of Asthma 
People can experience asthma differently, but some common signs can include:

  • Coughing
  • Phlegm along with cough
  • Skin tightness over ribcage
  • Difficulty breathing, especially during physical activity
  • Intermittent wheezing
  • Chest pain or tightness

Common Asthma Triggers
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, these are some common culprits. See how you can avoid them.

  • Second-hand smoke: Do not spend time near anyone who smokes. Do not allow anyone to smoke in your home or car.
  • Dust mites: Use covers on mattresses and pillows. Don’t use down-filled pillows or blankets. Keep bedroom clear of stuffed toys and unnecessary clutter.
  • Outdoor air pollution: Try to avoid the outdoors on high pollution days. Check out the EnviroFlash website for updates on air quality. Keep home and car windows closed, and use the air conditioner.
  • Cockroaches: Roaches and their droppings can trigger asthma. Keep floors and surfaces clean of food and water that can attract them. Vacuum frequently. Use traps or sprays to keep your home pest free.
  • Pet fur: Be sure to bathe pets frequently, keep them out of bedrooms, vacuum carpets frequently, and damp mop hardwood floors and tile.
  • Mold: Maintain a humidity level between 35% and 50%. Run the air conditioner and use a dehumidifier if necessary. Repair any leaks that lead to mold growth behind walls and under floors.
  • Wood smoke: Stay away from wood-burning fires as much as possible.
  • Nitrogen dioxide: The EPA warns that this gas may be emitted by a variety of household appliances. Always ventilate your kitchen and use the exhaust fan.
  • Illness: Flu, cold, or respiratory infections can trigger asthma attacks, so wash frequently and avoid contact with those who are ill.
  • Exercise: Monitor your breathing during exercise and physical activity, as too much can trigger an attack.

Other triggers may include humid weather, cold and dry air, and other environmental irritants. Some foods may also trigger attacks, so keep a record of any foods that affect you. Even strong emotional situations can lead to an asthma attack if you are breathing rapidly to the point of hyperventilation.

You can learn more about asthma and how to avoid triggers by visiting the Palms West Hospital online. If someone in your family suffers from asthma, call Consult-A-Nurse to find a physician and schedule a doctor's appointment.

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Caffeine: Should You Avoid It?

Calendar March 21, 2012 | Posted by Palms West

Does your day start only after you’ve had at least one cup of coffee? If you’re like many Americans who rely on a caffeine jolt to jump-start their day, you may not know all the health effects of caffeine. Read on to find out how caffeine affects your health.

Caffeine is found in coffee, tea, soda, chocolate, kola nuts, and some types of medication. Many types of foods and drinks are also marketed as “energy boosting” and contain high levels of caffeine, up to 500 mg. Caffeine affects the body’s metabolism by stimulating the central nervous system. Caffeine can give a boost of energy and make you feel more alert.

Studies have shown that the caffeine in 2 to 4 cups of coffee a day (200 to 300 mg) is not harmful to your health. However, having more than 300 mg of caffeine can lead to irritability, anxiety, and restlessness. Your sleep may be negatively impacted by excessive caffeine. Other health dangers include headaches and abnormal heart rhythms.

Caffeine has addictive properties, and when you stop using it, you may experience symptoms of withdrawal. Even 100 mg of caffeine daily can lead to dependency. 

Caffeine affects everyone differently. Those who are more sensitive should reduce their caffeine intake. Teens and children should have less than 100 mg of caffeine a day, if any. Pregnant women should also avoid caffeine as much as possible.

Dangers of Excessive Caffeine

  • Jitters and shakes
  • Difficulty falling or staying asleep
  • Rapid heartbeat
  • Uneven heart rhythm
  • Elevated blood pressure
  • Dehydration
  • Dependency

Visit the Palms West Hospital online Health Library to learn more about caffeine. Always monitor the amount of caffeine in everything you eat and drink, and do not exceed 300 mg per day.

Have questions? Call our Consult-A-Nurse service at 1-888-256-7723 and schedule an appointment with a physician.

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Do You Know the Signs of Concussion?

Calendar March 15, 2012 | Posted by Palms West

If you're like most people, you've hit your head from time to time. Maybe you ran into a low doorway or bunk bed, or maybe you fell while playing sports. Often such a bump is no big deal, but there are times when it can be serious. A hit to the head can result in a concussion, which could lead to bleeding in the brain and irreversible brain damage.

Know the signs of concussion so you can identify and treat a head injury properly.

Symptoms of Concussion Include:

  • Decreased or changing levels of alertness
  • Severe headache
  • Falling unconscious
  • Gaps or loss of memory
  • Impaired judgment
  • Impaired reflexes
  • Afflicted speech patterns
  • Impaired balance or coordination
  • A change in sleeping patterns
  • Feeling nauseous or vomiting
  • Seeing bright or flashing lights
  • Ringing sound in ears

A more severe concussion may be characterize by the following:

  • Convulsions
  • Seizures
  • Weakness of the muscles
  • Coma
  • Extreme vomiting
  • Different sized pupils
  • Abnormal eye movement
  • Difficulty walking

Treatment
If you or a family member has symptoms of a concussion, see a doctor immediately. A doctor will be able to determine how severe the issue is and detect any presence of internal bleeding. Treatment for a mild concussion can be acetaminophen (like Tylenol), but do not use aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen. You should also eat lighter for a few days, avoid alcohol, and refrain from exercise. Those with a concussion should be monitored for the first 24 hours. They should be woken up every 2 to 3 hours to check if symptoms are worsening.

Recovery
A mild or “simple” concussion can take a week to ten days for a full recovery. A more severe or “complex” concussion may require up to a few months for full recovery. Do not participate in sports or other physical activities that run the risk of head injury during recovery. Some common issues during recovery may include feeling irritable, difficulty concentrating, or feeling dizzy.

It is especially important that young athletes are given time to heal from a concussion before they hit the playing field again. Do not allow kids to get back in the game before they are ready, and do not be influenced by pressure from coaches.

Prevention
Be sure that you and your family always wear properly fitting safety gear. Pay attention to surroundings, especially while driving. Avoid activities that may result in head injury whenever possible. Use handrails and other safety equipment in your environment.

If you or someone you love has symptoms of concussion, don't hesitate to get help. The team at Palms West Hospital can diagnose and treat your concussion. Our main and pediatric ERs boast low wait times, so you an rest assured that we'll provide you with fast and effective care.  

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Top Tips for Handling Environmental Allergies

Calendar March 7, 2012 | Posted by Palms West

Most of us in South Florida love being outside, but sometimes allergies can make outdoor activities hard to enjoy. If you suffer from allergies, learn how to manage them so every day is a pleasure.

Symptoms of Allergies
Although many people experience allergies differently, here are some common signs:

  • Swelling of the nose
  • Sneezing
  • Runny nose
  • Red, itchy eyes
  • Painful or full-feeling ears
  • Rashes on the skin
  • Occasional headaches

Ways to Reduce Allergy Symptoms
Try these strategies for managing your allergies this year:

  • Wear glasses outdoors to protect your eyes from pollen and other irritants in the air.
  • Shower and wash your hair before going to bed to remove any pollen from your body; place clothing in the laundry.
  • Clean bedding, carpets, and other fabrics frequently with hot water.
  • Keep surfaces in the home uncluttered to make it easy to clean away dust.
  • Groom pets regularly so they don’t bring allergens into the house.
  • Monitor high pollen counts and avoid the outdoors at those times.
  • Run the air conditioner at home and in the car instead of opening windows to reduce outside irritants getting inside.
  • Change all air filters in your home at least every 3 months to keep air fresh.
  • Make sure your home is well ventilated.
  • In your home, keep the humidity low and temperature cool, between 68 and 72 degrees.
  • See an allergist to determine your specific allergies.
  • Only treat your specific allergies.
  • Avoid any fruits, vegetables, or nuts that stimulate allergy symptoms due to oral allergy syndrome (your body senses similarities between allergens and certain foods).
  • Dry all clothing and sheets indoors so they do not attract pollen and allergens.
  • Cover your nose and mouth when doing yard work.
  • Try medications, such as decongestants, nasal sprays, and antihistamines, to help control symptoms.

Palms West Hospital can help you learn more about your allergies. Visit our Allergy Center online, or call Consult-A-Nurse to ask general questions and make an appointment with a physician.

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