tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6837513489837304932024-03-28T13:52:15.232-04:00PinnacleHealth Medical GroupPinnacleHealth Medical Group is a network of primary care providers and specialists collaborating with each other and patients to improve health care quality, patient experience and overall costs. Our focus extends beyond treating acute and chronic illness. We also deliver first class preventive care to the community.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.comBlogger61125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-17403347573502420692015-05-11T17:11:00.005-04:002015-05-11T17:12:39.155-04:00New Study Suggests Exposing Infants to Peanut Products Could Prevent AllergyOnce a lunchtime staple for many American children, PB & J is disappearing from lunchboxes since the rise of peanut allergies in recent years, an allergy that, for many children, can be life-threatening.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i>Blog contributed by Kathleen<br />Zimmerman, MD, Pediatrician</i> </td></tr>
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In the US, about 2 percent of children are allergic to peanuts, a figure that has quadrupled since 1997. As a result the American Academy of Pediatrics used to recommend that peanuts be withheld from children until they were 3 years old. However back in 2008, the American Academy of Pediatrics changed its policy, when a committee within the AAP concluded that there was no evidence that delaying the introduction of allergenic food protects against the development of allergies.<br />
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Policy or not, many parents are still avoiding allergenic foods for their young children, but surprising evidence from a recent study is proving the AAP policy shift to be the correct approach.<br />
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The study, involving infants 4 to 11 months old who had shown a high risk of developing a peanut allergy, indicated that feeding these children peanut products early in life may prevent a peanut allergy. In the study, half of the children’s parents were told to avoid peanuts, while the others fed their children peanut products regularly. After 5 years, only 1.9 percent of children who were fed peanuts were allergic to them, compared to 13.7 in the group that avoided peanuts.<br />
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According to Dr. Gideon Lack, a professor of pediatric allergy at King’s College, London and leader of the study, not feeding infants peanut products “could have been in part responsible for the rise in peanut allergies we have seen.” <br />
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While there is no evidence whether allergies will develop if regular feeding of peanuts is stopped, the results from this study are promising. As attitudes shift in light of recent evidence, peanuts may start popping up in lunchboxes once again. <br />
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<b>Here are some tips to stay safe:</b><br />
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<ul>
<li>Do not feed whole peanuts to infants. Because of the choking risk, opt for peanut butter or other foods.</li>
<li>Get an allergy test if your baby has one of these risk factors for allergy:</li>
<ul>
<li>A sibling with food allergy</li>
<li>Had previous allergy to foods</li>
<li>Has severe eczema</li>
</ul>
<li>Always try one new food at a time for at least 3 days at a time and watch for rashes, vomiting, diarrhea, or any sign of reaction to that food. </li>
<li>Before feeding peanut products to your child, see your doctor for an allergy test to determine whether your child already has a peanut allergy.</li>
<li>Be aware of other children’s allergies. Always inquire before bringing snacks or lunches that contain peanut products around other children.</li>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com108tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-20200282403195279372015-04-06T16:35:00.001-04:002015-04-06T16:36:40.354-04:00Do I have allergies or a cold?<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="text-align: start;">Blog contributed by </i><i style="text-align: start;"><a href="http://primary.pinnaclehealth.org/Find-A-Doctor/Find-A-Doctor-Results/Doctor-Profile.aspx?DoctorID=1304&DRName=zimmerman&Specialties=&SubSpecialty=&Practice=&Location=&Proximity=&Gender=&Department=&Insurance=&Condition=&Language=&NewPatients=False&PageNo=1" target="_blank">Kathleen</a> </i><br />
<i style="text-align: start;"><a href="http://primary.pinnaclehealth.org/Find-A-Doctor/Find-A-Doctor-Results/Doctor-Profile.aspx?DoctorID=1304&DRName=zimmerman&Specialties=&SubSpecialty=&Practice=&Location=&Proximity=&Gender=&Department=&Insurance=&Condition=&Language=&NewPatients=False&PageNo=1" target="_blank">Zimmerman, MD</a>, </i><i style="text-align: start;">Pediatrician</i></td></tr>
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Do you have a constant runny or stuffy nose? Or have you ever thought, “I can’t get rid of this cold”? It is possible that you may actually have allergic rhinitis. Allergic rhinitis is also called “hay fever”, although that name is misleading because there is no fever involved.<br />
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Allergic rhinitis is very common. It affects 1 out of every 5 people in the U.S. Allergic rhinitis happens when your immune system overreacts to a substance in the environment, such as tree or grass pollen, animal dander, or indoor particles of dust. This causes a release of histamines in the body. Histamines produce the typical symptoms of allergic rhinitis, such as: stuffy nose, runny nose, sneezing, and itching of the eyes, nose, ears, and/or mouth. Don’t be confused – these symptoms are very similar to what is seen with a cold. However, colds are caused by a virus and should only last 10-14 days. Allergies can last many weeks to months and tend to occur around certain triggers in the environment or during certain times of the year.<br />
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If you are concerned you may have allergic rhinitis, discuss it with your medical provider. He or she may recommend a trial of an over the counter medication, such as an antihistamine, which can help block the symptoms discussed above. Or they may recommend a blood or skin test to determine what, if anything, you may be allergic to. Often avoidance of the allergy trigger is the most important step in reducing allergic rhinitis symptoms.<br />
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Questions? Contact your primary care provider. If you are looking for a new primary care provider, visit: <a href="http://primary.pinnaclehealth.org/">primary.pinnaclehealth.org</a>.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com83tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-52925580454945812392015-04-06T16:16:00.000-04:002015-04-06T16:16:35.024-04:00Stay Away, I have “Pink Eye”<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="text-align: start;">Blog contributed by </i><i style="text-align: start;"><a href="http://primary.pinnaclehealth.org/Find-A-Doctor/Find-A-Doctor-Results/Doctor-Profile.aspx?DoctorID=1304&DRName=zimmerman&Specialties=&SubSpecialty=&Practice=&Location=&Proximity=&Gender=&Department=&Insurance=&Condition=&Language=&NewPatients=False&PageNo=1" target="_blank">Kathleen<br />Zimmerman, MD</a>, </i><i style="text-align: start;">Pediatrician</i></td></tr>
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Why do we cringe when we see someone with a red eye? Perhaps it’s because it looks painful and our eyes water just looking at it. But another reason is we are afraid of it spreading to us! Pink eye, or conjunctivitis (the medical term), is extremely contagious and epidemics occur easily in daycares, school and work settings and even sports teams.</div>
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Conjunctivitis is inflammation of the lining of the eye. This lining has a lot of blood vessels – when the inflammation occurs, the blood vessels get bigger and this gives the eye a red or “pink” appearance.</div>
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What causes conjunctivitis and how can we prevent it? Sometimes the cause is not contagious, such as allergies to pollens or pets. Other times it is from irritation from chemicals or something in the eye like contact lenses. But the most common causes are viruses and bacteria. These ARE contagious and easily spread through the hands rubbing the eye. Because the eye is inflamed, it itches and also produces a lot of watery or sticky discharge. We rub our eyes and the bacteria or virus is then on our hands. Anything we touch (doorknobs, toys) is then touched by someone else – if this person touches their eye then they will likely get pink eye in a few days. </div>
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The best prevention for pink eye is hand washing. Also, do not rub your eye with your hand – use a disposable tissue. If you have pink eye you should avoid close contact with other people until it’s cleared up or until you’ve been on antibiotic drops for at least 24 hours (if indicated and prescribed by your medical provider). Antibiotic drops only work if the cause is bacterial. It is also helpful to wash pillowcases and towels in hot water, throw away contaminated eye makeup, clean eyeglasses, and do not wear contact lenses during treatment. </div>
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Although pink eye is a mild illness most of the time, you should watch for complications. If your eye does not improve after 24 hours of using medicated drops, you should contact your medical provider. If the eye continues to be red for more than a week, if you have recurrent episodes of pink eye, if your symptoms are worsening, or if you have eye pain, you may need to see an eye specialist immediately. Although it is not common, permanent damage to the eye and vision loss can occur if a red eye is not treated promptly or appropriately.<br />
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Questions? Contact your primary care provider. If you are looking for a new primary care provider, visit: <a href="http://primary.pinnaclehealth.org/">primary.pinnaclehealth.org</a>.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com85tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-49432012306796912272014-12-22T08:51:00.001-05:002015-01-23T15:53:38.270-05:00Why Your Doctor Is Asking You About Guns<div class="MsoNormal">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeSd69YOmLfeOnNypL3dmZoX7FO_GbHUtvelXWC05qyTI-y6ES0RY-piaHgNz5SG5nZIi7UFVNiOMe42LA8Xy1F3FzwLlxuPLj3d4PQIjIzrFVIE00CqlbJ-RRmdeouTQY8Xoh6jwjBe5B/s1600/Cincotta,J-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeSd69YOmLfeOnNypL3dmZoX7FO_GbHUtvelXWC05qyTI-y6ES0RY-piaHgNz5SG5nZIi7UFVNiOMe42LA8Xy1F3FzwLlxuPLj3d4PQIjIzrFVIE00CqlbJ-RRmdeouTQY8Xoh6jwjBe5B/s1600/Cincotta,J-12.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="st" style="font-size: x-small; text-align: start;"><i>Joseph Cincotta, MD</i></span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;">One of the routine
questions I ask my patients during an office visit is whether they have guns in
their home. Some of my patients find this intrusive and even offensive, and
they are not alone. But my goal, and that of other doctors like myself, is not
to judge or debate, but to make sure my patients stay safe and healthy. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 11.0pt;">Whether or not health
professionals should be asking about guns in the home has sparked a national
debate. Emotions may run high when there is any conversation that is perceived
to challenge one’s right to own and keep a gun, and those emotions can block
any further conversation about guns and gun safety. Health care professionals are not challenging
anyone’s Constitutional right to own a gun.
Many health professionals own guns themselves and use them for a variety
of recreational activities. Our focus
when we discuss this issue is one of safety, not the right of ownership. According to a report by NBC News, firearms
injured 15,576 children in 2010. And because of frightening statistics like
this, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that pediatricians and
other health care professionals counsel patients about gun safety. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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When I inquire about guns in the home, it is with the best
intentions. I am not calling a parent’s judgment into question, nor am I
attempting to interfere with anyone’s right to own guns. But, the fact is that
unsecured guns pose a health risk to children. Just as I would counsel parents
about car seat safety, I counsel parents about precautions they should take to keep
firearms safe. <o:p></o:p></div>
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A few states have enacted laws prohibiting doctors from
asking patients about guns in the home. The practice is not prohibited in
Pennsylvania, but patients are also not required to disclose whether or not
they have guns in the home to their doctor.<o:p></o:p></div>
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For parents or caregivers who have guns in their home, I
recommend taking the following precautions:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<div class="MsoListParagraphCxSpFirst" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
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<ul>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Make sure that guns are unloaded and stored in a
locked location, preferably out of a child’s reach and sight.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Store ammunition in a different locked location
from the gun, preferably out of a child’s reach and sight.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Keep keys and combinations hidden from children.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Do not leave your gun unattended when it is not
locked up.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Use gun locks.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Do not leave guns, loaded or unloaded, anywhere
where a child can access them (nightstand, table, etc.)</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Talk to older children about gun safety. Let
them know that they should tell an adult immediately if they find one.</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Talk to your child’s other caregivers about gun
safety.</span></li>
</ul>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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When it comes to gun accidents involving children, there are
very few second chances. A high percentage of accidental shootings result in death.
Remember, when your doctor asks about guns in the home, they have your family’s
best interests in mind.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 11.0pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Arial; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">For more information about <a href="http://www.kidshealth.org/parent/firstaid_safe/home/gun_safety.html." target="_blank">gun safety</a>. </span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com65tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-66427487986886614582014-11-26T14:33:00.002-05:002014-11-26T14:36:45.958-05:00Detergent Pods Pose Poisoning Risk<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeSd69YOmLfeOnNypL3dmZoX7FO_GbHUtvelXWC05qyTI-y6ES0RY-piaHgNz5SG5nZIi7UFVNiOMe42LA8Xy1F3FzwLlxuPLj3d4PQIjIzrFVIE00CqlbJ-RRmdeouTQY8Xoh6jwjBe5B/s1600/Cincotta,J-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeSd69YOmLfeOnNypL3dmZoX7FO_GbHUtvelXWC05qyTI-y6ES0RY-piaHgNz5SG5nZIi7UFVNiOMe42LA8Xy1F3FzwLlxuPLj3d4PQIjIzrFVIE00CqlbJ-RRmdeouTQY8Xoh6jwjBe5B/s1600/Cincotta,J-12.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dr. Joseph Cincotta</td></tr>
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Although consumers love the convenience, laundry and dishwasher detergent pods can pose serious health risks if they fall into the hands of young children. According to a recent study by the American Academy of Pediatrics, more than 17,000 children younger than six years of age were exposed to detergent pods in 2012-2013.<br />
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Children often mistake the brightly colored pods for candy or toys. Because the sacs containing the detergent are water-soluble, they are especially dangerous if a child puts them in his or her mouth. The study showed that nearly 80 percent of detergent pod exposures involved ingestion, which can cause vomiting, respiratory distress, lethargy and, in one case, death. If a child’s skin or eyes are exposed to the detergent, serious irritation can occur. <br />
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“It is critical that parents are aware of the potentially harmful effects of household products and take preventative measures to protect their children,” said <a href="http://primary.pinnaclehealth.org/Find-A-Doctor/Find-A-Doctor-Results/Doctor-Profile.aspx?DoctorID=140&DRName=cincotta&Specialties=BRS,ENDO,FP,GS,ID,IM,NEUR,NEURS,PEDS,RHEUM&SubSpecialty=&Practice=&Location=&Proximity=&Gender=&Department=&Insurance=&Condition=&Language=&NewPatients=False&PageNo=1" target="_blank">Dr. Joseph Cincotta</a>, family physician and medical director for <a href="http://primary.pinnaclehealth.org/" target="_blank">PinnacleHealth Medical Group</a>. “One mistake could have serious consequences.”<br />
If you use detergent pods in your home, your best bet is to keep them safely out of sight and out of reach in a locked cabinet. Here are some other tips to help you protect your children and prevent poisoning at home:<br />
<ul>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9NHnpVBH2lOckZw3jrK1whAH8mcoX684pgniYD122BQe7Naqa-N6Kt47ARw671jfeaxyCv7aN-FIkSHFQBrL7wifzeHURgaC3b6MSpuJ60ZkfAMeUs7vj3MCH7Wyg8J05BpYqPM95VBxl/s1600/detergentPod.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9NHnpVBH2lOckZw3jrK1whAH8mcoX684pgniYD122BQe7Naqa-N6Kt47ARw671jfeaxyCv7aN-FIkSHFQBrL7wifzeHURgaC3b6MSpuJ60ZkfAMeUs7vj3MCH7Wyg8J05BpYqPM95VBxl/s1600/detergentPod.jpg" /></a>
<li>Store household products and medicines in their original containers. Store household products in a different place than food and medicine.</li>
<li>Keep the nationwide poison control center phone number (1-800-222-1222) near every phone in your home and save it in your cell phone. Poison Control can provide assistance 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If your child is unresponsive or is having a severe reaction, dial 911.</li>
<li>Do not store household products under the sink or in unlocked cabinets. Never underestimate your child’s ability to defeat a safety lock or climb. </li>
<li>Put household products away immediately after use. Do not leave household products unattended during use.</li>
<li>Do not rely on packaging. Containers are typically child-resistant, not child-proof.</li>
<li>Don’t keep it if you don’t need it. Safely dispose of any medicines or household products that you no longer use.</li>
<li>Talk to older children. Explain the importance of staying away from unfamiliar plants and household products. Tell children they should never take any medicine unless an adult says it’s okay.</li>
</ul>
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“In the course of busy family life, it can be easy to forget to keep household safety a top priority,” said Dr. Cincotta. “Fortunately, there are a number of online resources that can provide a good refresher for busy parents.”<br />
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For additional tips on preventing poisoning and other common childhood accidents, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Safe Child website at: <a href="http://www.cdc.gov/safechild">www.cdc.gov/safechild</a>.<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com57tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-36058231924116690552014-11-12T15:01:00.001-05:002014-11-12T15:01:16.811-05:00School bus safety<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1qZ8WpkVvtoqkSTsFBmS4rc-JVn505_SF4unnODi0GLoFoJeLc1JHciF_XAp7dHwbRR1JEDjzXTNue8hLRfZMwA6peUibLqYvxBeeYvS7SZOJGBO3y-tE6vIAbM_n4tgDDeIC_aw0g3O6/s1600/zimmerman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1qZ8WpkVvtoqkSTsFBmS4rc-JVn505_SF4unnODi0GLoFoJeLc1JHciF_XAp7dHwbRR1JEDjzXTNue8hLRfZMwA6peUibLqYvxBeeYvS7SZOJGBO3y-tE6vIAbM_n4tgDDeIC_aw0g3O6/s1600/zimmerman.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i style="text-align: start;">Blog contributed by </i><i style="text-align: start;"><a href="http://primary.pinnaclehealth.org/Find-A-Doctor/Find-A-Doctor-Results/Doctor-Profile.aspx?DoctorID=1304&DRName=zimmerman&Specialties=&SubSpecialty=&Practice=&Location=&Proximity=&Gender=&Department=&Insurance=&Condition=&Language=&NewPatients=False&PageNo=1" target="_blank">Kathleen<br />Zimmerman, MD</a>, </i><i style="text-align: start;">Pediatrician</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i style="text-align: start;"><br /></i></span></div>
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School is well on its way and your child is probably getting comfortable in their routine. This is a good thing, but we don’t want them to forget to be safe. You should review school bus safety rules with your child:<br />
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<ol>
<li>Wait for the bus to come to a complete stop before stepping off the curb</li>
<li>Stay in seat and don’t move around on the bus</li>
<li>Listen to the bus driver – they are in charge</li>
<li>When getting off the bus, don’t cross until the bus is at a complete stop, with the red lights flashing. Children should cross at least 10 feet in front of the bus.</li>
<li>Always watch for oncoming cars before crossing. Not everyone stops for those flashing lights like they are supposed to!</li>
</ol>
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Your child may ask why they don’t need to wear their seatbelt on the bus. Pennsylvania does not require this. Why not? National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has done research that showed that the “compartmentalization” of school bus seats protects children very well. Their research also shows the lab belts provide little if any benefit and could even cause injury because of misuse. Shoulder belts would likely give better safety statistics, but children are not reliable to put these on appropriately and could increase their risk. So, as of now, your child will not need to wear their seatbelt on the bus. But you should explain to them the importance of seatbelts in all other vehicles.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com80tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-13125611329768772592014-10-17T12:36:00.001-04:002014-10-17T12:37:42.007-04:00Feeling Overwhelmed with Health Related News? <i>Blog contributed by <a href="http://www.pinnaclehealth.org/Find-A-Doctor/Find-A-Doctor-Results/Doctor-Profile.aspx?DoctorID=B2A000B5&DRName=Brown&Specialties=&SubSpecialty=&Practice=&Location=&Proximity=&Gender=&Department=&Insurance=&Condition=&Language=&NewPatients=&PageNo=1" target="_blank">Melissa M. Brown, Psy.D</a>, PinnacleHealth Psychological Associates</i><br />
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As with any serious event that carries uncertainty it can create stress and lead to worry. Recently, we have been hearing a lot about the Ebola virus and may have developed a heightened awareness because it has affected several U.S. citizens. While the United States is not currently experiencing an outbreak, it is important to keep yourself informed; however, at a healthy level. One of the negative consequences of doing so can lead to feeling overwhelmed by information, excessive worry, or displaying symptoms of stress. Therefore, it is important to be aware of when too much information is not helping but hurting you. Some symptoms which may indicate that you are reaching a critical point include: not sleeping, sleeping too much, over or under eating, disengaging from previously enjoyed activities, constant worry or fear that you will contract the illness, excessive thoughts about the virus, unnecessary precautions with you or other family members, dizziness, difficulty focusing or concentrating, or anything else that is a deviation from your normal life functions. <br />
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There are numerous things to do to protect your mental health while taking the appropriate measures to inform yourself. First, limit the amount of media information you are viewing about the virus. If necessary turn off the television or change the channel. Second, educate yourself about the virus through reputable sources of information such as the: CDC, The WHO and your local hospital. These resources use scientific information which has been demonstrated to be the most accurate at the time and will alleviate any concern about things you have heard that may or may not be true. Third, take the necessary steps to ensure good mental and physical health. There are a few things you can do that will reduce your stress and anxiety: exercise regularly, eat a well balanced healthy diet, disengage from the media information, and reach out to family members and trusted support systems. If you find that your symptoms are becoming increasingly bothersome or interfering with your life on any level, it may be time to seek out professional intervention. A psychologist or other mental health professional can work with you to alleviate your fears and reduce your symptoms of stress. <br />
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Finally, it is important to remember that various professionals are available to provide support and, if necessary, intervention. They have the training and expertise on what to do if you are experiencing any forms of distress. Allow these individuals and professional organizations to provide you with accurate information. <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com138tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-5130105287199950532014-10-13T17:41:00.002-04:002014-10-15T13:28:03.950-04:00Information About Ebola<div class="MsoNormal">
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsHKRHh0ziWNK2hxKISHg8HMvsmlAf1ZLtCNrrCxJacBx1Vab5xtPjETODKrHeDi2f5voP99Zm6tseJBmoNQ860W0NJyytTLCCOD-UupiqbT7fumycooOQomy3oZkkFhjyWAOEwB4JFde1/s1600/goldman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsHKRHh0ziWNK2hxKISHg8HMvsmlAf1ZLtCNrrCxJacBx1Vab5xtPjETODKrHeDi2f5voP99Zm6tseJBmoNQ860W0NJyytTLCCOD-UupiqbT7fumycooOQomy3oZkkFhjyWAOEwB4JFde1/s1600/goldman.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PinnacleHealth <br />
Infectious Disease Specialist, <br />
John Goldman, MD.</td></tr>
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<span style="background-color: white;">While the Ebola virus continues to cause concern, we should be reassured that the risk for the spread of the infection in the U.S. remains low.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Ebola is transmitted through direct contact with an infected person's blood or body fluids. Ebola is not transmitted through the air or in water. Patients with Ebola are not infectious until they are symptomatic.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Healthcare providers locally and around the country are taking steps to protect our communities. At PinnacleHealth, we are asking patients to inform us of recent travel. We want to know if you have you lived in, visited, or cared for someone who is ill that traveled to one of the following countries within the last three weeks.</span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Democratic Republic of Congo</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Guinea</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Liberia</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Nigeria</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Senegal</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Sierra Leone</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="background-color: white;">By knowing this information, we can properly screen those who may have been exposed and begin treatment if needed. A patient with signs and symptoms of Ebola and recent travel to an area where Ebola transmission has been active will be immediately isolated in Standard, Contact and Droplet Precautions.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Early symptoms of Ebola include sudden onset of fever, weakness, muscle pain, headaches and a sore throat, each of which can be easily mistaken early on for other ailments like malaria, typhoid fever and meningitis. It generally takes about 5 to 7 days to develop symptoms. However, symptoms might not appear until two to 21 days after one is infected. Ebola can cause viral hemorrhagic fever, which can affect multiple organ systems in the body and is often accompanied by bleeding.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">While the medical community is working to develop a vaccine, there aren’t specific medications to treat the infection. We are able to offer supportive measures while the body works to heal on its own. The following basic interventions, when used early, can significantly improve the chances of survival:</span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Providing intravenous fluids (IV)and balancing electrolytes (body salts)</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Maintaining oxygen status and blood pressure</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white;">Treating other infections if they occur</span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="background-color: white;">It is our strong recommendation that all non-essential travel to West Africa should be avoided. If you are traveling, use common sense infection prevention. Do your best to avoid sick individuals and use good hygiene practices, such as regular hand-washing and hand sanitizer. The <a href="http://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/diseases/ebola." target="_blank">CDC</a> offers the following information about travel and Ebola.</span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com41tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-26780908118270471342014-10-10T15:13:00.000-04:002014-10-14T15:33:40.652-04:00Flu Vaccine<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQNYkf6fhSeHpyB19ui_uMn86Oy75ycrI0FbkCwXnjc4R8uxEIBPRuCRcM43nQC5D5MdgSo0fpWjeo3bqiDT8lMFejr9EkuClpbEY7xFnocCUaTKIvwC1zc2zqpIbc1Ao2PO6qVsonSBLZ/s1600/goodHopeSmall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQNYkf6fhSeHpyB19ui_uMn86Oy75ycrI0FbkCwXnjc4R8uxEIBPRuCRcM43nQC5D5MdgSo0fpWjeo3bqiDT8lMFejr9EkuClpbEY7xFnocCUaTKIvwC1zc2zqpIbc1Ao2PO6qVsonSBLZ/s1600/goodHopeSmall.jpg" height="197" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Good Hope Family Physicians</td></tr>
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<b>Flu Vaccine—our view</b><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"><b> </b> </span> <span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span><br />
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Think about this: the people who at highest risk to die from the flu are the very old, the very young, and people with health problems. The reason they have a harder time with flu is because their immune systems don’t work as well as they should. For that same reason, when we vaccinate them for flu, their immune systems don’t make antibodies well either, so the flu vaccine doesn’t work as well for them as it does for healthy people. In the previous year’s flu season, the flu vaccine only had 10% effectiveness in the over-65 population. 10%!! If we could only choose to vaccinate healthy people or high-risk people, we might actually choose the healthy people, because if they don’t get sick, they don’t pass it to the high risk people. Fortunately, we don’t have to make that choice. So if you are low risk, please think about getting flu vaccine to protect your loved ones or others who are at higher risk.<br />
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<b>For this reason, this year’s flu vaccine for those over 65 is a stronger vaccine.</b><br />
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“But you can get the flu from the flu vaccine” is a common response. No, what is actually happening is that when the immune system is asked to really crank up production of antibodies, you can feel “flu-like symptoms” of body aches, fever, fatigue, etc. When these symptoms occur with flu disease or any other infection, it is your body’s immune response to the infection causing these symptoms, not the germ itself. Who knows, maybe having these symptoms is a good thing as your immune system is clearly responding to the vaccine. And having a few days of some aching is much better than being knocked down for a week with flu disease, or worse yet, dying from flu.<br />
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It is important that you know what influenza is. It is NOT vomiting and diarrhea, which is referred to as “stomach flu” but is not influenza at all. Influenza is fever, cough, body aches, fatigue (“like you were hit by a truck”), congestion, etc.<br />
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“But I’ve never gotten the flu before” is also a common response. The average healthy person gets flu once every 7 years, and it might be a mild case but doesn’t mean you won’t ever get a bad case. Don’t you wear your seatbelt to protect yourself from something bad which hasn’t happened? And if you feel this way, re-read paragraph #1.<br />
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There are so many myths about influenza and vaccines in general, which is really sad, because vaccines today are very safe and save lives. But they are a victim of their success; since we use them widely, we don’t see those illnesses very much and we underestimate how useful and important they still are.<br />
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Please ask questions if you have further concerns.<br />
<br />
The Providers at <a href="http://www.pinnaclehealth.org//Locations-Directions/Family-Medicine/Good-Hope-Family-Physicians.aspx" target="_blank">Good Hope Family Physicians</a>, PinnacleHealth Medical Group<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com78tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-78991156545373631352014-10-08T14:32:00.002-04:002014-10-08T14:32:54.752-04:00Baby Safety Month Topic - “Bare is Best”<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1qZ8WpkVvtoqkSTsFBmS4rc-JVn505_SF4unnODi0GLoFoJeLc1JHciF_XAp7dHwbRR1JEDjzXTNue8hLRfZMwA6peUibLqYvxBeeYvS7SZOJGBO3y-tE6vIAbM_n4tgDDeIC_aw0g3O6/s1600/zimmerman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1qZ8WpkVvtoqkSTsFBmS4rc-JVn505_SF4unnODi0GLoFoJeLc1JHciF_XAp7dHwbRR1JEDjzXTNue8hLRfZMwA6peUibLqYvxBeeYvS7SZOJGBO3y-tE6vIAbM_n4tgDDeIC_aw0g3O6/s1600/zimmerman.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 13px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i style="text-align: start;">Blog contributed by </i><i style="text-align: start;"><a href="http://primary.pinnaclehealth.org/Find-A-Doctor/Find-A-Doctor-Results/Doctor-Profile.aspx?DoctorID=1304&DRName=zimmerman&Specialties=&SubSpecialty=&Practice=&Location=&Proximity=&Gender=&Department=&Insurance=&Condition=&Language=&NewPatients=False&PageNo=1" target="_blank">Kathleen<br />Zimmerman, MD</a>, </i><i style="text-align: start;">Pediatrician</i></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i style="text-align: start;"><br /></i></span></div>
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When you’re getting ready for new baby to come, it is fun to get the room decorated and looking cozy. But as cute as those matching bumper pads, baby blankets and stuffed animals look, cozy is not always safe. In fact, new parents should stick to the motto, “Bare is Best”. <br />
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The recommendations for safe sleep has changed a lot over the past few decades. The Back to Sleep program and recommendations have dramatically reduced Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Unfortunately there have been increasing tragic deaths seen from babies being trapped or suffocated by extra items in the crib. So in addition to sleeping you baby on his back, also be sure to follow these recommendations:<br />
<br />
1.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Use a firm sleep surface<br />
2.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Use only the mattress that came with the crib or playpen, don’t replace it with something else and don’t place something on top (like a pillow or wedge positioner). You should not be able to fit more than 2 fingers between the mattress and the side<br />
3.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>IF the mattress needs to have a slight angle at the head (30 degrees or less) for congestion or reflux symptoms, then do it from underneath the mattress, not on top<br />
4.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>It is safest for the baby to sleep in the same room as the parents for the first 4 months.<br />
5.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>But DON’t put the baby in your bed to sleep. Parents’ mattresses are often softer and there are bodies and pillows in the bed that can suffocate the baby. <br />
6.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>No pillow, blankets or bumper pads in the crib. <br />
7.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Use a sleep sack to keep your baby warm, not blankets. Or a swaddle sack or thin blanket swaddled tightly is safe for babies until they start to roll (typically 4 months of age)<br />
8.<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>Keep cords, blind pulls, or other hanging objects away from the crib or playpen in order to avoid possible strangulation<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-8973718583424537172014-09-17T13:27:00.001-04:002014-09-17T14:52:36.778-04:00What is Enterovirus (EV-D68)?<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #212121;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b><br /></b></span></span></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjthwCiDgXz_QJMSRU7nd1BWX3g2KzoGyYgA_F3xqephsgl0_saMGQx4zpgNIw1W0lFVyS2Y97bV8Hu6ew_kbAOQ7yOwBZDVXlvLohEbBBZrrPsNH-Vzqvae3VI8Bq0H4cZqvBTPqomGhgB/s1600/goldman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjthwCiDgXz_QJMSRU7nd1BWX3g2KzoGyYgA_F3xqephsgl0_saMGQx4zpgNIw1W0lFVyS2Y97bV8Hu6ew_kbAOQ7yOwBZDVXlvLohEbBBZrrPsNH-Vzqvae3VI8Bq0H4cZqvBTPqomGhgB/s1600/goldman.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">John Goldman, MD</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #212121;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>EV-D68 – What is this and why should we be concerned?</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #212121;">There has been quite a bit of alarming information about Enterovirus (EV-D68) making the news. Several states – including Colorado, Missouri, Kansas, Illinois, Kentucky, Ohio, Oklahoma, Utah and Georgia – have contacted the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for help investigating clusters of the virus that’s being blamed for the illness.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #212121;"><span style="background-color: white;">Here is the 411 from PinnacleHealth Infectious Disease Specialist, <a href="http://www.pinnaclehealth.org/Find-A-Doctor/Find-A-Doctor-Results/Doctor-Profile.aspx?DoctorID=296&DRName=Goldman&Specialties=&SubSpecialty=&Practice=&Location=&Proximity=&Gender=&Department=&Insurance=&Condition=&Language=&NewPatients=&PageNo=1" target="_blank">John Goldman, MD</a>.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #212121;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>What are Enteroviruses?</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #212121;"><span style="background-color: white;">Enteroviruses, which bring on symptoms like a very intense cold, aren’t unusual. They’re actually very common. When you have a bad summer cold, often what you have is an enterovirus. There are more than 100 types of enteroviruses causing about 10 to 15 million infections in the United States each year, according to the CDC. They are carried in the intestinal tract and often spread to other parts of the body. The “cold” season often hits its peak in September, as summer ends and fall begins. The good news is that enteroviruses usually aren’t deadly. While children have been hospitalized, no one has died.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #212121;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>How is EV-D68 different?</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #212121;">This virus is causing more respiratory problems than usual in children. Symptoms are starting like the common cold, but then escalating to wheezing and shortness of breath. Children, who already have respiratory issues such as asthma, are at increased risk of becoming sicker with this virus.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #212121;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>What can parents do?</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #212121;">Enteroviruses spread easily so it could be likely that it will make its way here.</span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #212121;">The best prevention is good hygiene. Properly wash your hands throughout the day. Consider sending your children to school with hand sanitizer.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #212121;">Clean and disinfect surfaces that are regularly touched by different people, such as toys and doorknobs.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #212121;">Avoid shaking hands, kissing, hugging and sharing cups or eating utensils with people who are sick. And stay home if you feel unwell.</span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #212121;">If you have children with respiratory issues, make sure to have medications, such as inhalers or nebulizers, on hand should they become sick, even if the child has very mild disease and only requires their medications infrequently.</span></li>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #212121;">If your child has a cold and begins to wheeze or have shortness of breath, seek medical attention. Use your best parental judgment. </span><span style="color: #212121;">If your children are experiencing symptoms, please contact your <a href="http://primary.pinnaclehealth.org/" target="_blank">primary care</a> physician. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #212121;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>Why aren’t adults getting it?</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #212121;">No one is absolutely sure, but most likely adults have been previously exposed to the virus and have built an immunity to it.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #212121;"><span style="background-color: white;"><b>What is the treatment?</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #212121;">There is no antiviral to treat EV-D68. Doctors can offer supportive treatments while the body works to heal itself. Its course is similar to the flu with being very sick for a few days and then fully recovering in a few weeks.</span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-24034086197512054412014-08-13T13:53:00.001-04:002014-08-13T13:53:49.226-04:00Nature Bites!<div class="MsoPlainText">
Having recently moved to a new house near the State
Game Lands I was excited to take my nephews and niece out to explore. Being that
it was somewhat chilly I had a long sleeves and long pants. I felt I was pretty
protected as we were not going deep into the woods, but instead were staying on
a trail that we only followed for a couple hundred yards. When we got back, I sat down saw a tick run
across my leg. Yes, I screamed. I
quickly grabbed a paper towel and scooped it up off my pants leg and promptly
disposed of it. At that point I made
sure that everybody that went for the walk (including myself) was thoroughly
checked for ticks. Luckily we did not find any more ticks, at least not then. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The next afternoon I happened to look down at my leg and
noticed an unusual mark. Upon closer inspection I saw that there were little
legs sticking out of it and yes they were squirming. I had a tick attached to
me- ewwww!! I used to be a lab tech so not
much throws me but this little bloodsucker actively burrowed in my leg did and
I needed to get it out ASAP as I couldn't tolerate the thought of it being
attached a minute longer! I quickly got tweezers and extracted the entire tick,
head and all, from my leg. Just in case
it was needed, I saved the tick in a container.
I then went and washed to bite wound and my hands thoroughly, just as
the instructions I found on the internet said.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Having two friends with Lyme disease really made me
concerned about my risk. I knew to look for a bull’s eye rash but didn't really
know much else. My first thought was that first thing Monday morning I needed
to call my primary care physician to see what they would recommend. From the primary care standpoint I was
grateful that I have a relationship with a primary care office and knew that if
I called they would be able to help me, which they did.<o:p></o:p></div>
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On Monday morning I called my primary care office, PinnacleHealth
Medical Group, Heritage Family Medicine, not really sure what to expect. After
explaining the situation the office wanted me to come in evaluate the tick bite
and see if there was any follow-up necessary. I was so fortunate in that they
were literally able to get me in within a half an hour.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://www.pinnaclehealth.org/Find-A-Doctor/Find-A-Doctor-Results/Doctor-Profile.aspx?DoctorID=B2A000J6&DRName=tina&Specialties=&SubSpecialty=&Practice=&Location=&Proximity=&Gender=&Department=&Insurance=&Condition=&Language=&NewPatients=&PageNo=1" target="_blank">Dr. Metropoulos</a> at Heritage Medical Group in Lemoyne was
wonderful and explained the risks of Lyme Disease based on my case and our
options for treatment. We both agreed that a prophylactic course of antibiotics
would be the best route for me.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I typically spend a lot of time outdoors and thought I
was pretty knowledgeable about healthcare. But this tick bite was definitely a
learning experience for me.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I had some pretty big questions throughout this experience.
Luckily, within PinnacleHealth we have a number of experts including those in
the primary care field and infectious diseases. And consulting with <a href="http://www.pinnaclehealth.org/Find-A-Doctor/Find-A-Doctor-Results/Doctor-Profile.aspx?DoctorID=296&DRName=goldman&Specialties=&SubSpecialty=&Practice=&Location=&Proximity=&Gender=&Department=&Insurance=&Condition=&Language=&NewPatients=&PageNo=1" target="_blank">Dr. John Goldman</a> with infectious disease he was able to provide me with some great
information answers to my questions.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Dr. Goldman recommends the following safety tips for tick
bite prevention.<o:p></o:p></div>
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</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Wear long sleeves and long pants</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Use insect repellent with DEET</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Change clothes immediately after coming inside
your house</span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Wash clothes promptly</span></li>
</ul>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Since all the boxes are unpacked and I am certainly not
moving anytime soon, I'm going to have to learn how to live in an area where
ticks are prevalent. I've since stocked
up on insect repellent, have made a habit of checking myself frequently for
ticks and am looking forward to spending time going for more long walks this
summer.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Want your questions regarding tick bites and Lyme Disease
answered? Join Dr. Goldman on August 20<sup>th</sup> at the Camp Hill Giant for
a free seminar titled Lyme Disease: What You Should Know. There is no cost to attend but registration
is required. Please call 231-8900 to
register. <o:p></o:p></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-58424723127768810002014-08-04T08:19:00.000-04:002014-08-04T15:16:09.701-04:00Ebola Virus – What You Need to Know<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeSd69YOmLfeOnNypL3dmZoX7FO_GbHUtvelXWC05qyTI-y6ES0RY-piaHgNz5SG5nZIi7UFVNiOMe42LA8Xy1F3FzwLlxuPLj3d4PQIjIzrFVIE00CqlbJ-RRmdeouTQY8Xoh6jwjBe5B/s1600/Cincotta%252CJ-12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeSd69YOmLfeOnNypL3dmZoX7FO_GbHUtvelXWC05qyTI-y6ES0RY-piaHgNz5SG5nZIi7UFVNiOMe42LA8Xy1F3FzwLlxuPLj3d4PQIjIzrFVIE00CqlbJ-RRmdeouTQY8Xoh6jwjBe5B/s1600/Cincotta%252CJ-12.jpg" height="200" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; line-height: 18px; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> Blog contributed by <br />Dr. Joseph Cincotta, <br />primary care physician</span></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The African Ebola Virus outbreak has been one story that has been a prominent part of recent health-related news. Although not a new problem for the African continent the most recent outbreak has gotten much more attention as concern has grown about the spread of this virus from rural and more isolated communities to more urban settings, and the concern of its spread to even further places across the globe. <br />
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The Ebola virus was first recognized in 1976 in Zaire and since that time there have been a number of outbreaks across different African regions. The infection currently has a very high mortality rate – 57 to 88%, and there is no vaccination to prevent the infection. In addition, there is currently no specific anti-viral medication treatment program available to combat the infection once it occurs. Treatment today is focused on what we call ‘supportive measures’ in an effort to give the patient’s own immune system time to overcome the infection. Unfortunately, these ‘supportive measures’ are not always successful and patients still succumb to the infection. <br />
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The virus is spread by direct person-to-person contact. This may involve direct contact with an infected patient or direct contact with infected body fluids from that patient. If exposed, it generally takes about 5 to 7 days to develop symptoms but there are cases where it has taken longer than 2 weeks for symptoms to develop. This raises the concern of the spread of this virus from one geographic area to another, as patients who are infected but who have no symptoms may travel out of a known area of infection and spread the virus. As populations become more mobile and less isolated the possibility of spread of the infection is higher and requires more attention to efforts to contain the spread of the virus.<br />
<br />
Symptoms of the disease usually start with a rather abrupt onset of fever, chills and tiredness. These are followed by headache and muscle ache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. As you will notice, these are very common symptoms for many other infections, and there is nothing specific to indicate an Ebola infection during the early phase. Thus, the medical team needs to have a high degree of suspicion particularly when working in areas known to be at risk for this infection. And, for health care workers not in those regions, getting a travel history from patients as part of the routine history when a patient has these symptoms is very important.<br />
<br />
Over a period of several days the symptoms often worsen and may involve bleeding from different sites, problems with bruising, and very low blood pressure.<br />
<br />
Work is going on to develop a vaccine as well as find medications to treat the infection. However, efforts to date have been unsuccessful. For now we need to rely on supportive measures such as IV fluids and nutrition and treating the complications of the disease when they occur. These measures allow the body time to develop its own antibodies to fight off the infection. <br />
<br />
Efforts at prevention involve avoiding travel to areas of known infection , doing your best to avoid sick individuals, and paying attention to good hygiene practices of regular hand-washing.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-75468815910763413312014-07-14T09:19:00.001-04:002014-07-14T09:19:36.680-04:00What is Juvenile Arthritis?<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1qZ8WpkVvtoqkSTsFBmS4rc-JVn505_SF4unnODi0GLoFoJeLc1JHciF_XAp7dHwbRR1JEDjzXTNue8hLRfZMwA6peUibLqYvxBeeYvS7SZOJGBO3y-tE6vIAbM_n4tgDDeIC_aw0g3O6/s1600/zimmerman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1qZ8WpkVvtoqkSTsFBmS4rc-JVn505_SF4unnODi0GLoFoJeLc1JHciF_XAp7dHwbRR1JEDjzXTNue8hLRfZMwA6peUibLqYvxBeeYvS7SZOJGBO3y-tE6vIAbM_n4tgDDeIC_aw0g3O6/s1600/zimmerman.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><i style="text-align: start;">Blog contributed by </i><i style="text-align: start;"><a href="http://primary.pinnaclehealth.org/Find-A-Doctor/Find-A-Doctor-Results/Doctor-Profile.aspx?DoctorID=1304&DRName=zimmerman&Specialties=&SubSpecialty=&Practice=&Location=&Proximity=&Gender=&Department=&Insurance=&Condition=&Language=&NewPatients=False&PageNo=1" target="_blank">Kathleen <br />Zimmerman, MD</a>, </i><i style="text-align: start;">Pediatrician</i></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
It is estimated that about 300,000 children in the U.S. have
some form of juvenile arthritis. Most
people have heard of Juvenile Rheumatoid arthritis, or JRA. But there are other forms of arthritis as
well, including Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA), which is the most common
form in children.<br />
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Most forms of Juvenile Arthritis are autoimmune. This means that the child’s immune system is
attacking their healthy cells. It is
thought that this autoimmune attack may be triggered by a virus and in some
cases children have a genetic risk if arthritis is in the family. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Arthritis in children can have different symptoms and these
symptoms can come and go for long periods of time. The most common symptom is constant joint
swelling, joint pain, and stiffness.
This may be in one joint or in multiple joints. Some children are limping or clumsy because
of the joint pains. The pain is often
worse in the mornings. Other symptoms may
be high fevers or skin rashes that don’t have another cause. Children may also have eye inflammation and
growth problems.<o:p></o:p></div>
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There is not a single test for Juvenile Arthritis. Your child’s doctor may suspect arthritis if
they have the symptoms above and they do not have an explanation (no recent
injury or recent illness) and also if the symptoms do not go away on their
own. If your child was suspected to have
Juvenile arthritis they would need a thorough exam of the joints as well as
bloodwork. Referral to a Rheumatologist (specialist in arthritis) is typically
recommended to help with the diagnosis and treatment. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Juvenile Arthritis is a chronic illness that comes and
goes. During a “flare”, children may
need medication to help control their symptoms. Physical therapy is helpful as
well. If the pain is severe or difficult
to treat, stronger medications that suppress the immune system are used to calm
the symptoms down and allow the child to live a more normal life. The goal is for the child to remain active
and to have long periods of “remission”, where the symptoms are gone for months
to years. Children with juvenile
arthritis may also have “silent” problems with the eyes or growth (without
symptoms). Therefore, it is also important
to have regular eye exams and checkups even if they have no symptoms. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Researchers are working on finding causes of Juvenile
arthritis and also researching better medications with fewer side effects. To learn more about Juvenile Arthritis and
the most recent science on these diseases you can go the National Institute of
Health site: <a href="http://www.niams.nih.gov/">www.niams.nih.gov</a> and the
Arthritis Foundation site: <a href="http://www.arthritis.org/">www.arthritis.org</a>
<o:p></o:p></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com33tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-16626190839338984602014-05-27T11:48:00.002-04:002014-05-27T11:48:06.374-04:00May is national Osteoporosis (OP) month <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNeozowmq6uGDHHt2MuabJKPzy-OfLSLRG-wkxfbz3s3i3VdLQxQjPFK7XnmH2WDlWnBkvZSHVQc8n933mdR7jkDk89EJlA6XWDCL6Q7Bb1lwIwWAALx3ThzL9caQ89xLaABxXw2e35RGm/s1600/drJoshi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNeozowmq6uGDHHt2MuabJKPzy-OfLSLRG-wkxfbz3s3i3VdLQxQjPFK7XnmH2WDlWnBkvZSHVQc8n933mdR7jkDk89EJlA6XWDCL6Q7Bb1lwIwWAALx3ThzL9caQ89xLaABxXw2e35RGm/s1600/drJoshi.jpg" /></a><i>Blog contributed by <a href="http://www.pinnaclehealth.org/Find-A-Doctor/Find-A-Doctor-Results/Doctor-Profile.aspx?DoctorID=978&DRName=joshi&Specialties=&SubSpecialty=&Practice=&Location=&Proximity=&Gender=&Department=&Insurance=&Condition=&Language=&NewPatients=&PageNo=1" target="_blank">Renu Joshi, MD</a>, Endocrinology</i><br />
<br />
Osteo means bones and porosis means holes. As the name suggests we have bone loss which can lead to Bone fractures.<br />
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It is a silent disease and does not cause any pain until Fracture occurs.<br />
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Did you know that 50-65% of women between 50-75 suffer from Osteopenia / osteoporosis and 50 % of white women will suffer from Fracture due to Osteoporosis. 25 % of patients with hip Fracture will die within the first year. Incidence of Hip fracture is higher than combined Breast cancer, Heart attack and stroke in Females.<br /><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH-Q15Z-fMY1PhcWpRuBOCRgEyBVjvxihgmdAxKay6e2D12dU_Q8HQQEGBOhtDuAYvv3QIW8VjPURCRIg7kSGeNRo_DrMgdVoVa8bZ0rdnlw2wnoyhyEjm2RiW2ukws7ONxXecaASkn91Q/s1600/op-file.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiH-Q15Z-fMY1PhcWpRuBOCRgEyBVjvxihgmdAxKay6e2D12dU_Q8HQQEGBOhtDuAYvv3QIW8VjPURCRIg7kSGeNRo_DrMgdVoVa8bZ0rdnlw2wnoyhyEjm2RiW2ukws7ONxXecaASkn91Q/s1600/op-file.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a><br />
Men can also suffer through OP but it starts at age 70 or higher.<br />
<br />
While we all get screening for other things the screening for OP still remains very low. A 5-minute screening test for OP is the U/S of the heel, which almost picks up > 70 % cases of OP and it is free.<br />
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We as women are always taking care of others but we can be better care taker if we take care of ourselves<br />
SO Be In charge of your health!!!<br />
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<b>You can prevent OP by these simple things:</b><br />
<ol>
<li>Take 1000 -1500 mg calcium (diet and supplement combined) daily</li>
<li>Vitamin D at least 800 units daily</li>
<li>Exercise both aerobic and Muscle strengthening (by lifting weights) at least 3 times weekly </li>
<li>Drink < 3 caffeine beverages (including Coffee and sodas)</li>
<li>Getting screened early after Menopause so treatment can be given appropriately </li>
</ol>
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Let’s do it together so we can save Fractures!!!<br />
<div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-82980479232327068552014-05-12T10:24:00.002-04:002014-05-12T11:47:38.135-04:00How to Eat Healthy at Home and at Work<br />
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Patients typically tell me about one struggle or the other: “I have a hard time eating healthy at home” or “I have a hard time eating healthy at work”. With obesity on the rise, as a whole we have got to learn to do better at both! I believe the keys to healthy eating are knowledge, discipline and preparation.<b><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Knowledge. Being educated. Being an aware consumer. Knowing how many calories are in food items. Knowing what are healthy choices and what are not.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Discipline. Being determined to eat healthy the majority of the time. Being able to say no to junk food the majority of the time. Choosing unsweetened drinks over sweetened ones.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Preparation. Planning ahead for meals and snacks. Having a list before you go to the grocery store. Not allowing yourself to become too hungry, resulting in binge eating. Having water on hand.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I feel like most people get the first two points, it’s more a matter of applying them. The third point, preparation, is what I want to focus on. Being prepared sets one up for success. Start with a list. What are healthy food items you would like to purchase on your next trip to the grocery store? This list must include variety, snacks, and meals. As far as meals go: The internet holds a plethora of recipes (do people use cook books anymore?! Ok…kidding, but seriously). Try to avoid recipes with white flour/pasta, the word “fried”, and cream sauces/a lot of cheese. And when you find those tasty, healthy recipes…make extras! Then you have leftovers for work! I try to avoid casseroles and make soups (broth-based) or stir-fries instead.<o:p></o:p></div>
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When you get home from the grocery store, rinse and prepare whatever you can. Cut celery sticks. Wash lettuce and prepare veggies for easy salads. Cut up fruits that need it. Put snack items into baggies/containers. Hard-boil eggs. Get the junk food out of the house. If it’s not there, it can’t be consumed!<o:p></o:p></div>
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Get your lunch/snacks ready for work the night before. If you plan for your meals, you are less likely to grab unhealthy food on a whim. May I suggest salads in a jar: dressing on the bottom, other items such as low-fat cheese/egg/chicken/nuts/seeds/fruit/other veggies next, then lettuce on the top. When you are ready to eat, just turn it onto a plate and the dressing is on the top and nothing is soggy. Another idea is fruit and yogurt parfaits with plain yogurt (check out how many grams of sugar are in flavored yogurt!). Use fruit as your sweetener and add some low-sugar granola, oats, or nuts. Be careful of cereal, flavored oatmeal and bars, as they often contain high amounts of sugar!<o:p></o:p></div>
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At home, I make a baked oatmeal, bran muffins or quiche weekly. That way there is always something in the fridge to grab for breakfast that is healthy. I use very little to no sugar in my recipes and add lots of extras: fruit, cinnamon, nuts, etc. I load up the quiche with veggies and omit the crust. These are also good options for lunch or a snack at work. It is also helpful to have nuts, carrot sticks, or an apple in the car to keep you from making a stop for some less-nutritious choices.<o:p></o:p></div>
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And one last point: choose foods that will fill you and not leave you hungry soon after. Protein and healthy fats (like nuts and avocados) can really help with satisfaction. </div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-82157372080155130292014-05-02T11:39:00.000-04:002014-05-02T11:40:58.321-04:00Why are we seeing Measles again?<i>Blog contributed by <a href="http://primary.pinnaclehealth.org/Find-A-Doctor/Find-A-Doctor-Results/Doctor-Profile.aspx?DoctorID=1304&DRName=zimmerman&Specialties=&SubSpecialty=&Practice=&Location=&Proximity=&Gender=&Department=&Insurance=&Condition=&Language=&NewPatients=False&PageNo=1" target="_blank">Kathleen Zimmerman, MD</a>, Pediatrician</i><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq3vzaUUonLG06zePd1sFNOWnXeGE38Rk5j1wy2oOnm6rKL-79sMDBQIJZBk4-AbE3uwpeF6iiBBBteAftZPHSf8CD_S_1WSOIWDQb5UarezDTcEVrrbXmQgcT39NShs3RGzgLrHDJ7oH_/s1600/GetDoctorAvatarThumbnail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq3vzaUUonLG06zePd1sFNOWnXeGE38Rk5j1wy2oOnm6rKL-79sMDBQIJZBk4-AbE3uwpeF6iiBBBteAftZPHSf8CD_S_1WSOIWDQb5UarezDTcEVrrbXmQgcT39NShs3RGzgLrHDJ7oH_/s1600/GetDoctorAvatarThumbnail.jpg" /></a>In recent news there have been a multitude of stories on increasing outbreaks of measles. Measles was almost eradicated by the year 2000, so why are we seeing measles again?<br />
<br />
Measles is spread by a very contagious virus. The virus is spread as easily as influenza virus. Therefore once a case comes into a community, it quickly spreads to those who have not been vaccinated. Widespread vaccination against measles creates “ herd immunity”. This is the best protection a community can have from measles outbreaks. Herd immunity stops isolated cases of measles from spreading into an epidemic. <br />
<br />
Vaccination rates have declined in certain areas of the United States and these are the areas that have “holes” in the herd immunity and these are the communities that are having increasing outbreaks of measles. California’s cases went up from 4 last year to 58 as of this month (and will be higher by the time you see this blog). <br />
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Vaccination refusal and delays are most commonly due to misconceptions about vaccine safety. Also many young parents have never seen measles before and they do not understand that just 50 years ago there were 500,000 Americans infected with measles per year with 48,000 hospitalizations and 500 deaths each year. The near eradication of this deadly disease 14 years ago was achieved by vaccination. The return of this disease in exponential numbers is occurring because of vaccine refusal.<br />
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It’s important for parents to realize that when they refuse or delay vaccines for their child, they are not only putting their own child at risk, but also their whole community. This couldn't be exemplified more clearly than in what we are seeing unfold in our country with the current measles outbreaks. <br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com209tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-86988843574357026372014-04-14T11:32:00.001-04:002014-04-14T11:36:08.861-04:00Child Abuse Prevention<i>Blog contributed by Andrea Burks, DO, Heritage Pediatrics, PinnacleHealth Medical Group</i><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPRwTXAPZ0I0U3IZ9zVR4FHoLYpChc4z528BCN2UcXbDeseSUmBvo3yEvN9S09WzPMwCf4sThkQzvOSQKOgzqwiFyNr9_UnMM5g_o-WBD31VJ_BAKusAN8199Ahshj1UiD3stpmgpKbdjv/s1600/andrea-burks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPRwTXAPZ0I0U3IZ9zVR4FHoLYpChc4z528BCN2UcXbDeseSUmBvo3yEvN9S09WzPMwCf4sThkQzvOSQKOgzqwiFyNr9_UnMM5g_o-WBD31VJ_BAKusAN8199Ahshj1UiD3stpmgpKbdjv/s1600/andrea-burks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPRwTXAPZ0I0U3IZ9zVR4FHoLYpChc4z528BCN2UcXbDeseSUmBvo3yEvN9S09WzPMwCf4sThkQzvOSQKOgzqwiFyNr9_UnMM5g_o-WBD31VJ_BAKusAN8199Ahshj1UiD3stpmgpKbdjv/s1600/andrea-burks.jpg" /></a><br />
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April is child abuse prevention month. In the United States of America there are approximately 3 million reports of child abuse and neglect each year involving 6 million children. 686,000 children were determined to be victims of abuse and neglect in 2012 and of those 1,640 resulted in death. That is greater than 4 child abuse related deaths per day. There are likely many more cases that are not reported. Child abuse and neglect happens at every socioeconomic level, across ethnic and cultural lines, within all regions and levels of education. Boys and girls are maltreated in equal numbers. Children less than 4 years old are at greatest risk for severe injury and death from abuse. The most common abusers are parents, other family members, or an unmarried partner of a parent. Children who suffer maltreatment are at higher risk for cognitive delays, emotional difficulties, harm to development of nervous and immune systems, and health problems as adults. It is important to recognize, help prevent and report suspected child abuse and neglect because its lasting effects can impact us all. Small acts from everyone in a community can help save a child from harm.<br />
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<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span>The first step is to recognize child abuse. Child abuse can be physical, emotional, sexual, or involve neglect of a child by someone who has responsibility for the child. It is common for more than one type of abuse to occur at a time. It is important to note a single sign does not mean maltreatment has occurred but if signs appear repeatedly or in combination a closer look at the situation may be warranted.<br />
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<ul>
<li><b>Physical abuse</b> involves non accidental physical injury including but not limited to hitting, kicking, biting, burning, choking, shaking, and throwing. It often leaves bruising at different levels of healing, marks on body consistent with objects or hand prints, or unexplained bruises, black eyes, or broken bones. The physically abused child may wear clothing inappropriate for weather (e.g. long sleeves in hot weather to hide bruising). They may also be reluctant to go home or fearful of parents.</li>
<li><b>Emotional abuse</b> involves with holding love, support or guidance from a child. Emotional abuse is as strong a predictor of subsequent impairment in child development as physical abuse. Emotional abuse may include ignoring, rejecting, isolating, verbal assault, threatening, blame, belittling, or shaming the child in a persistent chronic pattern. The caregiver may appear unconcerned about the child. The child may show overly compliant or demanding behavior, be extremely passive or aggressive. They may speak of attempting suicide or they may report lack of attachment to parent.</li>
<li><b>Sexual Abuse</b> can involve engaging a child in sexual acts, exposing a child to sexual activities, indecent exposure, or exploitation of a child through pornographic material. Effects of sexual abuse extend beyond childhood. These children often have loss of trust and feelings of guilt. The child may show signs of regression such as bedwetting, rocking, head banging, stranger anxiety, withdrawal from family and friends, suddenly refuse to change clothes in gym, or refusal to participate in physical activities. The adults may appear extremely protective and limit contact of the child with other children.</li>
<li><b>Neglect</b> is failing to provide the basic needs for a child including food, clothing, shelter, proper hygiene, education, and medical attention. Neglect can also involve abandoning a child or putting a child in unsupervised or dangerous situations. The child may miss a lot of school, beg or steal from classmates or friends, or lack medical/dental care. They may have dirty clothes or clothing inappropriate for weather.</li>
</ul>
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Prevention of child abuse and neglect is a community effort. Individuals in the community can play a role in helping families find the strength to raise safe, healthy, and productive children. A majority of parents don't want to harm their children. Abusers are more likely to have been abused themselves and don't know other ways to parent. They may suffer from mental or chronic health problems, struggle with substance abuse, and commonly have high stress and lack of support. Parenting is one of the toughest and most important jobs. We all have a stake in ensuring parents have access to the support they need to be successful parents. You can start by getting to know your neighbors. Help a family under stress by offering to give them a break and babysit for a few hours, help run errands, help a parent with a small child get through checkout line at the grocery store, or reach out to children in the community. If a child discloses they are victims of abuse, first believe them, listen, and don't be critical or negative of child or parent. Assure the child they are not to blame and report the incident.<br />
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It is the right and responsibility of everyone in the community to report suspected child abuse or neglect. You can make a report by contacting your local child protective service agency or police department. You do not need to have evidence or actual knowledge of abuse to make a report. You should have reasonable cause, heightened concerns, or belief based on observation. Reporters can be anonymous but giving your name may help the investigation. Good Faith Laws protect the reporters from legal liability. Trust your instincts. Reporting your suspicions may protect the child and get help for a family who needs it.<br />
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If you are a parent under stress find ways to regain control. Try counting to 10, take deep breaths, call a friend, put your child in a safe place and take a few minutes to calm down and relax. Never be afraid to apologize to your child if you lose your temper and say something in anger that wasn't meant to be said. Reach out to community centers, church, schools, and physicians for guidance on positive parenting skills. It is often helpful to learn good communication skills, appropriate discipline, and how to respond to children's physical, developmental and emotional needs. Understanding appropriate developmental milestones may help you set reasonable expectations for a child. Creating social connections with family, friends and the community gives encouragement and can help improve parent child relationships. There is also concrete community support that assists with food, clothing, housing and access to healthcare. You can contact you physician for information about these services.<br />
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In Pennsylvania report concerns for child abuse and neglect to ChildLine 1-800-932-0313Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-78772631867216247802014-04-09T14:11:00.000-04:002014-04-09T14:11:13.683-04:00March is National Nutrition Month<div class="Standard">
<i>Blog contributed by <a href="http://primary.pinnaclehealth.org/Find-A-Doctor/Find-A-Doctor-Results/Doctor-Profile.aspx?DoctorID=B2A000J6&DRName=tina&Specialties=BRS,ENDO,FP,GS,ID,IM,NEUR,NEURS,PEDS,RHEUM&SubSpecialty=&Practice=&Location=&Proximity=&Gender=&Department=&Insurance=&Condition=&Language=&NewPatients=False&PageNo=1" target="_blank">Tina Metropoulos, DO</a>, Primary Care Physician</i></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp79aaLIM0Hjdgfrs_VvQ-uW6Mk7heijKY4Z8aPX6Qo0E9VNN9_GY8ob5-n3roAXPLnTGNdNRa9ztQ-yGg-ypFeOBKqjNRg7HasC9zsCoZdH_ZaH7Gql-Q8U_TUZnlMl5wJvYPfN86AWmQ/s1600/GetDoctorAvatarThumbnail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhp79aaLIM0Hjdgfrs_VvQ-uW6Mk7heijKY4Z8aPX6Qo0E9VNN9_GY8ob5-n3roAXPLnTGNdNRa9ztQ-yGg-ypFeOBKqjNRg7HasC9zsCoZdH_ZaH7Gql-Q8U_TUZnlMl5wJvYPfN86AWmQ/s1600/GetDoctorAvatarThumbnail.jpg" /></a>In primary care, we often counsel patients about healthy
dietary habits. <br />I’m frequently asked
about what foods are healthy. Another
common question is whether a fad diet is safe, effective, or advisable – “How
about Atkins?”, “Is South Beach okay?”, and should I go “Paleo?". Sometimes the goal is weight loss, and
sometimes it is to improve lifestyle. Specifically,
patients are often concerned about their heart health and providers often
discuss diet as a means to reduce risk for heart disease.</div>
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Recently, the American Heart Association updated their
healthy nutrition guidelines. I read
through them, after their release in 12/2013.
The overall focus is on a balanced, moderate, diet with limited
processed food intake. An important
recommendation is to have a diet rich in fruits and vegetable – with an average
of 9-10 servings a day for an adult.
There are other guidelines and diets which focus on fresh fruits and
vegetables, such as the DASH diet and the Mediterranean diet. This may seem as hard as climbing Mt.
Everest, especially if you count an occasional side salad as your token veggie
for the week. However, I try to help
patients realize how easy it can be to include healthful, and flavorful, fruits
and vegetables in their daily meals.<o:p></o:p></div>
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First, it’s important to understand how much “a serving”
is. A serving of fresh fruit is equal to
1 medium fruit, ½ cup cooked, chopped, or canned fruit, ¼ cup dried, or ½ cup
juice (easy to get when you add some dried cranberries to some mixed
nuts!). A serving of fresh or cooked
vegetables is roughly ½ cup; vegetable juice is ½ cup, while 1 cup constitutes
a serving of raw leafy greens.<o:p></o:p></div>
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So, if you chop up some tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers in your
lunchtime green salad (or if you are feeling adventurous, some artichokes or
asparagus), you’d have at least 3 servings to put toward your daily quota. Add some sliced berries to your AM bowl of
Wheaties and you have another serving.
Snack on hummus and carrot or celery sticks (much better for your
afternoon slump than a double mocha) and you’ve added another serving or two –
more than half-way there! And, we
haven’t even counted dinner yet.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Now that spring is in full swing we will soon have an abundance
of fresh fruits and vegetables available!
By visiting your local farmer’s market or grocery store you can stock up
on colorful, visually appealing, and delicious produce. Eat up!<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>What is a serving size?</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Caregiver/Replenish/WhatisaServing/What-is-a-Serving_UCM_301838_Article.jsp"><span class="Internetlink">http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Caregiver/Replenish/WhatisaServing/What-is-a-Serving_UCM_301838_Article.jsp</span></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Recipe Ideas:</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="https://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/GettingHealthy/NutritionCenter/HealthyCooking/Simple-Cooking-with-Heart-Vegetarian-Recipes_UCM_458020_Article.jsp"><span class="Internetlink">https://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/GettingHealthy/NutritionCenter/HealthyCooking/Simple-Cooking-with-Heart-Vegetarian-Recipes_UCM_458020_Article.jsp</span></a><o:p></o:p></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com26tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-13329402360300158272014-02-24T10:34:00.001-05:002014-02-24T10:34:08.627-05:00Does My Child Have an Eating Disorder?<br />
<i>Blog contributed by <a href="http://primary.pinnaclehealth.org/Find-A-Doctor/Find-A-Doctor-Results/Doctor-Profile.aspx?DoctorID=1304&DRName=zimmerman&Specialties=&SubSpecialty=&Practice=&Location=&Proximity=&Gender=&Department=&Insurance=&Condition=&Language=&NewPatients=False&PageNo=1" target="_blank">Kathleen Zimmerman, MD</a>, Pediatrician</i><br />
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If you are asking this question, then your child needs to be seen by his or her provider. Over the past decade the United States and other parts of the world have seen steady increases in the incidence of anorexia (nervosa) and bulimia for both females and males. There is also an increasing trend for younger children to develop eating disorders as well as teens. Eating disorders present with many different signs and symptoms. Sometimes these are difficult to detect if your child is hiding them. Here are a few that should raise a flag and prompt you to bring your child to the office:<br />
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<ol>
<li>Constantly worried about their size or weight</li>
<li>Not eating as much food as they used to but insisting they ate when you weren't around</li>
<li>Binge eating large amounts of foods<span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space: pre;"> </span></li>
<li>Menstrual period is becoming irregular or skipping months</li>
<li>Intense exercise more than 1-2 hours per day and they are very stressed if they miss a workout</li>
<li>Symptoms: cold intolerance, dizziness, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, muscle cramps, looks pale and weak</li>
<li>Either parent has a history of eating disorder</li>
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Your provider will measure height, weight, BMI and get a thorough diet and exercise history. They may need to talk with your child alone. Follow up appointments will be important to track the weight. <br />
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Early detection of eating disorders is important to prevent serious consequences. So, even if your child denies there is a problem, it is important to have your provider evaluate any concerning eating behaviors or weight changes.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-15287210731125133322014-02-18T09:38:00.001-05:002014-02-18T09:38:08.306-05:00Strep throat vs. Viral pharyngitis<br />
<i>Blog contributed by </i><span style="color: #0000ee;"><a href="https://www.pinnaclehealth.org/Find-A-Doctor/Find-A-Doctor-Results/Doctor-Profile.aspx?DoctorID=B2A000IK&DRName=lundblad&Specialties=&SubSpecialty=&Practice=&Location=&Proximity=&Gender=&Department=&Insurance=&Condition=&Language=&NewPatients=&PageNo=1" target="_blank"><i>Julie A. Lundblad, MSN, CRNP</i></a></span><br />
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How do I know if child has strep throat? Medical care providers cannot always tell by looking in the throat. Most offices can run a rapid strep test and the results are just minutes away. 80% of all sore throat office visits are viral, only 20% are from Strep.<br />
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<b>Common symptoms of step throat:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Sudden onset of sore throat</li>
<li>Pain with swallowing</li>
<li>Fever >101</li>
<li>Red, swollen tonsils (sometimes white patches)</li>
<li>Swollen lymph nodes</li>
</ul>
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Strep can also cause headaches, nausea, vomiting, rash, body aches, or tiny spots on the back of the throat (petechiae)<br />
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What is viral pharyngitis? Basically inflammation of the tonsils and back of the throat, with or without a fever. These are caused by viruses and upper respiratory infections.<br />
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<b>Common symptoms of viral sore throat:</b><br />
<ul>
<li>Sore throat, dry and scratchy</li>
<li>Runny nose, sneezing</li>
<li>Headache</li>
<li>Cough</li>
<li>Fatigue</li>
<li>Low grade fever</li>
</ul>
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Strep throat is contagious, so if there is a known exposure, testing is necessary. I recommend calling your Primary Care Physician for an appointment to rule out Strep. It is usually easily treated with an antibiotic for 5-10 days. If the sore throat is viral, the treatment is supportive and symptomatic.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com21tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-75237400816914073042014-02-03T08:22:00.000-05:002014-02-03T08:25:50.083-05:00My Child’s Ear Hurts – Is it an ear infection?<div>
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<i>Blog contributed by <a href="http://primary.pinnaclehealth.org/Find-A-Doctor/Find-A-Doctor-Results/Doctor-Profile.aspx?DoctorID=1304&DRName=zimmerman&Specialties=&SubSpecialty=&Practice=&Location=&Proximity=&Gender=&Department=&Insurance=&Condition=&Language=&NewPatients=False&PageNo=1" target="_blank">Kathleen Zimmerman, MD</a>, Pediatrician</i></div>
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All parents have experienced the middle of the night cry from their child, “my ear hurts!” Ear pain is one of the most common reasons a parent calls their child’s doctor or provider. But how do you know if it is an ear infection? When do you need to bring your child to the office?<br />
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There are many causes of ear pain. Sometimes the pain has nothing to do with the ear itself. Children can have “referred” ear pain that is actually coming from the tonsils or the teeth. You may see ear pain or ear pulling in a baby that is teething, especially when the molars are coming in. Children with swollen tonsils or strep throat will often come into the office complaining of ear pain. This referred pain occurs because the tonsils and throat are actually quite close to the inner ear. Another example of referred ear pain is seen in an older child or teenager that has temporal mandibular joint pain (or TMJ syndrome) – the hinge of the jaw is right in front of the ear, so a child with teeth grinding or TMJ pain can also feel ear pain. <br />
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Of course many children with ear pain do have a problem with their ear. This could be swelling of the ear canal as in “swimmer’s ear”, which is common in the summer. But in most cases ear problems are behind the ear drum, which is sometimes referred to as the “inner ear”. The inner ear has a tube connecting it to the nose. This is called the Eustachian tube. If your child has a stuffy nose from a cold or from allergies, fluid can push back through this tube and cause ear pain. This kind of fluid and pressure will go away with time and also improves as the nose is decongested. Ask your provider if an over the counter medicine, such as a decongestant or an antihistamine, would be appropriate for your child.<br />
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In some cases, the fluid behind the ear drum develops bacteria in it. The bacteria create pus and more fluid and pressure behind the ear drum. This is an inner ear infection, or “otitis media”. A child with and ear infection and ear pain will usually need antibiotics. <br />
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When you call your medical provider about your child’s ear pain, they will ask questions to try to figure out the cause of the pain. In most cases, they will recommend your child be seen if the pain persists or is severe. Sometimes they may recommend over the counter medicines if it is safe and appropriate for your child. But the only way to know if it is an ear infection is for your provider to look in the ear. Antibiotics will not help your child if it is not an ear infection and antibiotics should only be used when needed. This is why your doctor will usually not want to prescribe an antibiotic over the phone.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com35tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-72675591932335212662014-01-19T11:01:00.000-05:002014-04-24T17:31:13.953-04:00Blood Donations<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><i> Blog contributed by Dr. Joseph Cincotta, primary care physician</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">January is often a time when there is a greater need for blood donations. So, once again this year we are coming to you to make a gift only YOU can provide – the gift of a blood donation. You can be the one to save someone’s life. You can be the one to make a critical contribution to the care of someone in need. You can make a difference.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;">Donating blood does take some of your time, and it does require a needle stick. I will not kid you on these facts. Yet, those who do this work are skilled professionals who work to make the experience efficient and friendly. The discomfort is minimal and is short-lived. The benefits are enormous and last a lifetime. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><a href="http://www.pinnaclehealth.org/Conditions-Treatments/Services/Blood-Donation.aspx" target="_blank">PinnacleHealth's Blood Bank</a> is located at: </span></span><br /><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;"><b>Alex Grass Medical Sciences Building</b></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">100 South Second Street</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">Harrisburg, PA 17101</span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">Phone: (717) 231-8900</span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">Here are some facts about blood donations from the American Red Cross:</span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><br /></span><span style="line-height: 18px;"><b>Facts about blood needs</b></span></span><br />
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<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">Every two seconds someone in the U.S. needs blood.</span></li>
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<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">More than 41,000 blood donations are needed every day.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">A total of 30 million blood components are transfused each year in the U.S.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">The average red blood cell transfusion is approximately 3 pints.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">The blood type most often requested by hospitals is Type O.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">The blood used in an emergency is already on the shelves before the event occurs.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">Sickle cell disease affects more than 70,000 people in the U.S. About 1,000 babies are born with the disease each year. Sickle cell patients can require frequent blood transfusions throughout their lives.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">More than 1.6 million people were diagnosed with cancer last year. Many of them will need blood, sometimes daily, during their chemotherapy treatment.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">A single car accident victim can require as many as 100 pints of blood</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><b>Facts about the blood supply</b></span></span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">The number of blood donations collected in the U.S. in a year: 15.7 million</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">The number of blood donors in the U.S. in a year: 9.2 million</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">Although an estimated 38% of the U.S. population is eligible to donate, less than 10% actually do each year.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">Blood cannot be manufactured – it can only come from generous donors.</span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18px;"><b>Facts about the blood donation process</b></span></span></div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">Type O-negative blood (red cells) can be transfused to patients of all blood types. It is always in great demand and often in short supply.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">Type AB-positive plasma can be transfused to patients of all other blood types. AB plasma is also usually in short supply.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">Donating blood is a safe process. A sterile needle is used only once for each donor and then discarded.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">Blood donation is a simple four-step process: registration, medical history and mini-physical, donation and refreshments.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">Every blood donor is given a mini-physical, checking the donor's temperature, blood pressure, pulse and hemoglobin to ensure it is safe for the donor to give blood.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">The actual blood donation typically takes less than 10-12 minutes. The entire process, from the time you arrive to the time you leave, takes about an hour and 15 min.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">The average adult has about 10 pints of blood in his body. Roughly 1 pint is given during a donation.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">A healthy donor may donate red blood cells every 56 days, or double red cells every 112 days.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">A healthy donor may donate platelets as few as 7 days apart, but a maximum of 24 times a year.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">All donated blood is tested for HIV, hepatitis B and C, syphilis and other infectious diseases before it can be released to hospitals.</span></li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">Information you give to the American Red Cross during the donation process is confidential. It may not be released without your permission except as directed by law</span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 18px;">Remember, this is a gift only you can give. So, please consider donating blood this month - this year. Your help is vital to save the lives of those in need. Thanks.</span><br />
<br /></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com20tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-19491995058676710822014-01-12T11:00:00.000-05:002014-01-12T11:00:02.577-05:00New Year’s Resolutions<i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 18px;"> Blog contributed by Dr. Joseph Cincotta, primary care physician</i><br />
<br />
Each year many of us start the New Year with a list of things we are going to do better or differently from last year. Many of the items on the list are health-related. And, a number of us, me included, will fall short of our declared intentions. So, how can things be different this year? When December 2014 rolls around (and the years seem to pass more quickly for me each year, the older I get), how can we look back with a sense of accomplishment for those things we set as goals for 2014? I hope these ideas are helpful to you.<br />
<br />
<ol>
<li>Do not set too many goals. Sometimes our list of things we are going to do differently takes up an entire page – it can be 20 or 30 items long. Keep the list small – no more than 2-5 items that is plenty for one year.</li>
<li>Understand that change is work and that improvement does not follow a straight line upward. Shifting habits and ingrained ways of doing things takes time, attention, effort, and practice. Expect that you will have some setbacks, and that you can recover from those and move forward. Accept your capacity for failure – and commit to learn from those setbacks.</li>
<li>Make incremental changes and build on small successes. Sometimes we set our goals too high, and they need to be broken down into smaller pieces. The ultimate goal remains the same, but having some intermediate goals along the way helps to identify and celebrate progress.</li>
<li>Enlist the help of others. By our very nature we are social creatures. Teaming up with those who care about us or who may share the same goals can help along the way. This past year I had a goal of doing a longer bike ride but I knew I had failed in my efforts the year before. So, I teamed up with a friend in my office to help keep me focused and to share the same goal. Together we made the ride in August – and I was proud of the accomplishment.</li>
</ol>
<br />
I wish you the best in your efforts, particularly as they relate to better health. Being healthy and staying healthy requires each of us to be active participants. Many of the health issues we face today can be addressed through better choices and some changes to current habits. It is not easy work – yet it is important work – for each of us, and for those we love and who love us. <br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com32tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-683751348983730493.post-55167456649399479352014-01-06T09:09:00.002-05:002014-01-06T09:09:56.738-05:00Cold Weather Safety<i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: Arial, Tahoma, Helvetica, FreeSans, sans-serif; font-size: small; line-height: 18px;"> Blog contributed by Dr. Joseph Cincotta, primary care physician</i><br />
<br />
As we enter this week we are anticipating another series of very cold days. Here are some points on staying safe during this challenging time.<br />
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>If possible try to stay out of the cold weather.<br /></li>
<li>If you need to be outside try to avoid getting wet. The combination of cold and wet increases the rate of loss of body heat. If you do get wet, try to get inside quickly and change into dry clothes.<br /></li>
<li>Dress in multiple layers, as opposed to one. The layers help to keep heat in.<br /></li>
<li>Wear mittens instead of gloves, if possible. They will help to keep your hand and fingers warmer.<br /></li>
<li>Wear a hat (Yes, your mother was right – keep that winter hat on when you are outside).<br /></li>
<li>Cover as much of your skin as possible to keep the cold off your skin. This helps to reduce the chance of frostbite.<br /></li>
<li>Breathe in through your nose when you are out in the cold. That helps to warm the air you are breathing in.<br /></li>
<li>Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.<br /></li>
<li>If you use an electric heater, use extreme caution. Keep the heater away from curtains and flammable items, and be sure to turn it off and unplug it when you go to bed.<br /></li>
<li>Do not run your car in a garage attached to your house – even if the garage door is open.<br /></li>
<li>Make sure your car tailpipe is free of blockage by snow when you do run your car.<br /></li>
<li>For those with pets – do not keep your pets outside in cold weather.<br /></li>
<li>For those of you who are interested in more information we are providing access to a document from the CDC on how to prepare for and deal with <a href="http://www.pinnaclehealth.org/getmedia/a11d0e33-5e04-45e0-aa00-674e3df48c57/extreme-cold-giude.aspx" target="_blank">extremely cold weather</a>. </li>
</ul>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02259992702885132353noreply@blogger.com31