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WHAT'S NEW
All media inquiries should be directed to (847) 708-5792. |
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| New Options for Chronic Pelvic Pain |
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Nine million women in the United States are affected by chronic pelvic pain according to the Obstetrics and Gynecology journal. Seeking relief, many women undergo hysterectomies, the second most performed major surgical procedure among reproductive-age woman. However, the medical community is offering an increasing number of options that offer new hope for women.
The majority of hysterectomies are caused by fibroids, non-cancerous growths in the uterus that affect 20 to 40 percent of women older than 35. Fibroids can cause a myriad of painful symptoms ranging from pelvic pressure to heavy menstrual bleeding.
Alternative treatments for fibroids include myomectomy, a minimally invasive surgical procedure to remove the fibroids while preserving the uterus; hormone therapy and anti-inflammatory drugs.
Dr. Howard Topel, Director of Gynecologic Surgery at Rush North Shore, considers several factors including patient’s age and desire to bear children when deciding on how to treat fibroids.
Using advances in laparoscopic surgery, Topel can remove the uterus while preserving the ovaries. When the ovaries are preserved in a woman who still menstruates, menopausal side effects such as hot flashes, are prevented. Other options, such as a subtotal hysterectomy can preserve the cervix, thus reducing the chance of woman developing urinary incontinence. |
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| DOES YOUR MEDICINE CABINET NEED A MAKEOVER? |
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Most Americans keep a variety of medicines at home. Nearly half of all households in this country keep three to four prescriptions on hand, in addition to over-the-counter drugs. This leaves us vulnerable to dangers like drug interactions, overdoses, or omissions. To stay safe, experts recommend sorting through your medicines once a year. But what staples should you keep in your cabinet?
SAFE STORAGE
For starters, move your meds out of the medicine cabinet. “The bathroom is the worst place to store medicine because of temperature and moisture fluctuations,” explains Carol Heunisch, Pharm.D., director of pharmacy services at Rush North Shore Medical Center. “Medications should be stored in a cool, dry location like a linen closet.”
AVOIDING EMERGENCIES
Heunisch recommends these tips for preventing medication emergencies at home:
· Keep your medicines in their original containers. That amber-colored bottle, for example, is designed to reduce the light that reaches the contents.
· If there are young children or pets in your home, always store medicines on high shelves and in childproof containers.
· Separate family medications from pet medications and household chemicals.
· Never take medication in the dark.
· Always check the expiration date. Do not use a product after it has expired.
· Never use medicines that have changed color or odor. Discard capsules or tablets that stick together, are cracked or chipped, or have hardened or softened.
· Do not flush expired medications down the toilet or throw them in the garbage. Your local pharmacy or health department can provide tips for environmentally safe disposal.
In case of emergencies, call the Illinois Poison Center at 800-222-1222. Post this number by the phone.
WHAT TO HAVE ON HAND
Now that you’ve sorted through your family’s medicines, here are some basics that Heunisch suggests having on hand to treat common ailments:
· A pain reliever such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Aspirin is OK for adults but should never be given to children younger than 18.
· An antibiotic ointment or cream
· Cough medicine
· Antacid, in liquid or tablet form
· Rubbing alcohol
· Calamine lotion
· A thermometer
· Bandages, gauze, and tape for dressing wounds and burns
Be Safe—Know Your Medications. To help avoid drug interactions, keep track of your medications in our FREE wallet card. Download it here.
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| Prevent Colds and the Flu - Stay Well This Winter |
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The average American suffers two to three colds a year, which often turn into more serious illnesses. You can increase your odds of staying well year-round and avoiding the sniffles with these strategies: get a flu shot, wash your hands regularly, get seven hours of sleep a night, practice good nutrition, exercise, don’t smoke or share eating utensils, and drink lots of fluids, preferably water.
Got the sniffles? Do you need to see a doctor?*
· Sore throat and headache? See your doctor for a STREP test if symptoms last longer than 48 hours.
· Aches, chills, sore throat, runny nose and cough? These flu symptoms can be shorten with a prescription medication. Call your doctor.
· Runny nose, sneezing and itching eyes or nose? Sounds like allergies. Call your doctor if symptoms persist or worsen.
· Sore throat, headache, tiredness and runny nose? You probably have a cold. Treat your symptoms with over-the-counter medications.
* This information is from the America Academy of Family Physicians and is not a substitute for professional medical ad
We can help you find a doctor during cold and flu season. Call Physician Referral at 847/933-6000.
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| Snow Shoveling Safety Advice |
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Winter in Chicago usually means snow. And, snow usually means shoveling. It’s not uncommon for Chicagoans to experience discomfort, pain and injury from shoveling the fluffy white stuff requiring a trip to area hospital emergency departments.
In fact, more than 73,000 snow shoveling-related injuries were treated at U.S. hospital emergency rooms, doctors’ offices and clinics in 2003 reported by The United States Consumer Product Safety Commission.
“Although shoveling snow can be good exercise, it can result in potential health risks including frostbite, muscle and back pulls, broken bones and even heart attacks,” said Joe LaMothe, M.D., Medical Director of Rush North Shore Medical Center’s emergency department. “Chicagoans who take simple precautions and use a bit of common sense as they remove snow and ice from their driveways, sidewalks and car windows can help themselves avoid a visit to the emergency room.”
Rush North Shore Medical Center suggests snow shovelers follow the National Safety Council’s snow removal tips:
- Stretch and warm-up before you begin to shovel.
- Dress warmly protecting extremities including the nose, ears, hands and feet.
- Pace yourself as shoveling can raise blood pressure and heart rates. Take breaks.
- Shovel only fresh snow as light, powdery snow is easier to shovel than wet, packed-down snow.
- Don’t pick up too much snow at once: use a small shovel or fill one-fourth to one half of a large shovel.
- Push rather than lift the snow out of the way to ease strain on the back.
- Do not shovel after eating or while smoking.
- Those with a history of heart problems should seek physician permission before shoveling.
Rush North Shore Medical Center is a 265-bed hospital located at the corner of Golf and Gross Point roads in Skokie. It is affiliated with Rush University Medical Center, one of the country’s leading teaching and medical research institutions. For information on services or the over-600 physicians on staff at Rush North Shore Medical Center, please call 847-933-6000 or visit www.rnsmc.org.
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| New Food Labels Add Up to a Healthier You |
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Many Americans resolve to lose weight and eat a healthier diet as part of their New Year resolutions.
Consumers now receive a lot more information on food labels from the amount of trans fats to the presence of major food allergens.
The most common food allergens are:
· Milk
· Eggs
· Fish
· Shellfish
· Tree Nuts
· Peanuts
· Wheat
· Soybeans
Now, if the product contains a common allergen, it will be listed on the box to help consumers discover previously hidden or confusing ingredients.
Research has indicated that trans fats, chemically altered fats that make food taste better, are linked to serious cholesterol and heart problems as well as obesity. Saturated fat and trans fat raise blood cholesterol and, especially, the bad cholesterol, LDL.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration now requires manufacturers to also list information on trans fats. Foods notoriously high in trans fats include potato chips, cookies, crackers, baked goods, and doughnuts. As a general rule, one shouldn`t eat more than 15 to 20 grams of saturated fat per day, including trans fats. However, the FDA estimates that the average adult currently consumes nearly twice that amount. With this new product information, federal officials are urging people to look before they eat.
Experts hope that three years from now, up to 1200 cases of coronary heart disease will be prevented each year because labels will help consumers make educated choices.
For more information on nutrition or to find a physician, call 847-933-6000 .
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| Quick Quiz - Are You at Risk for Heart Disease? |
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Take this quick quiz and see if you know the facts about women and heart disease. Answer true or false to each question. The answers appear at the end.
- A heart attack is not preventable by lifestyle modifications.
- Some women report suffering atypical symptoms before a heart attack.
- Breast cancer is the number one killer of women.
- Women under 50 are more likely to die from a heart attack than those over 70.
- Women who smoke increase their risk of heart attack just slightly.
- More women than men have died of heart disease since 1984.
- Aspirin does not decrease risk of a heart attack in women over age 45.
- Men need to pay more attention than women to HDL and triglycerides levels.
- High blood pressure can be an important risk factor for heart arrhythmias.
- Women receive the same care as men to manage high cholesterol.
Answers
- False. More than 80% of heart attacks, strokes and diabetes in women are preventable by lifestyle modifications.
- True. 70% of women reported unusual fatigue before suffering a heart attack. Other symptoms reported include sleep disturbance (48%); shortness of breath (42 percent) indigestion (39%), anxiety (35%), and chest discomfort (30%).
- False. Half a million women die each year from heart attacks, which kill six times as many women as breast cancer.
- True. Sudden death from a heart attack occurs in 50% of women under age 50, but in only 25% of women over 70.
- False. Women who smoke are up to 6 times more likely to suffer a heart attack. They also have an increased risk of suffering a stroke.
- True. More women than men have died of heart disease since 1984.
- True. For women over 45 years old with no family history of heart disease or stroke, aspirin does not decrease the risk of a heart attack. However, daily aspirin therapy will decrease the risk of strokes by 17% in women over age 45. And, for women 65 and older, the benefits of aspirin therapy to prevent stroke rise to 26%.
- False. HDL and triglycerides are stronger predictors of heart disease in women.
- True. Intermittent palpitations or racing heartbeat are two common signs of arrhythmia. If your doctor suspects you may have one, she will do an electrocardiogram (ECG).
- False. Women are less likely than men to receive optimal lipid management for high cholesterol levels.
Are you at risk?
Heart disease factors for women include:
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Diabetes
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- Older than 55
- Low HDL levels (under 40 mg/dL)
- Family history of early heart disease (under age 55 in father or brother; under age 65 in mother or sister.)
*Compiled by Annabelle S. Volgman, MD, FACC, Medical Director of the Heart Center for Women at Rush University Medical Center for a presentation at Rush North Shore’s Centre for Women’s Health.
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| Kudos for Cancer Support |
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Partnering with the American Cancer Society in the fight against cancer is important at Rush North Shore. The American Cancer Society recently recognized the 265-bed Skokie hospital for its long-time commitment and community support at its kickoff for the Relay for Life.
Rush North Shore was honored for its partnership with the local American Cancer Society that provided important services to the community. It received accolades for its role in helping the American Cancer Society to:
· Raise awareness of different types of cancer
· Emphasize prevention
· Encourage screenings
· Focus on early detection
· Provide education that many cancers are treatable cancers.
· Diagnosis and treatment.
This recognition is awarded to only approximately 20 percent of hospitals nationally. From genetic counseling and risk assessment programs to advancements in diagnostic and treatment technologies, Rush North Shore Medical Center continues an ongoing commitment to provide access to the latest and most promising protocols and clinical trials.
It offers state-of-the-art PET/CT diagnostic technology and intensity modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) that pinpoints radiation on tumors and minimizes the effects on surrounding healthy tissues. Several collaborative research efforts between Rush North Shore and Rush University Medical Center are ongoing and allow patients access to treatment protocols and expert advice.
Some of the programs that Rush North Shore partners with the American Cancer Society include:
- “Road to Recovery” matches patients with volunteer drivers to get back and forth from daily radiation appointments.
- “Support for Recovery” is a telephone support service that helps a recently diagnosed person, a family member or someone who is facing the day-to-day struggles of dealing with cancer treatment.
Additionally, Rush North Shore is one of the sponsors of the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life, a fun-filled overnight event designed to celebrate survivorship and raise money for cancer research and programs; Daffodil Days, which celebrates the daffodil as a sign of hope for those touched by cancer; and the ACS Tour of the North Shore, the largest spring bike tour for recreational riders on the North Shore.
For further information about cancer screenings, diagnosis, or treatment at Rush North Shore, call 847-933-6000.
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| March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month |
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Cancer. The very word scares many people. Adults are grown-ups, until they encounter "the C-word."
Colorectal cancer is the third most common non-skin cancer in America. In 2006, the American Cancer Society estimates that more than 106,000 people will be diagnosed with the disease, which will claim nearly 55,000 lives.
Colon cancer begins as a polyp or small, initially benign growth in the lining of the colon and rectum. Because virtually all colorectal cancers begin as polyps, a colonoscopy exam can actually prevent the disease and save lives.
But many people needlessly fear getting a colonoscopy, a procedure where a flexible, lighted tube with a camera is inserted into the rectum and up through the colon.
The exact cause of colorectal cancer is unknown, but there are certain risk factors that seem to increase the chances of developing colorectal cancer.
Who is at risk for colorectal cancer?
People are at risk who:
· Are over 50 years of age.
· Eat a diet of high fat, high-calories foods without a lot of fiber,
· Eat red meat often,
· Have a family history of colon cancer, Crohn’s disease, inflammatory bowel disease or ulcerative colitis
· Are of African American or Ashkenazi Jewish heritage
· Who use of tobacco products of any type
· Are overweight and/or are physical inactive
Symptoms of colorectal cancer may include:
· Blood in the stool
· Diarrhea, constipation or any significant change in your bowel habits
· Abdominal pain, cramps, gas, bloating or general discomfort
· Unexplained weight loss, fatigue and/or vomiting
· May not have any symptoms at all
It is very important to realize that colorectal cancer is often symptomless until it is very advanced, and the importance of detecting the cancer before symptoms appear cannot be overstated.
Can Colorectal Cancer be Prevented?
Although we cannot control our family history or genetics, there are several risk factors you can control to lower your individual risk:
· Screening: Getting appropriate screenings is one of the most important things you can do for yourself and your family members. If you are 50 years or older - get screened - period. If you have any kind of family history related to cancer, polyps, ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disesase, talk to your doctor to see if you should get screened at an earlier age.
· Diet: It is important to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grain foods and to limit high-fat foods. Some studies suggest that taking a daily multivitamin containing folic acid or folate can lower colorectal cancer risk. Other studies suggest that getting more calcium with supplements or low-fat dairy products can help.
· Exercise: Getting enough exercise is important as well. The American Cancer Society recommends at least 30 minutes of physical activity on at least 5 or more days of the week.
· Tobacco products: Quit.
Learn more about the importance of screening and early detection from our Rush North Shore Department of Gastroenterology. To learn more about screenings, schedule an appointment, or for help finding a physician or specialist, call our Physician Referral Line at 847-933-6000.
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| Making the Most Out of Doctor Visits |
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Dr. Edward S. Linn, Chair of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Director of Women’s Health at Rush North Shore Medical Center, strongly believes that every patient should expect their doctor to answer their questions and educate them about their medical well-being.
“A good relationship takes work on both sides,” says Linn, “the physician’s and the patient’s to form a partnership that achieves the best outcome.” Things he recommends to have a successful office visit include:
· Write down questions that you want answered. It’s natural to forget to ask important questions.
· Keep a log if you have a condition that concerns you. Keep track of frequency, duration and any other indicators that can help the doctor understand any health problems.
· Send your medical records before the first visit so the physician has time to review your history.
· Bring all prescription and over-the-counter medications including any supplements with you so the doctor is aware of what you are currently taking and any possible side effects.
· Request a long enough appointment so the physician has enough time to spend with you. For example, a routine check-up may be only allotted 15 minutes, but a consultation is booked for half an hour. Discuss the nature of the visit when you schedule the appointment.
· Call ahead if you are on a tight timetable. If the doctor is running late, you may wish to reschedule.
“It’s also very important that the doctor treats your condition with confidentiality,” says Linn. “ The relationship between patient and doctor should be a partnership based on mutual respect where both learn from one another.”
In fact, the word doctor comes from Latin, meaning to teach. Today’s physicians and patients should do just that: educate each other to achieve the best health care relationship.
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| Tips to help you get the best care in the ER |
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Emergencies don’t happen everyday. But when they do, are you prepared? What you need to know can help you save time and get the care you need during your next ER visit.
· Come prepared: “The most important thing is to come with a good history,” says Dr. Joseph LaMothe, head of Rush North Shore’s Emergency Department. “Know about all the medications you’re taking and the dosage.”
· Wait it out. Bring comfortable clothes or even a pillow. Be patient, but if you feel too much time is passing, don`t be afraid to approach the nurses’ station and speak up.
· Be alert. Ask questions, get names. If you have a drug or latex allergy, make sure that you say it, again and again. If a nurse is about to attach a bag of fluid to your IV or presents a medication for you to take, ask what it is and what’s it for.
· Power off. Check to find out the hospital’s cell phone policy. There may be specific parts of the hospital that you can use a cell phone. However, electronic essentials of life can wreak havoc with the signal for medical equipment. Be sensitive if you are asked to turn off your cell phone or blackberry handhelds.
· Bring support and be prepared to stay. Family members and friends are extra-helpful if you are in pain or need a ride home. Also, if the situation was serious enough for you to go to the ER, be aware you may need to be admitted.
· Benefit from fast-track care. Remember, you’re in the medical fast lane. In the ER you can be X-rayed, have a blood test, see a doctor and a nurse, get diagnosed and treated all in the same visit.
· Make sure you understand your follow-up care. If you need a prescription filled, often staff can direct you to a 24-hour pharmacy.
Rush North Shore’s Emergency Department is consistently ranked among the highest-rated ER’s by patients and their families. Known for treating emergencies with skill and compassion, Rush North Shore is a Level II trauma center which is staffed around the clock by board-certified physicians and nurses with special training in pediatric life support.
With two cardiac catheterization labs just steps away from the emergency department, and established protocols for early diagnosis and management of chest pain, Rush North Shore has been recognized as one of the Top 100 hospitals in the nation for its cardiology and heart surgery program.
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| Do You Need the Pneumonia Shot? |
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Who should get the pneumococcal shot?
· People age 65 or older
· People who have problems with their:
* Lungs
* Heart
* Liver
* Kidneys
· People with health problems like
* Diabetes
* Sickle cell disease
* Alcoholism
* HIV/AIDS
What does the pneumococcal shot do?
The pneumococcal shot protects you from getting a serious infection in your blood or brain that can cause dangerous health problems, hospitalization or death.
Will the shot make me sick?
The shot is very safe and does not make you sick. Some people get a little swelling and soreness where they get the shot. This usually goes away in a day or two.
When can I get the pneumococcal shot?
You can get the shot at any time of the year. It is available whenever you go to your doctor. Make sure you ask about it.
How many times do I have to get a shot?
Most people only need ONE shot. This protects them for a lifetime. Some people might need to get a booster shot after 5 years.
Do I have to pay for the shot?
Medicare and Medicaid pay for the shot.
For more information ask your doctor or health care provider. Or call the CDC Immunization Hotline:
English: 1-800-232-2522
Spanish: 1-800-232-0233
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| You’re never too old to get immunized! |
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Vaccinations for Adults
Immunization are one of the most significant public health achievements of the 20th century. Vaccines have eradicated smallpox, eliminated wild poliovirus in the U.S. and significantly reduced the number of cases of measles, diphtheria, rubella, pertussis and other diseases.
Vaccines offer safe and effective protection from infectious diseases. By staying up-to-date on the recommended vaccines, individuals can protect themselves, their families and friends and their communities from serious, life-threatening infections.
For more information on recommended vaccines and immunizations, visit:
Consult your health care professional to determine your individual level of risk and need for specific immunizations. For further information on immunizations or to find a doctor, call our Physician Referral line at 847-933-6000.
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| Simple Ways to Lighten Holiday Recipes |
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You can save a whopping 151 calories just by substituting a can of fat-free cream of mushroom soup in your recipe. Often simple changes can lighten your favorite foods into healthier lower-fat versions. For other substitution ideas, see our Simple Ways to Lighten Holiday Recipes. |
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| Rush North Shore Offers Complimentary Wireless Internet Connection |
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Stay Connected. Guest Access, Rush North Shore’s wireless internet connection is available throughout the hospital. We listened when our patients and visitors said they wanted to use their laptops or Blackberries to go online while at the hospital. Now you can pack your computer for your visit. Learn more.
Click below for more information on our wireless internet connection services:
http://www.rnsmc.org/guest_services.asp |
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