NYP Brooklyn Methodist

1 3 2 5 ON THE GO WITH LITTLE TIME TO SPARE? TAKE FIVE MINUTES TO ABSORB THESE FIVE DIGEST VERSIONS OF th r ive's FEATURED ARTICLES FROM THIS ISSUE. OVARIAN CANCER Ovarian cancer, which occurs in about one in 70 women, is often without symptoms until the later stages of the disease. Even when symptoms appear, they may mimic those of gastrointestinal issues or menopause. The cause of ovarian cancer is unknown, but risk factors include being post-menopausal, genetic mutations, and a family or personal history of breast or ovarian cancer. Transvaginal ultrasound and CA-125 testing are recommended screenings for women who have a high risk for the disease. Removal of the ovaries and chemotherapy are used to treat ovarian cancer. Learn more on page 10. EXTRAORDINARY MEASURES When patient Robert Espinoza—a man in his 30s—experienced a sudden, major heart attack and didn't respond to CPR, his heart began to fail. He was taken to New York Methodist Hospital, where his life was saved by an advanced protocol called extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). ECMO pumps blood out of the patient's body into a sophisticated machine that adds oxygen to the blood before pumping it back into the patient to support brain tissue and other vital organs until the cause of the cardiac arrest can be identified and treated. Recent advances have enabled hospitals with highly trained ECMO medical teams to use ECMO to save patients like Robert who have experienced a massive heart attack. Read Robert's story on page 13. PARENTING PICKY EATERS Picky eating is common among children—especially toddlers, who are at a stage where they are beginning to develop and express opinions. Parents can help expand their children's palates by being patient, eating a wide variety of healthy foods themselves, letting their children help with meal preparation and exposing their children to other kids who are not picky eaters. Avoid making special meals for picky eaters, forcing children to eat or giving rewards for eating. Opt for fruit-based desserts without added sugar and serve small portions to help children understand that desserts are okay in moderation. Discover more positive ways to influence a picky eater on page 16. DIGESTIVE DISTRESS Three common conditions that cause digestive discomfort are heartburn, constipation and diarrhea. Heartburn occurs when stomach acid moves back into the esophagus. Extreme heartburn, or GERD [gastroesophageal reflux], can be treated with medication or a minimally invasive surgery if drugs are ineffective. Constipation can be caused or made worse by other factors, including diabetes or changes in daily routine. It can often be relieved by eating more foods that are rich in fiber. Diarrhea is often experienced due to an infection. Symptoms typically resolve on their own within a week. For diarrhea lasting longer than two weeks, it's important to consult a doctor to screen for more serious problems that may benefit from treatment. Read more on page 18. SENIORS & ALLERGIES Seniors are susceptible to oral allergy syndrome (OAS), or pollen- food syndrome, a condition resulting from a cross-reaction between pollen and fruits and vegetables. Symptoms include hives, nausea, and an itchy or swollen mouth, throat, tongue or lips. OAS can be managed with allergy shots or medicine, and by avoiding the food allergens. Other allergic reactions in seniors can be triggered by environmental and seasonal allergens, as well as medications. Over-the-counter allergy drugs can provide relief, but it is vital to discuss options with a doctor, as some treatments have adverse effects like memory loss, weakness or confusion. Turn to page 24 for more. FA L L 2 016 / / W W W.N Y M.O RG 30 T A K E F I V E / YO U R H E A LT H C H E AT S H E E T

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