AN ANTON MEDIA GROUP SPECIAL
NOVEMBER 11- 17, 2020
Is It COVID-19 Or The Flu? How to lead a normal life with epilepsy
Dr. Marlene L. Levy
PhD, LCSW, DAIPM • CONTACT:
516.944.3885
CLINICAL HYPNOSIS /PSYCHOTHERAPY/TELETHERAPY *Certified: Telehealth Certification Institute
ANXIETY • STRESS MANAGEMENT • RELAXATION TRAINING • INDIVIUAL & FAMILY ISSUES
During Covid-19 Coronavirus Pandemic 1. Call for app’t: 516.944.3885 2. Upload: Zoom app [wait for appt. time/date] 3. Payment: ZELLE, Cash or Check.
DIPLOMATE/FACULTY “American Academy of Pain Management”
*Limited Insurance accepted
219622 S
PRESIDENT/FACULTY - “The New York Society of Clinical Hypnosis” [NYSCH.ORG] -*NYS Social Work provider for CE credits!
Now Available Teletherapy + Outdoor office
2A NOVEMBER 11 - 17, 2020 • HEALTHY LIVING
FULL RUN
Our top priority is our patients’ safety and comfort and we are working to maintain the high standard we have established over the past forty-six years. We care by... • Providing you the highest quality in dental services • Protecting you & us against COVID-19 • Spraying the office multiple times a day for airborne & stationery viruses & using medical-quality HEPA air filtration units to remove airborne germs • Exceeding all CDC recommendations. For more information visit our website at PassDentalCare.com or watch our “Passes Dental Care COVID-19 Protocol” video on Youtube.
We are so grateful for the confidence that you have shown in us through the years. We appreciate treating you.
SALE $2,501 OFF
Call today for more information. (877)-693-9399
Only $3,999 and includes in-house retainer.
We want to make the lives of our patients Simple and Easy... For a LIMITED TIME ONLY: Passes Dental Care is able to offer a ONE TIME special for those interested in Invisalign... $2,501 OFF and the addition of an in-house retainer after treatment is completed!
*** INVISALIGN FOR ONLY $3,999 *** Call today for a FREE CONSULTATION or to find out more information.: (877)-693-9399 www.passesdentalcare.com
Passes Dental Care • 415 Northern Blvd. • Great Neck, NY 11021 • 877-693-9399
219646 S
* OFFER VALID ONLY UNTIL NOVEMBER 30, 2020 *
FULL RUN
HEALTHY LIVING • NOVEMBER 11 - 17, 2020
3A
Is It COVID-19 Or The Flu?
A
Tips on telling the difference and prevention
s we head further into the fall illness. Both viruses are transmitted by season, we also enter the flu contact and droplets. As a result, the season and getting a flu shot is same public health measures—such as more important than ever because of hand hygiene, physical distancing, and the potential double dose of risk. The mask wearing—are important actions CDC is recommending that all can take to prevent all people six months and infection. older get a flu shot which Differences: has been shown to reduce The speed of transmisthe risk of flu-related illness sion is an important point by between 40 to 60 percent of differentiation. The flu and can also reduce the generally has a shorter avseverity of illness in people erage incubation period— who are vaccinated but still the time from infection Dr. Donna O’Shea get sick. (Photo courtesy of to appearance of sympWhile researchers race to UnitedHealthcare) toms—and a shorter serial develop a vaccine against interval—the time between successive COVID-19, it is encouraging to see that cases—than the COVID-19 virus. The many are now more likely to receive a serial interval for the COVID-19 virus flu shot this fall. According to a recent is estimated to be five to six days, UnitedHealthcare survey, 30 percent of while for the flu, the serial interval is Americans say the pandemic has made estimated to be three days. This means them more likely to receive an annual that the flu may show symptoms faster flu shot this fall. Still, people may have than COVID-19 symptoms. concerns. How are COVID-19 and the The flu usually comes on suddenly. flu similar? How are they different? Common flu symptoms may include What’s the best way to protect yourself? cough, sore throat, congestion or runny I’m not feeling well, but I’m not sure if I nose, body aches, headaches and fashould I see my doctor in-person. What tigue. COVID-19 symptoms may come do I do? on more gradually, and may include
Similarities:
The seasonal flu and COVID-19 do share some overlapping symptoms, so people may need to be tested to confirm a proper diagnosis. They both cause respiratory illness, which presents as a wide range of symptoms— from asymptomatic to a mild to severe
similar flu symptoms such as fever, fatigue, headaches and muscle or body aches. COVID-19 symptoms can also include shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, nausea and vomiting and additionally loss of taste and/or smell. Those most at risk for the flu are children, pregnant women, elderly
and those with underlying medical conditions. For COVID-19, our current understanding is that individuals who are older in age underlying conditions, such as obesity, diabetes or hypertension, have increased the risk for the most severe infection. The CDC confirms that the virus that causes COVID-19 is more contagious than the seasonal flu, with emerging research showing “airborne” transmission is possible. This means that when a group is exposed to COVID-19, more of the exposed group is likely to get the disease compared to a similar group exposure to the flu virus.
Prevention:
In addition to good habits—such as washing your hands, covering your cough with your elbow, wearing a properly fitting mask and avoiding people who are already sick—getting a flu shot is the single most important thing people can do to prevent the flu. A flu shot is relatively low cost and is often covered through employer-sponsored, individual and Medicare and Medicaid health plans as preventative care with little to no copay. Now is the best time to get your flu shot. Flu shots are available through primary care physicians, pharmacies, convenience care clinics and many other locations. Visit cdc.gov/flu to search for a nearby care provider based on your zip code. If you think you may be sick and need but don’t want to risk an in-person visit, there are a host of
resources available to get help. Most employers and health plans offer 24-hour telehealth providers who can help determine next best steps. If you are sick but aren’t sure if it is the flu or COVID-19 you can see your doctor through a telehealth visit without potentially exposing yourself and the doctor can help you decide if you need to be tested. Each year, UnitedHealthcare works to educate members and the public about the importance of getting a flu shot. This year we are working harder than ever to help people understand the similarities and differences between the flu and COVID-19 as well as helping customers arrange ways to hold flu clinics or providing guidance to members on where and how they can get flu shots. We’re also using technology to forecast flu activity in metro areas across the U.S. in an effort to target additional outreach and resources throughout the 2020-2021 flu season and are actively reminding our health plan members to catch up on any missed routine vaccinations during the pandemic. While 2020 has certainly been a challenging year thanks to COVID-19, proactive measures to prevent the flu can help us start 2021 on a more positive note. —Submitted by Dr. Donna O’Shea Chief Medical Officer of Population Health Management UnitedHealthcare
4A NOVEMBER 11 - 17, 2020 • HEALTHY LIVING
FULL RUN
Living With Epilepsy
How lifestyle changes help to live a normal life
F
or the majority of people living with epilepsy, a life free from seizures is an attainable goal. While a single seizure in a month may be an improvement if that is less than the prior month, you still don’t have the level of independence and freedom from seizures to live comfortably. On top of fear, anxiety and potential personal injury, that one event can prevent you from working, driving and even living on your own. So, the question must be asked by both patient and doctor, “Have we done everything possible to make sure the seizures are optimally controlled?” While some types of epilepsy may require surgery, anti-seizure medications control seizures in about 70 percent of people. Healthy habits practiced daily can also help. In tandem with a treatment plan customized to the individual’s needs, here are some every day steps to help reduce or even prevent the effects of epilepsy on daily life. Medication Management: People are diagnosed with epilepsy, a disorder of the brain, when they have had two or more seizures. Roughly two
Dr. Fred Lado. (Photo courtesy Northwell Health)
out of three epilepsy patients will have their seizures controlled on the first or second seizure medication they try. So identifying one that minimizes side effects is often the most important step. The most common trigger for an epileptic seizure is missed doses. Get into a pattern. Use a pillbox and try to take your medication at the same time
every day. Set a phone alarm. If there is a large variation from one day to the next, patients may be under-medicated for substantial parts of the day. Pay attention to when your seizures happen and, if it is consistently toward the end of your dose, tell your doctor. This is when you are at greatest risk of having a breakthrough seizure, which means you may need to adjust medications. Side effects vary greatly between medications, which means certain drugs might work slightly better than others based on an individual’s side effect profile. For example, if anxiety, irritability and depression are side effects of an anti-seizure medication, it should not be taken by someone with a history of those symptoms. Lifestyle: Sleep: The single most important thing people can do is try to get the recommended hours of sleep each night. Lack of sleep is one of the most common triggers for seizures. Set yourself up for success. Go to bed and wake up at the same time every night.
Avoid alcohol or drugs to ensure that you get quality sleep. While many patients are able to have a few drinks without incident, some are exquisitely sensitive to it and any amount will cause a seizure the next day. Daily exercise of at least 20 minutes is also known to improve sleep quality. Diet: While it does not directly impact seizure frequency, foods high in fiber and nutrients can help meliorate absorption of seizure medications and achieve the best control. Drink plenty of water and minimize foods high in sugar, sodium and anything processed. Stress: Increased stress has been shown to increase seizure risk. Ease anxiety with mindfulness training, meditation or cognitive behavioral therapy. These methods are often more effective than trying new medication to manage anxiety. Avoid Isolation: Support groups can help manage depression by better understanding the stresses you are enduring and how that impacts your seizures.
Trust Your Face to the Specialists
440 Northern Boulevard Great Neck, New York 11021
(516) 773-4646
630 Park Avenue New York, New York 10065
(212) 570-2500
219480 M
FULL RUN
HEALTHY LIVING • NOVEMBER 11 - 17, 2020
Self-management: Seizures are often a downstream consequence of an injured brain. Avoiding brain injury altogether is going to reduce your risk. Seizures typically happen in two main age ranges: the first two decades of life and in those age 50 and older. In children, injuries related to development and birth that are beyond anyone’s control, as well as falls resulting in head injury— called post-traumatic seizures. In the older age group, the culprit is wear and tear on the brain and stroke is a major contributor. Maintaining a healthy blood pressure, cholesterol and overall cardiovascular health reduces the risk of aneurysms, hemorrhages and of strokes—and all of those are going to reduce your risk of seizures. Any illness, infection or fever can lower the seizure threshold, leaving you more vulnerable. Reducing risk of injury during a seizure: The best thing patients can do to reduce their risk of injury is to not miss doses and keep a consistent schedule. If you live with somebody, educate them on what to expect. They should be comfortable with what a seizure looks like and how to react, understanding that the patient may be confused and will need reassurance afterward.
FREE GIFT WITH AD
LOW BATTERY PRICING
“35” Come Celebrate Years
5A
There are several types of seizures and it can sometimes be hard to determine which you are experiencing. For example, a non-convulsive seizure may cause you to seem confused or stare. Convulsive seizures are characterized by involuntary movements and can force you to shake and fall. While many seizures don’t require medical attention, you should call 911 if: • This is your first seizure • The seizure is a convulsion where the whole body shakes • It lasts longer than five minutes • You have another seizure soon after the first one • You get hurt during the seizure • You have a health condition like diabetes, heart disease or are pregnant Be attentive to your own experience, understand what your triggers are and develop a plan to address and control your seizures. This will help return you to a normal life and hopefully leave daily medications as your only reminder of this condition. To learn more about Northwell Health’s epilepsy resources, visit www.northwell.edu/neurosciences/our-centers/ comprehensive-epilepsy-center. —Submitted by Fred Lado, MD, Director, Epilepsy Program, Northwell Health
Eric Freeman, M.D., FAAOS of South Island Orthopedics (Cedarhurst) proudly announces his acquisition of Orthopaedic & Sports Associates of Long Island (Woodbury). The acquisition expands SIO’s footprint to the North Shore of Long Island, offering orthopedic care, MRI, physical therapy, interventional pain management and PRP/regenerative medicine capabilities. (Photo courtesy of Eric Freeman, M.D.)
CELEBRATING OUR 35th ANNIVERSARY
LONG ISLAND HEARING CENTERS
SALE EXTENDED WARRANTIES
HEARING HELP IS AN IMPORTANT DECISION CELEBRATE MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE
FREE GIFT WITH AD
Special Promotion al Pricing Going On Now!
Trouble hearing in groups of people? Don’t understand words clearly? TV too loud? Let Long Island Hearing help you. You will “Hear the Difference™ ”
Call your Nearest Location Today! NESCONSET/ SMITHTOWN 55 Southern Blvd.
Inside Primary Medical Care of Suffolk County
631.972.5211
Need a Hearing Test? Hearing Aid? Repair? Experience • Consistency • Reliability
Long Island Hearing, Inc.
™
“Our commitment to you will be life-changing” Since 1985
LEVITTOWN 3475 Hempstead Tpke.
SPECIALS ENDING SOON
516.735.9191
*Providers For Most Insurance Companies *Workers Compensation Specialist *Gift Certificates *Walk-Ins Welcome *Guaranteed Best Prices *See Our Over 300 5 Star Google Reviews
If You’ve been waiting to Purchase a Hearing Instrument due to price.....your wait is over. Our 35th Anniversary Sale will win you over with our Outstanding Service and our Low Prices. Once year, Don’t Miss It!
Between Wantagh Ave. & Jerusalem
LONG BEACH All Island Hearing 108 West Park Ave.
Directly across the street from Long Beach Library
516.763.EARS 3277 www.lihearing.com
WE SERVICE ALL MAKES AND MODELS • REPAIR LAB ON PREMISES • OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK!
219631 M
6A NOVEMBER 11 - 17, 2020 • HEALTHY LIVING
FULL RUN
How COVID-19 Can Affect The Liver
T
he question always arises regarding COVID and the liver. While COVID causes abnormal liver tests in more than half of infected patients, the vast majority have no long-term liver sequalae. What has affected the liver more is the modified behavior associated with the pandemic. Because of the pandemic, people are more isolated, exercising less and are spending more time at home. As people are not able to attend sporting events or concerts, are working from home or not working at all, and in general are stuck at home, there is little else to do, but eat and drink. The excess eating has led to weight gain in many people, the so-called COVID-19 pounds. In addition, alcohol consumption is up significantly across our communities. The weight gain and increased alcohol intake has directly led to an increase in the diagnosis two common liver diseases, non-alcoholic liver disease and alcoholic liver disease. The number of hospital admissions for alcohol-related complications has skyrocketed during the period of COVID, specifically from March to the present. This is truly concerning as the incidence of liver disease during
THE SPECIALIST David Bernstein, MD
the pandemic has reached epidemic proportions and it is not related to the COVID virus itself. Fatty liver is exactly as it sounds. When people gain weight, fat gets deposited into the liver. Over time, inflammation can occur and the fatty liver can progress to inflammation, fibrosis and eventually cirrhosis, with a very high risk of liver cancer. The treatment of fatty liver is diet and exercise with weight loss, but it takes much longer to get rid of a fatty liver than it does to develop one. With the inactivity and weight gain associated with the current pandemic, fatty liver in our area is on the rise. Hopefully, people will recognize this risk and start a program of exercise and weight loss. The increased alcohol intake seen during the pandemic is perhaps more
NINETEENTH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS COLLECTION
During the month of November & through December 10th we will be collecting your donations of NEW scarves, gloves, mittens, hats and socks
ADDITIONALLY, ALSO COLLECTING NEW TOYS For the needy in our area and surrounding communities. These will be distributed as part of their Christmas Package.
We will also be accepting gift certificates for McDonald’s and Burger King Please drop off your donations Monday thru Friday 10am – 5pm before December 10th to:
Dr. Anthony Cordaro‛s Office • 271 Jericho Turnpike • Floral Park, NY 11001
Your Generosity is Greatly Appreciated!
concerning than overall weight gain. These people develop alcoholic and Ingestion of alcohol may lead to seri- non-alcoholic fatty liver, and are at a ous condition called alcoholic hepati- very high risk of developing cirrhosis tis. Alcoholic hepatitis usually occurs and its complications. This double after an episode of increased drinking whammy has also become quite comin someone with a history of chronic mon since the pandemic began and alcohol use. It is characterized by these patients need to immediately fever, nausea, pain in the right upper start a diet and exercise program and portion of the abdomen and jaundice. stop alcohol intake. Alcoholic hepatitis is frequently So, what have we learned regarding confused with an acute gallbladder COVID and the liver? We now know attack. Most of the time, people with that the effects of the modified behavalcoholic hepatitis recover at home iors in response to COVID are more and do not seek a doctor’s care. Other worrisome than the direct effects of times, however, people come to the the COVID virus itself on the liver. hospital for care and rarely, this con- With the cold weather upon us, it will dition can be fatal. Alcoholic hepatitis become more difficult to exercise and usually occurs in people with some with daylight savings time, a seasonal degree of underlying liver disease. increase in depression will occur. This The treatment of alcoholic hepatitis will likely lead to more people gaining involves the cessation of alcohol and weight and/or increasing their alcohol encouraging a good and nutritious intake leading to even more cases of diet. Rarely, a short course of cortico- Read acute and chronic liver exclusive disease in our some of our steroids is used to treat this condition. area. While we can prevent the COVID with some ofmask your In our area, we are seeing a significant interviews virus with social distancing, favorite comedians atcan rise in the number of serious cases of wearing and hand washing, we alcoholic hepatitis being admitted to www.longislandweekly.com also prevent the onset or worsening our hospitals. of liver disease by watching what we Perhaps the most worrisome eat and drink. Even in a pandemic, a patients are those that gain weight good diet and sensible drinking are and increase their alcohol intake. important to maintain liver health.
DO YOU LOVE COMEDY?
DO YOU LOVE BROADWAY? Read some of our exclusive interviews with Broadway stars at www.longislandweekly.com
FULL RUN
HEALTHY LIVING • NOVEMBER 11 - 17, 2020
7A
Friends for Life Homecare Services has led
the way providing compassion, comfort and expert care since 2010, and will continue to do so for generations to come.
Proudly Serving Nassau, Suffolk and Queens FREE IN HOME ESTIMATES OR VISIT OUR NEW SHOWROOM
Stay Safe In Your Home! Any tub can be converted into a walk-in shower! FREE CONSULTATION AND ESTIMATES
Never Step Over That US DANGERO Tub Again!
BEFORE
AFTER
grab bars installed LOCALLY FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED
631-923-6502
SAFEBATHLI.COM
Lic# 57644-H
219531 S
The Leader In Bathtub Modifications
219633 S
Call today for a FREE assessment!
NOVEMBER 11 - 17, 2020 • HEALTHY LIVING
FULL RUN
T H E B R I S TA L A S S I S T E D L I V I N G
IT’S AN HONOR TO SERVE THOSE WHO SERVED Each year on Veterans Day, our communities pay special tribute to those who served in the armed forces. Their fierce camaraderie is contagious and their experiences inspiring. The Bristal salutes the many men and women among our ranks who dedicated themselves to the cause of freedom. Our thanks should be felt and heard, especially at this time of year.
For a list of all locations in the tri-state area, visit: THEBRISTAL.COM
AN ENGEL BURMAN COMMUNITY
Licensed by the State Department of Health. Eligible for Most Long Term Care Policies.
219170 M