Wellness Words January 2019 Posted on January 10, 2019 by Dakota PikeHealthLink Littauer’sWELLNESS WORDSSubmitted by Alicia DeRuscio, B.S.Community Education Assistant Thyroid AwarenessJanuary is thyroid awareness month! You’ve probably heard of the thyroid gland before, but do you know what it does? According to National Institutes of Health, the thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland that’s located in the base of the neck and produces thyroid hormone. While it is a relatively small gland, the thyroid plays a big role in how our bodies function.For example, the thyroid gland regulates many of the organs within our bodies including the heart, brain, liver, kidneys and skin, and affects things like our heart rate, digestion, breathing and body temperature. Therefore, to protect and maintain your body’s overall well-being, it’s important your thyroid gland works properly.The American College of Endocrinology estimates roughly 30 million Americans are affected by thyroid disease, altering the function of their thyroid gland. The two most common conditions of thyroid disease include hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism.Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland produces too much thyroid hormone and increases the activity of the body systems. According to the Department of Health and Human Services, symptoms of hyperthyroidism include weight loss, eating more than normal, increased heartbeat, irritability, problems sleeping, feelings of anxiety or nervousness, feeling warm more easily, increased sweating, muscle weakness and increased bowel movements or diarrhea.While it is not the only cause, the most common cause of hyperthyroidism is an autoimmune disorder known as Grave’s disease. This disorder causes the thyroid to produce more thyroid hormone than the body needs.Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormone, slowing down the function of the body systems. The Department of Health and Human Services lists common symptoms of hypothyroidism as weight gain, feeling cold more easily, sweating less than normal, muscle weakness, muscle or joint pain, feeling sad, depressed or extremely tired, dry skin, thinning hair, a swollen face or hoarse voice and constipation.Another autoimmune disorder, known as Hashimoto’s disease, is the most common cause of hypothyroidism. Hashimoto’s disease causes your body’s immune system to attack the thyroid gland, causing swelling, scarring and decreased production of thyroid hormone.While thyroid disease is common, it is often hard to identify. Unfortunately, many symptoms of thyroid disease mimic other chronic conditions. One indication of a thyroid disorder may be a thyroid nodule or goiter. A thyroid nodule is a swelling in one section of the thyroid gland while a goiter is an enlargement of the entire thyroid gland. Not all nodules cause problems, but some can.If you have a family history of thyroid disease, swelling of the thyroid gland or experience symptoms of a thyroid disorder, talk with your healthcare provider. A simple blood test can determine whether or not your thyroid is doing its job.For more information, contact your healthcare provider or call HealthLink Littauer at 518-736-1120. You can email us at healthlink@nlh.org or visit our wellness center on 2 Colonial Court in downtown Johnstown. We’re your community health & wellness service of Nathan Littauer Hospital and Nursing Home.
Littauer’s Birthing Center welcomes the first baby of 2019 Posted on January 4, 2019January 8, 2019 by Dakota PikeParents are grateful for the send-offNathan Littauer Hospital & Nursing Home announced today that baby Bella Ann Waffle was the first baby born at NLH & NH in the New Year. Bella’s parents, Alyssa Duma and Michael Waffle of Gloversville welcomed little Bella on January 3, 2019 at 9:19 a.m. Bella, shown here dressed in her beautiful gold polka dot New Year’s best dress, weighed 7 pounds 7 ounces and was 21 inches long. Midwife Andrea Becker, C.N.M. delivered baby Bella.Meet Bella, Nathan Littauer’s Birthing Center’s First Baby of the Year!Littauer’s Auxiliary presented the family with a generous gift of supplies and necessities. This special presentation by our auxiliary has been a tradition for over 30 years. Anita Beck, an auxiliary member coordinates the shopping for the First Baby months in advance of the event. Bella’s parents were grateful for the auxiliary’s generosity stating, “Thank you so much for all you did!” “The Auxiliary puts a tremendous amount of thought into the Baby New Year basket. What the parents leave with is a gift of the heart while being extremely practical as well,” stated Sue McNeil, Director of Volunteer Services at Nathan Littauer Hospital.Celebrating the happy family! (from left to right) Jeanne Wilkinson, auxiliary member, Sue McNeil, Director of Volunteer Services, Norma Cozzolino, Auxiliary President, Baby Bella, Alyssa Duma and Michael Waffle
Wellness Words December 2018 Posted on December 10, 2018 by Dakota PikeHealthLink Littauer’sWELLNESS WORDSSubmitted by Alicia DeRuscio, B.S.Community Education Assistant Staying Healthy Over The HolidaysThe holiday season is upon us and with it comes times of celebration, visits with family and friends, and a greater appreciation of what’s important to us. The holidays present the perfect opportunity to value the gift of health and provide our bodies with a little extra self-care. In order to stay healthy and happy throughout the holiday season, try these tips:Wash Your Hands Frequently: According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, one of the most important steps you can take to maintain health and prevent sickness is to wash your hands. Be sure to rub fingers and palms together with soap for at least 20 seconds and rinse with clean, running water.Dress Appropriately: Exposure to cold weather can increase health problems for older adults. If you go outside, the CDC recommends dressing in layers. Keep your head, ears and hands covered and wear warm, dry shoes and socks to prevent frostbite and hypothermia.Eat Healthy: While the holidays can tempt us to indulge in unhealthy foods, do so in moderation. Incorporate some healthy dishes into your holiday meals or try swapping out a sugary dessert for a piece of fruit. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends including all five food groups when preparing holiday meals (fruits, vegetables, grains, protein and dairy), and selecting lean cuts of mean such as turkey, roast beef or fresh ham. For more tips on preparing holiday meals, visit www.ChooseMyPlate.gov.Stay Active: The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans suggest that older adults get at least 2 ½ hours of cardiovascular activities and two days of strength training activities each week. While the cold may keep you indoors, you can still find ways to be active! Dance to your favorite holiday music, get involved in activities at a local senior center, or walk around a local shopping mall with a friend.Manage Your Stress: The holidays can be hectic and stressful both mentally and financially. It’s important to take time for yourself and find ways to manage stress. According the American Psychological Association, the best way to avoid holiday stress is by setting realistic expectations for gift-giving, seeking support from friends and family and taking care of your health!Prevent Injuries: Injuries can happen to anyone at any time, especially around the holidays. Make sure to never leave fireplaces, stoves or candles unattended and use caution when hanging holiday decorations to prevent falls.Visit Your Healthcare Provider: Regular check-ups can help prevent future health problems and address any current concerns you may have. If you plan to travel over the holidays, ask your provider about special health precautions or recommended vaccinations.For more information, call HealthLink Littauer at 518-736-1120. You can email us at healthlink@nlh.org or visit our wellness center on 2 Colonial Court in downtown Johnstown. We’re your community health & wellness service of Nathan Littauer Hospital and Nursing Home.
Littauer welcomes new Chief Information Officer Posted on December 5, 2018December 5, 2018 by Dakota PikeEvans to focus on new technologies and cybersecurityMr. Evans joins Littauer as our new Chief Technology OfficerGloversville, NY…. Littauer is proud to welcome Brian Evans, M.H.A., F.A.C.H.E., as the new Vice President of Information Services & Chief Information Officer. Brian comes to Littauer from Milford Hospital in Connecticut where he was their Chief Information Officer for 3 years. Prior to that, Brian was the Information Technology Director at Milford Hospital and also at Community Medical Center in Nebraska.Brian received his Master’s Degree in Hospital Healthcare Administration from The University of Texas at Arlington. He received his Bachelor’s of Science in Management Information Systems degree from Oklahoma State. He is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (F.A.C.H.E.), as well as a Certified Professional in Electronic Health Records (E.H.R.). He is a member of cybersecurity and health information groups nationally and regionally.As Chief Information Security Officer and Privacy Officer, one of Brian’s roles is to review cybersecurity risks and to ensure Littauer complies with HIPAA regulations.Healthcare has played an important role in Brian’s life. Brian explained his mother is a recently retired nurse, his older sister is a nurse and his younger sister is a surgeon. When he was young, his mom used to take him to visit nursing homes. As a result, he caught the healthcare bug at a young age. He has played the piano in nursing homes for many years.Brian says, “I am very much looking forward to playing piano in the nursing home at NLH and during dinner time.”Brian is from a small town and likes small towns. He joined the NLH team in September and is very happy to be here. “Everyone is extremely welcoming,” says Brian.
Wellness Words November 2018 Posted on November 12, 2018 by Dakota PikeHealthLink Littauer’sWELLNESS WORDSSubmitted by Alicia DeRuscio, B.S.Community Education Assistant DiabetesAccording to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK), over 30 million Americans have diabetes with 1.5 million Americans newly diagnosed every year. What is diabetes?The NIDDK defines diabetes as a chronic health condition that occurs when blood glucose levels, or blood sugar, get too high. When you eat, your digestive system breaks down much of your food into glucose. Glucose is then absorbed into your blood and eventually used as energy.However, in order for your cells to absorb glucose they must be supplied with a hormone called insulin. Insulin acts as a key to “unlock” the cells and allow glucose to enter. When the body doesn’t have enough insulin or cannot use the insulin properly, glucose is unable to enter your cells and remains in your blood. This lack of insulin results in diabetes.Over time, diabetes can cause major health problems including heart disease, stroke, kidney disease and more. In light of November being ‘American Diabetes Month,’ it’s important to educate yourself on the different types of diabetes, the risk factors, and the steps you can take in preventing diabetes. Type 1 and Type 2 DiabetesThe American Heart Association classifies diabetes into two main forms: type 1 diabetes and type 2 diabetes. According to the NIDDK, if you have type 1 diabetes your body does not make insulin on its own. Therefore, you must take insulin every day.If you have type 2 diabetes your body either does not make insulin properly or does not use the insulin that is made properly. Type 2 diabetes is the most common form of diabetes and can usually be managed through diet and exercise.Other forms of diabetes include gestational diabetes, monogenic diabetes and cystic fibrosis–related diabetes.Risk FactorsThe National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases lists several risk factors for developing diabetes including:Being 45 years of age or olderHaving a family history of diabetesBeing overweightLack of physical activityRaceOther health problems such as high blood pressurePreventionIn order to reduce your risk for developing diabetes, the American Heart Association recommends managing weight by consuming a heart–healthy diet that includes all five food groups and limits saturated fat, trans fat, salt and added sugars.Aim to get at least 150 minutes of physical activity each week at a moderate intensity. Moderate intensity activities may include brisk walking, light bicycling, or water aerobicsOther preventative measures include minimizing alcohol consumption, quitting smoking, lowering blood pressure and taking medications as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Education HealthLink currently offers a monthly ‘Diabetes Discussion.’ These free educational sessions are for anyone with diabetes, their family members and caregivers. A new topic will be discussed each month focusing on strategies to assist with managing this chronic condition.For more information on diabetes, talk to your healthcare provider or call HealthLink Littauer at 518-736-1120. You can email us at healthlink@nlh.org or visit our wellness center on 2 Colonial Court in downtown Johnstown. We’re your community health & wellness service of Nathan Littauer Hospital and Nursing Home.
