Preparing for Open Heart Surgery

Calendar January 24, 2012 | Posted by Central Florida Regional

Worried about upcoming open heart surgery? The more you know and the more you prepare, the better you’re likely to feel.

• Know that while serious, heart surgery is common. Thousands are performed successfully each day in the United States. Since opening in 1993, The Heart Institute at Central Florida Regional Hospital has earned a reputation for excellence in open-heart surgery and the treatment of cardiovascular disease.

• Talk with your cardiologist and/or surgeon. Ask questions, and discuss risks, possible outcomes, the recovery process and realistic expectations. Also talk about whether or not to continue taking current medications.

• Part of preparing for surgeryy involves preparing for lifestyle changes you’ll need to make post surgery. Research a heart-healthy diet, heart-smart exercise options, stress management techniques and more. Talk with your doctor about the possibility of instituting these changes prior to surgery.

• Take care of health and financial details involving health insurance coverage and medical directives.

• Create a support system of family, friends and/or coworkers to help you before and after surgery. Also consider getting professional mental health counseling to help cope with lifestyle changes, physical limitations, stress and/or depression.

• In preparation for surgery, you will likely be admitted to the hospital the day before your scheduled procedure so that your medical team can do blood work and run tests. Tests may include an electrocardiogram and/or chest X-ray.

• Know that your doctor will administer medication prior to surgery to help you relax and that the anesthesia you will be given will keep you sedated throughout the procedure.

To learn more about open heart surgery and Central Florida Regional Hospital’s award-winning, full-service cardiac care contact the Heart Institute at Central Florida Regional Hospital. Visit us online or call our free 24-hour Consult-A-Nurse® service at 1-800-445-3392.

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Arthritis: Myths and Facts

Calendar January 17, 2012 | Posted by Central Florida Regional

There is a lot of information out there about arthritis. Wondering just what’s true and what’s not? Here are some of the most common myths and the facts to clear them up!

Myth: Arthritis is a single disease.
Fact: Arthritis refers to more than 100 diseases and conditions that affect joints and cause joint inflammation. Osteoarthritis (OA). is the most common form of arthritis and is often a matter of joints degenerating with age. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), is less common and a progressive condition where a person’s immune system attacks his or her own body.

Myth: Arthritis only affects the elderly.
Fact: Osteoarthritis most often affects people age 45 and older. It causes pain and stiffness, most commonly in the shoulders, hands, hips and/or knees.

Myth: Other than taking medication, there’s nothing you can do to treat arthritis.
Fact: Depending on the severity of a person’s arthritis, treatment could include lifestyle changes, maintaining a healthy weight, stress management, medications or joint replacement surgery.

Myth: If you suffer from arthritis, you should refrain from physical activity.
Fact: Actually, exercise has been proven to help relieve arthritis pain, improve joint function and boost mood. In addition, exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, which can guard against the stress excess weight can put on joints. The best types of exercises to try are those that are easy on the joints, like walking, swimming or yoga. Always talk with your doctor before starting an exercise program.

Myth: Living with arthritis makes everyday tasks difficult.
Fact: While arthritis can sometimes make doing ordinary things more difficult, there are ways to cope and compensate. For instance, use tools specially designed to require less pressure to open containers, use ergonomic kitchen utensils when cooking and choose clothing that’s made with zippers instead of buttons.

To learn more about arthritis and find out how Central Florida Regional Hospital can help, visit us online or call our free 24-hour Consult-A-Nurse® service at 1-800-445-3392.

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Easing Into an Exercise Routine

Calendar January 10, 2012 | Posted by Central Florida Regional

So you’ve resolved to start exercising this year, and are wondering how to start? Here’s how to ease into an exercise routine and better your odds for long-term success.

Choose something you enjoy. The idea of being fit and healthy is appealing, however, the idea of actually exercising is often less so. Be sure to choose activities you enjoy, and expand your definition of exercise. Your goal is to increase your heart rate and burn calories. In addition to activities such as running, biking and swimming, consider yoga, dancing, water aerobics, golf and more.

Start small. Yes, running a marathon one day might be wonderful, but for now focus on smaller, more realistic and immediate goals. You might start simply by walking. Perhaps strive for 30 minutes a day most days of the week. You won’t feel defeated from the start and will stand a better chance of eventually achieving your 26.2 mile goal.

Vary your fitness schedule. Try participating in an array of activities to help you get and stay fit. The variety will help prevent you from becoming bored and help you stick to your fitness goals.

Consider a class or an exercise partner. Being accountable to another person, or having to be at a certain place at a specific time sometimes makes it easier to adhere to an exercise schedule. Consider walking with a friend or meeting a coworker at the gym after work.

Avoid injury. Doing too much too soon can often lead to injury, and injury is one of the most common culprits for falling out of an exercise routine. Be sure to warm up, cool down and wear the proper gear for the activity you’re engaging in.

Gradually increase duration and intensity. Push yourself, but don’t push overly hard. Add an extra 10 minutes of walking instead of an extra hour, or try an intermediate yoga class instead of an advanced class.

To learn more about the benefits of exercising, or to schedule an appointment to get a doctor’s advice on starting a fitness program, call Central Florida Regional Hospital’s free Consult-A-Nurse® service at 1-800-445-3392.

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5 Ways to Prepare for Childbirth

Calendar January 3, 2012 | Posted by Central Florida Regional

Preparing for the birth of your child can provide you some peace of mind and make the labor and delivery process go as smoothly as possible. Here are a few things you can do to prepare.

1. Get proper prenatal care. Prenatal care monitors both your health and that of your baby. Prenatal testing may include blood tests, ultrasounds, chorionic villus sampling to test for chromosomal abnormalities and other problems, amniocentesis, a glucose test for gestational diabetes, trimester screenings and other procedures.

2. Eat a healthy diet. Remember, eating for two means that what you eat affects both you and your baby. So, consume a balanced diet, drink plenty of water and take a daily prenatal supplement to be sure you get the necessary vitamins and minerals. Steer clear of foods that are considered unsafe during pregnancy, including:

• raw eggs, meat, fish and shellfish, including sushi
• deli meats, unless reheated until steaming
• fish high in mercury including king mackerel, shark, swordfish, tile fish, or canned chunk light tuna
• smoked seafood
• soft cheeses
• unpasteurized milk or juice
• alcohol

3. Exercise. Exercise can help you develop the strength and stamina necessary for childbirth. After getting your doctor’s okay to begin or continue an exercise routine, take part in safe activities that can help you tone muscles, improve circulation, reduce swelling and avoid excessive weight gain. Consider walking, swimming or prenatal yoga. Avoid activities that put you at high risk for injury, involve extreme heat, require you to lift weights over your head or require lying on your back.

4. Don’t smoke. According to the American Lung Association, smoking during pregnancy is responsible for approximately 25 percent of all low-birth weight babies, up to 14 percent of preterm deliveries and approximately 10 percent of infant deaths.

5. Talk with your doctor. Ask questions, discuss possibilities and even consider writing a birth plan.

To learn about Central Florida Regional Hospital’s childbirth education classes and baby suites, visit us online or give us a call at (407) 321-4500 Ext. 5613.

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Back Pain: Finding the Source

Calendar December 29, 2011 | Posted by Central Florida Regional

Back pain is one of the most common complaints that people have. In fact, research shows that it affects approximately 80 percent of us. Sometimes it occurs suddenly, other times it builds gradually with wear and tear over years. It can be mild or severe, and be fleeting or a chronic condition. While there are treatment options for back pain including yoga, massage, physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, ice, heat, epidural steroid injections, prescription drugs and surgery, choosing the best treatment option for you is often dependent upon finding out what’s causing your back pain—and that can sometimes prove challenging.

Along with discussing your medical history and doing a physical examination, your doctor may choose to do any of the following tests in order to discover the source of your back pain:

An X-ray uses a minimal and safe amount of electromagnetic radiation to create an image on film. It’s a quick and painless way to check for things such as a broken or fractured bone, or an alignment problem.

An MRI scan uses a large magnet and radio waves to produce images of bones, internal organs, and other body structures. An MRI scan is painless; however, it does requires that you remain very still on an exam table inside a long, narrow machine throughout the procedure. An MRI is often used to look for things such as herniated disks or spinal stenosis.

A CT scan uses computer technology and advanced X-ray technology to create cross-sectional images. Doctors use CT scans to look for things such as herniated disks, spinal stenosis or tumors.

While blood tests aren’t always used when searching for the source of back pain, they can sometimes be helpful in diagnosing arthritis, infection or inflammation.

For more information about finding the source of back pain, contact Central Florida Regional Hospital or call 1-800-445-3392 to schedule an evaluation. If you have questions or would like more information on treating your back pain, call our free Consult-A-Nurse® 24 hours a day at 1-800-445-3392.

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Travel Safely This Holiday Season

Calendar December 20, 2011 | Posted by Central Florida Regional

Oh, how nice would it be if you could just blink and be at your holiday destination? No such luck. Traveling by plane or car, is how many Americans get there, and safety is a top priority. Follow these tips when traveling this holiday season to keep you and your family safe!

By Plane
Be aware of the Transportation Security Administration’s important security procedures. Even if the airline doesn’t require it, consider purchasing a ticket for your young child so that he or she will have his or her own seat, and therefore own safety belt and oxygen mask. Always follow instructions regarding storing personal belongings and wearing your safety belt.

By Car
Follow safe driving practices. Stay focused on the road. Stop driving if you’re too tired to drive safely; don’t rely on caffeine to keep you alert. Stop driving if you need to text or check information on your phone or map. Stop driving if you need to tend to children. Have movies, games or books handy to keep children occupied while you drive. Obey the speed limit and always err on the side of caution.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) warns that automobile accidents are the leading cause of death of children between the ages of 3 and 14. Use the right car seat for your child, depending on his or her age, height and weight, and make sure it is installed in a back seat according to the manufacturer’s directions. (NHTSA estimates that 75 percent of car seats are installed incorrectly, and offers a list of car seat inspection locations.)From birth until 1 year of age, children should ride in a rear-facing car seat.

  • Between 1 and 3 years of age, children should remain in a rear-facing car seats as long as possible and until they surpass the manufacturer’s maximum height or weight recommendation. Then they should ride in a front-facing car seat.
  • Between 4 and 7 years of age, children should use front-facing car seats as long as possible and until they surpass the manufacturer’s maximum weight or height recommendation. Then they should ride in a booster seat.
  • Between 8 and 12 years of age, children should remain in a booster seat until a seat belt fits properly.
  • Children should be at least 13 before riding in the front seat.

To learn more about health and safety, visit Central Florida Regional Hospital online.

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Eat Healthy on a Budget

Calendar December 13, 2011 | Posted by Central Florida Regional

Torn between eating healthy and sticking to your budget? There is good news—you don’t have to choose. Here are some smart ideas for enjoying the best of both worlds.

• Buy bigger quantities of healthy staples in order to cut cost. Consider the family-size package of boneless, skinless chicken breasts or the big box of whole-grain cereal. Store the excess properly so that it stays fresh until you are ready to use it.

• Stock your pantry, refrigerator and freezer with healthy staples that lend themselves to making tasty budget meals. Canned and frozen fruits and vegetables are as nutritious as fresh, and come with the added perk of keeping longer. Cooking whole grains in reduced-sodium broth instead of water perks up their flavor. Beans are an affordable source of quality protein, as well as the foundation for many favorite Mexican-inspired meals. Eggs are nutritious, can be eaten as part of any meal and are easy on the wallet. Canned fish, such as tuna or salmon, is less costly and more convenient than fresh. Lean ground beef is a key ingredient in budget-friendly burgers, tacos, lasagna and more. Frozen shrimp can make an ordinary taco, stir-fry or pasta dish extraordinary.

• Use higher priced ingredients such as seafood or steak in small amounts in a soup, salad, stir-fry or casserole instead of using it in large amounts as a main dish.

• Avoid waste. Plan meals wisely so that you use the ingredients you purchase, and be creative in considering all the possibilities for leftovers. Use them in salads, sandwiches, casseroles, pasta dishes or as pizza toppings.

• Keep an eye out for sales and coupons to get especially good deals on healthy foods.

• Look to respected sources, from government agencies to well-known magazines, for information and recipes for eating healthy on a budget.

To learn more about eating healthy on a budget, call our Consult-A-Nurse service 24 hours a day at 1-800-445-3392.

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STEMI: Every Second Counts

Calendar December 6, 2011 | Posted by Central Florida Regional

STEMI stands for ST-elevation myocardial infarction. It’s a type of heart attack that happens as a result of a blood clot completely blocking blood flow. This differs from the less severe, non-STEMI type of heart attack that is caused by a partially blocked artery. If someone is having a STEMI, it is a life-threatening situation and every second counts.

• Symptoms of a STEMI may include chest pain, trouble breathing, nausea and vomiting, profuse sweating and falling to the ground.

• If a STEMI is suspected, it’s critical that someone call 911 immediately. A STEMI can cause serious damage to the heart, and requires immediate medical attention.

• A doctor can make a STEMI diagnosis by doing an electrocardiogram, also referred to as an ECG or EKG. This test will create a graph of the heart’s electrical activity, and it will show an elevated ST segment in the case of a STEMI.

• Treatment for a STEMI may include a procedure called thrombolysis, whereby the patient is injected with a substance that will work to dissolve the clot and restore blood flow. This treatment is often used within three hours of the onset of the heart attack. If thrombolysis isn’t performed, it’s likely that the patient will need coronary angioplasty or coronary artery bypass graft surgery to help facilitate blood flow to the heart.

• A STEMI time is defined as a hospital’s average time to reestablish blood flow from the moment the patient arrives as the emergency room. The American College of Cardiology, the American Heart Association and the Joint Commission state that STEMI time should be 90 minutes or less. Central Florida Regional Hospital’s average STEMI time consistently beats that. Our average STEMI time is posted on our website at www.centralfloridaregional.com.

Central Florida Regional Hospital is the only facility in Seminole and West Volusia Counties that provides complete cardiac care for every type of heart attack, including STEMI. To learn more, visit us online or call 407 321-4500. 

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Fitness Video Games: Do They Really Work?

Calendar November 29, 2011 | Posted by Central Florida Regional

From bowling, tennis and dancing to kayaking, yoga and Zumba, fitness video games are all the rage. But do they work? The answer, is well, partly dependent on you.

• While the games are virtual, the effort you put forth is real. If you run, jump, bend, swing, stretch and balance to the best of your ability, you can indeed work up a sweat, burn calories and tone muscles.

• If a fitness video transforms you (or your child) from a couch potato who watches television or plays video games that only exercise your thumbs, into someone standing, moving and sweating, that alone is an achievement. Remember, the first step in getting fit is to get moving.

• Playing fitness video games in addition to doing other forms of exercise, can be a very convenient way to squeeze cardio, strength training or flexibility exercises into a busy schedule. You can use fitness video games as one of many tools and strategies to help manage weight and develop muscle tone, coordination, flexibility and agility. You can play a fitness video game while the kids nap, late at night after the gym is closed, or on a day when the weather outside isn’t very inviting.

• Fitness video games can help motivate you to work harder and exercise more, as some calculate your body mass index (BMI) and even calculate your “fitness level” as related to your age.

• Playing a fitness video game can be a family-friendly activity that encourages exercise and healthy competition.

• The bottom line is if fitness video games make exercising more fun and more convenient, you’re bound to exercise more—and that’s always a good thing.

To learn more about the benefits of physical fitness, or schedule an appointment to get a doctor’s advice on starting an exercise program, call our free Consult-A-Nurse® Service at 1-800-445-3392. 

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A to Z’s: Quick Guide to Sleep Disorders

Calendar November 8, 2011 | Posted by Central Florida Regional

When your sleep is sub-par, you can’t expect to be at your best during the day. There are few factors more crucial to your health than rest. When a sleep disorder overtakes your nights, many aspects of your day will suffer, and you will typically begin to notice several other health problems following along. Getting a consistent and reasonable amount of rest will protect your health and sanity, but these disorders can make accomplishing a good night’s sleep nearly impossible.

Sleep Apnea
Patients who suffer from sleep apnea will find themselves waking up periodically throughout the night because of difficulties breathing. This happens when throat muscles do not keep your airway properly opened while sleeping. Untreated sleep apnea will leave you sleep deprived and starved for oxygen, potentially resulting in mood swings, memory loss, heart disease, or hypertension according to the National Sleep Foundation. If you suspect you have sleep apnea, schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional immediately.

Insomnia
Perhaps the most well-known sleep disorder, insomnia, prevents you from getting the rest you need by rendering you unable to fall asleep or only allowing you sleep in short, restless bursts. Insomnia can be a one-time occurrence, but often it is a chronic condition that puts a person’s well-being in serious jeopardy. Insomnia might be treated differently in various cases. Some patients struggle with insomnia as a result of stress, while other times insomnia can be a symptom of an underlying condition that needs its own treatment. Medications or counseling are common options for those with insomnia. 

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS)
This uncomfortable condition compels patients to keep their legs (or occasionally other body parts) in motion while at rest. The constant movement and unpleasant sensation in the legs makes sleep difficult to achieve. Researchers are still exploring the cause of RLS, uncertain about whether it is a muscular, neurological, or orthopedic condition. If you suffer from RLS, your doctor can help by going over various prescription medicines that might relieve your symptoms.

The sleep disorders lab here at Central Florida Regional Hospital can help if you find yourself struggling with any of these conditions. Visit us online or call our Consult A Nurse Health Information and Referral line at (800) 445-3392 for more information. 

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