Well AwareH E A LT H N E W S A N D E V E N T S F R O M O V E R L O O K H O S P I TA LVOL.2 NUM.2

See page 2 for details on how

you can win a FREE

Apple iPod nano.

the weight is over

caring for the Golden years

For Matters of theHeartwe’re Just a Heartbeat away

Giveaway

answer the following question correctly for a chance to win an apple ipod nano. This virtual reality game is actually a form of therapy for patients who have suffered a stroke. What is the name of this unique therapy? Hint: tHe answer is in tHis issue!

Email us at well.aware@atlantichealth.org with the correct answer, or mail your answer along with your name, address and phone number to:

Atlantic Health, Attn: Well Aware | PO Box 1905 | Morristown, NJ 07962

Must be 18 years or older to enter. Atlantic Health employees and their immediate families are not eligible for the drawing. We welcome your comments and suggestions along with your entry.

we welcome your comments and suGGestions for toPics.Send your ideas in with your entry, and you may see them in a future issue of Well Aware!

employees and their immediate families are not eligible for the drawing. We welcome your comments and suggestions

we welcome your comments and suGGestions for toPics.we welcome your comments and suGGestions for toPics.we welcome your comments and suGGestions for toPics.Send your ideas in with your entry, and you may see them in a

letter from tHe ceo

WWell Well W AwareDear Friend,

Spring is in the air, and for many of us, that means the beginning of allergy season. If stuffy noses and watery eyes sound familiar to you, read our allergy survival guide on page 10.

We want to help you stay healthy, from your head to your heart to your toes. This issue of Well Aware is packed with helpful tips, from recognizing a heart attack (and reducing your risk) to staying injury-free on the court or field.

You’ll also learn about some of our new initiatives to promote emotional, physical and spiritual well-being. From integrating ancient medical practices to improving rehabilitation after a stroke, you’ll appreciate the added steps we’ve taken to ensure your health.

Wishing you good health,

Joseph trunfioPresident and CEOatlantic HealtH Strengthen Your Core

After giving birth, many women experience a weakening of their pelvic fl oor muscles—which can lead to urinary incontinence, the involuntary leakage of urine. Pelvic muscle exercises (Kegels) are the best way to prevent these pelvic fl oor problems, but many women cannot learn these techniques on their own. To help combat this common problem, an Atlantic Health physician is spearheading a study of the effectiveness of Pilates in strengthening pelvic fl oor muscles.

“Pilates exercises are easy, can be done at home and are a great way to strengthen core muscles for improved physical appearance and function,” says Patrick Culligan, MD, director of urogynecology and leader of the study. “Now we’re conducting this study to also determine how well these exercises strengthen pelvic fl oor muscles.”

Dr. Culligan is currently taking volunteers to participate in the study. Most women are eligible to participate, except those who are or will become 36 weeks pregnant during the 12-week period of the study. You do not have to be experiencing any pelvic fl oor problems to be eligible, because the point of the study is to measure improved pelvic muscle strength—regardless of patient symptoms. For more information, call Janet Scherer at 973-971-7424.

Air One, Atlantic Health’s ambulance in the air, is celebrating its one year anniversary—and the lives of hundreds in our region that it has helped save.

Atlantic Health was the fi rst hospital system in the state to acquire a helicopter to transport patients needing immediate medical attention. Patients are brought to Morristown Memorial Hospital, a Level 1 trauma center, where an experienced trauma team continues the lifesaving care begun by the expertly trained Air One medical staff, or to Overlook Hospital for cutting-edge neurological care.

If you need immediate medical attention, count on an Atlantic Health ambulance—in the air or on the road—to be there for you.

Lives in the Sky

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seconDs count in a heart attack, yet many people wait two hours or more before seeking medical attention. Often, this is because they doubt their symptoms or hope they will go away. If you experience chest pain, pressure in the middle of the chest, radiating pain or pain in the arm, jaw or back, don’t hesitate to call �11. Also be alert for other heart attack symptoms, including sudden shortness of breath and lightheadedness.

For women, these symptoms are often very different. Heart attacks can signal their arrival through such varying symptoms as fatigue, vomiting or nausea, so if you just don’t feel right and the pain starts low and builds over five to six minutes, err on the side of safety and call an ambulance.

don’t drive Yourself You may think you’re okay to drive, but

it’s always better to call an ambulance in the event of a potential heart attack. Why? Because lifesaving treatment begins even before you arrive at the hospital.

Emergency Medical Services (EMS) personnel with Atlantic Ambulance transmit electrocardiograms (EKGs) to the hospital using regular cell phone service. The transmission can show if you are suffering an acute heart attack, which readies the medical team to perform emergency angioplasty upon your arrival at the hospital. This critical procedure pushes aside the accumulation of blood clots, cholesterol and plaque with a balloon that opens up blood flow in your arteries and can stop your heart attack.

“Our median door-to-balloon time is �3 minutes. That’s seven minutes faster than the American Heart Association’s recommendation of �0 minutes,” says Elliot Stein, MD, chief of cardiology at Overlook Hospital.

looking to the long-term Heart disease is the number one

killer of men and women in the United States, according to the American Heart Association. This is an alarming statistic when you consider that heart disease is largely preventable.

“Prevention is key,” says Dr. Stein,” so know your risk factors, discuss them with your physician and work to improve your health to potentially prevent a heart attack.”

For information on the Gagnon Heart Hospital—the new name for cardiovascular services at Atlantic Health—visit atlantichealth.org. To learn more about heart health, sign up for your free, personalized e-newsletter.

A Heartbeat AwayDuring a heart attack, the sooner blood flow is restored the more heart muscle is spared. When it comes to your heart, acting quickly can save your life.

Humor & Your Heart

Laughter may very well be the best medicine. Laughing reduces stress and lowers the risk for heart disease. In a recent study, people with heart disease were 40 percent less likely to laugh than their healthier counterparts.

Help your heart this April by celebrating National Humor Month.

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Want to make a difference today? Blood donation doesn’t take much time, and it can help save the lives of people in need.

DiD you knoW that DonateD BlooD is neeDeD somewhere every three seconds, or that one out of three people will need donated blood during his or her lifetime? Although millions require it each year, only five percent of the eligible American population donates. Even more disheartening, only one percent of the eligible population in New Jersey gives blood.

Overlook Hospital uses donated blood every day to help others, but can’t continue the practice without the help of the community.

In order to give blood, you must be at least 1� years old, weigh at least 110 pounds and be in good health. A thorough screening performed when you arrive at Blood Donor Services will ensure you are a good candidate. Typically, one pint of blood is taken per session, which can be used to help up to three people.

To schedule an appointment or for more information, please call Overlook Hospital Blood Donor Services at 908-522-3509.

save a life

for most people, a bandage and some ointment can heal their wounds. But for others, particularly those with diabetes—which makes it difficult for wounds to receive the oxygen they need to heal—specialized care may be necessary. thankfully, the Wound healing center at overlook hospital has you covered.

“many people liVing With DiaBetes have diabetic neuropathy, which impairs the sensation of feeling in their feet as well as other areas of the body,” says Denise Malinowski, RN, program manager of the Wound and Ostomy Program for Overlook Hospital. “This loss of sensation makes individuals more susceptible to injuries, which, if left untreated, can become infected and lead to chronic wounds.”

Caring for YouThe Wound Healing Center at Overlook is composed of a multidisciplinary

team of physicians and surgeons as well as nurses with advanced training in wound and ostomy care. After a thorough patient evaluation and medical history review, physicians create an individualized treatment plan for each patient’s specific needs.

In addition to treating diabetic wounds, physicians at the Center specialize in treating chronic non-healing wounds resulting from immobilization, poor circulation, infection and pressure.

For more information on the Wound Healing Center, visit atlantichealth.org.

If you suffer from diabetes, you can reduce your chance of developing a chronic non-healing wound by:• inspecting your feet daily for signs of

redness, blisters or sores• wearing prescribed footwear for walking• seeking professional foot and nail care• never going barefoot or soaking your feet

Wounds that do not show signifi cant signs of healing after two weeks or complete healing after a month should be examinedby a physician.

Mother Nature’s

Healing HelpPrevent Non-Healing Wounds

today

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if you’Ve struggleD unsuccessfully With eXcess Weight for years,bariatric surgery can help you change your life. Individuals who are overweight or obese are more likely to experience health conditions such as high blood pressure, cholesterol, sleep apnea and diabetes—all of which can be reduced or eliminated with bariatric surgery.

“Weight-loss surgery is helping many people in our community, but it isn’t a quick fix,” says James Houston, MPAS, PA-C, manager of bariatric surgery for Overlook Hospital. “It’s a life-altering decision that requires a lasting commitment to a healthy diet and exercise.”

the ins and outs of Bariatric surgeryBefore patients undergo surgery at Overlook, they

must attend a seminar and receive consultation from professionals such as a nutritionist, physiatrist and bariatric surgeon. Here, patients learn how this surgery will affect their lives and what to expect after the procedure as well as make their final decision to have surgery. Overlook also offers a variety of support

groups patients can attend before and after surgery to ask questions and share their experiences.

Proven Procedures with outstanding BenefitsOverlook offers two types of bariatric procedures: Roux-en-Y gastric bypass and

LAP-BAND®. With Roux-en-Y, a small section of the stomach is stapled off, creating a new stomach with a much lower capacity for food. The LAP-BAND is a silicone inflatable band that is placed around the top part of the stomach, separating the stomach into one small and one large pouch. Eating even small amounts fills the pouch and creates a sensation of fullness.

Both approaches use minimally invasive techniques and offer excellent weight-loss success rates and a wide range of benefits, including faster recoveries, shorter hospital stays, less postoperative pain and fewer complications.

Taking theWeight Off

“We’re going the extra mile for our bariatric patients. We’ve recently remodeled eight private rooms on our bariatric fl oor to include appropriate-sized beds, chairs, gowns and equipment. These amenities promote privacy, comfort, dignity and healing during a patient’s stay.”

—James Houston, MPAS, PA-C, manager of bariatric surgery for Overlook Hospital

al roker is more than a weatherman on nBc’s Today show, he’s a weight-loss success story—and you can be, too. if you are 100 pounds or more overweight and are ready to take charge of your health, bariatric surgery may be right for you.

In November 2006, Overlook Hospital was designated as a Center of Excellence by the American Society for

Bariatric Surgery.

Visit atlantichealth.org to learn more about the bariatric surgery program at Overlook Hospital and the informational seminar offered on the fourth Wednesday of each month from 7:00 to 8:00 pm.

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for thousanDs of years, Chinese physicians have relied on nonsurgical treatments, such as the use of supplements and acupuncture, for a variety of conditions. These techniques are now known in America as integrative medicine. Medical research continues to show the benefit of these innovative, age-old treatment methods, and more Americans are welcoming integrative medicine into their lives.

“There are many reasons why integrative medicine is rising in popularity,” says Nancy Cotter, MD, integrative medicine specialist and director of integrative medicine for Morristown Memorial and Overlook Hospitals. “We’re becoming a global community, and we’re taking interest in how other cultures heal themselves. Americans are also more interested in new ways to improve health and wellness on their own.”

Whole-Body HealingIntegrative medicine will soon be a staple of

health care across the country. Atlantic Health is leading the way by offering these unique therapies and programs right now. At Morristown Memorial and Overlook Hospitals, integrative medicine is currently part of the internal medicine departments—providing a holistic approach to care few hospitals in the nation offer.

The following are a few of the services integrative medicine provides:• acupressure and acupuncture for pain relief• guided imagery for pain relief, relaxation and

stress management• hypnosis to stop smoking, lose weight and more• nutrition education• tai chi• vitamin therapy• yoga

“Atlantic Health is ahead of the integrative medicine curve,” Dr. Cotter says. “From anti-inflammatory diets and ecologically friendly ways to maintain Atlantic Health facilities to a well-educated staff, concrete steps are in place for the betterment of all who visit or work at Morristown Memorial and Overlook. We’re interested in improving the lives of people in our community, and integrative medicine makes that possible.”

For more information about the Integrative Medicine and Mind Body Center, visit atlantichealth.org. To learn more about alternative medicine, sign up for your free e-newsletter at atlantichealth.org.

Holistic Approachto Health

The future of health care is here.

Bye, Bye Trans Fats

Trans fats are man-made fats that lengthen the shelf life of many foods, while decreasing the body’s ability to regulate cholesterol levels. When an individual consumes excessive amounts of trans fats, the result is often a dangerous buildup in the arteries, leading to cardiovascular disease.

To improve the health and well-being of our patients, Morristown Memorial Hospital’s food services provider, Aramark, has removed trans fats from all foods served at the hospital.

“Our goal is to promote healthy habits,” says Greg Merkle, director of food and nutrition services for Morristown Memorial Hospital. “We’ve always offered healthy alternatives, and this will have a huge impact on the health of patients who turn to us for care.”

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Spring Back into ActionWhether you’re a weekend warrior or a year-round athlete, there may come a time when you need surgery or rehabilitation after an injury.

We all knoW the importance of stretching, as well as not pushing through the pain. However, after a long winter’s absence from outdoor sports, it’s all too easy to underestimate your body and incur an injury.

Whether you’ve suffered an injury or are recovering from surgery, the expert orthopedic surgeons and physical or occupational therapists at the Atlantic Health Center for Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine can help get you back on your feet and back in the game as soon as possible.

• regaining Functionality—“There’s no denying that rehabilitation is hard work, but that doesn’t mean it has to be boring,” says Trudie Milner, PhD, manager for the Atlantic Health Center for Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine. “Our therapists make sessions fun, sometimes hosting themed weeks with costume parties and consistently encouraging patients along the road to full recovery.”

• Making more of less—Arthroscopy—also called microsurgery—provides a minimally invasive surgical solution that involves less pain, scarring and damage to muscle tissue than traditional techniques. The return of muscle strength following arthroscopy is faster, making it an ideal technique for people with active lifestyles.

• Mixing up our roster—Our lineup of patients includes athletes of various skill levels in different sports—including a world champion gymnast—people with musculoskeletal conditions or chronic back pain and people of all ages who have undergone orthopedic surgery.

“We succeed at helping patients get back to their lives—whether that means taking their sports skills to the next level or being able to compete on the weekends,” says John Hurley, MD, orthopedic surgeon and medical director of the sports medicine department for Morristown Memorial Hospital. “Our goal is to help patients achieve their goals.”

For more information about orthopedic surgery or physical rehabilitation at the Center for Physical Therapy and Sports Rehabilitation, visit atlantichealth.org. To learn more about sports medicine, sign up for your free, personalized e-health newsletter at atlantichealth.org.

Score a Safe SeasonSpring is prime time for sports-related injuries.

Before you suit up for the big game or set out on a weekend trek, don’t forget these four protective essentials.

1. Stretch it out. Warm up your muscles adequately before physical activity with several minutes of light stretching and walking to elevate your heart rate gradually.

2. Gear up. Wear the appropriate protective clothing and equipment—such as a helmet, padding or a mouth guard—for your sport or activity.

3. Avoid the terrible toos. Most repeat injuries occur as a result of trying to do too much too soon. If you’ve been sidelined by an injury or surgery—or are beginning a new activity—follow your physician’s advice and ease into action.

4. Drink up. Stay hydrated with plenty of water before, during and after any physical activity to keep heat stress from putting a damper on your warm-weather fun.

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calendar of events

Please call 1-800-247-9580 to register for any of these programs. All programs are free unless otherwise indicated. Atlantic Health also offers a wide range of parenting classes on topics including prepared childbirth, infant care and nutrition. For more information, dates and times, please call 908-522-2946.

Celebrating WomenTreat yourself to a day just for you. Stacy London from TLC’s “What Not to Wear” will entertain participants with information about dressing for success and building self-esteem and personal style. There will be free raffles for makeover items: a new outfit, hairstyle, nails and more. Presenters include: Keynote speaker Stacy London from TLC’s “What Not To Wear” Dressing For Success - Building Self-Esteem and Personal Style

William Tansey, MD, Cardiologist Broken Heart Syndrome: the Link Between Stress and Heart Disease

Rhona Magaril, MD, OB/GyN Our Bodies, Ourselves: Important Women’s Health Issues

Saturday, May 197:30 am to 12:30 pmOverlook Hospital, Wallace Auditorium99 Beauvoir Avenue, Summit, NJ

n HeAltH And Wellness

national Anxiety screening day Participants will fill out a brief written screening form and speak to a licensed behavioral health clinician. No registration required.Wednesday, May 22:00 to 6:00 pmAtlantic Behavioral Health Outpatient46-48 Beauvoir Avenue, Summit, NJ

Hypnosis for smoking CessationStop smoking permanently using a relaxing stress-free approach. Registration is required.Fee: $60Thursday, May 107:00 to 9:00 pmOverlook Hospital, Conference Room 399 Beauvoir Avenue, Summit, NJPresenter: Barbara VanDuyne, Certified Hypnotherapist

n sCreenings

sun exposure screeningSee how exposure to the sun is harmful for your skin. Use our Dermaview machine and learn how to protect yourself. Receive free educational materials.Monday, April 2310:00 am to Noon and 5:00 to 7:00 pmThe Connection For Women and Families79 Maple St, Summit, NJ

Hearing screeningHave your hearing tested for potential problems. Registration is required.Thursday, April 2610:00 am to NoonWestfield Board of Health425 E Broad Street, Westfield, NJ

Blood Pressure screeningsMake sure you are at or below 120/80—the national guideline for blood pressure. Receive counseling and educational materials. Registration is required.

Thursday, April 265:00 to 7:00 pmGlenwood Place1-6 Glenwood Place, Summit, NJ

Tuesday, May 810:00 am to Noon and 5:00 to 7:00 pmScotch Plains/Fanwood yMCA1340 Martine Avenue, Scotch Plains, NJ

Thursday, May 1010:00 am to NoonLiberty Drugs and Surgical195 Main Street, Chatham, NJ

Friday, May 1110:00 am to NoonHome DepotSpringfield Avenue, Union, NJ

Tuesday, May 1510:00 am to NoonDrug Fair400 Springfield Ave, Berkeley Heights, NJ

Tuesday, May 225:00 to 7:00 pmHousing Facilities2 Weaver Street, Summit, NJ

Monday, June 1110:00 am to Noon and 6:00 to 8:00 pmSpringfield yMCA100 South Springfield Avenue, Springfield, NJ

Bone density screeningsFind out if you are at risk for developing osteoporosis with a noninvasive ultrasound that provides immediate results. Counseling and educational materials will be provided. Registration is required.Fee (for all dates): $10

Friday, April 2710:00 am to NoonSummit Board of Health512 Springfield Avenue, Summit, NJ

Thursday, May 310:00 am to Noon5 Points yMCA201 Tucker Avenue, Union, NJ

Wednesday, May 910:00 am to NoonWalgreens2148 Morris Avenue, Union, NJ

Monday, May 1410:00 am to Noon and 6:00 to 8:00 pm Springfield yMCA100 South Springfield Avenue, Springfield, NJ

Thursday, May 1710:00 am to NoonBerkeley Heights yMCA550 Springfield Avenue, Berkeley Heights, NJ

Monday, May 2110:00 am to Noon and 5:00 to 7:00 pmThe Connection For Women and Families 79 Maple St, Summit, NJ

Friday, May 251:00 to 3:00 pmVito A. Gallo Senior Building12 Chestnut Avenue, Summit, NJ

Thursday, May 3110:00 am to NoonWestfield Board of Health425 E Broad Street, Westfield, NJ

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calendar of events

diabetes screeningsLearn your blood sugar level and risk factors for Type 2 diabetes with a non-fasting fingerstick that gives immediate results. For previously diagnosed diabetics only, an HbA1c test, which reveals average blood sugar over the past two to three months, can be performed. Counseling and educational materials will be provided. Registration is required.

Friday, April 2710:00 am to NoonProvident BankSouth Street, New Providence, NJ

Wednesday, May 210:00 am to NoonWestfield yMCA220 Clark Street, Westfield, NJ

Tuesday, May 1510:00 am to Noon and 5:00 to 7:00 pmSummit yMCA67 Maple Street, Summit, NJ Friday, May 1810:00 am to NoonHome Depot200 South Avenue, Garwood, NJ Thursday, May 315:00 to 7:00 pmGlenwood Place1-6 Glenwood Place, Summit, NJ

Thursday, June 1410:00 am to NoonLiberty Drugs and Surgical195 Main Street, Chatham, NJ

Body Mass index/Body Fat Analysis screeningsLearn how your body fat percentage and BMI impact your heart health. Receive individual counseling and educational materials. Registration is required.

Friday, May 410:00 am to NoonProvident BankSouth Street, New Providence, NJ

Thursday, June 710:00 am to Noon and 5:00 to 7:00 pmWestfield yMCA220 Clark Street, Westfield, NJ

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm screeningWhen an area of the abdominal aorta expands or bulges, it is called an abdominal aortic aneurysm, and can be life-threatening. This free screening will help assess your risk for abdominal aneurysm. Registration is required.

Wednesday, May 169:00 am to 2:00 pmOverlook Hospital, Wallace Auditorium99 Beauvoir Avenue, Summit, NJ

Carotid Artery screeningA simple test can check your carotid artery for signs of blockage, which increases your risk for stroke. Registration is required.

Wednesday, May 169:00 am to 2:00 pmOverlook Hospital, Wallace Auditorium99 Beauvoir Avenue, Summit, NJ

Peripheral Vascular disease (PVd) screenings If you experience painful leg cramps while walking or have a foot wound that refuses to heal, you may be showing signs of peripheral vascular disease. Registration is required.

Wednesday, May 169:00 am to 2:00 pmOverlook Hospital, Wallace Auditorium99 Beauvoir Avenue, Summit, NJ

Friday, May 2510:00 am to NoonSummit Board of Health512 Springfield Avenue, Summit, NJ

stroke screeningsEvaluate your risk for stroke through cholesterol lab testing, blood pressure and pulse check, carotid artery assessment and stroke-related counseling from healthcare professionals. Registration is required.

Monday, May 2110:00 am to 1:00 pmKenilworth Senior Center526 Boulevard, Kenilworth, NJ

Wednesday, May 235:00 to 8:00 pmSpringfield Municipal Building100 Mountain Ave., Springfield, NJ

skin Cancer screeningOverlook Hospital dermatologists will provide a free skin screening.Thursday, May 246:00 to 8:00 pmOverlook Family PracticeSuite # L01, 33 Overlook Road, Summit, NJ

Cholesterol screeningTotal cholesterol, HDL and TC/HDL ratio are measured using a simple fingerstick. Education and counseling are offered based on results. Fasting is not required. Registration is required.Fee: $10Friday, June 110:00 am to NoonProvident BankSouth Street, New Providence, NJ

n suPPort grouPs

substance Abuse Family support groupParticipants will learn ways to cope with substance abusing family members. No registration required.Tuesdays, April 24 and May 1–29; Wednesdays, June 6–136:30 to 8:00 pmAtlantic Behavioral Health Outpatient46-48 Beauvoir Avenue, Summit, NJ

n WoMen’s HeAltH

Bone Health and osteoporosisAn Overlook Health Educator will speak about osteoporosis and a bone density screening will be offered to the first 25 women to register. Registration is required.Fee: $10 for bone density screeningThursday, May 37:15 to 8:30 pmSummit yMCA67 Maple Street, Summit, NJPresenter: Pam Rudy, Coordinator, Health Education

Get the latest health and wellness news by signing up for your free, personalized e-health newsletter at atlantichealth.org.

For a referral to an Atlantic Health physician, call 1-800-247-9580.

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What Is Pollen, Anyway?

Pollen is more than just the stuff that makes us sneeze each spring. This microscopic powdery substance, actually egg-shaped male cells, enables trees, weeds and grasses to reproduce. Because the cells are so small—each one is less than the width of a human hair—the wind can carry them great distances, especially if the weather is dry. When the air is humid, pollen becomes damp and grounded.

Plants usually emit pollen in the morning between 5 and 10 am, so put off gardening and mowing the lawn until later in the day if you’re allergic.

When Allergies Attackfor many of us, blooming flowers and budding trees signal more than the arrival of spring. if you’re one of the 40 million americans who suffer from allergies each year, they also bring itchy, watery eyes and sneezing. our spring allergy survival guide can help.

allergens come in all shapes anD siZes, from mold to pet dander to tree pollen. Mold and pet dander are often year-round nuisances, but if your eyes start watering at the first sign of warmer weather, you may suffer from seasonal allergic rhinitis. Sometimes called hay fever, seasonal allergies occur when your body overreacts to the pollen of grasses, weeds and trees. Your body reacts to pollen as if it was harmful, and your immune system releases potent chemicals known as histamines. These chemicals cause sneezing, a runny nose, headache, cough and itchy, watery eyes.

solutions for Your sneezingWhile you can’t escape the allergens, you can learn to cope. The three main avenues for treating

allergies are:1. giving culprits the cold shoulder—Spring clean to eliminate the source of allergens from

your home and other environments as much as possible. Dust thoroughly twice a week, wash your bed linens once a week and machine-wash or dry-clean draperies, slipcovers, blankets and comforters frequently. Also, shut your windows to keep out pollen, change clothes after playing or working in the yard and shower at night to wash pollen from your body and hair.

2. Popping a sneeze stopper—If left unchecked, allergy symptoms can lead to painful sinus or ear infections. Several non-prescription medications—such as antihistamines, decongestants, eye drops and nasal sprays—may ease symptoms. If you have asthma, talk with your physician before taking an over-the-counter allergy medication.

3. taking your best shot—When severe allergies attack—making over-the-counter medications ineffective and taking a toll on your quality of life—talk with your physician about which allergy treatment is right for you. Immunotherapy (allergy shots) can be effective against allergies that persist for more than three months during a year. The sequence of injections gradually helps your immune system build up a tolerance to bothersome allergens.

To find an allergy specialist at Morristown Memorial or Overlook Hospitals, call 1-800-247-9580 or visit atlantichealth.org and click on “Find A Doctor.”

On AlertCheck these websites for daily pollen counts: theweathernetwork.com pollen.com aaaai.org

Achoo!

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“there’s a lot of information aVailaBle that is unreliable, biased and just plain incorrect,” says Pat Regenberg, MLS, AHIP, librarian at the Overlook Hospital Medical Library, the largest medical library in the state. “You literally can’t judge a book by its cover—or an Internet site based on its appearance—when your health is at risk.”

Fortunately, there are numerous safe places to go for reliable health information.

Your local medical library. Librarians trained in health science librarianship, like those found at Overlook and Morristown Memorial Hospital’s Medical Libraries, are extremely knowledgeable about locating medical information. With their assistance, you’ll be able to find books, magazines and websites with the latest and most reliable information.

Atlantic Health’s medical libraries are free and open to the public, and master’s degree-level librarians are available to help you find any information you need. Consumer books can be checked out—though reference books must stay in the library—and you can even use the library’s computers with Internet access to aid in your search.

the internet. When looking for health information, more than 110 million Americans have turned to the Internet for help. For reliable information, look for websites that end in “.gov” (sponsored by the federal government), “.edu” (sponsored by a university or medical school) or “.org” (sponsored by a not-for-profit group). Sites that end in “.com” can be commercial sites with a bias.

“You can also look for the ‘HON’ seal, which is like the Good Housekeeping seal for health information on the Internet,” Regenberg says. “This seal means that the website has fulfilled a specific code of contact and you can rely on the information you see there.”

online newsletters. You can now receive reliable health information right in your email inbox. You can sign up for these e-newsletters at many websites, and the latest information about specific diseases or conditions will be sent regularly via email. Some sites—including atlantichealth.org—allow you to personalize the service so you receive only information that is important to you and your family.

referrals online. If you’re looking for a new physician or you need a second opinion, consider using the 24-hour online physician referral service at atlantichealth.org. Here, you can search for a physician through several criteria, including types of insurance accepted, languages spoken and gender, to determine who best meets your needs.

Consumer library information Prescription (CliP). Your physician can actually write an “information prescription” for you to take directly to the

library, or, by calling a single number (�0�-522-26��) or emailing a simple request, a librarian with Atlantic Health will respond to

your request for information within 24 hours. Information can be mailed, faxed, emailed or picked up from the

library, whichever option is easiest for you. Visit atlantichealth.org and search using keyword

“libraries” to reach the CLIP page, then click on the “Ask the Hospital Librarian” link.

Where to Go for Helpful Health Information

When you or a loved one has been diagnosed with an illness or injury, you want access to the most reliable medical information available. so how do you find information that is accurate and easy to understand?

Want to know more about diabetes? The Overlook and Morristown Memorial Hospital Medical Libraries provide classes on how to search for diabetes information or any other topic you may be interested in. For more information, visit atlantichealth.org and click on “libraries.”

Health Information Health Information Health Information Health Information Health Information Health Information Health Information Health Information Health Information Health Information Health Information Health Information Health Information Health Information Health Information Health Information

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Whether you’re neW to the area or looking for a neW physician, you may want to consider the services of a physician known as a geriatrician. This medical specialty—which is a branch of internal medicine or family medicine—focuses on the unique problems or diseases of the aging population.

“Unfortunately, there aren’t nearly enough physicians who are trained to meet the needs of geriatric patients, and this need is only going to increase as the baby boomer population ages,” says Thomas Holland, MD, geriatrician and family medicine physician for Overlook Hospital and associate director for Overlook Hospital Family Practice Residency Program. “We’ve introduced a new geriatrics component to our Family Medicine Residency Program, so these

primary care physicians will be more experienced in caring for the elderly once their training is complete.”

An Added level of CareThough many people ages 65 and

greater are in perfect health, there is a segment of the senior population with more advanced health problems that require extra medical attention. Primary care physicians are able to care for the vast majority of these patients, but many patients and their families choose to consult with a geriatrician when medical problems become more complicated or if social problems persist.

The goal of a geriatrician is to help patients maintain or improve the way they function; identify and manage conditions that frequently accompany

heart disease or diabetes (such as obesity, high glucose, blood pressure and cholesterol levels); and maximize patient comfort and dignity.

“While problems associated with aging aren’t inevitable, many people find that they do need an extra level of medical care as they age,” says Vineesh Bhatnagar, MD, internal medicine and palliative care physician and director of geriatrics for Overlook Hospital. “Older patients might respond differently to illness and disease than younger adults, so it’s important that these patients find a physician who can not only treat illness or disease, but also can coordinate the additional medical care, social services and potentially even psychiatric services a patient may need.”

Special Care for a

SpecialAGe

According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human

Services Administration on Aging, the current number

of people ages 65 and older will double by the year

2030, eventually reaching more than 70 million. The

aging baby boomer population has led to an increased

need for physicians with geriatric expertise.

12 well aware

Page 12

To meet the

needs of the

aging community,

Overlook Hospital

has launched

several new clinics. The Memory

Disorders Clinic helps patients

with dementia or Alzheimer’s

retain as much of their memory

as possible through medications

and exercise. The Gait and

Balance Clinic is overseen

by the physical therapy and

rehabilitation department and

helps patients learn skills they

need to prevent falls.

Help for the Family

While hospice care is sometimes hard to think about, it’s an important service dedicated to providing support to people during difficult times in their lives and the lives of their loved ones. By waiting to ask for these services, families often miss out on all the benefits Atlantic Homecare and Hospice can offer. Thanks to a team of registered nurses, therapists, home health aides and volunteers, Atlantic Homecare and Hospice provides these compassionate end-of-life services either in the home or a nursing facility:

Close-to-Home HelpNow, more doctors recently trained in

geriatrics will provide an additional level of care to residents of the community who need these specialized services.

“We have 1� family medicine residents who are exposed to geriatric care through a variety of settings, beginning with routine office practice,” Dr. Holland says. “In the second and third years of the residency program, each resident expands his or her knowledge by visiting the patient in his or her home or at a combination nursing home and rehabilitation center affiliated with the Family Medicine Residency Program, so they can get the experience of following a patient’s care.”

Each month, the residents evaluate their assigned patients’ conditions, respond to any questions or concerns the

patients might have and work with the patients’ caregivers to coordinate any additional care the patient might need. This could include support services such as social work or occupational, speech or physical therapy.

The departments of internal medicine at Overlook and Morristown Memorial Hospitals are striving to start a combined fellowship program in geriatrics. This will help further enhance the education of our medical residents and community physicians and also will improve the quality of care for the elderly.

“We’re focused on meeting the needs of all our patients—from pediatrics to geriatrics,” Dr. Bhatnagar says. “We want to be able to provide care for the patient throughout all the milestones of his or her life.”

To find a geriatric specialist, visit atlantichealth.org, click on “Find A Doctor” and choose “Geriatric Medicine” from the specialty list.

• medical management and social work• pastoral counseling and bereavement• skilled nursing care• volunteer services

• 24-hour access to a nurse for questions, concerns or visits

• caregiver instruction• respite care

Other non-traditional services include assistance with daily living, personal support, help with bathing and dressing, light housekeeping, meal preparation, grocery shopping and even taking your pet for a walk.

Hospice nurse liaisons are on-site at Morristown Memorial Hospital and Overlook Hospital. Visit atlantichealth.org and search for “nurse liaison” for more information.

Maintain Their IndependenceHere are five things you can do this weekend to help an elderly parent or neighbor: • Check all lights and change lightbulbs as needed. • Put carpet tape on the backs of throw rugs. • Check the batteries in smoke detectors and alarm systems. • Install bright lights in all rooms, hallways and stairways. • Check all staircases for loose banisters or boards.

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Recipe for FunMake healthy food fun with these apple volcanoes.

TO MAKe:Cut the top off an apple and discard the core. Fill the center of the apple with peanut butter. Sprinkle granola or raisins on top. Bite into the apple and enjoy the peanut buttery eruption!

plastic surgery can take years off your face, but your body can look years younger without costing you a cent. The secret is simple: exercise. Try these tips today to help take years off your looks and add years to your life.

Steps to Looking and Feeling

Eat at Home for Healthy Kids

Start strong.Strength training can tone up your muscles and give your bones a boost to beat osteoporosis. Don’t have weights at home? Lift soup cans or milk jugs instead.

Stretch.Stretching keeps your muscles limber and strong and helps avoid injuries. Before working out, do a series of several neck rolls, calf stretches and lunges to help you limber up.

Sweat.Aerobic activities like swimming, walking, biking, running and playing tag with your kids for 30 minutes, four times a week, gets your heart going and keeps the pounds off.

Stand up straight.Mom was right. Bad posture makes us look older and can hurt our bones. Pick up a Pilates tape to strengthen your core and improve your posture.

Switch it up.Vary your activities to keep your interest. Try spinning one week, and hiking or step aerobics the next. Your body will look and feel more youthful.

home? Lift soup cans or milk jugs instead.

chilDhooD oBesity has reacheD epic proportions in the uniteD states, with nearly 17 percent of children ages 2 to 1� overweight or obese, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. One way to help your child maintain a healthy weight is to cook meals at home.

“Preparing meals at home gives parents the chance to introduce healthful foods into their children’s diets,” says Mary Finckenor, registered dietitian at the Cardiac Health Center at Morristown Memorial Hospital. “If you’re trying to make big changes in your family’s diet, take small steps to avoid getting discouraged.”

Here are some simple ways to make your home-cooked meals count.• offer kid-friendly fare. Always include something in the meal that you know your child will eat—like carrots or cherries—and gradually introduce new vegetables and fruits. You can also hide good-for-you foods in your child’s favorite meals by making veggie pizzas or adding tomatoes and broccoli in pasta. • remember child-sized portions. A serving of vegetables for small children is measured in teaspoons, not cups. If your 4-year-old eats two pieces of broccoli, that’s an entire serving.• teach moderation. Remind your kids that sweets or other junk foods are occasional treats and not everyday staples.

• Model healthy eating. Your children are much more likely to eat healthfully if you do, and you’ll reap the benefits for yourself too.

Younger

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14 well aware

Quick response to stroke is important because the longer the brain goes without oxygen the more damage is caused. If treatment is sought within three hours of symptom onset, clot-busting medication called tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) can be administered to dissolve the clot and minimize damage in ischemic strokes, which comprise up to �0 percent of strokes. Ischemic strokes occur when a blood vessel has clogged, blocking blood flow to the brain.

Where to goBoth Morristown Memorial and

Overlook Hospitals are designated as primary stroke centers by the Joint Commission, the nation’s leading accrediting body in health care. This means both facilities comply with national standards and use recommendation and clinical practice guidelines effectively to help victims of stroke as quickly as possible.

Following treatment of stroke, therapy usually begins within the first 24 hours in the hospital.

“An admission referral specialist on the neuroscience team is involved in patient care

from day one,” says Kathleen O’Donnell, ANP, CRRN, manager of inpatient rehabilitation and continuum of care for the Atlantic Rehabilitation Institute. “After two to five days, full rehabilitation begins at the Institute and is tailored to each patient’s needs and goals.”

inpatient rehabilitationIn addition to traditional

therapy for stroke survivors, the Institute is seeing tremendous results with new therapies in the program.

Chi gong. This ancient energy therapy uses deep breathing and relaxation techniques to reduce stress. Patients report sleeping better, ability to attend to therapies better and having a deeper sense of calm.

litegait system. A harness allows patients to use the muscles for walking while gradually building their strength. The harness is safe and builds confidence by avoiding the danger and discouragement of falls.

interactive rehabilitation exercise (ireX). Using virtual reality rehabilitation games, such as those featuring virtual monkeys throwing bananas,

patients simulate catching and build their skill levels safely.

Vitalstim. Electrodes stimulate the sensation of swallowing by sending impulses to the larynx. This is important because with stroke, survivors must often retrain muscles to do things we take for granted, such as swallowing. With this therapy, patients are able to strengthen the muscles in their throat more quickly.

outpatient Care“After three to four weeks,

72 percent of our patients are ready to go home, which is more than the regional and national average of about 66 percent,” O’Donnell says. “Going home is just the next step in the continuum of care, however. When patients graduate from outpatient care, they can then take part in the stroke survivors group that meets two times a week. Talking and sharing with others who have gone through the same journey can have a huge impact on quality of life.”

For more on the Atlantic Rehabilitation Institute, visit atlantichealth.org.

Life After

Strokelife after a stroke begins the moment you arrive at the emergency department. the coordinated efforts of the stroke recovery program at the atlantic rehabilitation institute will help you get back to your life, starting with day one.

When Stroke Happens

Call 911 if you experience the following symptoms:ü sudden weakness or

numbness in arm, leg or face, especially if only on one side

ü difficulty speaking or understanding

ü blurred vision in one or both eyes

ü sudden dizziness or loss of coordination

ü severe headache with no known cause

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We have the most advanced neurological teams in the state.How quickly and effectively you’re treated after a stroke is critical.

As nationally designated (JCAHO) primary stroke centers, Morristown Memorial

and Overlook Hospitals have round-the-clock teams of highly skilled neuro

specialists and specially trained stroke nurses. Overlook in Summit is the only

hospital in the state treating patients using the Merci®Retriever, a remarkable

new minimally invasive stroke treatment. We’re a leader in the latest

stroke technology—delivering the best possible recoveries.

We can’t prevent a stroke from happening.

But we can treat it once it does.

With a stroke, speed is everything.

For a neurological referral, call 800-247-9580. Get the latest health and wellness news by signing up for your free, personalized e-health newsletter at atlantichealth.org.

Well Aware

Nonprofit Organization

US Postage PAIDRandom Lake, WI

Permit No. 111

This publication in no way seeks to serve as a substitute for professional medical care. Consult your physician before undertaking any form of medical treatment or adopting any exercise program or dietary guidelines.

atlantic HealtH system

475 soutH street

morristown, nJ 07960-6459