As we enter the last month of 2024 and welcome December’s crisp chill and the excitement of holiday celebrations, we at Ahava Medical wish to remind you that your health and well-being are our priority. 

Wishing you health and happiness,
The Ahava Medical Team

December Weather Highlights

• Average Temperature: Highs around 45°F (7°C), lows near 30°F (-1°C).
• Stay Warm: Keep the ears and fingers protected from the cold.

December Holiday Reminders

• Chanukah: December 25 – January 2
• Christmas: December 25
• New Year’s Eve: December 31

Pediatric Corner: For the Little Ones

Monthly Pediatric Tips

Winter’s here, and comes the not-so-fun wave of colds, flu, and sniffles that seem to spread like wildfire. Here’s what you need to know to keep your little ones safe, cozy, and thriving through the season:

1. Ensure infants and toddlers are bundled in warm, breathable layers. Use gloves with clip attachments to avoid losing them, and opt for hats that cover the ears to prevent heat loss.
2. Dry winter air can be harsh on young skin. Before heading outdoors, apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly (Vaseline) on cheeks, lips, and exposed areas. This acts as a barrier against windburn and cold-induced dryness.
3. RSV can cause mild, cold-like symptoms but may become severe, especially for infants and young children. Watch for signs such as persistent coughing, wheezing, rapid breathing, or a bluish tint to the skin due to oxygen deprivation. If you notice these symptoms, contact your pediatrician immediately for guidance and possible treatment.
4. Incorporate immune-boosting foods rich in vitamins and minerals. Add garlic for its antimicrobial properties, citrus fruits for vitamin C, and warm herbal teas like chamomile (safe for older kids) to keep them hydrated and soothe their throats.
5. Stay alert for symptoms beyond the sniffles. A persistent cough, fever that lasts more than 48 hours, or wheezing should prompt a call to your pediatrician. Regular handwashing and keeping surfaces sanitized can help minimize the spread of germs at home.

A Note From the Pediatrician:

Stay on Top of Vaccinations
Winter viruses spread fast. Ensure your child’s flu shot is up to date, and consider additional vaccines recommended by your child’s pediatrician to boost their immune defenses.

If your child shows signs like difficulty breathing, dehydration (look for dry lips or lack of tears when crying), or persistent lethargy, don’t wait—schedule a visit. It’s always better to stay safe and check something out than ignore it. 

At Ahava Medical, we prioritize rapid and accurate diagnoses. Our in-house lab capabilities allow us to process culture tests and provide results overnight. This means faster, targeted treatment options for your child or family member, minimizing illness duration and improving care.

Schedule Your Appointment 

Women’s Health & Wellness

The Well Women 

Self-Care & Health Dos and Don’ts 

Do: Prioritize Your Check-Ups

• Why: The end-of-year rush can make skipping your annual or prenatal check-ups easy, but staying on top of these appointments keeps you proactive about your health.
• Tip: Schedule your screenings now to avoid last-minute stress.

Don’t: Neglect Hydration

• Why: A warm drink soothes digestion and keeps you hydrated. Herbal teas like peppermint or ginger are great choices.
• Tip: Start your morning with warm lemon water to boost metabolism and flush out toxins.

Do: Upgrade Your Sleep Environment

• Why: Quality sleep helps combat winter fatigue and stress. A silk pillowcase maintains skin moisture and reduces hair breakage.
• Tip: Add a drop of lavender essential oil to your pillow for better, more restful sleep.

Don’t: Let Winter Dryness Win

• Why: Cold air can lead to chapped, dry skin. Ignoring this can cause discomfort.
• Tip: Apply a rich moisturizer or natural oil (like coconut or shea butter) to your hands and feet before bed. Cover them with cotton gloves and socks to lock in moisture overnight.

Do: Take Epsom Salt Baths

• Why: Soaking in Epsom salt helps reduce inflammation, ease muscle tension, and promote calmness.
• Tip: Dedicate 20 minutes to a bath whenever you need a gentle detox.

Don’t: Push Off Movement

• Why: Reduced physical activity can lead to sluggishness and even delay your period due to hormonal changes.
• Tip: Short, gentle exercises like stretching or walking support circulation and hormonal balance.

Do: Support Your Cycle

• Why: Less sunlight impacts the endocrine system, leading to irregular cycles or heavier flows.
• Tip: Stay active and maintain a nutrient-rich diet to help regulate your cycle. Ensure iron intake by adding leafy greens, lentils, and fortified cereals, and pair them with vitamin C
  for better absorption.

Reproductive Health Insights

• Don’t skip your gynecological health this season. Dr. Samantha Cohen at our Flatbush facility offers expert screenings and early detection services. Visit us at 2557 Nostrand Avenue for sensitive and personalized care.

Family Health Tips

Seasonal Safety

Dry winter air can cause respiratory irritation, dry skin, and sinus discomfort. To alleviate these issues, use a humidifier to maintain indoor humidity levels between 30% and 50%. This range helps keep airways moist and supports easier breathing. Be sure to clean the humidifier regularly to prevent mold and bacteria buildup.

For safety, keep decorations, candles, and lights out of reach of children. Avoid using small, detachable ornaments or decorations that could pose a choking hazard. If any family members have respiratory sensitivities, choose unscented candles or limit their use to minimize irritation.

Burning multiple candles can negatively affect indoor air quality and may trigger respiratory issues in sensitive individuals. To improve ventilation, open a window slightly or use an exhaust fan to ensure fresh air circulation.

Additionally, be cautious with disposable hand warmers and chemical heating packets, as they can be hazardous if torn open or ingested. To prevent burns, keep them out of children’s reach and avoid prolonged direct contact with skin.

Senior Citizen Corner: Aging Well

Senior Services at Ahava

We proudly offer senior-focused services, including expert cardiology, nephrology, and physical therapy, to support unique health needs. Our team is dedicated to managing heart health, maintaining kidney function, and enhancing mobility, ensuring seniors feel their best.

Staying Active and Social

Simple activities like group yoga, at-home stretches, or brisk outdoor walks (while bundled up) can invigorate energy levels and foster social interaction. Our aquatic therapy, conducted in heated pools with chair lifts, provides a gentle rehabilitation environment perfect for improving mobility, strength, and flexibility.

Tips for Winter Wellness

• If you live alone, consider inviting a grandchild or family member for companionship. 
• While snow may not always be severe, planning is wise. Arrange for a responsible neighbor or professional to help shovel snow and spread salt to prevent slippery surfaces and dangerous black ice.

Mind & Body Balance

Mental Health Matters

Support your mental wellness this season by incorporating daily mindfulness, reducing screen time before bed, and practicing good sleep hygiene. Staying connected with friends and family can enhance your mood and reduce feelings of isolation.

Need Additional Support?
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or just need someone to talk to, consider scheduling an appointment with one of our compassionate social workers. They’re here to help with life’s challenges and provide guidance, whether you’re managing stress, navigating relationships, or coping with seasonal changes. Our team is dedicated to offering personalized support to help you feel balanced and understood.

Join Our Yoga Community
For a peaceful way to connect with yourself and others, join our yoga sessions:

• When: Tuesdays at 11:30 AM
• Where: Williamsburg location
• Led by: Tzippora Barzi, OTR/L, a certified pelvic floor therapist

Enjoy a calming, stress-free environment and insurance-covered sessions to support mind and body wellness.

Schedule a session with a social worker
Join our yoga class

Nutrition Wellness 

What to Eat This Winter

Do you think you know what healthy eating looks like? Winter calls for specific nutrition strategies that not only keep you full but boost your immunity and energy levels. Let’s explore what should be on your plate and why.

Add Winter Veggies to Your Meals Seasonal vegetables like sweet potatoes, kale, and squash are packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants that strengthen your immune system and support digestive health.
Add roasted sweet potatoes or a handful of chopped kale to your soups and stews for a comforting, nutrient-dense meal. These veggies offer high doses of vitamins A and C, which are critical in immune defense and skin health.

Swap Refined Grains for Whole Grains White bread and refined grains might be quick fixes, but they lack the fiber and essential nutrients your body craves, especially during colder months when metabolism can slow down.
Opt for whole grains like whole wheat bread, quinoa, or brown rice. Whole grains provide a steady release of energy, keeping you fuller for longer and preventing the mid-afternoon energy slump. Plus, they support healthy digestion and can help regulate blood sugar levels.

Myth Buster: Cracking knuckles doesn’t cause arthritis. While it may lead to temporary discomfort, research shows it does not contribute to long-term joint issues.

What’s New at Ahava?

December Highlights

• Grand Opening: Our state-of-the-art Flatbush facility is now open, offering expanded services and modern amenities to elevate your care experience.
• New Parking Lot: Enjoy stress-free visits with over 40 parking spaces at our Flatbush location.
• Top Dermatologist Relocation:

We are excited to welcome Dr. Richard Berry, MD, and Physician Assistant Gail Rosenberg to our team at 2577 Nostrand Avenue, where their combined 38 years of dermatological expertise will enhance your care experience.

Meet Dr. Richard Berry: Dr. Richard Berry has dedicated over 38 years to treating various medical and surgical dermatological conditions. He earned his education at Brooklyn College and Downstate Medical Center, receiving specialized training under the renowned Dr. Alan Shalita, an expert in treating Acne Vulgaris. In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Berry maintains an academic role and is board-certified by the American Academy of Dermatology.

Our Dermatological Services Include:

• Acne Treatment
• Nail Disorders
• Psoriasis Management
• Rash Evaluations
• Skin Cancer Screening and Treatment
• Hair Loss Solutions
• Wart Removal
• Skin Allergy Assessments

Meet PA Gail Rosenberg: Physician Assistant Gail Rosenberg brings a wealth of experience and a patient-centered approach to our practice. She is committed to listening to her patients and fostering a collaborative relationship to promote long-term health.

Crown Heights Convenience: Our Williamsburg location is just 15 minutes from Crown Heights, providing comprehensive radiology services for easy access to essential diagnostics.

Community Campaign: “See the Good”

Our “See the Good” campaign in Flatbush sparked community-wide positivity and highlighted Ahava as the top destination for free prescription glasses through insurance. Thank you for joining us in spreading this vision of connection and care!

The Election of Donald Trump and What It Means for the Healthcare Climate

As we welcome the news of Donald Trump’s election, the future of healthcare is set to reflect a continuation of policies emphasizing deregulation and market-driven approaches. Under a renewed Trump administration, we can anticipate:

1. Focus on Deregulation: Expect efforts to reduce further federal regulations affecting healthcare providers, potentially impacting hospital operations and pharmaceutical practices.
2. Affordable Care Act (ACA) Adjustments: Previous efforts to repeal and replace the ACA may see a resurgence, reshaping insurance coverage and Medicaid expansions across states.
3. Emphasis on Price Transparency: Trump has championed price transparency initiatives, requiring hospitals to disclose procedure prices. This focus could intensify, aiming to make healthcare pricing more consumer-friendly.
4. Telemedicine and Innovation: The administration may continue supporting telehealth and medical technology advancements, emphasizing competition and private-sector innovation.