SNOW BLOWER SAFETYThe return of winter " and snow " means a return of snow blower-related injuries in emergency departments. These accidents often result in injuries ranging from lacerations to amputations. Invariably, all were easily prevented. That's because even when a gasoline-run snow blower jams, its cylinders are still compressing. People who use their hands to unclog the jam run a severe risk of hurting themselves and others around them.
Philip Anderson, MD, an emergency department physician at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston and Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital-Needham, has treated many of these injuries. He is available to be interviewed and can comment on the proper usage of snow blowers as well as prevention such injuries.
WINTER FOOT WOESThe winter is fast approaching and if it is anything like the record-breaking winters of the past three seasons, people living in cold-weather climates are in for a rough time until Spring comes around.
There are many foot-related injuries which can occur during the winter months. John Giurini, DPM, a podiatrist at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, sees everything from frost bite due to the lack of proper footwear in cold, wet conditions to sports related injuries from not maintaining exercise during the holidays and being overactive once people start their New Years weight loss resolutions. Giurini saw an unusually high amount of these ailments last year. He is available to be interviewed and can comment on proper winter attire, as well as ways to maintain some exercise so people do not overexert themselves come January 1.
NEW YEAR, NEW YOUGetting fit is often at the top of people's New Year's resolutions lists. Unfortunately for most people who purchase their own exercise equipment, it usually ends up sitting in the corner of their bedroom. Marlene Dacosta, an exercise physiologist at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, has tips on how to select the right equipment to improve cardiac health.
THIS SEASON BEWARE OF 'HOLIDAY HEART SYNDROME'Whether it's eggnog, spiced cider or mulled wine, the holidays provide people with ample opportunities to consume alcohol. But researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center have found that heavy alcohol consumption " 35 or more drinks per week " can significantly increase men's risk of developing atrial fibrillation, a dangerous type of arrhythmia and one of the leading risk factors for stroke. Kenneth Mukamal, M.D., who is in general medicine and primary care at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center is an expert on these issues.
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