Dear Doctor:Like many families, we are coming off a few months with the kids cooped up inside. Summer is officially in full swing, but camp and other summer sports are either canceled or curtailed, and I’m becoming concerned with keeping my kids physically active. What strategies can I use to get them off their screens and outside without turning into a 24/7 nag?Signed,“Housebound But ...

Dear Doctor,My partner and I were planning to start trying for a baby this year—but then COVID-19 hit. Now, instead of excitement at the thought of growing our family, I find myself worrying about all of the uncertainties. Do you think it’s still safe to try and get pregnant right now?Sincerely,“Pondering Parenthood”Dear Pondering:There's no right or wrong when it comes to family ...

Bugs are essential. There are millions of species out there, helping to keep our planet in balance. They pollinate our food and recycle the world’s nutrients. But some of our many-legged co-inhabitants have other, less appealing roles to play as the bearers of itchy bites and unpleasant illnesses.Mosquitos and ticks are the two most common culprits. Thankfully, the mosquitos of ...

Enjoy your summerThe weather is warmer, school is out, and the sun shines just a little bit longer—that’s right, it’s summer! As you and your children prepare for the summer, Phelps Hospital, Northwell Health, wants to ensure you’re staying safe while having fun in the sun.Will COVID-19 affect my summer plans?When planning for summer activities, consider safe practices before, during, ...

A few months ago, the sight of a masked person approaching your house or passing you on the street might have been enough to give you—or anyone—pause. Now, streets and stores are filled with a colorful array of mask-wearing strangers. The masks are pink or blue or leopard; they sport the logos of our favorite superheroes, sports teams, and cartoon characters; and some have even been ...

Why health screenings are important:Knowing your risk factors for disease is one of the first steps toward prevention and treatment. At Northwell Health, we recommend regular health screening tests so that you truly understand your risk factors. Then you and your primary care physician can work together to address health problems before they start.What are health screenings?Health ...

There are few things more exhilarating than zooming downhill on a bike. When I used to live in New York City, I rode my bike to work nearly every day. It was a healthy habit, and the daily exercise felt great! Only the snow would send me to the subway. There is no question, riding a bike is as fun now as it was when I was a kid. But it can also be dangerous. Accidents happen. Yet, there ...

Dear Doctor,My kids are spending a lot more time outside now that the weather is warmer. I’m seeing some moms switching to mineral sunscreen this year. Should I be using it instead of what I’ve relied on for years?Sincerely,“Searching for SPF”Dear Searching:Kudos to you for being on top of sun protection. Shielding kids’ skin from the sun’s damaging rays is essential: Sunburns during ...

Dear Doctor,As the parent of three young kids, I’m kind of freaked out by the recent news that there’s a new life-threatening complication of COVID-19 in children. What do we know about this problem, and how worried should I be?Sincerely,“Panicked Parent”Dear Panicked:It’s totally understandable that you’re concerned about this new complication called multisystem inflammatory syndrome ...

Your spine is an essential part of your body, constantly working while you stand, sit, and sleep. When you experience discomfort in your back and spine, managing that pain can be a challenge. The Spine and Back Pain Program at Phelps Hospital, Northwell Health offers a comprehensive approach, including customized treatment plans and pain management evaluations, to address your pain. Our ...