Penn Medicine In the Community: Upcoming Events

This fall, Penn Medicine will host or take part in numerous events throughout the tri-state area. These events provide our physicians and staff an opportunity to be closer to the people we serve and allow us to be more than simply a health care provider; it allows us to be part of the community.

September 8-9: Kennett Square Mushroom Festival
September 19: Street Fare
September 21: Penn Medicine Valley Forge Fall Festival
September 21: Yardley Harvest Day
September 28-29: Woodbury Fall Arts Fest

Penn Primary Care Practices at Kennett Square Mushroom Festival: Sept. 7-8

Voted one of the top festivals in Pennsylvania, the Kennett Square Mushroom Festival returns for the 28th consecutive year. Mushroom lovers from across the country come to celebrate with a two-day festival of food and family fungi, which includes a parade, competitions, music and over 200 vendors.

Visitors will also be able to:

• Taste soups and other mushroom dishes
• Meet celebrity chefs
• Tour local farms

While enjoying the festivities, be sure to visit one of the several participating Penn Medicine practices. Meet Penn physicians and staff and learn how each practice can help you and your family members stay healthy.

Practices in attendance:

Penn Family Medicine Kennett: With an emphasis on disease prevention and promoting healthy lifestyles, this practice provides care for the whole family, from childhood on.

Penn Internal Medicine East Marshall Street: Comprised of six board-certified internal medicine physicians and a physician’s assistant, this practice offers the personal attention patients deserve. Several physicians are bilingual and the practice offers same day appointments.

Penn Family Medicine West Chester: This team of board-certified physicians offers quality care and excellent service for men, women and children.

Date: Saturday and Sunday, September 7-8
Time: Saturday: 10:00 am-7 pm Sunday: 10:00 am-5 pm
Location: 114 W. State Street, Kennett Square, Pa. 19348

Penn Medicine Chestnut Hill at Mt. Airy Street Fare: Sept. 19

For the third year in a row, Mt. Airy will host a fantastic food-centric evening street festival. Come out to Street Fare and sample tasty food and beverages from gourmet food trucks and local restaurants along historic Germantown Avenue.

Visitors will also be able to:

• Check out over 40 food trucks and restaurants
• Sip on craft-brewed beer, wine and cocktails
• Meet local crafters and enjoy live entertainment

While enjoying these great street eats, stop by our Penn Medicine Chestnut Hill table to chat with physicians and staff about all of the health care services Penn has to offer in Chestnut Hill.

Penn Medicine Chestnut Hill has been a part of the community for over 20 years and the physicians and staff pride themselves on developing long-term, meaningful relationships with their patients.

Date: Thursday, September 19
Time: 6:00-10:30 pm
Location: 7000-7200 Germantown Ave Mt. Airy, Pa. 19119

Penn Medicine Valley Forge Fall Festival on Sept. 21

Join physicians and staff of Penn Medicine Valley Forge for the 3rd annual Fall Festival. The day will be filled with fun for all ages as kids can enjoy a bounce house, games, music, face painting and more! Numerous local vendors, including the Tredyffrin Township Police Department, the Valley Forge Running Company and others, will also be there with giveaways and activities.

Visitors will also be able to:

• Take a tour of the state-of-the art facility
• Check their blood pressure
• Enjoy tasty food and drinks
• Talk with physicians from a number of departments

Are you a runner? An early riser?
Begin the day by joining Penn Medicine Valley Forge in support of the TE/Conestoga Football Scholarship 5K Run/2K Walk. The event starts at 9:00 am. Sign up at: www.runtheday.com search: Conestoga

Date: Saturday, September 21
Time: 10:00 am - 1:00 pm
Location: Penn Medicine Valley Forge 1001 Chesterbrook Boulevard Berwyn, Pa. 19312

About Penn Medicine Valley Forge

Penn Medicine Valley Forge is a state-of-the art facility providing expert primary and specialty health care, plus a full range of services. Penn Medicine Valley Forge has primary care and specialty care physicians; as well as an on-site laboratory, radiology services and, now, the Abramson Cancer Center at Valley Forge.

Penn Medicine Bucks County at Yardley Harvest Day: Sept. 21

Check out one-of-a-kind craft artwork and handmade pieces offered by over 100 exhibitors, delicious food vendors, entertainment and community-sponsored booths at the 44th annual Yardley Harvest Day Festival.

While enjoying the festivities, visit the Penn Medicine Bucks County physicians and staff table to learn about the multiple health care services offered at one convenient site, located in Yardley, Pa. Patients and their families can see their primary care physician, consult with a specialist, get lab work and radiology services all in one place.

Date: Saturday, September 21
Time: 10:00 am-5:00 pm
Location: Downtown Yardley Pa. 19067

Penn Medicine Woodbury Heights at Woodbury Fall Arts Fest: Sept. 28-29

Stop by and visit Penn Medicine Woodbury Heights physicians and staff at the 2nd annual Woodbury Fall Arts Fest! The FAF is a weekend-long, free celebration of the arts, consisting of over 300 artists, artisans & craftsmen. There will be a special Starlight Concert on Saturday evening, beginning at 7:00 p.m.

Visitors will also be able to:

• Check out five stages of music, including solo acoustic artist Meghan Knight and Philadelphia-based alternative folk band The Hundred Acre Woods
• Enjoy gourmet foods, a wine and cheese experience and a chili cook-off
• Participate in craft beer tasting
• Enjoy interactive fun for kids and adults 

At the Penn Medicine tent, check your blood pressure and learn more about Penn Medicine Woodbury Heights. As a multi-specialty location, this site includes primary care and specialty care physicians, on-site laboratory services, and physical therapy.

Date: Saturday and Sunday, September 28-29
Time: Saturday: 11:00 am-6:00 pm | Starlight Concert 7:00 pm-10:00 pm
Sunday: 12:00 pm-4:00 pm
Location: Woodbury, NJ 08096

Win the Battle Against Allergies

Jeffrey Millstein, MD, a primary care physician at Penn Internal Medicine Woodbury Heights, explains what “allergies” are and how you can win the battle against them this season.

It is that wonderful time of year again. The black and white of winter has given way to the bright colors and plush landscapes of spring. Our moods have brightened; our clothes lightened but, unfortunately for some, the sniffling and sneezing of allergies has blurred the idyllic picture.

Jeffrey Millstein, MD

What are allergies?

Allergies – also known as “hay fever” or seasonal allergic rhinitis – is the fifth most common chronic condition in the United States. Pennsylvania and New Jersey have three allergy “seasons” the spring (when trees pollinate), the summer (when grasses release their pollen) and the fall (ragweed season).

An allergy occurs when your immune system overreacts and mistakes an ordinary substance, such as pollen, as a harmful invader. Inflammatory cells swarm to the area of contact (nose, sinuses, skin and eyes) and release antibodies, histamine and other destructive chemicals in an attempt to combat the “invader”, resulting in an allergic reaction.

How do I know if I have allergies?

Because common symptoms include runny nose, sneezing along with itchy and watery eyes. It can be difficult to distinguish allergies from an upper respiratory infection. There are, however, some clues to help determine what you are suffering from. Allergies can cause fatigue and misery from congestion to irritation of the respiratory tract, but will usually not make one feel truly “ill.” A fever, green or yellow mucous, deep cough or shortness of breath are indicative of infection and should prompt a call or visit to your primary care provider.

Allergies typically begin in childhood or adolescence, but they can develop at any time thereafter. While specific allergies are not directly inherited, your risk of developing allergies is increased if family members are affected.

Are there ways to fight allergies?

Below are some tips to help you get through the sneezing season more comfortably:

Avoid the thing you’re allergic to. Monitor pollen counts in your area and avoid outdoor activity when the count is especially high. The National Allergy Bureau or local weather stations provide accurate, accessible pollen count information. Keeping windows closed, and showering after coming indoors may also help prevent symptoms.

Try over-the-counter medications. Antihistamines are the most common of these remedies. Newer types, like certrizine, fexofenadine and loratadine are effective and are much less sedating than ones of the past. Nasal steroids, mast cell inhibitors and montelukast are other prescription options for refractory symptoms. A number of eye drops are available as well, specifically to treat itchy and watery eyes. Talk to your primary care provider to discuss what options would be best for you.

Natural remedies have shown efficacy for treating allergies. A few natural or homeopathic remedies have been shown to be effective, though some are outside the FDA’s purview: the European herb butterbur has shown some efficacy in clinical studies, similar to antihistamines and migraine relief medicine; salt water nasal spray can help wash out pollen from the nose and sinuses and, some cases, acupuncture can be helpful.

When symptoms do not respond to these interventions, as expected, and symptoms are severe or persistent, it may be time to see an allergist. They can perform skin and serologic testing for specific allergens and offer immunotherapy (allergy shots) when appropriate. Immunotherapy is based on the concept that the immune system can be desensitized to substances that trigger allergies. Injections can potentially lead to a lasting solution to allergy symptoms.

Allergies can be very annoying and sometimes disabling, but many effective options for prevention and treatment are available.

Establishing or maintaining a good rapport with your primary care provider or allergist will most likely lead to a satisfactory solution to this common problem.

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with a Penn primary care physician?

Penn Medicine in the Community: Upcoming Spring Events

This spring, Penn Medicine will take part in numerous events throughout the tri-state area. These events provide our physicians and staff an opportunity to be closer to the people we serve and allow us to be more than simply a health care provider; it allows us to be part of the community.

Click on the image for a printable calendar

Saturday, March 15: Philadelphia More Beautiful Committee’s Annual Block Captain Rally
Saturday, April 5: Zumbathon in Support of the American Lung Association
Saturday, April 26: Lower Bucks Family YMCA Healthy Kids Day
Saturday, April 26: Cherry Hill Earth Festival
Saturday, May 3: Million Dollar Bike Ride
Saturday, May 3: Rittenhouse Row Spring Festival
Saturday, May 17: Kennett Run

2014 Philadelphia More Beautiful Committee’s Block Captain Rally

The return of warm weather means another season of keeping Philadelphia neighborhoods clean is underway. Don’t miss The Philadelphia Streets Department kickoff event with the annual Block Captain Rally. This year's event will feature all Block Captains and will be comprised of multiple workshops, including ones hosted by Penn Presbyterian Internal Medicine, as well as discussing plans for a cleaner Philadelphia.

About Penn Presbyterian Internal Medicine:
This practice provides comprehensive care to adults, including primary care and prevention of illness. Physicians treat patients with a wide array of conditions including hypertension, diabetes mellitus and heart disease. Should the need arise, the faculty also cares for patients admitted to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center.

Date: Saturday, March 15
Time: 9:00 am-2:00 pm
Location: Pennsylvania Convention Center, 1st Floor– 12th and Arch Street Entrance (Northeast corner
Penn Presbyterian workshop details:

• Workshop Room: 102AB
• Workshop Timing:
• Session 1: 10:00-10:45 am
• Session 2: 11:00-11:45 am

Zumbathon with Penn Medicine in Support of the American Lung Association

Penn Medicine supports the American Lung Association and will join them at a Zumbathon in Wayne, PA. Zumba is a dance-based fitness program that combines Latin and international music with dance moves designed to provide a fun, aerobic workout. Get fit while dancing with the area's hottest Zumba instructors and also get a taste of the new craze, Bokwa.

During one of your water breaks, stop by and say hi to the Penn Medicine table. Space is limited. Register today! 

Date: Saturday, April 5
Time: 3:00 pm-6:00 pm
Location: Radnor Activity Center at Sulpizio Gym, Wayne, PA

Penn Medicine Bucks County at Family YMCA Healthy Kids Day

Don't miss this great family event right in your community. In an effort to encourage kids and parents to commit to keeping the body and mind active, this event will feature, among other things, family Zumba, family kickball and family fun. For more information, visit Lower Bucks Family YMCA.

While enjoying the festivities, visit the Penn Internal Medicine & Family Medicine Bucks County table to learn about Penn Primary Care and other specialty care services offered at one convenient site, in Yardley, PA. Patients and their families can see their primary care physician, consult with a specialist, get lab work and radiology services all in one place.

Date: Saturday, April 26
Time: 10:00 am-2:00 pm
Location: Fairless Hills YMCA, Yardley, PA

Penn Medicine Cherry Hill at 5th Annual Cherry Hill Earth Festival

Held at historic Croft Farm, the Cherry Hill Earth Festival promises to be an engaging, healthful, entertaining day for children of all ages. A two and nine-mile Family Fun bike ride, displays and an ‘Artist-in-Residence’ are just a few of the festivities planned! For more information, visit Sustainable Cherry Hill.

Stop by the Penn Family Medicine Cherry Hill table to meet physicians and staff and to learn about the multiple health care services offered at this location. Penn Medicine Cherry Hill is home to both primary and specialty care physicians. Patients are able to see their primary care physician, plus consult with a specialist.

Date: Saturday, April 26
Time: 10:00 am-2:00 pm
Location: Croft Farm
               Cherry Hill, NJ

Rittenhouse Row Spring Festival

The annual Rittenhouse Row Spring Festival is set to take over Rittenhouse Square for a day, showcasing fantastic food, fashion, arts and entertainment. Last year’s event featured more than 40 restaurants, a terrific range of entertainment and endless shopping opportunities.

Don’t forget to visit one of the several participating Penn Medicine practices. Meet Penn physicians and staff and learn how each practice can help you and your family members stay healthy. Penn Medicine will also be partnering with Be Well Philly and feature games and other fun activities. Come check us out on the corner of Broad and Walnut Streets and enter to win a variety of raffle prizes and giveaways!

Date: Saturday, May 3
Time: 12:00-6:00 pm
Location: Broad Street and Walnut Street

Million Dollar Bike Ride

Mark your calendars for the first annual Million Dollar Bike Ride to raise money for rare disease research, organized by the Penn Center for Orphan Disease Research and Therapy and Rare Disease Cycling. The event is the only cycling fundraiser to start and end in the city of Philadelphia.

Refreshments and entertainment at the start/finish line and fun for the entire family. All participants will receive free gear, including a Million Dollar Bike Ride jersey. Individual cyclists can register and raise money for their specific orphan/rare disease foundation.

Date: Saturday, May 3
Time: 9:00 am
Location: Highline Park (31st and Chestnut) on Penn’s campus

Kennett Run

Promoting the general well-being and civic betterment of Kennett area residents, the Kennett Run is an event for all ages and abilities. Ranging from a 1 mile fun walk to a 10k Power Run, there is something for everyone. Following the race, a party will be held for all participants and families.

Be sure to set a few minutes aside to say hi to the physicians and staff from Penn Family Medicine Kennett. With an emphasis on disease prevention and promoting healthy lifestyles, this practice provides care for the whole family, from childhood on.

Date: Saturday, May 17
Time: 7:00 am-12:00 pm
Location: Anson B Nixon Park

Keep Your Family Healthy This Winter

Jeffrey Millstein, MD, a primary care physician at Penn Internal Medicine Woodbury Heights, offers suggestions on how to keep your family healthy for the remainder of the winter.

Jeffrey Millstein, MD

During the winter, viruses and colds within your household can be as common as snowflakes outside.

The harsh, cold months present many unique health challenges, but a little preparation can go a long way towards preventing winter illness and injury.

By now, you have surely been inundated with information about colds and flu, so we won’t go into too much detail about those. However, there are a number of other winter health issues which do not receive as much attention, but are still important to discuss. Here are just a few things to remember:

Get Your Daily Dose of Vitamin D

Because sunlight is a bit scarce this time of the year and cooler temperatures tend to limit outdoor activities, your family may be lacking vitamin D, which is vital to bone health. Because of this, a vitamin D supplement or multivitamin may be an option, especially if there are other risk factors for osteoporosis.

Sun exposure has also been shown to improve mood and a sense of well-being. For some, the darker winter months lead to a depressed mood, commonly known as “seasonal affective disorder”, or SAD. If this is something you or a family member may be suffering from, speak with your primary care provider about effective treatment options.

On the contrary, going to the tanning salon may be taking things a bit to the extreme. Cosmetic tanning, just like excessive and unprotected sun exposure, can markedly increase skin cancer risk.

Exercise Regularly

For those who get most of their regular exercise through outdoor sports, that first frost can halt the normal routine and lead to decreased activity and weight gain. Try to find a winter alternative such as an indoor gym, swimming, calisthenics or even mall-walking so you don’t lose momentum.

By simply setting aside 20 minutes five or six times a week to focus on aerobic exercises, you can greatly lower sick days for you and your family members.

Scrub Up

Contrary to popular belief, the cold weather itself is not responsible for the prevalence of respiratory infections during this time of year. Spending more time indoors, in close contact with others, promotes the spread of colds and the flu.

The best protection includes frequent hand washing or use of hand sanitizer and avoiding unnecessary hand-to-face contact. When washing your hands, lather them up with soap for 20 seconds prior to rinsing to help eliminate all germs.

Sleep Well, But Consistent

Many people find it difficult to leave their comfy, warm beds this time of the year. The amount of daylight during the winter is more limited than in the other seasons, as mentioned above, impacting the body's sleep cycles and circadian rhythm. Sleeping more than normal could be harmful, though, as it can impact your appetite, alter your energy levels and lead to depression.

Although the lack of light may make your body feel tired and sluggish, it is important to try to stick to a schedule, regardless of the day.

Finally, it is important to keep up with your vaccinations. If you do become ill, your primary care provider can be your resource for helping decide what can be treated with supportive home remedies, versus symptoms that require office evaluation or medication.

Attentive prevention and health maintenance during the winter will make it much easier to return to warmer weather activities. Spring is only a few months away!

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