EIU Health Service Radiology Department

The Radiology Department at Eastern Illinois University Health Service is located on the first floor of the Human Services Building. It is staffed by one full-time registered Radiographer (X-Ray Technologist) and one part-time Radiographer. Both are licensed by the state of Illinois.

SERVICES OFFERED

The Radiology Department of Health Service offers the following services: digital x-rays with a radiologist’s interpretation, electrocardiograms (ECG or EKG) and rhythm strips with a cardiologist’s interpretation, and digital x-ray images on a CD.

Special procedures ordered by an EIU Health Service provider will be scheduled with other health care providers. Please contact your insurance provider regarding payment coverage.

FOR YOUR SAFETY

• One full-time radiographer (X-Ray Technologist) is employed by the Radiology Department. This technologist is specifically trained in obtaining quality x-rays, monitoring equipment performance, and insuring patient safety.
• Lead aprons (shields) are used to protect reproductive organs for most procedures, except in cases where shielding would interfere with the exam.
• The radiographer will request a detailed medical history of the reason for an x-ray, before the x-ray procedure is performed. For females, this will include whether or not there is a chance of pregnancy, as x-rays may pose a risk to the unborn fetus.
• The x-ray machine is designed to prevent leakage of radiation. Special cones are used to confine the area exposed to the x-ray beam and aluminum filters have been added to the machine to remove even more radiation.
• The Illinois Emergency Management Agency-Division of Nuclear Safety inspects all x-ray equipment annually.

CHARGES & PAYMENT OPTIONS

Students may pay via cash or they can be billed through their EIU student account. X-rays are $30 per exam when ordered by a staff physician. There is an additional charge of $5 per CD of digital x-ray images. Electrocardiograms (ECG or EKG) are $30 per visit.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

May I come into the Health Service and ask for an x-ray without first seeing a doctor?

No. Only a medical doctor can order x-rays. When you come into the Health Service, the nurse will document your condition and make an appointment with a physician if necessary.

Why are my x-rays sent to a Radiologist?

All EIU x-rays are reviewed by a Radiologist, a physician who specializes in interpreting x-rays. Most Radiology reports are available within 2 business days.

What is the difference between a Radiographer and a Radiologist?

A Radiographer is a person trained in the use of x-ray equipment and the positioning of patients for x-ray procedures. A Radiologist is a physician who specializes in interpreting x-rays.

What happens to the x-rays after the technologist takes the picture?

X-rays taken at the Health Service are the property of Eastern Illinois University. X-rays are a permanent part of the patient’s electronic medical record.

Why do I need to remove body piercings?

The metal rings or posts may interfere with the x-ray procedure. This depends on the part of the body being examined, so please inform the technologist if you have any body piercings.

Why do I have to hold my breath during an x-ray?

When a person breathes, his or her body moves. Motion creates a blurry x-ray image. When a person holds their breath, the body doesn’t move, making it easier to obtain a clearer image.

Does the Health Service Radiology Department offer mammograms, ultrasounds, CT’s, or MRI’s?

No. The Health Service Radiology Department does not have the required equipment to perform these procedures. If a staff physician orders one of these tests, we will be glad to schedule it for you at Sarah Bush Lincoln Health Center or another health care facility. Please contact your insurance provider regarding payment coverage.

HOURS & CONTACT INFORMATION

The Clinic’s hours are Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM during the academic year. Summer hours are Monday through Thursday from 8 AM to 4:30 PM and Friday from 8 AM to noon.

For additional information or questions, please call the Health Service at (217) 581-3013, e-mail health@eiu.edu, or visit www.eiu.edu/health.

Chug, Chug, Chug, Chug!

Staying hydrated, especially in warm temperatures, is essential to your health and well being, as your body depends on water to survive. Consuming the appropriate amount of liquids is critical to maintaining your body weight and ensuring a healthy heart, as well as other organs. As central Illinois is under a heat advisory for the next few days, we encourage you to read up on staying hydrated!

Are You At a Higher Risk of Dehydration?

While everyone can potentially be at risk of dehydration, some are more at-risk than others. For example, people who exercise often at high intensity are more prone to dehydration. Also, people with certain medical conditions and the elderly are at a higher risk, as their cognitive functions are impaired. This means that their brains might not send a signal to their bodies that they need to intake liquids.

You may need to increase the amount of water you are drinking if you:

• Have certain medical conditions (i.e. kidney stones or bladder infection)
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Exercising in hot weather
• Have a fever
• Experience vomiting or diarrhea
• Are trying to lose weight

Chug, Chug, Chug, Chug!

According to an article published in the Harvard Health Letter, the standard recommendation for daily water intake is 4 to 6 8 ounce glasses per day. However, individual recommendations may vary. Depending on your size and weight, your exercise/intensity level, and the climate, you may need to consume more than the provided standard recommendation.

Several sources, including familydoctor.org recommend that, if you are concerned that you are not drinking enough water, to check your urine. If your urine is consistently colorless or light yellow, you are most likely staying well hydrated while dark yellow or amber-colored urine is a sign of dehydration.

Information from http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/prevention-wellness/food-nutrition/nutrients/hydration-why-its-so-important.html

Symptoms of Dehydration

• Little or no urine, or urine that is darker than usual
• Dry mouth
• Sleepiness or fatigue
• Extreme thirst
• Headache
• Confusion
• Dizziness or lightheaded feeling
• No tears when crying

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact a medical professional immediately.

Illnesses

Medical Daily cites three heat-related illness that dehydration contributes to including: muscle cramps, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

"Heat cramps are muscular pains and spasms that usually occur in the legs or abdomen. Heat cramps are often an early sign that the body is having trouble with the heat. The American Red Cross suggests a person move to a cooler place when suffering cramps; once a comfortable position has been assumed, it is best to lightly stretch the affected muscle and gently massage the area. It is best to drink an electrolyte-containing fluid, such as a commercial sports drink, fruit juice, or milk, and if such beverages are not available, water. A person suffering heat cramps should not take salt tablets."

"Heat exhaustion is a more severe condition than heat cramps. Heat exhaustion most often affects athletes, firefighters, construction workers, and factory workers but it may also impact anyone wearing heavy clothing in a hot, humid environment. Signs of heat exhaustion include cool, moist, pale, ashen, or flushed skin, headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness, and exhaustion. If someone is suffering heat exhaustion, the American Red Cross recommends they be moved to a cooler environment with circulating air. Help them remove or loosen as much clothing as possible and apply cool, wet cloths or towels to the skin. Fanning or spraying the person with water also can help. If the person is conscious, give small amounts of a cool fluid, such as a commercial sports drink or fruit juice, to restore fluids and electrolytes. Milk or water may also be given. Give about 4 ounces of fluid every 15 minutes. If the person's condition does not improve or if he or she refuses water, has a change in consciousness, or vomits, call 911."

"Finally, heat stroke is a life-threatening condition that develops when the systems of the body are overwhelmed by heat and begin to stop functioning. Signs of heat stroke include extremely high body temperature, red skin that may be dry or moist, changes in consciousness, rapid and weak pulse, vomiting, and seizures. Do not hesitate; call 9-1-1 immediately. While waiting for assistance, immerse the person up to the neck in cold water if possible; if not, douse or spray the person with cold water or cover the person with bags of ice. The American Red Cross suggests you apply rapid cooling methods for 20 minutes or until the person's condition improves."

Information from http://www.medicaldaily.com/how-stay-hydrated-summer-tips-survive-heat-wave-247401

Tips for Staying Hydrated

• Limit your intake of sports drinks and juices as they often contains excessive amounts of sugar
• Carry a reusable water bottle with you at all times
• Be sure to drink water before, during, and after every workout
• Add a slice of lemon or lime to flavor your water
• Create a schedule; drink when you wake up, before and after  lunch, before and after dinner, and before you go to bed
• Drink when you're hungry--hunger is often confused with thirst
• Eat fruits and vegetables--they are a great source of water
• Don't ignore your thirst

On Campus Resources

If you would like more information on staying hydrated, contact the Health Education Resource Center (HERC) at (217) 581-7786, e-mail herc@eiu.edu, or visit www.eiu.edu/herc.

If you are experiencing any of the aforementioned symptoms and would like to make an appointment with a medical professional, contact the Health Service at (217) 581-3013, visit www.eiu.edu/health, or stop by the Human Services Building to make an appointment with an Appointment Clerk.

Resources

 http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/prevention-wellness/food-nutrition/nutrients/hydration-why-its-so-important.html

http://www.medicaldaily.com/how-stay-hydrated-summer-tips-survive-heat-wave-247401

http://www.cbsnews.com/news/how-much-water-should-you-drink-each-day-to-stay-hydrated/

Smoking: The Ugly Truth

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), smoking remains the leading cause of preventable deaths in the United States, killing 480,000 Americans each year. Smoking causes immediate damage to your body, which can lead to long-term health problems. For every smoking related death, at least 30 Americans live with a smoking related illness. Currently, there are over 1.3 billion people in the world that smoke.

Direct Effects of Smoking

Smoking has been directly linked to many health risks such as:

• Cardiovascular Disease
• Respiratory Disease
• Preterm delivery for infants
• Miscarriage and stillbirth
• Fertility issues
• Decreased bone health
• Infections in gums and teeth
• Increased risk of cataracts
• Diabetes
• Skin Disease
• Decreased Immune system
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Cancer

Additionally, smoking has been linked to several types of cancer including, but not limited to: acute myeloid leukemia, pancreatic, kidney, bladder, blood, colorectal, liver, larynx, throat, mouth, cervical, uterus, stomach, esophageal, and most significantly, lung cancer.

Indirect Effects of Smoking

Not only does smoking directly effect ones health, but it also indirectly effects many other aspects of the consumer’s life, such as finances. For example, the average price of cigarettes in the United States is $5.51 per pack. Let's say that the consumer, on average, smokes one pack per day. One pack per day at $5.51 totals $8.37 per week, which totals $2,011.15 every year! Other indirect effects of smoking include:

Higher Insurance Rates

Compared to non-smokers, smokers pay higher insurance rates on average. This is because smokers are more susceptible to infection and disease than those who do not smoke.

Employment

5% of America’s employers prefer to hire non-smokers, while 1% will not hire smokers at all. In a study published by the Journal of American Medical Association’s JAMA Internal Medicine, researchers concluded that non-smokers were nearly 25% more likely to be selected for a job than non-smokers.

Personal Finances

Smokers can potentially lose thousands of dollars on the resale value of their homes and cars if they smoke in them. The Respiratory Health Association (2013) reported that smoking in your home can reduce its value anywhere from 10 to 29 percent, with 20 percent being the average.

Common Smoking Concerns & Solutions

Problem: I will crave a cigarette.

Solution: Experiencing cravings is common when quitting smoking. Most cravings will only last a few minutes and over time, the urges will get weaker and occur less often.

Problem: Withdrawals are uncomfortable.

Solution: The first few weeks after quitting smoking are usually the most difficult and uncomfortable. Smokers who are in the process of quitting usually experience withdrawals for the first 8-12 weeks. However, the longer you go without smoking, the more comfortable you become with your lifestyle change.

Problem: I might gain weight.

Solution: Gaining a few extra pounds is normal, but with exercise and healthy eating, you can help decrease how much weight you put on.

Problem: Smoking is part of me.

Solution: Long-time smokers often make this argument, as they have spent most of their lives smoking. To replace smoking, take up another hobby. Yoga, sports, reading, writing, and gardening are just a few examples!

Freedom From Smoking

The Health Education Resource Center provides Freedom From Smoking® class here on campus to students, faculty and staff! This 7 week group clinic, developed by the American Lung Association, includes 8 sessions with a step-by-step plan to quit smoking. Each session is designed to help smokers gain control over their behavior. The clinic format encourages participants to work on the process and problems of quitting, both individually and as part of a group. Click here to register.

Faculty and staff clinics will be held from noon until 1 PM at the Health Education Resource Center (Booth House) on 4th Street, located behind Jerry's Pizza. The clinics take place on the following days:

• August 31, September 7, September 14, September 21, September 23, September 28, October 5, and October 12.

Student clinics will be held from 4 PM to 6 PM in the Paris Room of the MLK Union, with the exception of October 4th. The October 4th session will take place in the Sullivan Room of the MLK Union. The clinics take place on the following days:

• September 6, September 13, September 20, September 27, September 29, October 4, October 11, and October 18.

Please note: There is a fee to participate. The cost is $30 for students and $75 for state employees. Upon completion of the program, state employees may submit for reimbursement through Central Management Services.

Additional Resources:

http://www.eiu.edu/herc/freedomfromsmoking.php

https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/

Immunizations at EIU

Throughout the past year, immunizations have been a hot topic, especially in the media. So, why is it important to get vaccinated? According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, if an unvaccinated person is exposed to a disease germ, the person's body may not be strong enough to fight the disease. Before vaccines, many people died from diseases that vaccines now prevent, such as whooping cough, measles, and polio, just to name a few.

In order to ensure the health and well being of our campus and community, EIU requires that all students provide proof of immunizations. Check out the information below regarding Illinois law, how to submit your immunization records, immunizations available at Health Service, as well as other useful information on the processes here at Eastern Illinois University!

ILLINOIS LAW

Illinois Law Public Act 85-1315 requires that all persons born on or after January 1, 1957 entering a four year public or private institution of higher education provide proof of immunizations. Students must provide the Health Service with proof of immunity by August 1 for the fall semester or December 15 for the spring semester.

The required immunizations include: Diphtheria/Tetanus (DT) within the past 10 years and two Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR) after the first birthday.

SUBMITTING YOUR IMMUNIZATION RECORDS

Students who are enrolled in six or more hours of on-campus classes need to provide proof of immunizations. International students are required to provide proof of 3 DT’s and 2 MMR’s. Failure to send immunization records to the Health Service will result in a $35 non-compliance charge and a hold placed on the student’s university records.

There are several things to take into account when submitting your immunization records:

• For students under the age of 18, a parent or legal guardian must sign the bottom portion of the university’s immunization form. This allows for consent for the student to be treated if necessary.
• All immunization records must be signed and dated by a nurse or physician. Signature stamps are NOT allowed.
• If students have had Measles, Mumps, or Rubella, lab results from blood tests are required for proof of immunity.
• Records that are not in English must be accompanied by a certified translation.

Students may either fax their records to (217) 581-3899 or mail them to the following address:

Eastern Illinois University
Health Service
600 Lincoln Avenue
Charleston, IL 61920-3099

IMMUNIZATIONS AVAILABLE AT THE HEALTH SERVICE

• Measles, Mumps, & Rubella (MMR): $85
• Tdap: $60
• Meningitis: $130
• Hepatitis A: $95 per injection (2 injections)
• Hepatitis B: $80 per injection (3 injections)
• Typhoid: At cost
• TB Tests: $15 per step
• Flu: FREE
• Note: The 2016-2017 Flu Shot Clinic will be held October 12th, 2016. Please visit http://www.eiu.edu/herc/flushotclinic.php for more information.

EXEMPTIONS THAT WILL BE ACCEPTED

Medical contraindication: A written, signed and dated statement from a physician stating the vaccine(s) contraindicated and duration OR medical condition that contraindicated the vaccine(s).

Religious exemptions: A written, signed, and dated statement by the student (parent/guardian if student is a minor) describing his/her objection to immunization based on bona fide religious tenets or practice.

Pregnancy or suspected pregnancy: A signed and dated statement from a physician stating the student is pregnant with anticipated due date.

HOURS & CONTACT INFORMATION

The Clinic’s hours are Monday through Friday from 8 AM to 5 PM during the academic year. Summer hours are Monday through Thursday from 8 AM to 4:30 PM and Friday from 8 AM to noon.

For additional information or questions, please call the Health Service at (217) 581-7786, e-mail health@eiu.edu, or visit www.eiu.edu/health.