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Posted December 28, 2020 by Shanu Agarwal, M.D.
Fever, dry cough and shortness of breath are the telltale signs of a COVID-19 infection. But, those aren’t the only symptoms that have been linked to the virus. Other symptoms include chills, muscle or body aches, sore throat, fatigue and congestion.
As we learn more about this dangerous virus and its full range of symptoms, doctors are uncovering yet another set that are unusual and uncommon. From lesions to vomiting to deadly blood clots, doctors are discovering COVID-19 is…
Posted December 14, 2020 by Dr. Gabriela Orasanu
With so many celebrations centered on food, it’s easy to lose track of how much we’re consuming — including our sodium intake. In fact, it’s not unusual for a typical holiday meal to meet or exceed our recommended daily value for sodium.
But, what’s all the fuss about? Sodium, or salt, is a mineral that’s essential for life. It’s regulated by your kidneys and is required for nerve and muscle function and maintaining your body’s…
Posted December 07, 2020 by Dr. Jacqueline Tulodzieski-Ahlstrom
Winter is upon us — freezing temperatures, snow flurries and whipping winds — and we all know what that means. It’s time to bust out our heavy, winter coats, hats, gloves and scarves to keep us warm on these frigid days. But, don’t forget about your feet, too. It’s important to always wear winter shoes and boots to protect them against the harsh elements.
Lower temperatures can be hard on your extremities, especially your feet. Exposure to cold air causes the body to slow…
Posted December 04, 2020 by Ketan Deoras, MD & James (Jim) Bavis, MD
Dr. James Bavis & Dr. Ketan Deoras explain sleep apnea as well as signs, symptoms, and what to expect.
Posted November 30, 2020
Beautiful colors, cooler temperatures and the anticipation of the upcoming festive holidays make fall a season favorite for many.
But for those suffering from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), the shorter days with intermittent sunshine can make for a long and dreary fall and winter season — both physically and mentally.
SAD is a reoccurring type of depression that tends to have a seasonal pattern. For most, symptoms begin in late fall and can linger around until late…
Posted November 23, 2020 by Lisa Perri BS, RRT, RPSGT, RST
Does your partner snore — loudly? Do they snort throughout the night? If so, it could be more than an innocent annoyance. It could be a condition called obstructive sleep apnea. Loud, excessive snoring coupled with other symptoms, such as obesity and hypertension, could be a sign it’s something more.
Sleep apnea is a condition that causes your breathing to stop during sleep — sometimes up to several hundred times a night. When you stop breathing, your blood…
Posted November 15, 2020 by Ryan A Combs, MD
If you’re like one in five Americans, you’ll eventually develop arthritis of the knee. This means the cartilage that cushions the bones of your knee begins to degrade, causing those bones to painfully rub together. When that pain becomes too much or restricts activities you once enjoyed, it’s time to talk to your doctor about treatment, including knee replacement surgery.
What’s the difference between a partial and a total knee replacement?
Sometimes…
Posted November 08, 2020 by Ryan J Urchek, MD
You’ve seen it on the soccer field or basketball court: a player plants a foot, twists and goes down grabbing a knee. The problem is most likely tearing of the meniscus (cartilage) or ACL (anterior cruciate ligament). Both can be extremely painful and sideline an athlete for months of recovery.
A tear usually requires more intervention than a strain or sprain.
A knee strain is a stretch or partial tear of a tendon or muscle, while a sprain is a stretch or tear of a…
Posted November 02, 2020 by Zach Vallandingham, DO, MS
Have you ever heard from someone that they can predict when a storm is coming because their joints hurt? It’s pretty common for people to blame joint pain flare-ups on changes on the weather, but scientists and doctors have yet to pinpoint exactly what it is about cold, rainy, or humid weather that makes joints stiff and achy.
Leading Theories
While joint pain isn’t directly correlated with dropping temperatures, the thought is that the change in barometric pressure…
Posted October 26, 2020 by Keristen Brantley, MD & Victoria Van Fossen, MD
Dr. Keristen Brantley & Dr. Victoria Van Fossen discuss Breast Cancer Prevention and Treatment.
Posted October 25, 2020 by Brian Bauman, M.D. & Kyle Jendral, MS-RC, RRT-ACCS, AE-C
Are you suffering from asthma, bronchitis, emphysema or another lung problem? A respiratory therapist may be able to help.
One out of six Americans will suffer from a serious pulmonary (lung) disease at some time in their lives. Of those afflicted, however, many patients don’t realize a respiratory therapist can help them overcome breathing problems and breathe easier — all the while increasing their quality of life.
As vital members of the healthcare team,…
Posted October 18, 2020
For decades, October and the color pink have gone hand in hand to promote Breast Cancer Awareness. The universal pink ribbon represents prevention, early detection and treatment — supporting the mission to spread awareness and education.
According to breastcancer.org, breast cancer affects one in eight women, and chances are you know someone — a co-worker, a family member, a friend — who has been diagnosed. Other than skin cancer, it is the most commonly…
Posted October 12, 2020 by Matthew N Jaykel, MD
If you’ve ever felt pain, numbness, tingling or weakness along the path of a nerve, you may have experienced radiculopathy, caused by a pinched or irritated nerve in your spinal column. If you’re lucky, these symptoms will be infrequent and merely irritating, but for many they can become constant and even incapacitating.
Because different areas of your body are served by different areas of your spinal column, your specific symptoms will depend on where in your…
Posted October 06, 2020 by Amanda Harvan
Posted October 05, 2020 by Vivek Bhalla, MD
With an ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and influenza (flu) season now upon us, getting the flu vaccine should be at the top of your family’s to-do list this fall.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) believe both the flu virus and COVID-19 could be running rampant this season. That’s why many medical experts agree this year the flu shot is more important than ever before.
Influenza activity often begins to increase in October and peaks between December and…
Posted September 27, 2020 by Alyssa C. Diamant, RD, LD
It’s no secret that meatless meals are becoming more popular. While this is certainly not anything new for our vegan or vegetarian consumers, terms like “plant based” and “meat alternatives” are quickly becoming more mainstream. Wildly popular, meatless burgers are even entering the fast food market with Burger King’s addition of the “Impossible Whopper” to their regular menu. But, are veggie burgers actually healthier than a…
Posted September 24, 2020 by Kevin Spear, MD
Dr. Kevin Spear discusses men's health and different risk factors and how to ensure optimal well-being.
Posted September 21, 2020 by Thomas M File, Jr., MD
Posted September 14, 2020 by Andrea A Jopperi, DO
Posted September 08, 2020 by Thomas File, MD
Dr. Thomas File shares the latest updates on COVID-19.
Posted September 04, 2020
Posted September 03, 2020 by Dr. Adrian Dan
Dr. Adrian Dan discusses obesity as a metabolic disease.
Posted September 03, 2020 by Emily Hionides-Horner, MSW, LISW-S
Emily Hionides-Horner discusses 7 ways to overcome mental health stigma.
Posted September 02, 2020 by Emily Hionides-Horner, MSW, LISW-S
Dr. Peter Bittenbender shares his insight on the modern guide to heart health.
Posted September 01, 2020 by Mark Cipriani, MD
Dr. Cipriani discusses tips on maintaining physician health during the pandemic.
Posted August 24, 2020 by Leslie Zaynor
Dr. Leslie Zaynor discusses tips for managing anxiety.
Posted August 17, 2020 by Samuel R Borsellino, MD
Posted August 10, 2020 by Susana M Bowling, MD
We’ve all been there at one time or another: Throbbing pain between the temples and pressure behind the eyes so great that we have to take a time out and lie down. It’s the all-too-familiar headache, right? Not so fast.
When there is pain and pressure in your head, it can be difficult to tell whether it’s a headache or a migraine.
When people think of a migraine, they typically think of the most severe headache. But headaches are only one symptom of a…
Posted August 03, 2020 by Emily Hionides-Horner MSW, LISW-S, Summa Health Outpatient Therapist
Posted July 27, 2020 by Lesa Lariccia, Wound Care Center Consultant
You know the saying, “Time heals all wounds.”? Unfortunately, that’s not necessarily true. Chronic wounds can linger for weeks, even months, and in many cases don’t heal without medical intervention.
A wound is considered chronic if it has not healed significantly in four weeks or completely in eight weeks. If you’re suffering from a wound or sore that isn’t showing any signs of healing, talk to your doctor. If left untreated, chronic…
Posted July 20, 2020 by Melanie K Bortell, DO
Posted July 13, 2020 by Aisha Rahman, MD
Posted July 06, 2020 by Dmitri S Kolychev, MD
Posted June 29, 2020 by Natalie A Kayani, MD
Posted June 19, 2020 by Dr. Vivek Bhalla
COVID-19 has forever changed our society. As cases continue to stabilize in Ohio and the stay-at-home order has been lifted, it’s time to navigate our way forward with our new normal — together.
In accordance with Governor Mike DeWine and the Ohio Department of Health, Summa Health is now scheduling procedures and surgeries.
While we understand resuming services for preexisting conditions and preventative measures is critical to the overall health of our…
Posted June 15, 2020 by Naveen K Arora, MD
Posted June 01, 2020 by Kenneth D Varian, MD
Posted May 26, 2020 by Vivek Bhalla, Chief Medical Officer - SHMG, Executive Staff & Luke Smith, Director, Ambulatory Services, Administration - Clinical Services.
Posted May 18, 2020 by Michael Smeltzer, ACSM EP-C
As weeks pass by under Ohio’s stay-at-home order, cabin fever is starting to set in for many of us. With nowhere to go and calendars cleared, families are jumping at the chance to get outdoors. Taking your activity outside is a great way to boost your health and wellbeing however, we must take extra precautions to slow the spread of Covid-19.
With summer around the corner there are many things we all look forward to doing outdoors. From cleaning up and planting our…
Posted May 04, 2020
In today’s world, we often forget to do the little things that can often make a big difference in our health and happiness. Typically, it is the simplest things that can do the most to help us feel our best every day and all year long. Here are a few tips to keep in mind for a healthier, happier day:
Make plans to do something you love. Research shows that having something to look forward to makes you happier. So, on a rough day, try to make a plan to do something…
Posted April 20, 2020
1. Have an attitude of gratitude.
Making an effort to remember all of the things you’re grateful for is very important. Research has shown that taking time to express gratitude or even acknowledge thankfulness in our own thoughts increases well-being and creates positive feelings. Gratefulness can be the antidote to increased stressors in challenging times.
2. Spend money wisely.
Overspending, panic spending, and comfort spending can add to your stress by creating…
Posted April 09, 2020 by Michael J Tan, MD
New headlines and reports about the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) are infiltrating the Internet, TV, and social media channels daily, if not hourly. Much of this information is vital for our safety and protection against the virus. However, amidst this global pandemic, there are many myths being passed around that could potentially do more harm than good.
Summa Health is getting to the bottom of the most pertinent questions it is hearing to separate the myths from facts.…
Posted April 06, 2020 by Joseph D Varley, MD
Laughter is what the doctor ordered when it comes to stress relief. Science shows laughter may very well be the best medicine when it comes to relieving stress — and that’s no joke. Whether you’re howling at a TV sitcom or giggling at your friend’s joke, the positive effects from laughter on body function — from increased circulation to muscle relaxation — confirm that real, sincere, happy laughter is good for you!
With April being…
Posted March 30, 2020 by Edward M Ferris, MD
As Coronavirus COVID-19 continues to spread, pregnant women worry not only for themselves but for their developing babies. This is a new virus, and doctors are still learning about the risk it poses to women and infants.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that it is too early in this epidemic to know if a pregnant woman can pass the virus to her baby during pregnancy or delivery. However, “No infants born to mothers with COVID-19 have…
Posted March 23, 2020 by Nancy Reynolds RN System Dir, Infection Prevention, Infection Control
Handwashing and social distancing help prevent the spread of COVID-19, but certain situations may require more. If you have been in an office or gathering with someone who developed a confirmed case of COVID-19, you may be concerned that you have become infected as well whether you are exhibiting symptoms or not.
Should you quarantine yourself? If so, how and for how long? The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend self-quarantine only if you have a medium…
Posted March 20, 2020 by Michael Tan, M.D., FACP, FIDSA
What is COVID-19?
COVID-19 stands for “COronaVIrus Disease 2019. COVID-19 is the disease caused by SARS-CoV2 which is a type of coronavirus. It is characterized by fever, cough, and shortness of breath, but it is only one of many viruses that can cause similar symptoms. In the context of the current outbreak, COVID-19, SARS-CoV2, and coronavirus are often used interchangeably.
Posted March 16, 2020 by Kenneth W Wells, MD
The desire to lose weight and the process chosen to go about it is a deeply personal journey. With many new options on the market, it can be tough to understand the best approach to reaching long-term weight loss.
Obesity is now ranked as the second-highest cause of preventable deaths in the United States. The rate at which obesity has worsened over the past 20 years is alarming, and there is now a growing amount of national attention focused on the problem. It is also important to note that Obesity has been proven to increase the risk for cancer including Colon and Breast cancers. Weight loss is an important cancer risk reduction effort for many patients at higher risk for cancer and a component of cancer survivorship plans as well.
Posted March 09, 2020 by Hanna Rice RDN LD
In the last decade or two, protein powders have become increasingly popular among physically active and health-conscious individuals.
Protein powders are concentrated sources of protein — the essential building block for muscle, tissue, bones and blood — made from either animal or plant sources. While whole foods come complete with the essential vitamins, minerals and fiber you require, protein powders are an easy, convenient way to bolster your protein intake when…
Posted March 04, 2020 by Adrian G. Dan, M.D., FACS, FASMBS
Obesity has been deemed a disease of worldwide epidemic proportions. In the United States, obesity directly affects 40% of the adult population and an additional 30% are considered overweight. Obesity is now ranked as the second-highest cause of preventable deaths in the United States. The rate at which obesity has worsened over the past 20 years is alarming, and there is now a growing amount of national attention focused on the problem.
When talking about obesity, it is very…
Posted March 03, 2020 by Thomas M File, Jr., MD
Everywhere you turn, there are new headlines reporting on the increasing number of cases and unfortunate deaths due to the novel coronavirus. It’s a respiratory infection that was first identified in Wuhan, China, late last year.
At the time of this post, the outbreak has been detected in more than 35 countries, including those in the United States. The virus has been named “SARS-CoV-2” and the disease it causes has been named “coronavirus disease 2019…
Posted March 02, 2020 by Jessica D Clemons, MD
From mother to wife, and from businesswoman to caretaker, women wear many hats on a daily basis. So, it’s understandable why many of us put off our own needs; there’s just not enough time in the day. However, when it comes to your health, it should always come first.
Maybe you’re too busy to stop and see a doctor, or you’re hoping a symptom will just go away on its own. But, if you’re not feeling your best, you can’t possibly perform at your…
Posted February 24, 2020 by Shannon J. Perkins, Ph.D.
Suddenly, you wake up in the middle of the night with a bellyache. It starts off as a dull pain, but then quickly intensifies and seems to move down your torso. So, you immediately jump on your computer or phone to search for various conditions you could be suffering from. Could it be a stomach virus, or maybe an ulcer or worse yet, stomach cancer?
If this sounds familiar, you may be suffering from cyberchondria. It’s a hybrid term for cyberspace and hypochondria (now…
Posted February 17, 2020
Getting better sleep doesn’t just improve your morning mood; surprisingly, it boosts your health, too. In fact, good sleep is one of the pillars of good health, along with eating right and exercising regularly. It’s true you can’t achieve optimal health without catching your Zzz’s each and every night.
Sure, most of us have a bout of insomnia from time to time. The bigger concern is chronic sleep loss.
Sleep requirements vary, but the average adult…
Posted February 10, 2020
By now, you’ve probably heard about human papillomavirus (HPV). Maybe you heard about it in a TV commercial, read about it in a magazine, or maybe you or your child’s doctor recommended the HPV vaccine. But, why is everyone talking about it? Should you be concerned?
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HPV is the most common sexually transmitted disease in the United States and nearly 80 million people in this country have it.
So, what’s all the…
Posted February 03, 2020 by Hanna Rice RDN LD
Eat healthy. Exercise. Lose the extra holiday L-Bs. These are some of the most common goals many of us try to accomplish each year. But, it’s just about the time of year when these all-too familiar New Year’s Resolutions start to fall by the wayside.
Life can get in the way, temptations arise and we can default to old habits. So this year, let’s try something different. Instead of listing the same goals year after year, let’s put to practice lifestyle…
Posted January 31, 2020 by Thomas M File, Jr., MD
Everywhere you turn, there are new headlines reporting on the increasing number of cases and unfortunate deaths due to the novel coronavirus. It’s a respiratory infection that was first identified in Wuhan, China, late last year.
At the time of this post, there have been more than 9800 confirmed cases in China and a dozen other countries, including the United States, and 213 deaths due to the coronavirus.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) considers the…
Posted January 27, 2020 by Ali Ziegler, Athletic Trainer – Summa Health Sports Medicine
As a general goal, it is recommended that we get at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day, more if you’re looking to lose weight. However, some people find it hard to carve out those 30 minutes every day. Some may only have time for a short 10-minute workout. So, is it still worth exercising even if it’s only for a few minutes at a time?
Studies have shown that short workouts throughout the day are just as beneficial as long continuous ones.
Posted January 20, 2020 by Naveen K Arora, MD
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), otherwise known as prostate gland enlargement, is a common condition as men get older. An enlarged prostate can cause uncomfortable urinary symptoms as well as bladder, urinary tract or kidney problems.
In many men, the prostate continues to grow throughout life. This continued growth enlarges the prostate enough to cause BPH, which means they have urinary issues or their urine flow is significantly blocked.
The symptoms of BPH often vary,…
Posted January 13, 2020 by Nancy Reynolds, MSN, RN, CIC, FAPIC
One of the best and most effective ways to avoid getting sick and spreading germs to others is by washing your hands properly and often. It doesn’t take much time or effort and offers a very effective means of preventing the spread of illnesses ranging from viruses like cold and flu to other bacteria or viruses. As you touch people, surfaces and objects throughout the day, you gather germs on your hands. You can infect yourself with these germs by touching your face;…
Posted January 06, 2020 by Ryan D Mills, DO
The thyroid is a small but mighty gland in your neck that produces the thyroid hormone which has huge importance in how your body functions. This gland impacts many different areas of your health, including your metabolism, heart function, digestive function, muscle control, mood and brain development.
According to the American Thyroid Association,more than 20 million Americans suffer from some form of thyroid disease, and women are as much as 8 times more likely than men to…
