July 29, 2020
There are few viral infections with more misconceptions centered around them than the strains of viral hepatitis. This can largely be credited to the similarities in the three names. Today, we wanted to shed some light on the key differences between the three strains of viral hepatitis: A, B, and C. It's important to note that hepatitis on its own is the term to used to describe inflammation of the liver—and that can be caused by non-viral means as well. For the purposes of this post, we will only be looking at the viral strains of hepatitis. First, let us explore what they share in common... Continue Reading
July 24, 2020
This relatively new industry is worth billions and deserves a second look into what it means for your health. Are these products safe to use? Are they better than cigarettes? Let’s take a look at some of the myths and facts. It’s just a harmless vapor False. Vaping might sound a lot like water vapor, but the similarity stops there. Vape pens, e-cigarettes, Juuls, and other similar products typically still contain nicotine along with other flavors and additives. E-cigarettes heat a liquid mix of flavorings and nicotine into an aerosol form for the user to inhale. It may not be smoke, but that... Continue Reading
July 23, 2020
Leon Bernard proudly 'rang the bell' in Augusta Health's Cancer Center on July 14, signifying that he had just completed his final radiation treatment. He began treatment on May 20. During the entire course of his radiation, COVID-19 was an active and spreading disease within the community—one that was of particular concern to cancer patients with vulnerable immune systems. Cancer did not pause for COVID-19, and neither did cancer treatment at the Augusta Health Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders. Mr. Bernard, however, always felt secure inside the Cancer Center and appreciated all the... Continue Reading
July 22, 2020
The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2020, approximately 52,890 new cases of thyroid cancer will be diagnosed and that there will be approximately 2,180 deaths from thyroid cancer. While most thyroid cancer is found by accident, there are warning signs you should be aware of for a better chance of early detection. Pay Attention to the Signs Thyroid cancer is commonly diagnosed at a younger age than most other adult cancers. Women are three times more likely to develop thyroid cancer than men. Below are several overlooked signs of thyroid cancer. Lump in the neck: About 90 percent of... Continue Reading
July 20, 2020
From the time we get out of bed in the morning to the time we go to bed, our joints are working hard to give us freedom, flexibility, and movement. Joints occur where two bones meet. Without our joints, we would be completely immobilized. Like the shocks in a car or the ball bearings in a piece of equipment, our joints suffer wear and tear as we age. Our joints have a lot to do with our quality of life. So, how do we keep our joints healthy as we age? Let’s take a look at some practical ways to protect joint health. Ditch the Cigarettes Not only does smoking cigarettes cause a myriad of... Continue Reading
July 17, 2020
Heart & Vascular staff recognized Augusta Health senior leadership during a presentation to express the gratitude from all of our teams for the health system's COVID response over the last several months. The senior leadership team was invited to hear the many words of gratitude. Cath lab RN Andy Banas shared with the group, " Ms. Mannix and Senior Leadership members, we the staff of the Heart and Vascular Center would like to show our appreciation for your leadership through this very difficult and unprecedented time. You all have led, not only, this facility but also our community with... Continue Reading
July 17, 2020
Heart disease is a leading cause of illness and death in the United States—but did you know that one American dies every 37 seconds in America from cardiovascular disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC)? The severity and prevalence of heart disease is something no one can afford to ignore. While the problem can seem overwhelming, there’s a lot you can do to stay heart healthy and decrease your risk of heart disease. Small, consistent steps over time can lead to big changes for your health. Incorporating the following five habits is a great place to start! Get Sneaky with... Continue Reading
July 15, 2020
If you're new to the sport of running, you may find yourself overwhelmed as you go to buy your first pair of shoes. You may have been ready to buy a new set of dedicated running shoes—but you may not have been ready to decide between "motion control" or "stability" or "cushioning"—or any of the dozens of other varieties of shoes on the market. Pick the best pair of shoes to get you out and moving safely and comfortably. Doing so can prevent a lot of damage in the long run—not just to your spine, but to other critical joints in your body as well. What Do My Shoes Have to Do With My Spine,... Continue Reading
July 13, 2020
Brain injuries are a serious health condition that impact people of all ages. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimate that there are 1.5 million traumatic brain injuries each year. Whether caused by head trauma such as contact sports, workplace accidents, car crashes, loss of oxygen, or poisoning. Even if it “might be nothing,” you should always get potential brain injuries checked by a doctor immediately. When you suspect someone may have brain damage, look for the following warning signs. You might save someone’s life. Loss of Consciousness The most obvious warning sign of brain... Continue Reading
July 10, 2020
We've all felt the same way at least once–this is it, this is the time that I take off the pounds. We decide on a diet to follow, sign up for the gym, set our alarm clocks an hour earlier than we used to, and dust off the old yoga mat. The trick, as the experts will tell you, is how to keep the weight off for good. Here are some tips to help you keep those pounds off: Drink Plenty of Water A rare case of subtraction by addition, drinking water can help you maintain your weight well after you've hit your initial goals. Our body can have a hard time distinguishing hunger from thirst, so by... Continue Reading
