Grief affects each of us differently. Feelings of loss come and go without warning, even many years after a loved one has died. Sometimes, grief can be triggered by familiar events, music, smells, foods, or photographs. The holidays—full of traditions, events, group meals, and company—can heighten or reignite these intense feelings of loss. Here are
‘Tis the season for holiday gatherings where we share food, time together, and germs. No matter where you are, keeping hands clean is one of the most important steps you can take to protect yourself from germs that can make you sick. Regularly washing your hands or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer when soap and water
As a parent, you want the best for your child. Children are amazingly resilient, and your hopes are to see them grow and flourish into independence. Sometimes life can throw your child a curveball, especially when it’s related to an acute injury, long-term illness, or disability, and they may need a little help. When that
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the flu, or influenza, affected about nine million people last flu season (October through May). This is presumably due to COVID-19 mitigation efforts such as masking and social distancing that have since become less pressurized. While you may feel more at ease this year, it
November is National Diabetes Month and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the chronic disease affects over 37 million people in the U.S. or about 11% of the country’s population. It’s important to understand what diabetes is and how you can help manage the condition with lifestyle modifications and nutrition. What
Hunting is a physical activity that should not be taken lightly. You may find yourself hopping over boulders, walking on damp, moss-covered logs and maneuvering other treacherous terrain while hauling extra gear. Often, you’re dealing with less-than-ideal weather conditions in an isolated setting. It’s important to be focused and physically prepared while out in the
Most hospitals have an emergency department, where patients with emergent injuries and illnesses can be treated without an appointment. Some of these patients may have life-threatening symptoms, such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or severe stomach pain, and the emergency medicine team can provide the treatment necessary to support care for these patients. However,
Nobody likes to get poked with a needle and see their own blood streaming through a clear tube. But it can be an important tool in diagnosing and treating medical conditions. Phlebotomy is a quick and mostly painless procedure that can enable physicians to correctly diagnose diseases and figure out the best treatment options. It’s
Though a very common injury for athletes, ankle injuries can happen to anyone at any time. Hiking down your favorite local trail, walking down the stairs with a loaded laundry basket, or mowing the grass in the backyard and stepping into that ditch you’ve been meaning to fill in — it can happen to anyone.
As you grow older, you may find that your knees are starting to hurt. While joint pain is not uncommon, it can begin to interfere with one’s quality of life if the knee pain continues to progress. If left untreated, it may result in the need for a knee replacement surgery. Having any type of
It’s never too late to begin building a strong foundation to protect your health now and in the future. Each section below provides suggestions of what to expect throughout the years of female health care. It’s important to note that personal factors may help determine the timing of each test or screening to meet your
In recognition of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, UPMC in North Central Pa. is not only going pink but offering a variety of screenings and events to raise breast cancer awareness in the region. “Everywhere you go during October, it is likely you will see a pink ribbon or pink T-shirt promoting breast cancer awareness,” says
