During cold and flu season, it can be challenging to differentiate illnesses like the common cold, flu, COVID-19, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and norovirus. Each show distinct symptoms, modes of transmission, and treatment approaches. Knowing what you’re dealing with can help you make informed decisions about care and prevention. The Common Cold Symptoms: Runny or
The seventh annual Days of Remembrance essay contest for students in grades 7 to 12 is now available. Students must write an essay in response to the following prompt: In Germany and Europe during the 1930s and 1940s, members of many institutions and organizations (churches, military, sports groups, semi- official groups like the Hitler Youth,
Winter weather brings more than just picturesque snowfalls and cozy evenings by the fire. It also ushers in challenging driving conditions that can increase the risk of motor vehicle accidents. The consequences of wintertime crashes are seen firsthand in emergency departments. While the weather cannot be controlled, steps can be taken to stay safe on
As the New Year is here, many of us set resolutions aimed at improving our physical health or breaking old habits. But one resolution that’s often overlooked is focusing on brain health. Just as we exercise our bodies to stay in shape, it’s important to exercise our minds. This year, why not make brain health
Prepare for liftoff! In response to the growing need for quality early childhood education for all children ages three to five in our community, Starting Point Preschool will be launching this month. It opened its doors this past Monday in Williamsport. According to a news release from BLaST, under whose auspices the new preschool will
If you’ve ever felt an intense sting in your nose or a sharp bite in your toes while out in the cold, it could be more than just normal discomfort. These sensations might be signaling a condition called Raynaud’s phenomenon, also known as Raynaud’s syndrome or disease. This condition affects the small blood vessels in
As we recover from Thanksgiving but with many more celebrations ahead, you may find it challenging to not overindulge this holiday season. Perhaps you also hosted—or were a guest—encountering food allergies or sensitivities that might need more attention in your next gathering. With a little preparation and communication, everyone can enjoy the holidays without compromising
The holiday season is a wonderful time filled with family gatherings, festive decorations, and plenty of treats. But the season also brings certain risks for kids, from choking hazards to potential injuries with holiday décor. Here are some simple safety tips to keep your holiday joyful and your kids safe. Decorations and Lights Holiday decorations
Everyone has off days. Maybe you feel reluctant to get out of bed because it’s still dark out, or you turn down invitations you’d usually accept. You might find yourself endlessly flipping through TV channels because it’s too cold to enjoy the outdoors. But are these just winter blues, or something more? Many people notice
Many people claim they can sense an approaching storm because their joints begin to ache. For those with arthritis or other inflammatory conditions, cold weather can intensify discomfort in already vulnerable areas. Joint pain is commonly blamed on weather changes, and some doctors believe there may be more joint pain on cold, rainy days. However,
As the holiday season approaches, you probably have a lot on your to-do list – holiday parties and gatherings, shopping for gifts, and vacations – and all that hustle and bustle, good and bad, could come to a screeching stop by a fall injury. When you’re younger, falling may be nothing more than a bit
November is Diabetes Awareness Month. An estimated 10 percent of Americans are living with diabetes — that’s about 38.4 million people. Diabetes is classified in two ways — Type 1 and Type 2. Both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes cause similar symptoms and need lifelong management after diagnosis. But the two diseases have different
