There are many familiar rituals we Americans perform all the time like heading to the beach in summer and tailgating during football season. One ritual in particular is important to safeguard our skin from the danger of UV rays from the sun. This ritual should be performed monthly whether you are a “newbie” or an “old hand.” Learning how to perform a skin self-exam: a step by step guide is critical. Many times this is followed by a visit to a dermatologist like the ones at Weirton Medical for further investigation. » Read more about: How to Perform a Skin Self-Exam: A Step-by-Step Guide »
If this title about managing joint pain in the summer heat has raised your eyebrows, you aren’t alone. Many people consider the winter cold and harsh damp climate as the triggers for joint pain and arthritis. Maybe even some of those with arthritis. Learn more about managing joint pain in the summer heat with advice from an orthopedist. » Read more about: Your Guide to Managing Joint Pain in the Summer Heat »
We have four heart valves. Each one opens and closes with each heartbeat keeping blood flowing in and out of our heart. If they are not working properly, less blood circulates throughout the rest of our body. What are signs of heart valve problems? » Read more about: What Are Signs of Heart Valve Problems? »
Psoriasis is a condition where skin cells build up causing scales and dry itchy patches. They are unsightly and the worst part is never knowing when they will appear. Those who have psoriasis have triggers that make the condition worse. Let’s discover what you can do about it and what makes psoriasis worse. » Read more about: What Makes Psoriasis Worse? »
Diverticulosis is an inflammatory condition where small pouches form on the inside of the large intestine or the colon. Among other things, if someone becomes constipated or strains during bowel movements, these pouches can become irritated. Then the condition turns more severe, and is known as diverticulitis. Once that happens, eating becomes more difficult. What is the recommended diet for diverticulitis? » Read more about: What Is the Recommended Diet for Diverticulitis? »
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, is a serious condition that can leave you breathless, coughing, and wheezing from a flare up. If this is new to you, it is a frightening experience. If you have been living with COPD for a while now, it can still be scary. We hope you have learned to deal with these episodes, but you can always use a refresher. Keep reading and find out how to manage a COPD flare up. » Read more about: How to Manage a COPD Flare Up »
Most physicians believe you have a greater chance of getting a hernia as you get older. This is true for both men and women. Hernias are weak places in muscle walls that allow internal organs to protrude. They don’t heal on their own and must be surgically repaired. However, becoming aware you have one can differ between the sexes. Do hernia symptoms differ between men and women? » Read more about: Do Hernia Symptoms Differ Between Men and Women? »
It’s that time of year again. The leaves are changing, there is a chill in the air, kids are picking out their favorite costumes for Halloween, and we are getting ready for Thanksgiving. This time of year also should remind you to get a flu shot. It’s the time to protect not only yourself but your family and your community. There seems to be more questions this year. Navigating flu season: what you should know. » Read more about: Navigating Flu Season: What You Should Know »
Many organizations have increased awareness about breast cancer in the last several decades. All this is good, but sometimes old wives tales or myths pop up and they are repeated and spread on the internet. Let’s give you the facts and 5 myths about breast cancer symptoms. » Read more about: 5 Myths About Breast Cancer Symptoms »
Arthritis can affect any joint, and the shoulder is a good example. Being active with an injured or arthritic shoulder is often hard for patients due to the pain and lack of mobility it causes. It hurts to move in any direction, up, down, or sideways. It becomes debilitating as it progresses usually after age 50. If you have this disease, keep reading for your guide to shoulder arthritis treatment. » Read more about: Your Guide to Shoulder Arthritis Treatment »