Diagnosing diabetes may involve a fasting blood sugar test, a glucose tolerance test and/or an A1C test. Here is what you need to know. Fasting Plasma Glucose (FPG) is a preferred method that requires patient to fast overnight. The test…
Our colleagues recently celebrated an exciting transformation within our health system that signals a renewed spirit of unity to our patients, healthcare partners and the public. “Love the new look,” said one colleague. From another: “Love the new name, and…
If you’ve ever been prescribed an antibiotic for an infection, you know how effective these medications can be. But they don’t work for every illness—including COVID-19. “Patients with COVID-19 sometimes ask us to prescribe antibiotics because they believe this will…
While there isn’t enough data to show that people with diabetes are more likely to contract COVID-19, the evidence does show they are likely to suffer worse complications that tend to deteriorate more rapidly. The American Diabetes Association notes the…
Ron Spencer remembers his mom’s passion for travel—she took bus trips all over the United States. But one of her favorite destinations was Disney World, especially with her family. She went four times with her son Ron and his family.…
Christy White, 41, assumed the Emergency Department (ED) at Springfield Memorial Hospital would be packed when she was admitted on an August Saturday afternoon. But when ambulance after ambulance pulled up to drop patients off outside her room, she was…
If you experience chronic pain, pain that lasts for weeks, months or even years after an injury, you are not alone. One in five Americans suffers from chronic pain according to a CDC study. “Chronic pain can inhibit your day-to-day…
For two weeks, Erica Smith struggled with chest pain, shortness of breath and dizziness. Her immediate family medical history includes those who died of cardiac arrest. But she put off going to the Emergency Department (ED) for two simple reasons:…
John Steven Taylor, 53, of Decatur, has survived numerous ischemic strokes and is able to quickly recognize stroke symptoms. Passionate about the importance of stroke awareness, he shares his story with anyone who will listen. “I’m just blessed because I…
If you’ve recovered from COVID-19 in the past, you may be wondering if it’s really necessary to get vaccinated. Compelling new research suggests the answer is “yes.” While being sick with COVID-19 creates antibodies that protect against future illness, it’s…