Antibiotics treat certain infections caused by bacteria and work as a critical tool in treating life-threatening conditions such as pneumonia and sepsis, which is the body’s extreme response to infection. “When your healthcare provider prescribes antibiotics, take them as directed…
Too many people and their loved ones were caught unprepared when the COVID-19 pandemic swept the globe. People of all ages were fighting for their lives in hospitals. Often their loved ones had no idea what their wishes were when…
According to the American Cancer Society, more than 22,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year, and about 14,000 women will die from the disease. All women should be aware of their risk for ovarian…
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:…
You may only be aware of immunizations, or vaccinations, in children, but on-time vaccination is important in children and adults. You can protect yourself and your family against vaccine-preventable diseases like measles, cancers caused by HPV and influenza. Speak with…
A child’s chronic tendency to develop ear infections may not just be bad luck. Allergies could be the culprit. Central Illinois can be a hotbox for allergic rhinitis, otherwise known as seasonal outdoor and indoor allergies. And children are especially…
With COVID-19 vaccination now available to everyone over the age of 12, the summer of 2021 offers expanded opportunities for fun and socializing. But what about those who can’t get the vaccine? “With the weather warming up, I’m hearing more…
Choosing a new doctor doesn’t have to be an overwhelming process, but there are important things to consider. With more and more people in need of consistent healthcare, having a checklist is helpful during the search process. “We are seeing…
Scheduling routine care is important for overall physical and mental wellness; however, according to the CDC, men are less likely than women to have seen or talked to a doctor about their health within the past year. Men are…
Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the country, and the majority of these cancers are caused by sun exposure. Skin makes up the body’s largest organ and has two layers: the outer layer called the epidermis…