Expert Advice, Patient Stories & Tips for Healthy Living
Last week, amidst talk of glittering figure skater costumes, “#SochiProblems” and how exactly curling works, one topic took center stage: conjunctivitis, better known as pinkeye. This dreaded affliction reared its ugly head–and eyes–at the Winter Olympics, when NBC anchor Bob…
We’re in the middle of an especially active flu season—one we hope is almost over. However, it’s not time to call the “all clear” yet. Stay vigilant against the flu for a healthy late winter and early spring. Here are…
Inflatable bounce houses are becoming a staple at backyard birthday parties and other outdoor gatherings. But with children’s more frequent exposure to these popular party attractions comes a higher likelihood of injury, experts are finding. A new study, which looked…
As cold and flu seasons settles in for the long winter ahead, instances of sore throat begin to pop up more frequently — but how do you tell if that achy throat is caused by a virus or strep? Many…
You might think a winter virtually free of ice, snow and bitterly cold temperatures means fewer people coming down with the flu. But here in central Illinois, the above-average temperatures have just delayed the onset of what is typically considered…
Do you pride yourself on being clean and relatively germ-free? We hate to burst your bubble, but you may not be as immaculate as you think. We’re not saying you’re Pig Pen, just that you should probably sanitize after you…
It’s the spookiest night of the year. But make sure your scares come only from kids in costume by following these safety tips from Matt Johnston, MD, Taylorville Memorial Hospital Emergency Department Medical Director. 1. Careful With the Costume Whether…
Part 1: Can I get the flu from the flu shot? Part 2: What’s in it and how long will it protect me? Getting the flu shot is a great way to protect yourself and your loved ones from getting…
It’s the unofficial end of summer – the Labor Day cookout. The weather is pleasantly warm, fruits and veggies are still in season, and family and friends are off for the holiday. But before you warm up the grill, marinate…
For most of us, the Fourth of July holiday isn’t complete without cookouts, parades and fireworks. There’s no denying that fireworks are alluring and fun, but it’s best to leave that part of our patriotic celebration to the professionals. About…