Lane Health Blog

If there’s anything a parent knows, it is the unparalleled ability of a young child to keep you in doctor’s offices. By the time the toddler years have gone by, you are on a first name basis with the nursing staff, have your doctor’s number stored for quick reference, and know the layout of your pediatrician’s office better than your own home. And while children come down with an astoundingly wide variety of ailments throughout their youth, there are few they seem as susceptible to as those affecting the ears, nose, or throat. Read More

February seems the natural fit for Heart Health Month. It is the home of Valentine’s Day after all. There are hearts everywhere – on cards, balloons, cakes, and stuffed animals. Hearts are never more top of mind than they are in early February. But the cute pink and red ones that adorn Valentine’s gifts and decorations are far less important than the one beating inside your own chest. And yet, we don’t often seem to give that one the attention that it deserves. Read More

January has been named National Blood Donor Month, a time when awareness is brought to the life-saving act that is blood donation. In honor of this time, Lane Regional Medical Center, in conjunction with United Blood Services, will be hosting a blood drive on January 27 from 7:00 AM – 2:30 PM on the Lane hospital campus. Interested? Register online or simply stop by during that time. Read More

Weight loss is a hot topic around the first of the year. A new year means a new start, and after overindulging during the holidays, it’s no wonder that Healthy Weight Week falls in January. Of course, healthy weight means more than just dropping a few pounds to look good in your summer wardrobe. Instead, weight management should be a lifestyle choice that offers benefits beyond an improved physique. Read More

You wake up in the morning, take a moment to groggily get your bearings, swallow and suddenly you realize – you have a sore throat. Is it passing? Will it be better as the morning wears on? Or will you end up taking sick days and antibiotics? It’s a scenario that we’ve all encountered multiple times. A sore throat is certainly nothing new to anyone. Sometimes a gargle with warm salt water is all it takes to soothe the discomfort, and at others, the pain stretches on for days with swollen, tender lymph nodes to… Read More

As the year comes to an end, we begin to look back on 2016 and develop New Year's resolutions for the following year. By changing the way we think of New Year’s resolutions, we can work to live a healthier life in 2017. Read More

As the holiday season wraps up, you may find yourself fighting off a cold or worse yet, the flu. Such illnesses spike this time of year, but can it all be blamed on the weather? The answer, of course, is no. There’s a very good reason why so many get sick during the holidays, and it boils down to all the time we spend together. Read More

Whether elective or medically necessary, outpatient or inpatient, surgery is a serious matter. Each procedure comes with its own set of risks and rewards, concerns, and hopes. In anxious preparation for the day, you’ve likely done ample research. Your surgeon has been selected and his credentials and reviews thoroughly examined. You’ve looked up your procedure and what’s to be expected countless times. You know exactly how long you should expect to be in the hospital and what your recovery will likely look like. … Read More

Most are aware that there are two different types of diabetes – 1 and 2. Those with type 1 diabetes are insulin-dependent. Their immune system destroys the cells that release insulin, making natural absorption of glucose for energy impossible. Type 2 diabetes is by far more common, accounting for over 90 percent of all cases. In this form, the body produces insulin but is unable to use it appropriately, otherwise known as insulin resistance. While the two are different and may require different approaches to treatment, both… Read More

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) has taken wound healing to new, unsurpassed levels. Due to a number of different causes, many patients suffer from slow or non-healing wounds. In such cases, typical treatments, including ointments, medications, and bandages, may not be enough. This is when HBOT proves to be especially useful. Read More

The holiday season brings a lot of joy and togetherness. For some, this is one of the few times each year that they are able to see their immediate family members. School, work, or other obligations can put miles between adult children and their aging parents. The holidays brings the perfect opportunity to come together and celebrate, but such long stretches of time between seeing elderly parents often leaves their children unprepared for the changes they encounter. Read More

Diabetes contributes to over 230,000 U.S. deaths per year. However, many people with type 2 diabetes are not aware they have the disease and may already have developed various health complications associated with it. Read More

A diagnosis of diabetes often means lifestyle changes and vigilance on the part of the patient in order to manage the disease. Those with Type 2 diabetes (the most common form) may be able to keep it in check through dedicated meal planning and physical activity. These things may also help those diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes. However, these patients will also need to rely on insulin. Whatever the type and however it may be managed, diabetes always carries the risk of additional complications and requires that those who receive a diagnosis… Read More

With October nearly past, flu season is hitting its stride. You may hear of friends or co-workers coming down with the illness and take measures to protect yourself. Frequent handwashing, sanitizing surfaces that may have come into contact with the flu virus, and avoiding those known to be ill are all good steps to help keep you healthy. Read More

As a whole, Americans don’t like to visit their doctor. As a matter of fact, the number of annual visits to a physician comes in at an average of 4 for Americans , far less than that of other nations such as Japan which averages 13 visits a year. For some, it may be fear or stubbornness that keeps them away. They may be concerned about what they would discover if they visited their physician more frequently. While others simply don’t see the need for medical care or are perhaps deterred by cost. Whatever the reason,… Read More

Other than skin cancer, breast cancer is the most common cancer among American women. Each year in the United States, more than 200,000 women get breast cancer and more than 40,000 women die from the disease. Men also get breast cancer, but it is not very common. Less than 1% of breast cancers occur in men. Most breast cancers are found in women who are 50 years old or older, but breast cancer also affects younger women. About 11% of all new cases of breast cancer in the United States are found in women younger than 45 years of age Getting mammograms regularly can… Read More

Fall is marked by changing leaves, shorter days, pumpkin spice everything, and, of course, the flu. This is the time of year when we begin to see flu shot signs popping up at every doctor’s office and pharmacy. If you’ve ever had the flu before, you get it. Experiencing the ravaging aching, sore throat, fever, headache, and cough that typically accompanies the illness is often enough to make one swear they will do anything possible to never have it again. Read More

To say that the task of parenting can be overwhelming would be an understatement. From the time of conception, parents must consider their every action, or lack thereof, and how it may potentially impact their new baby. From what an expectant mother eats to where a newborn will sleep, there are countless factors that ultimately play a role in the safety and wellbeing of your child. Read More

“Commit to Quit” is a smoking and tobacco cessation program provided by Cardiovascular Institute of the South. If you or someone you love smokes or uses tobacco and wants to quit, then “Commit to Quit” can help you successfully kick the habit. Call 1-877-288-0011 or visit Cardio.com/QuitSmoking. Tobacco use leads to disease and disability. Smoking causes cancer, heart disease, stroke, and lung diseases (including emphysema, bronchitis, and chronic airway obstruction). For every person who dies from a smoking-related disease, 20… Read More

A diagnosis of diabetes is overwhelming. It is also increasingly common. According to the American Diabetes Association , over nine percent of the population lived with some form of the disease as of 2012, and it is presumable that those numbers have continued to rise. With each new diagnosis comes a new patient with a new set of challenges, questions, and fears. Fortunately, diabetes is largely manageable, but understanding just how to keep it in check is a huge learning experience for patients. Read More

What is Zika virus? Zika is a mosquito-borne virus that is currently causing a large outbreak primarily in Central and South America. In addition, the Florida Department of Health has identified an area in one neighborhood of Miami where Zika is being spread by mosquitoes. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has issued guidance for people who live in or have traveled to this area any time after June 15. What are the symptoms of Zika virus? Only about 1 in 5 people with Zika virus will get symptoms of illness; because of this, many people may not… Read More

The phases of life seem to pass so quickly. Not long ago, you were the child, being cared for by young, fit parents. Now you’re the one with children depending on you, and suddenly, the parents who once seemed so invincible appear frail. Balancing the demands of day-to-day life is challenging enough, but when you are also caring for an aging parent or loved one, they can feel insurmountable. The options begin to run through your mind. You need help. But how can you ensure quality care for your loved one while also maintaining… Read More

Serious wounds require serious care. Often arising from complications associated with another medical condition, wounds that are suitable for hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) are yet another hurdle on the path to health. The body is overwhelmed, tissue is damaged, and the healing process may be compromised. In such a scenario, utilizing the most effective possible treatment method quickly goes from important to imperative. Read More

Mosquitoes can quickly ruin a nice day or evening outdoors with their itchy bites. However, mosquito bites can also cause illnesses, some of which can be quite serious. Read More

Immunizations have become a hot button issue over the past several years, as concerns grow over the potential side effects, particularly the development of autism. Fortunately, research has largely disproven these claims, and most parents understand that the benefit of immunizations to both their own children and society as a whole outweigh any potential risk. Read More

It's grilling season. Proper handling and preparation of food are important to prevent and avoid foodborne illnesses (food poisoning). Before you fire up the grill for summertime cookouts, picnics, and holiday celebrations, here is important information about foodborne illness. Read More

In the month that we celebrate Father’s Day, it is only fitting that we also focus on National Men’s Health Month. While in October, we seem to float in a sea of pink as we raise awareness and research funds for breast cancer, health concerns that primarily target men are less commonly acknowledged. Perhaps this lack of awareness plays a role in the fact that women are 100 percent more likely than men to visit a doctor and live an average of five years longer. Read More

Is there any better memory than summer vacations or long days spent wading in the pool? Ice cold drinks, popsicles, fireworks, and beach trips are hallmarks of a time when life feels a bit more carefree. Unfortunately, it also marks a time when injuries are on the rise. Hospitals frequently refer to these next couple of months as “trauma season.” It’s no surprise that as the weather lends itself to more frequent outdoor activities that accidents also tend to spike, but the reality is that many of these are avoidable. Read More

Stress can hit you when you least expect it-before a test, after an accident or during conflict in a relationship. While everyone experiences stress at times, a prolonged bout of it can affect your health and ability to cope with life. That's why social support and self-care are important. They can help you see your problems in perspective...and the stressful feelings ease up. Read More

June marks Cataract Awareness Month, a time that brings into focus the condition that may be doing just the opposite to your vision. Cataracts are among the leading causes of blindness worldwide, and are a common affliction of patients over the age of 60. Read More

When it comes to catastrophic health events, stroke is near the top of the list. Sure, some are minor, so much so that they may be completely undetected by the patient. However, 2/3 of stroke survivors will recover from their stroke with some form of lingering disability. The type and severity of these disabilities depends on the size and location of the stroke within the brain, and treatment hinges on this fact as well. It is often a long and arduous process, but with proper rehabilitation, many patients can maintain or achieve their… Read More

Science has been telling us for years to get plenty of rest. It’s so important that May has even been deemed Better Sleep Month in an attempt to emphasize the role that sleep plays in leading a healthy and productive life. You’ve likely heard the old standard of 8 hours per night as an ideal evening’s rest. But what if you are one of millions who always seem groggy no matter how much sleep you get? If this is the case, there is a possibility that a sleep disorder such as sleep apnea is involved. Read More

Cancer is a scary word. When you hear it, you may think cancers that affect internal organs such as the lungs, pancreas, or colon. But what about your body’s largest organ? Our skin is our first line of defense against environmental pollutants and the elements. It also happens to be our largest organ. Read More

Cardiac catheterization may be performed by your physician in order to detect a heart problem or to help treat a known problem. Some of the uses of catheterization are identifying narrow or blocked blood vessels, removing a tissue sample, measuring oxygen levels within the heart, angioplasty, valve replacement, or heart arrhythmia treatment. Read More

If your physician needs to get some insight into how your heart is working, he or she may want to perform a heart cath. There are a number of uses for the procedure, from diagnostic to preventative, and it can give your healthcare team a robust picture of what your overall heart health looks like. Read More

From the moment we are born, milestones in our lives are largely influenced by doctors. From vaccinations to braces in middle school, a physician is there. For women of childbearing age, the relationship with their OB physician becomes exceptionally important. Read More

There are few milestones as exciting, nerve-racking, or rewarding as finally beginning the new career that you've worked so hard for. As a new nurse, you've invested hours upon hours into study and practice in order to make yourself the very best, the most qualified, and the most deserving of such a noble profession. Yet, you may feel panic in this moment. Will you be able to find the job you've been dreaming of all this time? Will you like your co-workers? Will it be rewarding? The questions swirl in your mind, and your concern is founded. It can be difficult to… Read More

FAST Lane of Zachary Urgent Care, 19900 Old Scenic Highway, is now offering flu vaccinations for patients ages four and older. Read More

Summer is in full swing and Americans are outside and on the move. To keep food poisoning, heat exhaustion and other summer woes from spoiling the fun, follow some basic safety tips to avoid illness and injury that could even become life-threatening. Read More

When it comes to our aging loved ones, the last words we want to hear are "I don't want to go to the doctor." Yet, we've all been there, or know someone who's going through the problem right now. Although there are no solid stats, it's safe to assume that many of the elderly who would benefit from medical care (and who may have access to free medical care) have deep-seated inhibitions against seeing doctors. This is as much a result of an overly complex medical system (with reams of paperwork that the elderly may not have the capacity to fill out) as it… Read More

Pre-diabetes is a warning signal that there's trouble ahead - unless you make some significant lifestyle changes. Untreated, it can eventually lead to Type 2 Diabetes, which is closely associated with heart disease, blindness, stroke and kidney failure. Read More

Healthy food provides your body with the necessary nutrition to function optimally, without negative side effects. Unfortunately, there are a few foods out there that we commonly believe are good for us (or better than others), which simply are not. Read More

You've heard of heart-healthy foods-- but what about brain-healthy? Luckily, there are many foods out there that can help your brain, by improving focus and concentration or keeping your grey matter from deteriorating. Read More

Seeing red typically refers to someone who gets so angry that they become enraged. However, having people see red during Heart Month is not a bad idea, especially if it leads them to take steps to prevent heart disease. Read More

With Valentine's Day approaching, our attention turns to matters of the heart. One area where women take the lead in this regard is heart disease. Read More

WebMD research indicates that children who eat home-cooked meals are less likely to be overweight. Home-cooked meals are typically more balanced and include more fruits and vegetables and have less trans-fat. It was also reported that kids who enjoy home-cooked meals are generally happier and less disposed to eating disorders as they get older. Read More

If you think that getting your kids to eat raw vegetables like spinach or kale is impossible, think again. This brain boosting, vitamin packed green smoothie recipe is just what you need. It is so good that they'll think it's a special treat. Read More

So maybe we wouldn't recommend a diet of just burgers, but this smoky sweet potato burger certainly tops the list of heart healthy burgers that your heart doctor could easily recommend. In addition to being sweet and savory, these sweet potato burgers are full of essential vitamins, antioxidants and healthy plant based protein. Read More

Whether you call it the winter blues or use the clinical term "Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD)," the result is still the same - we feel more anxious, lack energy, and are generally more "blah" than normal. It is a problem faced by many. According to WebMD, one in four of us will manifest the doldrums during the winter months. If that describes you, here are ten ways to overcome the seasonal slump. Read More

There are several factors that contribute to a breakdown in the wound healing process. These include infection, tissue ischemia/hypoxia, inadequate local wound responsiveness, and unrelieved pressure. Read More

People in South Louisiana get excited about several seasons - football, basketball, and baseball to name three. Hunters are excited about deer and dove season. The holiday season, coming to a close, brought with it lots of excitement, too Read More

Summer is in full swing and families throughout the community are seizing the opportunity to hit the pool, beach, lake or water park to cool off and soak up some sun. Whether your next outing calls for snorkeling gear or an inflatable raft, don't forget to make water safety a priority, especially in areas where certified lifeguards are not present. Read More

Summer is in full swing and Americans are outside and on the move. To keep food poisoning, heat exhaustion and other summer woes from spoiling the fun, follow some basic safety tips to avoid illness and injury that could even become life-threatening. Read More

National Skin Cancer Awareness Month is observed nationwide each May in an effort to educate the public about the dangers of skin cancer. Despite widespread warnings of the risks associated with unprotected sun exposure, approximately two million people will be diagnosed with skin cancer this year. About 68,000 of these cases will be melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancer. Read More

Every spring, National Infant Immunization Week is observed to promote the benefits of childhood immunization. Read More

Some parents know right away that something is wrong. Others won't suspect until their toddler suddenly stops babbling or making eye contact. Either way, learning that your child is autistic can be life-changing. Read More

As the school year begins, make sure you are sending your kids off to school with more than just a kiss. Children who succeed in school begin with healthy home habits. Read More