Conditions such as bunions, corns and hammertoes may seem more annoying than dangerous, but if you continue to ignore such a problem, it could affect the way you walk which in turn could lead to knee, hip and lower back pain. “In many cases, fixing one... Read more
If you are experiencing persistent abdominal pain, your doctor may order an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatogram (ERCP), a test that uses a flexible scope and X-ray images to examine the tubes that drain your gallbladder, liver and pancreas. “ERCP is a minimally invasive way to remove stones... Read more
Tonsil cancer is a type of throat cancer that occurs in one of the three types of tonsils in the throat. The major risk factors for this type of cancer include smoking, chewing tobacco and drinking alcohol. People with human papillomavirus (HPV) also are at greater... Read more
At Saint Francis Medical Center, staff members focus on relationship-based care in all they do. This means they are focused on creating a greater bond with their patients, their patients’ families and their co-workers. “Relationship-based care is a model of care that incorporates professionalism, teamwork and... Read more
When you or your loved one experiences a medical emergency, you want only the best care. Saint Francis Medical Center’s Level III Emergency and Trauma Center offers specialized care for its youngest patients and seniors throughout the region.
The designated children’s area features exam areas and equipment specifically tailored... Read more
As your child prepares for college, make sure he or she is up to date on all necessary vaccinations. They include:
TDAP (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis, commonly called "whooping cough") – “We know from studies that the pertussis vaccinations we receive as young children eventually wear off,”... Read more
Back pain is not necessarily a normal part of aging. You can stop back pain before it starts by following these tips: • Maintain good core strength. “If you regularly exercise your abdominal muscles, that can give you enough strength to counteract any potential back issues,”... Read more
When you’re in rehab, it helps to have a buddy. Patients at Saint Francis Medical Center’s Inpatient Rehabilitation program get just what they need from rehab’s four-legged friend, a 5-year old golden retriever, fittingly named Buddy.
Buddy, a Cape Girardeau Pet Pal and American Kennel Club Canine... Read more
High temperatures during the summer can lead to heat stroke – a medical emergency. It can occur as a progression from fainting or heat exhaustion, or it can happen suddenly, even if you have no other signs of heat injury. Symptoms of heat stroke include:
Nausea and... Read more
A summer vacation is a great way to see the country, but it can be hard on your diet. Traveling, dining out and staying in hotels can set back your weight-loss plan if you’re not careful. Luckily, with a little planning, you can have a fun... Read more
High cholesterol can be a risk factor for both heart disease and stroke, which is why you should have your cholesterol checked regularly. If it is too high, you need to take steps to lower it.
High cholesterol is defined as a total cholesterol level of 200 milligrams... Read more
If you are experiencing unusually long-lasting or uncomfortable gas and bloating, tell your doctor right away. It could be a symptom of a bigger problem. “Bloating is one of the main symptoms of celiac disease, an autoimmune digestive disease that damages the small intestine,” says Rafid... Read more
Head lice? Head to the doctor. “If a child has head lice, the parents might notice an itchy scalp, small red bumps or sores from scratching,” says Beverly L. Brown, MD, FAAP, pediatrician at Saint Francis Medical Center. “They might see the tiny lice (no bigger... Read more
The best way to protect yourself from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays is to wear long sleeves and long pants. But if you have a job in which you must wear less clothing, such as a lifeguard, be sure to completely cover yourself with sunscreen. Experts... Read more
Like many other dads, Mark A. Meadors, DO, plans to spend Father’s Day with his family. But quality “dad time” is nothing new for the Saint Francis Medical Center medical oncologist, who makes regular trips to Saint Francis’ Fitness Plus gym with his entire family.
The Meadors... Read more
At least five days a week, at 5 am, the five friends train together. Whether they’re swimming, bicycling, running or lifting weights – whether they’re training for an upcoming triathlon or recovering from a recent half-marathon – Fitness Plus members Jason Bandermann, Ryan Bandermann, John Dennis,... Read more
Doctors detect most heart murmurs, or abnormal sounds of the heart, during a routine physical examination. While many heart murmurs are not a cause for concern, doctors may perform an echocardiogram of the heart to see if there is an abnormality in one of the four... Read more
The most popular treatments for heartburn are over-the-counter medications that relieve the pain. These include antacids that neutralize stomach acid, such as Mylanta, Rolaids and Tums; other medications, such as Zantac, reduce acid production; and proton pump inhibitors such as Prevacid and Prilosec block acid production... Read more
Fitness Plus has certified personal trainers specially trained to coach you, train you, and keep you motivated and excited about your workout. Personal training sessions are a great option if you are
Training for a race or other sporting eventHoping to improve strength, agility and speed for... Read more
If you suffer from heartburn, you know all too well how uncomfortable you become when you eat the wrong foods. Heartburn occurs when stomach acids return to the esophagus and cause a burning sensation. The best way to avoid it is by simply avoiding foods that... Read more