Blog

COVID-19 phobia? Why you should not delay emergency...

May 15, 2020

Delaying medical care can have serious consequences. But unfortunately, data suggests this is what has been happening in the wake of the COVID...

tags: covid-19 , covid-19-blog

Stress less for better health

May 11, 2020

While stress is a normal reaction to certain situations and events, chronic stress that lasts for days or weeks can have a lasting negative...

tags: anxiety , mental disorders , newsletter , sleep

Brain attacks: Fast action prevents lasting damage

May 4, 2020

According to the CDC, strokes are the fifth-leading cause of death in the U.S., and yet, 1 in 3 Americans cannot identify a single stroke ...

tags: blood cells , f.a.s.t. method , medical attention , newsletter

Are these household chemicals bad for your health?

April 27, 2020

Phthalates are in hundreds of consumer goods and can make their way into your body. Here's what you need to know.

tags: food-and-beverage , health-effects , household-items , newsletter , pregnancy

4 reasons to be cautious about melatonin

April 20, 2020

Melatonin is a widely-used sleep aid. But it's not right for everyone. Learn if you should skip this supplement and why it could do more harm...

tags: bedtime , health-risks , newsletter , sleep-schedule , supplements

Pregnancy and coronavirus: Answers to common questions

April 17, 2020

If you're an expectant mom, you probably have questions about coronavirus (COVID-19) and pregnancy. While it is true pregnant women tend to have...

tags: covid-19-blog , covid-19-wc-blog , newsletter

Pregnancy and coronavirus: Pregnancy and postpartum...

April 17, 2020

As more information is being revealed about coronavirus (COVID-19), expectant mothers, understandably, may have growing concerns about their ...

tags: covid-19-blog , covid-19-wc-blog , newsletter

Pregnancy and coronavirus: Postpartum depression...

April 17, 2020

Understandably, many people are experiencing heightened levels of anxiety, stress and sadness during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. For...

tags: covid-19-blog , covid-19-wc-blog , newsletter

Childhood bullying has lasting health consequences

April 13, 2020

Childhood bullying occurs during a critical stage of development. Here's what to look out for and how to help prevent lasting damage.

tags: depression , health-effects , newsletter , ptsd , trauma

World Health Day

April 7, 2020

This World Health Day, consider how you and your community can stay healthy throughout the year.

How your diet could affect your thyroid

April 6, 2020

Learn how the timing of your meals and supplements can affect your thyroid medication.

tags: dietary-supplements , healthy-diet , hypothyroidism , iodine , newsletter

Staying connected - from a distance

March 23, 2020 by Jessica Poe

Humans are social beings. We're designed to build meaningful relationships, and we crave physical touch. So, how do we stay connected during ...

tags: homeaid-school-support , homeschool , jessica poe , social distancing , staying connected

4 min Read Time

8 ways you're making your seasonal allergies worse

March 23, 2020

For many people in the United States, the warmer, longer days of spring can't come soon enough. But for tens of millions of people, early spring...

tags: air filters , allergy medication , cleaning , newsletter , weather conditions

Let's take a deep breath: Helping kids cope emotionally

March 20, 2020 by Jessica Poe

With so much going on in the world today, we could all benefit from an emotional coping skills tune-up - but especially our children. While smaller...

tags: homeaid , homeaid-school-support , homeschool , jessica poe , mountainstar childrens , school support

As school from home starts, ponder these perks

March 20, 2020 by Jessica Poe

With our public education facilities closed due to COVID-19, many parents find themselves in a new role – classroom manager. Though the responsibility...

tags: covid-19 , covid-19 - schools closed , homeaid-school-support , homeschool

Working from home with kids – staying sane and...

March 20, 2020 by Jessica Poe

I’ve worked from home for more than a decade and have attempted to train my three children from an early age that when mommy is on a work call...

tags: covid school shut down , homeaid - school support , homeaid-school-support , home school , jessica poe , work at home , working parents at home

Creating an at-home school schedule – where to...

March 20, 2020 by Jessica Poe

Structure provides a framework for learning and productivity, develops self-discipline and nurtures feelings of security safety.

tags: at home school schedule , covid-19 - schools closed , homeaid-school-support , homeschool , homeschool schedule , jessica poe , mountainstar childrens services , working parents

4 min Read Time

Should I be worried if I'm seeing spots?

March 16, 2020

Ever had spots, specks or cobweb-like lines float across your field of vision, only to drift away when you shift your eyes to focus on them? ...

tags: diabetes , eye exams , eye health , newsletter , ophthalmologists

5 min Read Time

5 sugar-free ways to make your food (and life)...

March 9, 2020

Cutting back on sugar can be a challenge. For one thing, it's everywhere. Food companies regularly add dozens of different kinds of sugar to ...

tags: baking , health , newsletter , spices , sugar substitutes , vegetables

5 min Read Time

Kratom: the risky new substance you need to know...

March 2, 2020

While it might not be on your radar quite yet, kratom is on the rise. Between 3 and 5 million Americans use the herbal supplement, either recreationally...

tags: addiction , health risks , herbal supplements , medication , newsletter

4 min Read Time

The depression and heart disease link

February 24, 2020

There’s a close link between heart disease and depression. The good news? Keeping your heart healthy can keep your mood up—and vice...

tags: depression , heart health , mental health , newsletter , stress

3 min Read Time

Heart failure and heart rhythm: The link you need...

February 18, 2020

Arrhythmia can lead to heart failure, and heart failure can lead to arrhythmia. Here’s what to look out for and what to do if you have ...

tags: arrhythmia , heart failure , heart muscle , heart rhythm

5 min Read Time

How working too much affects your heart

February 17, 2020

If you’re routinely working overtime and sitting at your desk for prolonged periods of time, your heart health may suffer. Find out how...

tags: diet , exercise , heart health , newsletter , stress , work life

5 min Read Time

Do you need to see an electrophysiologist?

February 10, 2020

Electrophysiologists are cardiologists who focus on heart rhythm disturbances. Know when you may need to see one—and how to get this specialized...

tags: arrhythmias , electricity , heart rhythm , heart specialist , newsletter

5 min Read Time

7 worst things for a woman’s heart

February 3, 2020

Heart disease is the number one killer of women, but only one out of five American women believe it’s a threat.

tags: diet , exercise , heart disease , heart events , newsletter , stress

4 min Read Time

5 health benefits of humidifiers

January 27, 2020

When the air gets cooler and dry, adding moisture to your environment can help ease congestion, dry skin, irritated eyes and other seasonal symptoms...

tags: air , allergies , health issues , moisture , newsletter

4 min Read Time

Could your persistent cough be walking pneumonia?

January 20, 2020

You might assume that if you had pneumonia, you’d know it. But a lingering cough could be a mild form pneumonia that still needs treatment.

tags: cough , immune system , newsletter , prevention , treatment

4 min Read Time

3 embarrassing health issues many women face—and...

January 13, 2020

Pregnancy, childbirth and menopause can all affect your pelvic floor. Learn why it's crucial to identify these issues and talk to your doctor...

tags: dietary adjustments , newsletter , pelvic floor , pregnancy , urinary incontinence

4 min Read Time

Hearing loss and depression: What’s the connection?

January 6, 2020

Hearing loss is common but not harmless. Learn why it can increase your risk for depression and how to protect your health.

tags: assistive devices , depression , hearing loss , newsletter , warning signs

2 min Read Time

How to handle your grief during the holidays

December 23, 2019

The holidays often amplify feelings of loss, but managing your grief starts with acknowledging it. Here’s how to ease the pain and get the help...

tags: coping , depression , grief , newsletter , therapy

4 min Read Time

10 easy ways to eat Mediterranean on a budget

December 9, 2019

It's delicious and nutritious -- but it can be pricey. Learn to serve up a Mediterranean diet without breaking the bank.

tags: budget , diet , fruits , newsletter , nuts , veggies , whole-grain

4 min Read Time

What is CBD and why are so many people using it?

December 2, 2019

Millions of Americans take CBD for insomnia, pain, anxiety and more. But research puts its effectiveness and long-term safety in doubt. Here's...

tags: cbd , health risks , legality , newsletter , safety , symptoms

Recipe: red pepper rolls

December 1, 2019 by Anne Brock, RDN, LD, CDE

Need a healthier side dish to take to the company holiday potluck? Get a fruit and vegetable serving in with these Red Pepper Rolls that are ...

3 min Read Time

Do weighted blankets really work?

November 18, 2019

Weighted blankets have been used to help people with sensory conditions like autism sleep better, and they may hold sleep benefits for others...

tags: anxiety , newsletter , relaxation , sleep

Recipe of the month - November 2019

November 11, 2019

Try these two recipes to warm up during the coming winter months.

4 min Read Time

Can acupuncture ease your chronic pain?

November 11, 2019

Acupuncture dates back 2,000 years but we are just now learning how it can help conditions like chronic pain. Here’s what the latest research...

tags: chronic pain , newsletter , therapy , treatment

4 min Read Time

6 facial hair grooming habits every guy must know

November 4, 2019

From goatees to beards, facial hair can lead to irritating issues if it’s not maintained well. Try these expert tips to keep your skin and beard...

tags: facial hair , hygiene , newsletter , shampoo , shaving , skin care

4 min Read Time

Need a quick nap? Make sure you're doing it right

October 28, 2019

Naps may be beneficial for some people, but not for everyone. We spoke with a sleep specialist to learn when naps are beneficial and when they're...

tags: alertness , newsletter , sleep-cycle , sleep-disorder

5 min Read Time

Is drinking coffee really good for you?

October 21, 2019

Coffee can boost mood and focus, and is linked to a lower risk of many diseases. Learn how it may affect health and get tips to optimize your...

tags: antioxidants , focus , happiness , health-benefits , java , newsletter

3 min Read Time

How having a pet can help your mental health

October 14, 2019

Having a pet can help keep you physically active. The companionship and love they offer can also boost your emotional and mental health. Here's...

tags: companionship , emotional-support , mental-health , newsletter , pets

Entertained and distracted by technology

October 2, 2019

“It’s like traveling to a different world! It totally took my mind off reality. It’s a great new tool for pain management.”

Trust your doctor like your mechanic

October 2, 2019

Kenny Tower started surfing and racing sailboats at the age of 12. After moving to Idaho, he started skiing, kayaking, cross-fit and especially...

tags: dr. george nicola , kenny tower , knee joints , orthopedic surgery , patient testimonial

4 min Read Time

Shock therapy isn't what you think it is

September 23, 2019

Learn the history of electroconvulsive therapy and how it can help treat severe depression and some other mood disorders, safely and effectively...

tags: electrodes , mental-illness , newsletter , therapy

3 min Read Time

How to avoid germs throughout the day

September 16, 2019

Germs are everywhere. Not all of them are harmful but some viruses, bacteria and other microbes can make you sick. Here’s how you can avoid infection...

tags: bacteria , hand-washing , illness , infection , newsletter , sanitize

5 min Read Time

Does apple cider vinegar really improve your health?

September 9, 2019

Apple cider vinegar is gaining popularity in the wellness world. But should you really add a daily dose to your diet? Miriam Zylberglait, MD,...

tags: blood-pressure , health-claims , newsletter , research

4 min Read Time

Should you wash your legs? Plus 6 other showering...

August 26, 2019

Do you wash your legs? A recent Twitter debate shows some do and some don't. We spoke with a dermatologist to learn the proper way to shower,...

tags: bathing , cleanser , dead-skin-cells , newsletter , oils , shaving

RECIPE: Beet and Sirloin Salad

August 21, 2019 by Anne Brock, RDN, LD, CDE

Step out of your comfort zone with this beet and sirloin steak salad. When it comes to nutrition we say, “Eat the rainbow!” Have a nice variety...

tags: beets , healthy , nutition , recipe , salad , steak , west valley

Raising the bar with a new look

August 21, 2019

If you haven't noticed already, we're in the midst of re-branding here at West Valley Medical Center. We're moving from maroon and grey to navy...

6 min Read Time

Bug bite symptoms you should never ignore

August 19, 2019

Many bug bites only cause temporary itching or burning, but some insect bites and stings are more serious. One expert explains when it’s time...

tags: bites , bugs , disease , newsletter , repellent , symptoms

2 min Read Time

Why poor sleep could derail your weight loss goals

August 12, 2019

Poor sleep affects more than your energy level and alertness. Learn why it can trigger a cascade of hormonal changes that may lead to weight ...

tags: appetite , exercise , hormones , metabolic-problems , newsletter , sleep

5 min Read Time

6 things you need to know about hormone therapy

August 5, 2019

Hormone replacement therapy can offer relief from menopausal symptoms like hot flashes for certain candidates. Find out if this remedy is right...

tags: hormones , hot-flashes , menopause , newsletter , treatment

Pool Safety: Water Watchers

July 25, 2019

With the increasing temperatures, pool parties are becoming even more popular! Our Emergency Department Medical Director, Dr. Justin Sempsrott...

4 min Read Time

Can this drink increase your risk of stroke?

July 22, 2019

These drinks may give you a burst to meet a deadline, but consuming them is linked to serious health problems, including an increased risk of...

tags: caffeine , health risks , ingredients , newsletter , stroke

Opioid addiction resources

July 16, 2019

Deaths from opioids in the US have quadrupled in the last 15 years, and 78 Americans die every day from opioid overdoses. If you or a loved one...

3 min Read Time

Can a walk in the woods really make you happier?

July 15, 2019

Forest therapy is a traditional Japanese practice gaining fans around the world. Learn how walking in nature can ease your mind and boost your...

tags: calming , health benefits , nature , newsletter , senses , stress relieving

RECIPE: Sauteed shrimp salad

July 10, 2019 by Anne Brock, RDN, LD, CDE

This easy to prepare, light recipe is perfect for the summertime.

tags: healthy , nutrition , salad , shrimp , west valley

3 min Read Time

Is ghee actually healthy?

July 8, 2019

Certain diets like Keto and Whole30 suggest that ghee is a healthier cooking oil. But ghee is really just clarified butter, so is this really...

tags: cholesterol , dairy , diets , fat , health , newsletter

How to know if you have celiac disease, a gluten...

July 1, 2019

Not everyone who has a wheat allergy has to avoid other sources of gluten. Learn what gluten is and why some people can't have it.

tags: allergy , gluten , newsletter , sensitivity , symptoms , wheat

5 min Read Time

7 min Read Time

6 worst things you can do for your brain

June 24, 2019

Though you can't prevent dementia and cognitive decline, there are some steps you can take to help set you on the path to better brain health...

tags: alzheimer's , dementia , health , newsletter , risks , sleep

RECIPE: Jamaican jerk chicken

June 19, 2019 by Anne Brock, RDN, LD, CDE

This recipe of the month brings a sweet and spicy taste to your summer.

tags: chicken , healthy , nutrition , recipe , west valley

9 min Read Time

9 of the worst health mistakes men make

June 17, 2019

A whopping 6 out of 10 men don't go to the doctor when they should. Find out the reasons why.

tags: behavior , diabetes , health , men , newsletter , obesity , physical activity

4 min Read Time

Are spider veins anything to worry about?

June 10, 2019

Anyone can get spider veins, but they affect women much more often than men. Here's everything you need to know about these spiderweb-like veins...

tags: blood vessels , newsletter , spider veins , treatment , varicose veins

4 min Read Time

Is your headache a migraine?

June 3, 2019

Not all bad headaches are migraines. Learn how to figure out if you suffer from migraine pain and how you can improve your overall quality of...

tags: headache , migraine , newsletter , symptoms , treatments , triggers

6 min Read Time

Should I Take Supplements to Strengthen My Bones?

May 20, 2019

Not everyone needs to take bone supplements to prevent fractures and osteoporosis. Find out what foods are good for your bones, if you might ...

tags: bones , calcium , newsletter , supplements , vitamin d

4 min Read Time

The Risk of UTIs Increase as You Age - Here's ...

May 13, 2019

UTIs are common among older adults, but the infection can sometimes be confused with the natural signs of aging.

tags: antibiotic , bacteria , elderly , infection , newsletter , uti

4 min Read Time

7 Ways Mothers Make the World a Healthier Place

May 6, 2019

Mothers can help shape the healthy habits and behaviors of the next generation. Their influence may begin even before pregnancy and have a lasting...

tags: children , health , mother , newsletter , school

4 min Read Time

How Often Should You Really Be Washing Your Sheets?

April 22, 2019

Bedding can be a breeding ground for bacteria. Just how often should you wash your sheets?

tags: bacteria , bedding , newsletter , sleep , wash

4 min Read Time

Mucus: What You Need to Know

April 15, 2019

Mucus often gets a bad rap for signaling infections, but it is actually quite beneficial to your body. Find out what your snot says about your...

tags: bacteria , germs , mucus , newsletter , sickness

5 min Read Time

Could I Have an Ulcer and Not Know It?

April 8, 2019

Despite their prevalence, the symptoms of an ulcer can frequently be mistaken for other conditions, like heartburn, and some show no signs at...

tags: newsletter , nsaids , pain , stomach , symptoms , ulcer

5 min Read Time

Intermittent Fasting: What Really Happens to Your...

April 1, 2019

Here’s what we know about intermittent fasting so far–what it is and how it affects your body, along with tips should you choose ...

tags: diet , health , if , newsletter , weight loss

4 Thoughts on Women's Health in 2019

March 25, 2019 by Michelle Stoddard, PA-C

If you are like most women, you are really good at taking care of everyone else's needs in your life. But do you do a good enough job taking ...

tags: women's health

5 min Read Time

The Right Way to Treat a Sinus Infection

March 25, 2019

Find out how you can treat your sinus infection at home and when it’s time to call your doctor.

tags: acute , cold , congestion , newsletter , sinus , treatment

7 min Read Time

Gas: What’s Normal and What Isn’t?

March 18, 2019

Is your gas excessive, smelly or painful? Find out what’s normal, and what may be a sign of a more serious health issue.

tags: belch , bloating , foods , gas , newsletter , symptoms

Tell-Tale Heart Attack Signs in Women

March 16, 2019

It's no secret that men's and women's bodies work differently. That's why it's important to know the tell-tale signs — for women

tags: heart health , women's health

3 min Read Time

You Can Stop Colon Cancer Before it Stops You

March 13, 2019 by Scott Macaluso, clinical supervisor of Endoscopy Services

March is National Colon Cancer Awareness Month, so there's no better time than the present to get a colonoscopy! Worried about the procedure?...

2 min Read Time

Millennials’ Odds for Depression Rise with Social...

March 11, 2019

Social media use can exacerbate or highlight depression systems, according to a new study published in the Journal of Applied Biobehavioral research...

tags: depressions , disorder , millennials , newsletter , social media , study

4 min Read Time

Is Your Anxiety Normal or a Sign of Something ...

March 4, 2019

Anxiety is part of life that helps people tackle new challenges, but excessive worry isn’t normal. One expert explains the difference between...

tags: anxiety , disorder , help , newsletter , symptoms , treatment

4 min Read Time

Do You Really Need an Antibiotic?

February 26, 2019

It’s normal to want relief from a fever, sore throat and congestion but antibiotics usually aren’t the answer. Lean why and what you can do to...

tags: bacteria , february , newsletter , side-effects , treatment , virus

6 min Read Time

What's Causing Your Cold Weather Allergies?

February 12, 2019

For some, winter's chill doesn’t keep allergy symptoms at bay. Find out which indoor triggers are causing your coughing, sneezing and watery ...

tags: allergies , february , newsletter , symptoms , treatments

3 min Read Time

New Cholesterol Guidelines Focus on Personalized...

December 25, 2018

New cholesterol guidelines released by the American Heart Association recommend a “personalized” approach to fighting bad cholesterol.

4 min Read Time

Even a 2-minute Walk Counts in New Physical Activity...

December 18, 2018

New guidelines suggest physical activity lasting as little as two minutes still counts toward a person’s weekly activity goals. Previously, activity...

2 min Read Time

Acute Flaccid Myelitis, Polio-Like Illness Affecting...

December 11, 2018

What do parents need to know about AFM, the polio-like virus that’s left hundreds of children across the U.S. partially paralyzed?

3 min Read Time

December 2018 - Recipe of the Month

December 5, 2018

Around the holidays, many of us tend to make sweets to share as gifts or to enjoy for ourselves. These date-nut snowballs are a perfect treat...

3 min Read Time

New Study Finds That Smoking and Diabetes May ...

December 4, 2018

Smoking, diabetes, high blood pressure: all bad for the heart, but perhaps worse for women's hearts than men's.

4 min Read Time

Are You at Risk for Epilepsy?

November 27, 2018

Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes seizures. While some factors are outside your control, there are several ways to lower your risk...

tags: epilepsy , epilepsy-risk-factors , november , seizures , traumatic-brain-injury

2 min Read Time

Can Diet Help Treat Epilepsy in Adults?

November 20, 2018

When anti-seizure medications don't work well enough, people with epilepsy can try changing their diet to reduce seizures.

tags: diet , diet-treatment , epilepsy , epilepsy-treatment , keto-diet , november , seizures , seizure-treatment

Road Trip Essentials: Car Emergency and First ...

November 13, 2018

You and your family have decided to take a holiday road trip together. You envision scenic snowy routes, countless rounds of the alphabet game...

Road Trip Essentials: Car Emergency and First ...

November 13, 2018

You and your family have decided to take a holiday road trip together. You envision scenic snowy routes, countless rounds of the alphabet game...

1 min Read Time

3 min Read Time

A Holiday Discussion: What's Our Family Medical...

November 9, 2018

The holidays are just around the corner. That means families will be gathering for big hugs and big meals. Sometimes, you haven't seen these...

3 min Read Time

Turkey Traumas, Solved

November 6, 2018

From thawing your bird to gobbling it down at the table, these tips will help you enjoy a safe and healthy Thanksgiving.

tags: cuts , emergency , heart-health , lacerations , november , thanksgiving , turkey

5 min Read Time

Is the Air in Your Home Polluted?

October 23, 2018

Your home should make you healthier, not less. Put your pollution radar to the test and answer these four questions about your home's indoor ...

tags: air-pollution , clean-indoor-air , indoor-air-quality , october , vocs , volatile-organic-compounds

Are You Prepared to Save a Life?

October 22, 2018

Hopefully, you'll never be in a situation where someone is suffering life-threatening bleeding. However, uncontrolled bleeding is the leading...

tags: 911 , bleeding , emergency , stop the bleed

3 min Read Time

Protecting Your Health from Air Pollution

October 16, 2018

Research suggests that, even at safe levels, air pollutants can harm your health. A reduction in short-term exposure to particulate matter from...

tags: air-pollution , carbon-monoxide , epa , lead , october , ozone , respiratory-illness

3 min Read Time

How to Stay Healthy in an Office Full of Sick ...

October 9, 2018

During the height of flu season, you'll likely find yourself surrounded by coughing, sniffling and sneezing coworkers. Thankfully, protecting...

tags: cold , flu , flu-season , germs , hand-washing , influenza , october , vaccines

3 min Read Time

Can the Flu Shot Really Save Your Life?

October 2, 2018

We've all heard the advice to get the flu shot each fall. But is it really that important to do so? The short answer: definitely yes. And timing...

tags: cdc , cold , flu , flu-symptoms , guillain-barre-syndrome , october , vaccine

2 min Read Time

Why Vitamin D is Critical to Heart Health

September 18, 2018

Having a heart condition is a definite life crisis. But what if you could reduce the chances that it'll be deadly thanks to the benefits of vitamin...

3 min Read Time