If you have ever known someone who suffered from gallbladder disease or had to have gallbladder surgery, you may wonder why and how this small digestive organ can cause so much trouble. Fortunately, most people enjoy good gallbladder function as long as they follow some smart dietary and lifestyle practices.

Know something about what this small digestive organ does, why its functions might get disrupted, and what you can do to avoid uncomfortable, potentially serious gallbladder disorders. Consider the following five points about your gallbladder’s health and wellness.

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Most people don’t love going to the doctor, so going when you aren’t even sick can seem like a huge headache. However, preventative medicine is incredibly important to stay healthy and catch problems before they arise. If you would like to learn more about well-woman exams, then keep reading to learn what you can expect at these appointments.

Health Screening

Regardless of gender, there are some general tests most providers offer during annual exams. For women of any age, your provider will check blood pressure, pulse and breathing. They will also check for any signs of current illness. As you get older, however, you face more risks, so more tests may be recommended. (more…)

Although the arrival of a new family member offers plenty of cause for celebration, it can also present some potential health complications for expectant mothers. One such issue, diabetes, may grow harder to manage during pregnancy or even develop in women who have never experienced the condition before.

If you are pregnant or plan on becoming pregnant, you need to understand the delicate relationship between pregnancy and diabetes, from its causes and effects to smart strategies for keeping it under control. Start by examining the answers to these frequently asked questions on the topic. (more…)

The new year is the perfect time to reflect upon your life and think about the positive changes you’d like to make. One area of your life you’ll want to focus on is your health. “The healthier you are, the better chance you have of staving off certain viruses and diseases,” says Kari Fabian, MD, internal medicine at Stellis Health. “Small changes in your daily habits and routines can lead to a healthier lifestyle.” Plus, a healthier lifestyle means you’ll be around longer to enjoy your kids, grandchildren, and loved ones.

If your schedule is already full, you may find it a challenge to dedicate some time to your health. The good news is, there are some simple things you can do to improve your health.

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Minnesota and cold weather just naturally go together in the minds of most Americans — and not without reason. No matter how long you’ve lived in this part of the country or how accustomed to the cold you may feel, plunging temperatures can pose some serious health risks for you and your loved ones.

Fortunately, you can take steps to safeguard your family against cold weather’s potential effects on body and mind. Take the following four tips to heart as you watch the mercury drop. (more…)

Not sure which type of face mask to wear? How to care for it? Read on to see the top face mask questions answered.

Which Face Mask Is the Best Choice?

With a constantly growing number of cloth and disposable face masks available, it’s understandable that you may feel some level of confusion. Should you choose a mask with a filter pocket? Do you need a cloth mask, or is a disposable option acceptable? Can you find a mask that’s comfortable and provides protection during your workouts? What about the coveted N95 respirator mask?

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Certain physical changes are tell-tale signs of advanced age, from silver hair to lines and wrinkles. Many people also find that as they get older, they also get wider. Excess weight gain can occur young and old alike, but it commonly accompanies the aging process.

“Excess weight raises your risks for conditions like arthritis, hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease,” says Kari Fabian, MD, internal medicine physician at Stellis Health. “We can all benefit by understanding weight management challenges and solutions as we age.”

Check out the answers to frequently asked questions on the subject.

How Does Advancing Age Affect the Body?

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What parents need to know before scheduling their child’s flu shot appointment—here’s the most common influenza vaccine questions and answers.

When Should Your Child Get a Flu Shot?

With flu season upon us in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s more important than ever to reduce your risk for getting the flu. Most people should get vaccinated by the end of October, according to the CDC. Your child may need two doses of the vaccine (four weeks apart), if this is their first flu immunization. The CDC recommends starting the vaccination series earlier. (more…)

A lot of people try to balance the question of their health with the following question: is this serious enough to contact the doctor? Sometimes, you’re not sure if you need to worry about certain symptoms, especially if all you really need is a bit of rest or hydration.

Leg cramps can be extremely painful, but most of the time, they do not need more medical care than you can give yourself at home. However, sometimes leg pain can indicate the need for intervention.

Causes of Sudden Leg Pain

Most of the time, the feeling of intense pain in your legs is from muscle cramps or spasms. People often refer to these cramps as charley horses. The muscle contracts and often may not release for several seconds. During the contraction, the pain may escalate or intensify. Charley horses have a number of causes, but the most common reasons for the cramps include: (more…)

Your body’s kidneys, ureters, bladder, and urethra make up your urinary system. The primary function of the urinary system is to filter blood and also to produce urine. The urine helps rid the body of waste and extra water that the body doesn’t need. An infection in the urinary system is called a urinary tract infection or a UTI.

If you ever get a UTI, you should seek medical attention right away. Left untreated, a UTI can spread to the bladder and the kidneys. To help you better understand UTIs, here are the answers to four frequently asked questions about urinary tract infections. (more…)