People who have chronic health conditions often think exercise can make their symptoms worse. In fact, research shows that exercise actually boosts a person’s energy levels, improves symptoms and sometimes even reverses the course of disease. I’m Matt Carlen, vice … Continue reading →

I’m Dr. Ann Dilla, a family practitioner with Centegra Primary Care. I talk to my patients about the importance of wearing helmets every time they get on their bicycles.Bike helmets are the most effective way to reduce head injuries and … Continue reading →

Malignant melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that is more treatable when caught early. The best way to catch skin cancer is to see a dermatologist for regular skin exams and to perform monthly self-exams to look for … Continue reading →

One in 12 people in the United States has diabetes. While 18.8 million people have already been diagnosed with the disease, it is believed that 7 million people have diabetes yet do not know it.Ninety-five percent of people who have … Continue reading →

If you suffer from chronic or short-term back pain, a doctor of chiropractic can help you find relief.Doctors of chiropractic use extensive diagnostic skills to find the source of back pain. To treat patients, we use gentle manipulation or adjustments. … Continue reading →

Almost nine out of 10 cases of lung cancer are caused by tobacco smoke. The longer a person smokes and the more he or she smokes, the greater the risk for lung cancer. People who breathe secondhand smoke are also … Continue reading →

Do you have a hard time keeping your family away from junk food and off the couch? Centegra Kids in Motion can help. This fun and energizing program offers a unique way to help seven- to 13-year-olds learn healthy lifetime … Continue reading →

Are you a candidate for weight-loss surgery? The National Institutes of Health recommends surgery for people with a BMI greater than 40, or 35 if you have obesity-related problems. For most people, this means if you are about 100 pounds … Continue reading →

In September Centegra Behavioral Health Services recognizes Recovery Month. Recovery Month promotes the community benefits of treatment for substance abuse and mental disorders. We celebrate people in recovery, and share the message that recovery in all its forms is possible.This … Continue reading →

The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located in your neck that is in control of your metabolism. It is estimated that almost 60 million Americans have thyroid problems, but that only half of them are diagnosed.Whether a person’s thyroid is … Continue reading →

Meg Duellman, a registered dietitian with Centegra Health System, discusses how high-sugar acidic drinks such as pop and fruit juice can lead to tooth decay in children. In addition to tooth damage, these drinks can also add too many calories … Continue reading →

Colorectal cancer is a serious disease that is treatable when caught in its early stages. If you are older than 50, have a family history of cancer or if you smoke cigarettes, you should be screened for colon cancer.Talk to … Continue reading →

The caring nurses at The Centegra Breastfeeding Resource Center are proud to celebrate World Breastfeeding Week with the women of greater McHenry and Kane counties.I work with a team of professionals to support breastfeeding women and their babies. At Centegra … Continue reading →

Help your family beat the heat and stay healthy while you enjoy outdoor activities this summer.To stay hydrated when you’re outside, drink water regularly. Encourage your kids to take water breaks so they stay cool.Use about a shot glass of … Continue reading →

If you suffer from back pain, neck pain, headaches or joint pain in the arms and legs, a chiropractor may be able to help. We use our extensive diagnostic skills and a drug-free approach to help restore the body’s mobility.During … Continue reading →

Do you have your eye on a fun time this Fourth of July? Keep in mind these tips to protect your eyes during the summer.Everyone who’s going outside should wear sunglasses. Choose shades that block 100 percent of UV-A and … Continue reading →

If you have ever felt an irregular heartbeat, you know it can be an upsetting experience. Many people have occasional irregular heartbeats, called arrhythmias, but it is important to talk to your doctor if they occur frequently.Some people with irregular … Continue reading →

If you suspect someone is having a stroke, it is important to act quickly. The National Stroke Association says the word FAST is an easy way to remember the signs and symptoms of a stroke.F is for face. Ask the … Continue reading →

Are your children getting enough exercise? Exercise should be an important part of every child’s day to stay healthy and avoid childhood obesity.Most kids need at least an hour of physical activity every day. Besides helping them maintain a healthy … Continue reading →

Each year, 40 percent of U.S. heart attacks are fatal. A person has the best chance for a full recovery if he or she receives care within an hour from the start of a heart attack.I’m Dr. Irina Staicu, an … Continue reading →

With all the buzz about vitamin D, many people are confused about the importance of this vitamin. To raise community awareness about vitamin D and its role in the lives of people with cancer and chronic disease, Centegra Health System … Continue reading →

Buying. Wrapping. Cooking. Traveling. Do you feel overwhelmed by your to-do list?Enjoy this time of year by using these tips to manage your holiday stress.Make sure you eat well and get adequate sleep and exercise. Rest and movement are great … Continue reading →

Now that the weather is colder and we’re spending more time indoors, everyone is more susceptible to viruses. This winter, safeguard your health by following a few guidelines.It’s not too late to get a flu shot. Visit Centegra Immediate Care … Continue reading →

Centegra Health System joins the American Cancer Society as we celebrate the 35th Great American Smokeout on Nov. 18. Make a plan to quit smoking that day and to take an important step toward a healthier life.Quitting smoking is not … Continue reading →

This year, national experts recommend that everyone older than six months receives a flu vaccination.This year’s influenza vaccine protects against the 2009 H1N1 and two other influenza viruses that researchers believe will be common this season. Experts say that everyone … Continue reading →

The benefits of Meditation are well documented. Its healing effects impact both the mind and the body.Simple meditative techniques decrease heart rate, reduce muscle tension and improve mental focus.Find a place where you can sit comfortably and quietly. Close your … Continue reading →

Back pain is a common problem that is often caused by muscle weakness. To avoid back pain, add exercises to your workout that condition your back.To perform an abdominal curl, lie in a sit-up position and slowly raise your shoulders … Continue reading →

If you have a job that requires repetitive motions of your hands and wrists, it’s good to learn ways to prevent carpal tunnel syndrome. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when a nerve that runs through the forearm and hand becomes compressed. … Continue reading →

Help your family beat the heat and stay healthy while you enjoy outdoor activities this summer.To stay hydrated when you’re outside, drink water regularly. Encourage your kids to take water breaks so they stay cool.Use about a shot glass of … Continue reading →

Now is the perfect time for athletes of any sport and any ability level to improve upon the foundation of their performance! Athletes age 9 and older can improve their power, speed, agility and reaction time in TOP SPEED, a … Continue reading →

When you think of your family tree, you may remember your grandfather’s job, stories about a great-great aunt or you may hope for some distant ties to royalty. As a physician, I know just how important family trees are.Your family … Continue reading →

Malignant melanoma is a serious form of skin cancer that is more treatable  when caught early. The best way to catch skin cancer is to see a dermatologist for regular skin exams and to perform monthly self-exams to look for … Continue reading →

During the colder months, we often hear about ways to avoid the flu. Another respiratory illness that can have serious effects on young children and the elderly is Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or RSV.In the United States, RSV is the most … Continue reading →

Did you know that every 45 seconds someone has a stroke? Centegra’s Wellness on the Move mobile health unit helps you understand your risks for stroke and heart disease by offering vascular screenings. Centegra’s Vascular Screening Program provides you immediate … Continue reading →

Centegra Health System began offering H1N1 vaccinations to the general public in mid-December 2009 at Centegra Immediate Care Centers. Dr. Ted Lorenc, vice president of medical affairs, explains how the current local supply of the vaccine became great enough to … Continue reading →