To Your Health

Food & Fitness
May 16, 2022

Can I Exercise with COVID-19?

If you're recovering from COVID-19, you may want to ease back into your workout routine. Consider these tips from Ochsner physical therapists before hitting the gym.

By Robbie Banta, PT, DPT
Conditions & Treatment
May 16, 2022

How COVID Brain Fog Affects Communication and How to Stop It

Brain fog, memory loss and communication struggles are increasingly being linked to COVID-19. Ochsner speech therapists weigh in on what you can do to stop it.

By Taylor Magaw, MA, SLP
Conditions & Treatment
May 11, 2022

How Effective is HIV PrEP and Who Should Take It?

PrEP is a treatment that can reduce the chance of getting HIV.

By Cesar Roque
Conditions & Treatment
May 9, 2022

What Are Uterine Fibroids?

If you consistently have heavy or painful periods, uterine fibroids may be to blame.

By Veronica Gillispie-Bell, MD
Conditions & Treatment
May 9, 2022

Excessive Ear Wax? Doctors Say Don't Use Cotton Swabs For Ear Cleaning

Do you find yourself having trouble hearing due to earwax buildup? An excess of earwax can make hearing difficult and become a nuisance. Cleaning your ears can sometimes cause more problems than it’s worth.

By Jayesh Madrecha, DO
Conditions & Treatment
May 6, 2022

How Stroke Symptoms May Differ in Women

Strokes can have a more negative and long-term impact for women, since they generally live longer than men.

By Amer Awad, MD

Conditions & Treatment
May 6, 2022

When Will Kids Under 12 Be Able to Get the COVID-19 Vaccine?

COVID-19 vaccine clinical trials are underway in children as young as 6 months old, and we can expect to hear more on when kids under the age of 12 will be eligible for the COVID-19 vaccine in the coming months.

By Diana Peterson, MD, MPH
Conditions & Treatment
May 5, 2022

Your Baby’s First Fever: What to Do?

Fevers can be stressful events, especially when your baby is having their first fever. Here's what to do and what not to do.

By Rajiv Gala, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Apr 29, 2022

How to Prevent Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)

Bacteria naturally live in the vagina. However, overgrowth of bacteria can occur, leading to conditions like bacterial vaginosis (BV).

By Payton Olson, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Apr 28, 2022

What You Need To Know About the Hepatitis Outbreak in Children

Pediatric hepatologist Ryan Himes, MD, explains the recent hepatitis outbreak in children, plus ways to protect your kids and symptoms to look out for.

By Ryan Himes, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Apr 27, 2022

What Are Organ Donation Requirements?

All people should consider themselves potential organ and tissue donors—regardless of age, health, race or ethnicity.

By Adam Gracon, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Apr 27, 2022

How Do Living Kidney Donations Work?

Choosing to donate a kidney is one of the most meaningful and generous things anyone can do but there are many things to consider.

By Rebecca Guillera, RN
Conditions & Treatment
Apr 27, 2022

What Is Athlete's Foot?

Even nonathletes can get athlete's foot; the fungus that causes it isn't picky.

By Nneka Meka, DPM
Conditions & Treatment
Apr 27, 2022

What to Do When Dehydrated

Dehydration can influence your mental functioning, heart rate and ability to regulate body temperature and blood pressure.

By Ajsa Nikolic, MD, MHA
Conditions & Treatment
Apr 27, 2022

What Is the Fastest Way to Cure Jock Itch?

Jock itch is caused by a fungal infection, and it's mostly preventable.

By Alicia Cool, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Apr 20, 2022

Symptoms of Lymphoma

Lymphoma is a cancer of the lymphatic system and symptoms of lymphoma often feel like a cold or the flu.

By Yasmin Hajja, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Apr 19, 2022

What Are the Symptoms of Liver Disease?

Your liver is an amazing organ and works 24/7, but it can be damaged by an unhealthy diet, drugs, alcohol, toxins and hepatitis viruses.

By Ryan Himes, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Apr 18, 2022

Having a Stroke? Think BE-FAST

Early treatment can reduce the brain damage that results from a stroke.

By Gabriel A. Vidal, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Apr 18, 2022

The Signs of Stroke

Strokes don’t just happen to older adults. A quarter of strokes occur in those under 65.

By Gabriel A. Vidal, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Apr 14, 2022

What Causes Chlamydia?

Chlamydia is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI), and it can affect both men and women. While no one wants to be told they have an STI, the good news is chlamydia is treatable.

By Travis King
Conditions & Treatment
Apr 14, 2022

How Do I Know If I’m Having a Stroke?

Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States. Learn the signs to spot a stroke.

By Richard Zweifler, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Apr 13, 2022

What Are Symptoms of Hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are sometimes referred to as piles and occur when the veins around the lower rectum or anus are swollen and inflamed. We shouldn’t be embarrassed to talk about hemorrhoids, mainly because 1 in 20 Americans experience them.

By Sarah Champagne, DO
Conditions & Treatment
Apr 13, 2022

Cellulitis Can Be Dangerous. Don't Ignore That Cut or Skin Infection

Cellulitis is a bacterial skin infection that causes redness, pain and swelling in your limbs and can cause serious health concerns if not treated.

By Brandi K. Jones, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Apr 12, 2022

Organ Donation: What’s True or False?

Clearing up the confusion around who is eligible to become an organ donor and the way the organ donation process works.

By Ian Carmody, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Apr 6, 2022

Staph Infections Can Be Dangerous: Here’s What to Know

A staph infection can be unpleasant and bothersome, and while most don’t pose serious complications, there are times a staph infection can be dangerous.

By Farah Munir, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Apr 1, 2022

What is Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)?

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a severe form of PMS. Learn more about the symptoms and diagnosis process to find the relief you deserve.

By Kristen Malkiewicz, NP
Conditions & Treatment
Apr 1, 2022

Crohn's Disease: Could Persistent, Painful Stomach Cramps Be a Symptom?

Crohn's disease is a painful gastrointestinal disorder that causes inflammation and irritation in your digestive tract.

By Christopher Hodnette, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Apr 1, 2022

How Soon Can HIV Be Detected in Blood?

The only way to know for sure whether you have HIV is to get tested. The CDC recommends anyone ages 13-64 be tested at least once a year and with any new sexual partner.

By Amy Schmitt, NP
Conditions & Treatment
Mar 21, 2022

What Is Heat Stroke?

Exertional heat illness, commonly known as "heat stroke," is a major cause of death and illness in young athletes and laborers who work outside in the heat and humidity.

By Karly Lebherz, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Mar 15, 2022

Signs of Autism in Adults

When we think of autism diagnoses, we typically only consider childhood diagnoses. But adults can be diagnosed with autism, too. Here are the signs of autism in adults.
Conditions & Treatment
Mar 14, 2022

Symptoms of a Cold

Colds may occur any time of the year but are more common in the fall and winter months. Healthy adults can expect to have a cold at least once a year. Children younger than 6 are at greater risk of catching a cold, especially if they are in a daycare setting.

By Cinnamon Davis, NP
Conditions & Treatment
Mar 14, 2022

Stenosis of the Spine: What is it and Does it Require Surgery?

Spinal stenosis, a narrowing of the space within your spinal canal, can put pressure on the spinal cord and/or nerves that travel through your spine.

By Charles Yu
Conditions & Treatment
Mar 11, 2022

What is Coronary Artery Disease?

Coronary artery disease is the most common type of heart disease in the United States. It can also be one of the most difficult to predict.

By Russell Reed, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Mar 8, 2022

Why Can't I Sleep?

The CDC reports that 35% to 38% of people in Louisiana and Mississippi get less than the recommended minimum seven hours of sleep per night.
Conditions & Treatment
Mar 7, 2022

9 Symptoms of Endometriosis Every Woman Should Know About

Are you experiencing pelvic pain, irregular menstrual cycles or even digestive issues? If so, you could be one of the millions of women who have endometriosis.

By Wyeth Lawson, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Mar 7, 2022

Pain in the Gallbladder

Gallstones, which range in size from a grain of salt to a golf ball, may be the cause of gallbladder pain.

By James B. Wooldridge, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Mar 2, 2022

New Dissolvable Eye Implant Aims to Help Those with Glaucoma

DURYSTA is a tiny, dissolvable implant your eye doctor places in your eye and is an alternative to daily prescription eye drops. The implant works by releasing medication to help reduce high pressure (ocular hypertension) inside your eye.

By Denise Capps, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Feb 28, 2022

Why Are Black People at Greater Risk of Colon Cancer?

The passing of actor Chadwick Boseman in 2020 has left many people asking questions about colon cancer. “How could he have had colon cancer at such a young age?” “Wasn’t he in great physical shape?”

By Jonathan Mizrahi, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Feb 28, 2022

What is Colon Cancer?

Colon cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the large intestine (colon).

By Kevin Cowley, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Feb 24, 2022

Does a Polyp Mean Colon Cancer?

Clarifying some of the most common myths about colorectal cancer, including whether the presence of a polyp in your colon means you definitely have colon cancer.

By Matthew Giglia, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Feb 22, 2022

Can I Take Alka Seltzer While Pregnant?

If you suffer from heartburn during pregnancy, you may be wondering if you can take medication like Alka Seltzer to help soothe the symptoms. Here is what you need to know about taking heartburn medication during pregnancy.

By Jill Berger, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Feb 21, 2022

Bicuspid Aortic Valve Disease: How to Manage

Every seven minutes, a child in the United States is born with a bicuspid aortic valve, so it is by no means an uncommon occurrence.

By Thomas W. Young, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Feb 21, 2022

What Causes Alzheimer's Disease?

Alzheimer's disease can take root and go on for many years without symptoms.

By Stella Tran, PhD
Conditions & Treatment
Feb 18, 2022

Experiencing Vision Loss? Here Are the 4 Main Causes of Blindness

It’s no secret that as we age, our vision can weaken, prompting many of us to take corrective measures such as wearing glasses, using prescription eye drops or even having surgery. But some eye disorders often lead to blindness if not treated.

By Denise Capps, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Feb 18, 2022

What Are Heart Palpitations? Should I be Concerned?

Have you ever felt your heart skip a beat or have that sensation of flutters in your chest? You could be experiencing heart palpitations. And while they may be frightening or bothersome, they are not usually a cause for concern.
Conditions & Treatment
Feb 18, 2022

What Are the Side Effects of a Colposcopy?

A colposcopy is a test to evaluate potentially cancerous cells in the cervix. Here are side effects to expect after this procedure.

By Emily Murphy, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Feb 15, 2022

Shaking in the Hands: Is Essential Tremor to Blame?

An estimated 10 million Americans have essential tremors -- nearly 10 times the number with Parkinson’s.

By Amer Awad, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Feb 14, 2022

Sleep Apnea Surgery: An Alternative to CPAP

Inspire addresses the root cause of sleep apnea. It is the only device to work inside the body using a small implant that sends a pulse to the nerves that signal the tongue to move and open the airway, allowing the patient to breathe freely.

By Jessica Moskovitz, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Feb 11, 2022

Symptoms of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones can be as small as a grain of sand and as large as a golf ball.

By Ayaa Zarm, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Feb 11, 2022

What Causes Kidney Failure?

About 37 million people in the United States have chronic kidney disease,

By Swetha R. Kanduri, MD
Food & Fitness
Feb 10, 2022

Cardiologist’s Tips for Staying Heart-Healthy

Small changes in your daily life can make a big difference in your long-term heart health.

By Desiree Dawson, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Feb 2, 2022

Symptoms of Stomach Ulcers

Stomach ulcers aren't caused by worrying, contrary to popular belief.

By Reinaldo Quevedo, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Feb 1, 2022

What Is a Migraine? 31 Facts vs. Fiction

Migraine headaches come in a lot of flavors. A migraine can be mild, moderate or severe.

By Amer Awad, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Jan 31, 2022

How Serious Are Throat Sores?

A throat sore is an open wound in the throat, and they can develop for a variety of reasons. But, the good news is most throat sores are treatable.

By Kazumi Yoshinaga, DO
Conditions & Treatment
Jan 27, 2022

Cancer in the Cervix

Understanding cervical cancer is key in prevention, and there are steps you can take to lessen your chance of developing cancer.

By Wyeth Lawson, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Jan 25, 2022

New Eye Drops Could Limit Need for Reading Glasses

It’s no secret that as we age into our 40s and 50s, our near vision can weaken, making it difficult to see things up close clearly. But a new eye drop could be a game-changer for adults living with blurry near vision.

By Pulin Shah, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Jan 24, 2022

Broken Heart Syndrome

Have you ever had your heart broken? It hurts, doesn’t it. But there’s actually a real medical condition called “broken heart syndrome,'' which refers to a weakening of the muscles of the heart.

By Saira Samani, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Jan 24, 2022

Does COVID-19 Cause Hair Loss?

Did you know that severe physical or emotional distress can prematurely cause up to 70 percent of your hair to exit the "growth phase" and enter the "resting phase" of the hair cycle?

By Kelli D. Hall, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Jan 21, 2022

Pulmonary Hypertension Symptoms

Patients with pulmonary hypertension may have symptoms that are common to other diseases.

By Kimberly C. Thompson, DNP, APRN, AGACNP-BC
Conditions & Treatment
Jan 19, 2022

Quit Smoking With Our Free Program

It doesn’t matter if you’ve never tried to quit smoking before or if you’ve tried too many times to count, Ochsner’s smoking cessation program can help you quit for good.

By Tresser Mayho
Conditions & Treatment
Jan 12, 2022

Glaucoma Risks and Treatment: What You Need to Know

January is Glaucoma Awareness Month, and now is a good time to schedule a comprehensive eye exam with your optometrist or ophthalmologist. Glaucoma has no early warning signs or symptoms and more than half of people with this disease don’t know they have it.

By Denise Capps, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Jan 11, 2022

Everything to Know About the Pediatric Cath Lab

Ochsner Health has a pediatric interventional cath lab, which further enhances our abilities to provide quality care for heart patients of all ages.

By Ivory Crittendon, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Jan 11, 2022

Are Heart Murmurs in Children Dangerous?

Many murmurs are picked up on routine medical exams such as annual or sports physicals. In most cases, a pediatric cardiologist can listen to a child’s heart and determine if a murmur is an innocent murmur of childhood or deserves further workup.

By Jake Kleinmahon, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Jan 11, 2022

How Congenital Heart Disease Can Affect Neurodevelopment in Children

Neurodevelopmental issues can arise from many factors like genetic issues, abnormal blood flow, and as side effects from the surgical procedures these patients undergo.

By Diego Lara, MD, MPH
Conditions & Treatment
Jan 11, 2022

What is Congenital Heart Disease?

From small holes in the heart to abnormalities in blood circulation, congenital heart disease (CHD) covers a wide array of conditions. Ochsner's pediatric cardiologists explain more about caring for children with CHD.

By Jake Kleinmahon, MD and Thomas W. Young, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Jan 11, 2022

Chest Pain in Kids: Is It Cardiac?

Both adults and children can have chest pain. But it’s important to remember that kids are not just small adults, and the causes of chest pain are much different.

By Jake Kleinmahon, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Jan 10, 2022

What is Aortic Stenosis?

Aortic stenosis is one of the most common heart valve disease problems. Here’s the 411 on what it is, plus treatment options to explore with your cardiologist.

By José Tafur, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Jan 5, 2022

What Causes Balding in Men?

Blaming Mom for being bald? Folk wisdom has it that baldness comes from the mother’s side of the family, but recent studies indicate that the genetic component is more complicated.

By Jessica Chu, MD
Food & Fitness
Dec 27, 2021

Heart-Healthy Diet: 6 Tips

Fruits and vegetables, whole grains and limited sodium intake are some of the best ways to fight heart disease.

By William Bennett, MD, PhD
Conditions & Treatment
Dec 22, 2021

COVID-19 Pill: What to Know About the Pfizer and Merck Treatments

Both treatments are pill regimens that people take for five days at home after a positive COVID test. They must be prescribed by a doctor.

By Katherine Baumgarten, MD and Travis King
Conditions & Treatment
Dec 16, 2021

What is IB-Stim?

Affecting most people under the age of 50, symptoms of IBS can range from mild to severe. There is a new FDA approved technological treatment option called IB-Stim for children, designed to help manage abdominal pain caused by IBS.

By Erika Smith, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Dec 15, 2021

Are Heart Murmurs in Adults Dangerous?

Being told that you have a heart murmur can be scary, but most are not serious or cause for alarm. A cardiac murmur is simply a heart sound that is abnormal. The sound is created by blood flow moving through one of the valves of your heart.

By Blythe P. Craft, DNP
Conditions & Treatment
Dec 13, 2021

Ventricular Assist Device: The Berlin Heart

The Berlin Heart ventricular assist device is a mechanical cardiac support system for critically ill pediatric patients suffering from severe heart failure.

By Jake Kleinmahon, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Dec 10, 2021

Cancer Clinical Trials: Debunking Common Misconceptions

Clinical trials, particularly those designed to fight cancer, are vital to the development of solutions when working to find better ways to treat this disease. Unfortunately, there are many common misconceptions around cancer trials that prevent patients from benefiting from therapies that can be life-saving.

By Marc Matrana, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Dec 9, 2021

What Is a Pacemaker Used For?

A pacemaker is a small battery-operated device that helps the heart beat in a regular pattern. It is designed to only work when needed and replaces the heart’s natural pacemaker functions.

By Blythe P. Craft, DNP
Conditions & Treatment
Dec 9, 2021

Congestive Heart Failure: Surprising Symptoms

Nausea, indigestion and stomach pain are just some of the lesser known symptoms of congestive heart failure.

By Michael Castine, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Dec 7, 2021

How Does a Bone Marrow Transplant Work?

A bone marrow transplant is a treatment for certain types of cancer and blood disorders that replaces your bone marrow with healthy cells.

By Laura Finn
Conditions & Treatment
Dec 6, 2021

Epsom Salt Bath Benefits

Epsom salt is a naturally occurring mineral compound made up of magnesium, sulfur and oxygen. Many people turn to Epsom salt bath soaks to help soothe their stiff and aching body, relieve stress and stabilize their mind.

By Kazumi Yoshinaga, DO
Conditions & Treatment
Dec 1, 2021

Loss of Bladder Control in Women

Loss of bladder control is common in women, but it isn't normal, and there are options for treatment.

By Elena Campbell, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Nov 30, 2021

Stomach Viruses: How Soon Can You Go to Work?

If you have a stomach virus and are trying to decide whether to stay home or tough it out at work, these tips can guide you through what to do.

By Matthew J. Mann, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Nov 30, 2021

Bone Health: Osteoporosis Prevention and Treatment

Concerned about osteoporosis? Read a few tips on how to prevent osteoporosis through diet and exercise.

By Saravanan Thiagarajan, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Nov 29, 2021

Heart Attack Symptoms: Men vs. Women

From cold sweats and extreme fatigue to neck and back pain, heart attack symptoms can manifest themselves differently in men and women.

By Nichole Polin, MD, FACC
Conditions & Treatment
Nov 29, 2021

9 Tips for Diabetics During the Holidays

Here are nine tips to help you have a healthy holiday season while still enjoying delicious holiday food favorites.

By Melissa Guillot, MS, RD, LDN, CDCES
Conditions & Treatment
Nov 24, 2021

How to Relieve Holiday Constipation

Bowel issues abound during the holiday season. Learn what you can do stop the strain and get things going again.

By Sarah Ashen, PTA
Conditions & Treatment
Nov 22, 2021

Pain in the Thumb Joint: What Causes It and Can It Be Fixed?

A common cause of pain in the thumb joint is arthritis, which becomes more common with age. Treatment includes both surgical and nonsurgical options.

By Ross Dunbar, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Nov 19, 2021

3 Common Headache Types and Their Causes

Bothered by headaches? Up to 75% of adults worldwide have had at least one headache in the past year.

By Mason Dyess, DO
Conditions & Treatment
Nov 16, 2021

What is Pelvic Organ Prolapse?

If the muscles and tissues supporting the pelvic organs weaken either through stretching or tearing, the pelvic organs can move out of their normal position. This is known as pelvic organ prolapse. The good news is it is treatable.

By Joanna M. Togami, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Nov 16, 2021

How Do I Get Rid of Blackheads?

There are several safe and gentle ways to get rid of and prevent blackheads. Here are some ingredients, tools, and best practices to achieve a clear face.

By Christopher Haas, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Nov 16, 2021

What is a Pelvic Health Nurse Navigator?

Pelvic floor dysfunction is the inability to control the muscles in your pelvic floor. Once a patient has decided to pursue treatment, it’s the job of the nurse navigator to make that process as easy as possible.

By Amy Cox, RN
Conditions & Treatment
Nov 16, 2021

How To Treat Uterine Prolapse

For women experiencing uterine prolapse, the uterus (womb) starts to sag or slip from its normal position. Here is how to treat uterine prolapse.

By Michael Perniciaro, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Nov 10, 2021

Flu Season: 8 Tips for Staying Healthy

With flu season upon us, it is important to keep you and your loved ones protected. Follow these 8 tips for a healthier flu season.

By Sarah Knight, MD
Conditions & Treatment
Nov 5, 2021

What Are Symptoms for Acid Reflux?

Did you know coughing can be a symptom for acid reflux?
Conditions & Treatment
Nov 1, 2021

The Benefits of Rehab for Cancer Patients

Outpatient occupational, physical and speech therapy can help cancer patients boost strength and mobility during treatment.

By Victoria Kennedy, PT
Conditions & Treatment
Nov 1, 2021

What are the Early Signs of Dementia?

Early diagnosis and treatment is crucial in slowing the progression of dementia.

By LaToya Cameron, NP
Conditions & Treatment
Oct 30, 2021

What is Augmentative and Alternative Communication?

Augmentative and alternative communication systems can help those with speech and language impairments to communicate more effectively.

By Megan Kremer, MS, CCC-SLP
Conditions & Treatment
Oct 27, 2021

How Long Does a Cold Last?

There are several stages of a cold, from becoming infected to getting over your symptoms. It can take seven to 10 days, but you can see mild symptoms up to three weeks.

By David M. Klibert, MD

Conditions & Treatment

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