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Food & Fitness

Apr 8, 2024

4 Ways to Spring Clean Your Diet

It's time to take stock and recommit to healthy eating! Here's how to replace bad eating habits with better ones.

By Molly Kimball, RD, CSSD

Conditions & Treatment

Mar 25, 2024

Prevent White-Coat Hypertension: 6 Tips for Stress-Free Blood Pressure Readings

White-coat hypertension is when your blood pressure is higher at the doctor's office than at home. Manage it by using remote programs like Digital Medicine.

By Carrie Chou, PharmD

Prevention & Wellness

Jan 29, 2024

8 Ways to Get a Better Night’s Sleep

Simple habit changes can change your restless nights into peaceful sleep.

Conditions & Treatment

Jan 4, 2024

3 Things to Know About 2023-24 Flu Shots and Kids

Getting the flu vaccine is the best way to protect your child from the flu.

By Amber Medine, MD

Health Trends

Sep 7, 2023

The 5 Best Ways To Prevent Colds and the Flu in 2023

Toss those tissues when you're done using them -- don't stuff them in your pocket! And get your flu shot!

Prevention & Wellness

Aug 23, 2023

Should I Go to Primary Care, Urgent Care or the Emergency Room?

Use this detailed list to match your symptoms to the appropriate place for care.

By Nicole Giambrone, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Aug 18, 2023

What Are the Flu Shot Side Effects for the 2023-2024 Flu Season?

For most patients, they will not experience any side effects from the flu vaccine. But like any medical product, vaccines may cause some mild side-effects that typically go away within a day or two.

By Sandra A. Kemmerly, MD and Beth Anne Lambert

Prevention & Wellness

Jun 16, 2023

Who Should Donate Blood?

All healthy adults are encouraged to donate blood. Volunteers may donate blood every eight weeks, or every 56 days.

By Donny Dumani, MD

Mental Health

Feb 2, 2023

What Are the Top Symptoms of Anxiety in 2023?

The primary difference between worrying and anxiety is the impact each has on your life.

By Jackie Ball, PhD

Conditions & Treatment

Jan 2, 2023

Mpox 2023: What Are the Symptoms and Treatments?

Mpox, a rare but potentially serious viral illness, has started to spread in the United States at a rather unusual pace. Here is what you need to know about this viral infection.

By Sandra A. Kemmerly, MD and Katherine Baumgarten, MD and Beth Anne Lambert

Health Trends

Jan 2, 2023

9 Tips for Using the MyOchsner App in 2023

MyOchsner is a mobile app that allows you to manage your MyOchsner account from your smartphone or tablet.

Health Trends

Nov 17, 2022

The Best Ways to Avoid Holiday Allergies

Do you clean your holiday decorations each year? They may have a coating of dust and allergens!

By Jo S. Reed, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Nov 10, 2022

Top 10 Questions Expecting Moms Ask

From when you should let others know you are pregnant to what essentials you need on delivery day, we're answering your top questions as an expecting mom.

By Jennifer Brunet, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Sep 23, 2022

Botox Benefits and How Fast Does It Work?

Botox was first approved in the late 1980s to treat eye muscle disorders. In 2002, the Food and Drug Administration approved its use for cosmetic purposes.

By Jessica Chu, MD

Food & Fitness

Sep 22, 2022

5 Tailgating Foods for Healthy Game Day Snacking

Even an item from Popeyes makes the cut for healthy tailgating foods.

By Molly Kimball, RD, CSSD

Health Trends

Sep 13, 2022

Omicron COVID-19 Booster Shots Are Now Available: Eligibility Guide

COVID-19 booster shots targeting the omicron variant’s BA.4 and BA.5 subvariants are now available. Here's what you need to know.

By Katherine Baumgarten, MD and Sandra A. Kemmerly, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Aug 8, 2022

Back to School: How Much Should Your Child’s Backpack Weigh?

Overloaded bookbags can lead to chronic back pain in kids of all ages. Follow these tips to help prevent injury.

By Katelyn Caldwell, LOTR

Food & Fitness

Jul 29, 2022

How Important is Mental Health for Student Athletes?

Student athlete mental health is just as important as physical health. Learn how to help them cope with the pressure to perform.

By Warren Fitzmorris, MS

Parenting

Jul 26, 2022

Back to School: How to Keep Your Kids Healthy This Year

Keeping your child's health and wellness in mind is probably the most important thing you can do as your family prepares for back-to-school.

Prevention & Wellness

Jun 17, 2022

Taking Care of Your Dad Bod

Chronic medical diseases like diabetes, obesity, hypertension, heart disease and high cholesterol are some of the common problems causing men to die prematurely while in the prime of their life.

By Kacie Watts, MD

Parenting

Jun 10, 2022

Are We There Yet? Traveling with Children

Keep these tips in mind the next time you plan your family vacation with children in tow.

By Leslie King, MD

Health Trends

May 23, 2022

Fast Facts About Sun Protection

While spending time in the sunshine and fresh air can be good for your health, it’s important to take a couple of precautions before heading outside.

By Philip Denoux, MD

Prevention & Wellness

May 23, 2022

CDC Approves Boosters for Kids Ages 5-11

The Pfizer-BioNTech booster for kids ages 5-11 has been approved by the CDC five months after receiving their primary Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine series.

By Sandra A. Kemmerly, MD and Katherine Baumgarten, MD

Health Trends

May 19, 2022

What Parents Can Do During the 2022 Formula Shortage

With the formula shortage comes concern, anxiety and questions. Learn what you can do to ensure your child is getting the nutrients they need.

By Erika Smith, MD

Mental Health

May 16, 2022

How Can I Take Care of My Mental Health?

Wellness and self-care may seem like buzzwords, but they are the mental health equivalent of washing hands to avoid contamination or infection.

By Anneliese Boettcher, Ph.D. and Beth Arredondo, PhD

Women's Health

May 16, 2022

COVID-19 Vaccine and Fertility

There are several questions around the vaccine and fertility. Does the COVID-19 vaccine cause infertility? Where do health officials stand?

By Shontell Thomas, MD, MSPH

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

Health Trends

May 6, 2022

COVID Vaccine for Kids Under 16

The Pfizer vaccine for teenagers ages 12 to 15 is the same two-dose regimen currently being administered to those who are ages 16 and older.

By Sandra A. Kemmerly, MD and Katherine Baumgarten, MD and Diana Peterson, MD, MPH

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.

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

Prevention & Wellness

Mar 3, 2022

How Dirty Is Your Mobile Phone?

With more than 15 billion mobile phones being used across the globe, shouldn’t you know the health risks associated with them?

By Sarah Champagne, DO

Prevention & Wellness

Mar 2, 2022

What is a TAVR Procedure?

TAVR is a minimally invasive heart valve replacement procedure for those at increased risk for complications with traditional open-heart surgery.

By George Antoun, 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 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.

Health Trends

Jan 27, 2022

Are N95 Masks Recommended for Omicron?

With the highly transmissible Omicron variant circulating widely, the CDC says people at increased risk for severe disease may opt for highly protective N95 respirators or KN95 masks.

By Beth Anne Lambert and Sandra A. Kemmerly, MD

Food & Fitness

Jan 26, 2022

3 Surprising Heart-Smart Foods

There are a few everyday pleasures out there that many would be surprised to hear fit into a heart-smart diet. Read on to find out what they are.

By Molly Kimball, RD, CSSD

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 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.

Health Trends

Jan 10, 2022

Is My COVID Vaccine Immunity Fading?

If you are five months or more out from your last COVID-19 dose, does that mean your immunity to COVID-19 may be fading?

By Katherine Baumgarten, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Jan 10, 2022

What Is the Difference Between the Third Dose and Booster COVID-19 Vaccine?

Trying to decide between the third dose of the COVID-19 vaccine and the booster shot can cause confusion. Let us help you find out which vaccine is right for you.

By Sandra A. Kemmerly, MD and Katherine Baumgarten, MD

Health Trends

Nov 16, 2021

Skincare Tips For Cold Weather

Cold weather, dry air and indoor heating can take a toll on your skin. Follow these skincare tips for cold weather.

By Katie Watson, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Nov 15, 2021

Baby Aspirin for Adults: New Warnings

In 2018, studies began to suggest that aspirin therapy isn’t for everyone. Nonetheless, the notion that aspirin promotes heart health for everyone, particularly seniors, has lingered.

By Eirinn Elizabeth Erny, MD

Food & Fitness

Nov 9, 2021

2022 New Year's Resolutions

Keep your healthy New Year's resolutions all year long by starting small and building on your goals, being specific with what you want to achieve, and rewarding yourself along the way with your 2022 New Year's resolutions.

By Nicole Giambrone, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 18, 2021

Breast Cancer and Men

Although it is rare, breast cancer does affect men, too. Learn more about breast cancer symptoms for men and what factors put men at risk for breast cancer.

Prevention & Wellness

Oct 14, 2021

Does Alcohol Kill Germs?

Two points must be made here. Don’t drink hand sanitizer. And, taking a shot of bourbon will not kill germs inside the body.

By Sandra A. Kemmerly, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 14, 2021

Rapid COVID-19 Testing at Home Is Getting Easier

Recent announcements by the White House and the Food and Drug Administration are likely to make at-home, rapid COVID-19 testing easier and more feasible.

By Sandra A. Kemmerly, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Sep 28, 2021

Breast Cancer Screenings During COVID-19

Early detection is key when dealing with breast cancer, but what does that look like during the COVID-19 pandemic?

By Lindsey Fauveau, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Sep 14, 2021

Can You Get the Flu From a Flu Shot?

There's a belief that getting the flu vaccine can actually give you the flu and many people use it as a reason to avoid the shot.

By Christie H. Theriot, MD

Health Trends

Sep 8, 2021

Mu COVID Variant: What You Need to Know

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently identified the Mu COVID variant as a variant of interest. Here is what you need to know.

By Katherine Baumgarten, MD and Sandra A. Kemmerly, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Aug 23, 2021

What Are Monoclonal Antibodies and Can They Treat COVID-19?

Monoclonal antibodies are designed to provide you with passive immunity to COVID-19 for a short period of time. They are not a substitute for vaccination.

By Katherine Baumgarten, MD and Sandra A. Kemmerly, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Jul 30, 2021

I Had COVID-19. Do I Still Need A Vaccine?

You may be wondering: Do I need to get the vaccine if I have already had COVID-19?

By Katherine Baumgarten, MD

Health Trends

Jul 30, 2021

COVID-19 Vaccine: Fact Vs. Myth

With different reports coming out every day on the COVID-19 vaccines, it is easy to be confused by myths. Below, we go through 10 of the most common myths surrounding the COVID-19 vaccines and provide the facts.

By Katherine Baumgarten, MD

Parenting

Jul 15, 2021

Is My Child’s Car Seat Installed Properly?

Car seats are one of the most critical pieces of safety equipment parents use when it comes to their children. Here's what you need to know:

Women's Health

Jul 13, 2021

Can Pregnant Women Get the COVID-19 Vaccine?

Following the guidelines from the FDA, no one is excluded from receiving the vaccine, even patients who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Pregnant patients should discuss with their physician individual risk factors to make an informed decision about possible vaccinations.

By Joseph Biggio, MD and Sandra A. Kemmerly, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Jul 12, 2021

Are Louisiana and Mississippi Delta Variant Hot Spots?

As variants of COVID-19, such as the Delta variant, continue to emerge in our communities, it has never been more important for people to get vaccinated.

By Katherine Baumgarten, MD

Men's Health

Jun 14, 2021

Why Men Need a Primary Care Doctor

Having regular visits with a primary care doctor is important to maintain healthy living. Here are some reasons why men need to establish routine primary care.

Conditions & Treatment

Jun 11, 2021

What Are Stomach Flu Symptoms?

Stomach flu symptoms have a 24- to 48-hour incubation period and typically last one to three days. Here are some of the common stomach flu symptoms.

By Marlon Joseph, MD

Men's Health

Jun 3, 2021

5 Self-Care Habits Men Should Practice

When you think of the term “self-care,” you may imagine a robe, candles and a facial mask. When it comes to men, taking charge of self-care may be harder.

By W. Aaron Caraway, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Jun 3, 2021

What to Know About the Moderna Vaccine Trial in Teens

On the heels of the Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine trial and approval, Moderna is performing its own trial on youths ages 12 to 17.

By Katherine Baumgarten, MD

Conditions & Treatment

May 27, 2021

Is the COVID-19 Vaccine Causing Heart Inflammation in Children?

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) is looking into reported cases of a heart condition called myocarditis in patients who have received the COVID-19 vaccine.

By Sandra A. Kemmerly, MD

Conditions & Treatment

May 16, 2021

I Can’t Smell Anything. Do I Have COVID-19?

Anosmia is the loss or altered sense of smell, and could be a symptom of COVID-19.

By Sandra A. Kemmerly, MD and Edward McCoul, MD, MPH

Women's Health

Apr 12, 2021

Pregnancy Complications Black Women Should Know About

If you’re Black and pregnant, hoping to one day become pregnant, or have recently had a baby, being aware of the conditions that disproportionately affect you is critical to maintaining a healthy pregnancy.

By LaTashia Upton, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Mar 15, 2021

Do Fully Vaccinated People Need to Quarantine After COVID-19 Exposure?

The CDC recently announced that fully vaccinated individuals do not have to quarantine after exposure to COVID-19 if they are not displaying symptoms. These new guidelines are a step towards returning to pre-COVID-19 activities.

By Sandra A. Kemmerly, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Mar 15, 2021

Can a Primary Care Provider Lower Your Healthcare Costs?

Healthcare emergencies are much more expensive in the long run than the cost of maintaining your health through regular visits with a primary care provider.

By Jonathan Crowder, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Mar 12, 2021

7 Best Reasons You Need a Primary Care Physician

Your primary care doctor is a well-rounded healthcare expert whose specialty is approaching your health comprehensively.

By Brandon Simon-Davis, MD

Parenting

Mar 4, 2021

3 Things Your Pediatrician Wants You To Know

Parents, here are three things that your child's pediatrician wants you to know.

By James Wayne, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Feb 26, 2021

How COVID Hurts the Brain

While primarily a respiratory disease, COVID-19 can also lead to neurological problems.

Conditions & Treatment

Feb 26, 2021

Strategies for Caregivers of Patients with Cancer

Small steps to decrease stress and increase positivity when caring for a loved one with cancer.

Prevention & Wellness

Feb 25, 2021

5 Tips to Help Caregivers Prepare for Doctor Visits

If you are a caregiver, here are the steps you should take before your loved one’s next doctor’s visit in order to maximize the appointment time.

Prevention & Wellness

Feb 23, 2021

7 Ways to Boost Your Immune System During COVID-19

Whether it’s the common cold, the flu or COVID-19, these seven key strategies will help you boost your immune system and protect your wellness year-round.

By Molly Kimball, RD, CSSD

Prevention & Wellness

Feb 17, 2021

Masks and COVID-19 Vaccine

Katherine Baumgarten, MD, says the vaccines are very effective, but there is still a possibility that some people may get the disease.

Feb 14, 2021

Do Women Need to Worry About Heart Health?

Heart disease is a health issue that doesn't discriminate by sex and is the leading cause of death for women.

By Salima Qamruddin, MD, MPH

Prevention & Wellness

Feb 13, 2021

5 Factors that Impact Your Heart Health

Your diet, whether or not you smoke, how sedentary your lifestyle is and your genetic history are all factors that impact your heart health.

By Ali Amkieh, MD, FACC

Health Trends

Jan 20, 2021

COVID-19 Vaccine: Who Gets it First?

Once the COVID-19 vaccine is approved by the FDA, the vaccine can begin being distributed. However, because there will be a limited supply when the vaccine is first introduced, we can expect it will be distributed to certain groups of people first.

By Katherine Baumgarten, MD

Food & Fitness

Jan 15, 2021

10 Fitness Apps to Keep Your Health on Track

When it comes to getting fit, everyone could use a little help. Fitness apps are an easy and convenient way to help track your workouts and nutrition.

By Peter Seidenberg, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Jan 12, 2021

Is It Safe to Date During COVID-19?

If you're single and ready to mingle, read on for our guide to dating safely during COVID-19.

By Addy Reine, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Jan 7, 2021

5 Steps for Handwashing

Washing your hands not only prevents you from getting sick, but it also reduces the risk of infecting others. You can’t avoid germs, but you can reduce the chance of passing them to others by washing your hands often.

Jan 5, 2021

What’s in the COVID-19 Vaccine?

For most people, it can be confusing, trying to understand what goes into a vaccine. Here is a quick guide to help you understand.

By Katherine Baumgarten, MD

Health Trends

Dec 21, 2020

Why do Some Vaccines Require Two Doses?

The series and dosing for each vaccine is based on the initial results from the clinical trial data. Just because some vaccines may have one shot versus two, doesn’t mean that one is less effective than the other.

By Katherine Baumgarten, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Dec 15, 2020

What Are the Side Effects of the COVID-19 Vaccine?

More than 37,000 people have received the COVID-19 vaccine during the Pfizer and Moderna vaccine trials with no significant side effects.

By Sandra A. Kemmerly, MD

Parenting

Dec 7, 2020

When Can Children Get the COVID-19 Vaccine?

Just like the adult COVID-19 vaccine trials, data from adolescent trials will need to support the safety and efficacy of the vaccines before approval.

By William Lennarz, MD and Katherine Baumgarten, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Dec 3, 2020

How Does the COVID Vaccine Work?

The COVID-19 vaccine will require one dose or two, depending on which vaccine you receive.

By Sandra A. Kemmerly, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Nov 30, 2020

How Are Vaccines Approved?

Learn about the many steps vaccine makers must follow before any vaccine, including a COVID-19 vaccine, is approved in the United States.

By Katherine Baumgarten, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Nov 18, 2020

COVID-19 and Christmas: How to Celebrate Safely and Merrily

Regardless of how you celebrate this year, it’s essential to keep yourself and your family safe and healthy during the COVID-19 pandemic.

By Katherine Baumgarten, MD

Food & Fitness

Nov 10, 2020

Healthy Holiday Tips for Diabetics

Looking forward to delicious meals during the holidays? Here are a few tips for managing diabetes while still being able to enjoy the good food.

By Kamal Bhusal, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Nov 10, 2020

Food Substitution Tips for Diabetics During the Holidays

The holidays present a full season of temptation for anyone, let alone someone managing diabetes. Here are tips and food substitution suggestions to help you have a healthy holiday season while still enjoying delicious holiday food favorites.

By Melissa Guillot, MS, RD, LDN, CDCES

Health Trends

Nov 9, 2020

COVID-19 and Thanksgiving: How to Celebrate Safely and Joyfully

By practicing the art of gratitude and following some commonsense COVID-19 safety protocols, Thanksgiving 2020 can still be a joyful event.

By Dean A. Hickman, MD and Katherine Baumgarten, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Nov 3, 2020

Must-Know Facts about Diabetes

Type 2 diabetes is more common in adults, but the number of children and young people with Type 2 diabetes is growing

By Angelique Torres, DNP, ANP-C

Parenting

Oct 28, 2020

Questions to Ask Your Daycare During COVID-19

Choosing the right childcare center or daycare program for your little one can be difficult under any circumstances, but during the COVID-19 outbreak, there are even more considerations.

By Jane Curry, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 28, 2020

COVID-19 and Brain Fog: A Possible Long-Term Effect

New reports are raising concerns about lingering “brain fog” some COVID-19 patients are experiencing.

By Robert John Sawyer, PhD

Health Trends

Oct 22, 2020

What is a “normal” body temperature?

It’s important to look at body temperature on a more individual basis, moving away from the idea of one set point being “normal”.

By Sarah E. Barowka, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Oct 20, 2020

5 Cancer Screenings All Women Should Know About

Although you may not be experiencing any symptoms, it is still important to get screened regularly for certain forms of cancer.

By John T Cole, MD

Prevention & Wellness

Oct 20, 2020

Top 4 Cancer Screenings for Men

Routine screenings for colorectal, lung, skin and prostate cancer give doctors the opportunity to catch cancer early when cancer is easier to treat.

By John T Cole, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 15, 2020

What Causes Breast Cancer?

Breast Cancer Awareness Month is during the month of October. It’s important to understand what breast cancer is, what causes it, what the signs and symptoms are and the importance of getting screened.

Food & Fitness

Oct 15, 2020

Nutrition and Breast Cancer: Eat to Beat the Odds

You can decrease your risk for breast cancer by making simply diet and lifestyle modifications, including these top strategies.

By Molly Kimball, RD, CSSD

Prevention & Wellness

Oct 15, 2020

Reduce Your Breast Cancer Risk Year-Round

From exercise and maintaining a healthy weight to reducing your alcohol intake, here are the best ways to reduce your risk of breast cancer year-round.

By Burke J. Brooks, MD

Conditions & Treatment

Oct 1, 2020

Is Sore Throat a Sign of Coronavirus?

COVID-19 is a respiratory disease, also known as the coronavirus. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the symptoms that develop with COVID-19 can vary. Could a sore throat be a sign of coronavirus?

By Norman Vince Hill, MD

Health Trends

Sep 15, 2020

Flu Symptoms: What Are They?

The flu is characterized by coughing, sore throat, body aches, headaches and fatigue. Some patients, but not all, will also suffer from fever or chills.