Mardi Gras is a celebration with a long history. It’s been celebrated globally for hundreds of years. The traditions migrated to the United states in 1872. In 1875, the Governor of Louisiana declared “Fat Tuesday” a legal holiday. Mardi Gras refers to events of the Carnival celebration, beginning on or after the Christian feasts of the Epiphany (Three Kings Day) and concluding on the day before Ash Wednesday. Mardi Gras is French for "Fat Tuesday", reflecting the practice of the last night of … [Read more...] about Mardi Gras Safety Tips
Doctor's Corner
Articles and health care suggestions for your family, written by our very own physicians.
Congenital Heart Defect Symptoms
Congenital heart defect or disease is a problem that affects the structure of the heart. It is mostly present at birth. Congenital heart defects can affect the valves, walls, arteries, and veins near the hearth or in the heath. They are capable of disrupting the normal flow of blood through the hearth and can be fatal if not detected early. In patients, it can slow down or disrupt the flow of blood or completely block it. The American heart association has estimated that 9 out of every 1000 … [Read more...] about Congenital Heart Defect Symptoms
American Heart Month – Love Your Heart!
American Heart Month, celebrated every year during February, is an ideal time to remind us to focus on our hearts and encourage us to get our families, friends, and communities involved in mindful heart health. According to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke, is the leading cause of death in the world with more than 17 million deaths every year. Heart disease can often be prevented with healthy life choices. Communities, health … [Read more...] about American Heart Month – Love Your Heart!
African Heritage & Health
African Heritage and Healthy Eating Celebrated February 1st-7th, African Heritage and Health Week commemorates the flavors and healthy cooking techniques that were core to the wellbeing of African ancestors from Africa, South America, the Caribbean, and the American South. February is the perfect time to honor and explore this healthy culinary history. (Oldways 2015) African Heritage Week is the perfect way to kick off Black History Month. It continues to raise awareness of the world of the … [Read more...] about African Heritage & Health
5 Common Emergencies on Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is a special commemoration of our love for others. We celebrate it in many ways with gifts and date nights. No one is thinking about a visit to the ER on Valentine’s Day, what could possibly happen? Many of us go all out and buy expensive gifts, book exotic holidays or cook a romantic candlelit dinner at home. Our focus is on making the evening memorable, so it can be easy to forget to take basic safety measures. Buying candy, flowers and kissing can come with hidden … [Read more...] about 5 Common Emergencies on Valentine’s Day
Coronavirus Symptoms
What is Coronavirus? Coronaviruses cause diseases in mammals and birds that include diarrhea in cows and pigs, upper respiratory disease in chickens and rare, but potentially lethal, human respiratory infections although these are often mild. There are no vaccines or antiviral drugs that are approved for prevention or treatment. (CDC 2019) There is a new strain of Coronavirus discovered in China recently. This particular strain has been more lethal, meaning that normally healthy humans who … [Read more...] about Coronavirus Symptoms
What Are The Symptoms of The Flu?
Flu symptoms are elusive. We hear symptoms of illness described as “flu-like”. What does that mean? How can you know if what you are feeling is a cold, or something more serious like the flu? If you’ve ever had the flu virus, you know. Fever, body aches, sneezing, cough, weakness, and sometimes even vomiting are part of what makes up the flu. That sounds pretty awful. Anyone surviving a bout of the flu feels like they should have gotten a t-shirt to commemorate their accomplishment. There are … [Read more...] about What Are The Symptoms of The Flu?
Flu Prevention Tips
Preventing the flu must be intentional when it’s flu season. Many of us feel vulnerable, even though flu vaccines exist. We’ve heard stories about flu complications and are aware that such complications can worsen symptoms and even result in death. It’s something no one wants to think about. So, we stay vigilant and we are tasked with staying on top of information that can minimize the risk of acquiring the influenza virus. Who Is Keeping Watch on Flu Outbreaks? The Centers for Disease … [Read more...] about Flu Prevention Tips
After The Flu Vaccine: Best Practices
Best Practices After Getting a Flu Vaccine Knowing what to do after getting a flu vaccine can save lives. Should you be confident that you are protected from contracting Influenza? Seasonal Influenza shots protect against the three or four Influenza viruses that research indicates will be most common during the season. There are several flu prevention options to choose from, but the most important practice is for all people 6 months and older to get an Influenza vaccine every year. If … [Read more...] about After The Flu Vaccine: Best Practices
Do I Have A Cold Or The Flu?
Colds and Flu Types Is it the cold or flu? Sneezing, coughing, fever, body aches, stomach distress are symptoms of a number of illnesses. How do you know the difference between the common cold and the flu? Common Cold Symptoms The common cold is a viral infection of your nose and throat (upper respiratory tract). It's usually harmless, although it might not feel that way. Many types of viruses can cause a common cold. If symptoms exceed comfort levels, it is time to see a doctor. (Mayo … [Read more...] about Do I Have A Cold Or The Flu?
