Weight loss drugs like Ozempic and Wegovy are more popular than ever, leading people to seek options that are quicker, cheaper and involve less prying questions than a traditional in-person doctor visit.

But here’s a statistic that should give you pause: Casey Zaring, RPh, PharmD, a clinical pharmacist at OSF HealthCare, says a 2023 audit by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration [FDA] found 95% of online pharmacies were not legitimate. This leads to concerns about getting bilked out of money or taking a counterfeit drug that could bring serious side effects.

“It skips a lot of checks and balances,” Zaring says of the online outlets. For one, he says, these websites typically don’t have a pharmacist check your full medical history to make sure you’re getting the right drug.

Legit or not?

Some red flags to look for when deciding to buy prescription drugs online:

• Is the website based outside the United States?
  
• Do you start on one website and get pushed to another to complete the transaction?
  
• Does the site guarantee you cost savings? Zaring says it may look like a deal up front, but the final price tag might not be so good. Or, you might unintentionally sign up for auto-renewals. Zaring recommends first checking to see if your insurance will cover a medication.
  
• Have other people or agencies flagged the outlet for possible problems? Zaring recommends the websites safe.pharmacy and BeSafeRx to check if the pharmacy is registered with the National Association of Boards of Pharmacies and complying with the law.
  
  “How we know an online pharmacy is legal is they require a prescription by a licensed practitioner. You have a pharmacist review things, and the consumer has access to a pharmacist to ask questions,” Zaring explains. “Look for the outlet to be based in the United States and have a license in your state. Some online pharmacies will provide medications for patients even though they don’t have a license in the patient's state.”

Another law pharmacies have to follow is the Drug Supply Chain Security act. Zaring says this ensures all medications are logged and accounted for as they move from the manufacturer to the distributor. This makes sure all medications in the supply chain are legitimate and safe.

“In December 2025, the Food and Drug Administration warned about fake Ozempic,” Zaring recalls, noting what can go wrong if laws aren’t followed. “It looked almost identical to real Ozempic. It had lot numbers and expiration dates. But what they had done is created a syringe that looked similar and put on fake stickers.

“What pharmacists do then is go through and scan every medication that enters the pharmacy to ensure it’s directly from the manufacturer,” Zaring adds.

Consequences

Zaring says pharmacists’ biggest fear with these websites is someone putting something non-legitimate or harmful in their bodies. Is the syringe sterile? Has the drug expired? Is the dose correct? Is it properly diluted? Is it interacting with my other medications? Ingesting fake medications could lead to infections or other serious side effects.

Speaking on weight loss drugs: “If something is off by a decimal point, it’s a tenfold error. It can cause lack of movement in your gastrointestinal tract, obstructions and gallbladder attacks,” Zaring says. “If a person isn’t aware of the risks and talking to a pharmacist, they can upgrade their dose too quickly and cause more adverse effects like dehydration. Also with some of these online websites, there’s not continuous monitoring by a health care provider. No labs, check-ins or follow ups.

“The cost saving may be up front, but at the back end there may be an overall greater cost of having to see more health care providers because of adverse reactions or infections,” Zaring also warns.

If you’ve done business with an online pharmacy and have concerns, Zaring recommends talking to your primary care provider or a pharmacist at an in-person, well-recognized business. You can even bring the medication for them to inspect. You can also report pharmacies to the FDA at the BeSafeRx website.

Learn more

Read more about how OSF HealthCare pharmacists bring medication to you safely on the OSF HealthCare website. Some OSF HealthCare locations also have retail pharmacies that can be used regardless of whether you’re an OSF patient.

Interview clips

Frequently asked questions

It goes without saying: mental health issues can spawn physical health problems. But let’s dig into one: how can being stressed all the time increase your risk for a stroke?

“Chronic stress, anxiety and depression can all lead to unhealthy factors,” says Brittany Best, BSN, RN, a stroke navigator at OSF HealthCare. “They may not cause a stroke directly, but they will raise your blood pressure, inflammation and blood sugar levels. So they really can raise the risk of a stroke significantly.”

Eating a healthy diet, avoiding alcohol and smoking, being active and mindfulness activities like meditation can help with this risk, Best says.

“Seeing your doctor regularly is one of the most important things you can do to reduce your stroke risk,” Best adds. “They’re going to keep an eye on things like blood pressure and lab work. They can get you on the right track to maintain overall health.”

What if I’m on medication for my mental health? How does that play a role in stroke risk? Best says it shouldn’t be a problem, but follow your health care provider’s directions, and talk to them if you have symptoms.

A recap of stroke basics

If Best has a takeaway message, it’s that 80% of strokes are preventable, and quick action when a stroke strikes can prevent serious brain damage or even death. When spotting stroke symptoms, remember the acronym BEFAST.

• B is for balance: Watch for sudden loss of balance.
  
   
• E is for eyes: Check for vision loss or eyes looking askew.
  
   
• F is for face: Look for droopiness or an uneven smile.
  
   
• A is for arm: Is one arm weak or numb?
  
   
• S is for speech: Watch for slurred, slow speech or no speech. Ask the person to repeat a simple sentence.
  
   
• T is for time. It’s the conclusion to the checklist. Time to call 9-1-1 if someone has these symptoms, even if they go away.

“Our main goal is getting patients in quickly. Identify their stroke symptoms. Get them to imaging. Get their care started as quickly as possible,” Best says, outlining stroke care at the hospital she works at, OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony’s Health Center in Alton, Illinois. “With strokes, time is very important. Up to two million brain cells can die every minute during a stroke. So it’s very important for the treatment process to go smoothly.”

The care team will also connect people with stroke resources, such as support groups like the one Best manages. Contrary to stereotypes, those support groups are not all doom and gloom.

“It’s a nice place for stroke survivors and caregivers to connect with one another,” Best says. “They can ask questions and listen to guest speakers. It really just provides a nice community for them to not feel alone in their recovery.”

Learn more

Read more about treatment and prevention of stroke on the OSF HealthCare Illinois Neurological Institute website.

Interview clips

Frequently asked questions

• Illnesses in the classroom: You’ve heard the saying that daycares and elementary school classrooms are a petri dish of yucky stuff. Kids are coughing, sneezing and touching things without knowing they’re spreading germs. Dr. Nauman says upper respiratory infections (colds) are common.
  
  “Use a humidifier. Honey is a great natural cough suppressant. You can do steamy baths,” Dr. Nauman says, outlining what parents can try. “Teach your kids the proper way to cough and blow their nose. Teach them how and when to wash their hands. They should be washing as much as possible throughout the day.

“I also think eating healthy and maintaining good nutrition is key,” she adds. “Make sure the kids get vitamins with their daily intake of food and drink.”

Pink eye is also common in schools. It’s inflammation of the membrane that lines the inside of the eyelids and covers the eye.

“Most pink eye is caused by a virus. But sometimes if we think there’s a bacterial cause, we’ll treat with an antibiotic eyedrop,” Dr. Nauman says. “Pink eye is very contagious. If one person in the house gets it, it can be a domino effect because kids are all over each other. Prevention involves really good handwashing. And if you have a young infant or a child that has complex medical issues, keep them distant from others.”

And, teach kids to cough and sneeze into their sleeve, and they should not touch grimy surfaces then touch their face.

• Sleep disruptions and anxiety about school: Kids tend to stay up late during the summer. Maybe they’re snacking on sugar-filled foods with their heads buried in devices. Start the back-to-school sleep routine if you haven’t already, Dr. Nauman says. As part of this routine, have the kids go to bed and wake up at the same time. Dr. Nauman says elementary school-aged kids need 10 to 11 hours of sleep. Older kids should get 9 to 11 hours. Teenagers can sleep for 8 to 9 hours.
  
  “Everyone lacks sleep to some degree. But with kids, we don’t realize how much good sleep can affect their ability to learn, emotionally regulate themselves and carry themselves,” Dr. Nauman points out. “Sleep also makes sure that immune system gets some rest and is able to help the kid’s body stay healthy.
  
  “If you have, for example, a nervous Kindergartener, drive by the school the week before classes start,” Dr. Nauman adds. “Say ‘OK, this is the time we’ll be dropping you off here. It’s going to be part of your routine.’ Give them a fun treat that day. Make it a memory that’s positive for them so that when the time comes to go to school, they’re ready.”
  
  Some schools hold “meet the teacher” nights prior to the school year to introduce everyone to each other. Take advantage of those, Dr. Nauman stresses. Be excited for and proud of your kids.
  
• Allergies: Ragweed is a big one seen in the fall, Dr. Nauman says. Symptoms include runny nose, sneezing, cough and itchy eyes.
  
  “If you know your kids get allergies in August or September, start the allergy medication two weeks before. Before the symptoms are super bad, help your body get ready for them,” Dr. Nauman suggests. Also, know the child’s allergy triggers, and avoid them.
  
• Asthma: School means kids are back in sports and activities. They’re running around and exerting themselves, leading to shortness of breath or even an asthma attack. Dr. Nauman says parents should work with their kid’s pediatrician to craft a written asthma action plan. Teachers and coaches should get a copy of the plan.
  
  “Fifteen minutes before recess, gym class or practice, they need to use their inhaler,” Dr. Nauman says, giving an example of what could be in the action plan. “That’s one of the main ways we can try to prevent these asthma attacks from happening and interfering with kids’ lives.”

Learn more

Read more about keeping kids healthy on the OSF HealthCare website. Pediatric care at OSF includes local clinics like the one Dr. Nauman works at and OSF HealthCare Children’s Hospital of Illinois in Peoria.

Interview clips

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Author's note: this is part of a series on the parent-teen relationship. Search the OSF Newsroom for Sara Bennett for other stories.


Proms. Friday night football. Advanced placement classes. It’s all on the mind of a child starting high school. And it comes at a time when the kid is becoming more independent from their parents. So naturally, the transition can bring some mental health challenges like anxiety, self-doubt and longing.

“Kids become more centered on their looks because they’re developing differently,” says Sara Bennett, a psychotherapist at OSF HealthCare. “Guys might ask ‘how come that guy is six feet tall all of the sudden and I’m still five foot two?’. It changes our self-concept, self-image, how we feel about ourselves and our confidence level.

“We see girls start to take a step back a little bit,” Bennett adds. “They don’t want to be the smartest one in the class. They’re sitting back. What their friends think about them is way more important than what Mr. Smith in chemistry thinks about you.”

Bennett also notes the sheer size of high school can be intimidating. Maybe the child went from small classes in a small building to being a freshman in a big pond with many teachers and coaches to get to know.

“There’s a lot happening in kids’ brains as they mature and go through those teenage years. As parents, we have to shift our mindset a little bit to be a better supporter and not so much that manager,” Bennett says.

Having the conversation

Curious, consistent and connected.

Those are the ideals Bennett says to keep in mind when parents and teachers are talking to kids about heavy high school issues. Ask about what’s going on and how it made the child feel, but be curious, not nosy and judgmental. Stay connected with your teenager, but understand that everyone has a busy schedule. A family dinner every night may not be possible, but catch up on the drive to soccer practice.

“Let them know you’re there to celebrate their wins and move through difficulties. Make the little moments matter,” Bennett says. “How can I help?” or “What’s a good outcome for this?” are good phrases to use.

“Figure out who they are, what success means to them and how you can best support them,” Bennett adds, noting an eight-year-old’s priorities will differ greatly from a 14-year-old’s priorities. “Having those open conversations and allowing them to be themselves means they’re more likely to come to you when stuff gets tough. If they feel there’s a lot of judgement and condemnation and not a lot of support, they’re probably going to go to other people or hold it inside. Then the parent is going to be on the outside of the relationship instead of the inside.”

For a child whose success means good grades, the conversation might include setting expectations in that area. Does the expectation mean certain grades? Certain advanced courses? Or just trying your best? If expectations are or are not met, what are the rewards or consequences? Expectations about social situations like parties could mean a pledge to not drink or use drugs. The parents could also promise to pick up the child from a sticky situation, like an out-of-control party, without judgement.

“Evidence-based research shows the more we connect with our kids in that way and not shy away from these conversations, the more likely they are to stay away from the riskiest decisions,” Bennett says.

Learn more

Read more about helping kids with their mental health on the OSF HealthCare website. Mental health care at OSF includes clinicians and support groups at hospitals like the one Bennett works at, the under-construction Meadowview Behavioral Hospital in Peoria, Illinois, and free resources like behavioral health navigators and SilverCloud.

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Jetting off to college brings excitement. New friendships and professional opportunities await.

But it also brings the obligation of taking care of your health without a parent’s watchful eye. Dorm buffets, sugary drinks and sleeping in all the time can lead to your clothes feeling tighter and your self-esteem feeling lower.

So what’s the scoop on the so-called freshman 15? How big of a problem is weight gain in college? How can you prevent it?

First things first: Rachel Bult, a supervisor dietitian at OSF HealthCare, says it’s more like three to 10 pounds weight gain in the first year on average, not 15. But the issue is still worth paying attention to.

“You add more calories than you intend to,” with food options in college, Bult says. “Also, stress and lack of sleep can cause increased cravings for sweets and comfort foods.”

Some tips to consider:

• Exercise portion control. Remember the saying “Are your eyes bigger than your stomach?”
   
• If you’re on a meal plan that means buffet meals every day, go to a healthier station first. Start with a salad and a vinaigrette dressing, Bult suggests. Non-starchy vegetables as your side can provide fiber. Protein like chicken, fish, beans, chickpeas and tofu will help keep you full.
   
• For exercise, find movement you enjoy. Don’t approach it as a chore. If you like pickleball, find a local league.
   
• Keep healthy snacks, not junk food, at arm’s reach.
  
  “When I was in college, I would have a protein smoothie in the morning to help fill me up,” Bult recalls. “But you could also keep fruit, string cheese, unsalted nuts or bell peppers with hummus. Just things that are healthier and quicker to grab and go.”
   
• Smartphone apps can be a short-term tool to get you on the right track, Bult says. Apps can track what you’re eating, your daily steps and more.
  
  “Those can help you understand the nutritional value of what you’re consuming,” Bult says.
   
• Talk to your primary care provider or a dietitian if you need guidance. Research what your local school, health system or social service groups offer.

Learn more

The OSF HealthCare website has healthy recipes.

Interview clips

Author's note: this is part of a multi-part series on the parent-teenager relationship. In the coming weeks, search the OSF Newsroom for Sara Bennett to find all the stories in this series.



Leaving for college or the workforce is one of the most momentous times in a young person’s life. But it’s stressful for parents too. Imagine dropping your only child off three states away, becoming an empty nester in the process. You’d probably shed a tear too.

Sara Bennett, a psychotherapist at OSF HealthCare, reminds you: these feelings are normal, and you’re not alone.

“Anytime we have an adjustment period, it’s hard. We have a lot of mixed emotions,” Bennett says. “Parents are really excited for their kids to go to college and have these opportunities. But at the same time, it’s kind of sad. You start reflecting on how much time you’ve spent with these kids and how fast it’s gone. So, there’s sadness, happiness, excitement and uncertainty. There are a lot of emotions.”

The transition can be even tougher if you come from a tight-knit family or a small-town high school where everyone knows everyone.

Luckily, there are ways to navigate the rough waters.

Tactics for a successful transition

• Parents should be open with their kids about how they’re feeling.
  
  “I’m excited for you, but this is hard for me. I’m going to miss you,” Bennett suggests as one phrase to use.
   
• Set expectations.
  
  It’s a very important conversation to have, Bennett says. Is the child expected to maintain certain grades? What happens if they don’t? How can they stay safe but have fun on the weekends? If that partying puts them in a tight spot, when should they call their parents for help? When should they work it out on their own? When and how often should each call or visit each other? An unexpected knock on the dorm room door from mom and dad would probably be a jolt to the system.
  
  “I expect you to attend your classes. If you oversleep a time or two, that’s fine,” Bennett says, relaying another phrase parents can use. “But a lot of times, mom and dad are footing the bill for this. So, they have some skin in the game. You just want your kid to do well. You want them to be successful. Building habits in college continues that success pattern. The student can carry that through their adult years.”
  
  Another scenario: colleges often have parent weekends once or twice a school year. Tell your child ahead of time that you’d like to visit. Brainstorm things to do.
  
  Parents should also have expectations. If the young adult gets good grades and stays out of trouble, maybe the parents give them space or even a reward.
   
• Create a cheat sheet of campus resources. That way the child knows where to go for things like mental health care, career coaching and social clubs. Bennett says finding like-minded friends in college can help the child feel connected to home.
   
• Be prepared to experience different cultures. The student might come from a small town where everyone speaks the same language, has the same religion and eats the same food. Then, they go to a big college and are exposed to much more diversity.
  
  “How are they going to be open and respectful to new experiences and still hold on to who they are?” Bennet ponders.

Seeing a mental health provider

If emotions surrounding a child leaving the nest are too much to bear and they’re impacting your daily life, Bennett says to consider seeing a mental health provider. Parents and teens can do that together or separately, or group sessions are sometimes offered. But again, the key is to make the move in advance of the child leaving.

“Counselors can help kids process emotions and teach them how they can reach out to parents and others [for help],” Bennett explains. “Sometimes kids go off to college, and suddenly they’re very overwhelmed. This seemed like it was going to be a really great thing. But they find themselves a small fish in a very big pond. Or they find the workload is very different. They think they can handle four or five classes, and they find out that’s a lot. They’re drowning. They’re not really sure where to go or what to do.”

Learn more

Read more about mental health resources available at OSF that can help build life skills. Some resources, like behavioral health navigators and support groups at hospitals like the one Bennett works at, are available even if you are not an OSF patient.

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Entertainment evolves, but video games – no matter your console of choice – seem to be a constant. The games can have benefits, says Marla Nelson, LCPC, a psychotherapist at OSF HealthCare. They can lead to social connections and creativity sparks.

But, people young and old can get addicted to video games, possibly leading to serious mental health concerns.

“It can be a real problem,” Nelson says.

What happens and why

“Sometimes people use [video games] as a coping mechanism. They use them to get away from things they’d rather be doing,” Nelson explains. “They could bring you relief from depressive symptoms and anxiety. They allow you to get away from how you’re feeling.”

That, Nelson says, can lead to isolation and less in-person socialization. For adults, that can create rifts in relationships and at work. Or, you might focus so much on the game that you don’t take care of yourself as well, and you appear disheveled. Young gamers could also be exposed to adult content (like weapons or gambling), leading to a warped worldview.

“There’s a danger of desensitizing violence with video games and, really, TV too. Kids are exposed to much more than I was,” Nelson says. “So I do think there’s a reason content warnings are on games.”

Ways to be a healthy gamer

• Know the warning signs. If you or someone you know is losing sleep or not taking care of other basic needs, it might be a sign they’re on the console too much.
  
  “If you’re lying about how much you’re playing, that’s another indicator,” Nelson also points out.
   
• For parents, take an active role in your child’s hobbies.
  
  “Talk to your kids about what they’re playing, even if you don’t know the game,” Nelson suggests. “Sit and watch them. Kids are cool about showing you games. And if they’re not willing to show you, maybe it’s one they shouldn’t be playing.”
  
  Nelson says you should also talk to kids about keeping priorities in order. Come up with a plan to balance video games, homework and more.
  
  “Get down to the numbers. How long are they going to play each day?”
   
• Having a plan can work for adults, too.
  
  “Write it down. What’s appropriate? Can I follow these guidelines? Can I play video games for, for example, two hours a week? Is that reasonable? Can I stick to that? If I can’t, why can’t I?” Nelson says. “For some people, when they put it on paper, they find they can do it.”
   
• Is it ever appropriate for dad to take the console away from the child? Or the wife to take it away from her husband?

“If you’re not able to self-regulate and stick with those guidelines you set for yourself, then yeah it might be time to try abstinence temporarily,” Nelson says. “Find things that the child can do instead. Let’s set up some play dates.

“If it’s an [adult] partner, have that conversation,” Nelson adds. “Say: ‘This is a problem. You’ve tried to regulate yourself, and I guess you can’t. Maybe you should talk to somebody about that.’”

• Consider seeing a mental health professional. Nelson says there are even specific programs and centers to help with technology addiction.
  
  “Get down to the nitty gritty about why you feel the need to game all the time,” Nelson says.

Learn more

Read more about mental health resources available at OSF that can help build good technology habits. Some resources, such as behavioral health navigators and support groups at hospitals like the one Nelson works at, are available even if you are not an OSF patient.

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Author's note: this is part one of a two part story on outdoor water safety. Click here for part two.


Warmer weather means people flocking to lakes and rivers in droves to enjoy some fishing or time on the boat. But something as simple as the wrong type of footwear can lead to an injury that ruins your day and maybe even your life.

In 2023, the United States Coast Guard reported 3,844 instances of something going wrong on a boat and 564 boating deaths. The numbers were down from 2022 and don’t capture what’s happening on every waterway in America. But they’re still worth paying attention to.

Bethany Huelskoetter, APRN, a family medicine provider at OSF HealthCare, knows a thing or two in this area of medicine, having treated patients for outdoor injuries for years, plus spending leisure time on the water.

• Entanglements in boat engines: Contacting the parts under the boat can lead to traumatic injuries and even limb loss. Huelskoetter has heard of instances where a boat driver unknowingly backs up into a swimmer’s midsection.
  
  “Make people aware of where the motor is, and tell them not to swim there,” Huelskoetter says. “Don’t put your feet on the boat’s propellor. It can be sharp and injure you. And if the driver is going to move the boat, they should know where everyone is.”
   
• Head injuries: Diving into water where you don’t know the depth is a big no. There can also be objects like logs, Huelskoetter says.
  
  “People can go down and not come back up,” Huelskoetter warns. “They hit their head, and it knocks them unconscious. And maybe there’s a current underwater that they’re unable to fight.”
   
• Slip and falls: Wet surfaces, like a dock or the back of a boat, make you prone to falls. First, Huelskoetter says to enter the boat in the right spot. That’s usually the back or the side. Don’t try to hop over a tall railing, for example. Second, find a good non-slip footwear that works for you. That could be a sandal or a specialized boat shoe. Huelskoetter says going barefoot can be OK, too, if you watch where you walk. Look for sharp objects, and avoid long contact with hot surfaces.

• The buddy system: Try to boat or fish with someone. They can help you if you have an emergency. If you’re alone, let people know your plans. Then if you’re not back when you planned to be, they can alert law enforcement to look for you.
   
• Fish hook impalements: It’s a tiny object. How bad can it be?
  
  Bad, Huelskoetter says. The hooks are dirty, so infections are possible.
  
  “If you can cut the [fishing line] string and come to an urgent care or your primary care provider, that’s fantastic,” Huelskoetter says. “But if you’re unable, push the hook the rest of the way through [the wound]. Then cut the barb on the end of the hook off. If you go fishing, have wire cutters with you in case this happens. Then you can slide the hook out.
  
  “Wash with soap and water, then keep the wound dry and covered. Antibiotic ointment is good to use,” Huelskoetter adds. “Follow up with your primary care provider in the following few days if it develops redness, soreness or anything else irregular. We expect it to be tender, but if you have redness, swelling, drainage or if you’re just unsure, contact your primary care provider.”
  
  Huelskoetter points out that you can usually send a photo to your provider via your online patient portal. Then the provider can advise what to do.

Getting help

If someone suffers a minor injury on the water, you can treat it with a first aid kit until you return home. If it’s a major injury like a concussion, gently move the person out of the water and onto a flat surface. Gentle movements are critical to prevent further injury like paralysis. Call 9-1-1 and meet first responders on land. A charged phone is crucial for a day outdoors, but signal can lack in rural areas. So it never hurts to have a global positioning system (GPS) device, too.

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Author's note: this is part of a multi-part series on the parent-teenager relationship. In the coming weeks, search the OSF Newsroom for Sara Bennett to find all the stories in this series.




Resolving an argument with a friend, spouse or coworker is hard enough. But how about when it’s with your teenager?

The idea doesn’t have to be daunting, says Sara Bennett, a psychotherapist at OSF HealthCare. In fact, good conflict resolution skills are critical to being a good parent.

Earlier on the OSF HealthCare Newsroom, Bennett outlined strategies to resolve and repair things with your child. Now, she has some helpful phrases and body language that parents can commit to memory and break out during the tough conversations.

• When you need to deescalate:

o    “You’re not in trouble. We are figuring this out.”

o    “Your feelings make sense.”

o    “This is hard. Let’s slow this down a little.”

o    “Can you take a walk with me for a minute?”

o    “Let’s pause for a minute. I’m right here with you.”

• When parents feel overwhelmed:

o    “I want to hear what you have to say. I need a minute to calm myself.”

• During a conflict:

o    “Let’s do a reset so we can hear each other.”

o    “We’re both getting upset. Let’s pause for a minute.”

o    “I care about you way more than being right.”

• When your child is shutting down:

o    “I’m still here whenever you’re ready.”

• To show curiosity and validate their emotions:

o    “I want to understand what’s happening.”

o    “Here’s what was happening for me in that moment.”

o    “When I saw _________, I was really worried for you.”

o    “What might be the difficulty here?”

o    “Is there something that would make this feel better?”

o    “What keeps you from doing _____________?”

o    “I can understand why that would be so hard. I can understand why you felt that way.”

o    “I think most anyone in that situation would feel something similar.”

o    “Thank you for being so honest. I know it was not easy.”

• For parents to take accountability:

o    “I’m sorry for my part in this. I’m sorry I yelled and walked away. I reacted too quickly.”

o    “That wasn’t fair. You didn’t deserve that.”

• Problem solving:

o    “What do you think you need to do better?”

o    “I like that idea. Would you be open to hearing another possibility?

o    “What kind of support do you need from me?”

o    “I’m not sure I agree. I’d like to see __________. Do you have thoughts on that?”

• After a tough conversation:

o    “That was hard. I’m still with you.”

o    “I didn’t say that very well. I’m sorry. Can we try again?”

o    “Can we talk about what happened earlier?”

o    “I don’t want to argue. I just want us to understand each other.”

o    “To be clear, we both agree to ____________. Do you have thoughts on that?”

o    “I’m so glad we were able to get through this. I knew we could do it.”

o    “I’m glad you were able to hang in there with me. I know it wasn’t easy.”

• Body language and other tips for parents:

o    Slow breathing

o    Relaxed posture

o    Sit near the child

o    Soften your tone

o    Lower your volume

o    Slow your cadence

o    Allow time for short breaks. You could take a walk together or separately or play some music.

o    Acknowledge the conflict is difficult, but offer hope. Remind the child of their strengths and successes.

Learn more

Read more about mental health resources available at OSF that can help build good family dynamics. Some resources, like behavioral health navigators and support groups at hospitals like the one Bennett works at, are available even if you are not an OSF patient.

It’s important to fuel up to start the day. Breakfast helps improve brain function, blood sugar levels, fatigue and the urge to overeat later, says Jill Heitzig, APRN, a family nurse practitioner with OSF HealthCare.

But sometimes life gets in the way. How can you work a healthy breakfast into a busy lifestyle?

• Meal prep on the weekends. Heitzig says egg bites with vegetables are an option that will stay fresh in the refrigerator for a few days. Overnight oats topped with dried fruit or nuts are another good choice. Two cups of fruits and three cups of vegetables are good goals, Heitzig says.

“Keep things simple with a protein shake. If you’re having a busy day, a protein shake is a quick option to get some calories and protein to make your morning go a little bit better,” Heitzig says.

• Choose healthier versions of breakfast staples. For example, pass on the syrup that has added sugar.
   
• What about those sugary mainstays like cereal? Heitzig admits they’re tough to resist, especially for kids, in part because they’re advertised so much.
  
  “Once in a while, it’s totally fine,” Heitzig says. “But I highly recommend adding a protein, like a breakfast meat. Or, add a fruit. This helps stabilize those blood sugar levels so we don’t have those spikes and dips over time.”
   
• When can parents trust kids to have a healthy breakfast on their own? There’s no set age, Heitzig says. Every child is different. But, make it a conversation and set expectations early.
  
  “Encourage those better decisions. Push them to make better choices,” Heitzig says. “Give them more options. Kids love to choose. Maybe they’ll keep leaning toward those [healthy] options rather than reaching for those sugary cereals and Pop Tarts.

“Also, let them be involved,” Heitzig adds. “Let them make their own yogurt parfait or eggs. I know mornings can be busy, and it’s not always possible. But letting them be involved when you’re there leads to better decisions on their own later in life.”

• For adults on the go, research healthier options.
  
  “Drive thru breakfast shouldn’t be a daily thing,” Heitzig cautions. But, you can make better choices. Skip the deep-fried morning dish in favor of something with egg whites or Canadian bacon.

Learn more

The OSF HealthCare website has healthy recipes.

Interview clips

Ways to cope

“I tell people: get in a routine, especially if you’ve graduated from college and don’t have a job lined up. It can be really hard if you don’t have things going on throughout your day. Have a sense of purpose,” Yuhas notes. “If gyms are your thing, join a gym. You’re getting socialization and helping your body and the chemicals in your brain. Go to the library. Join a community group.

“If you do get a job, be mindful of the Monday through Friday routine,” Yuhas adds. “Make sure you’re doing [pleasurable] things on the weekends, not just the same meal prep and laundry. Try to break it up and have things not be super consistent.”

Parents and other loved ones should also take an active role in helping the young adult blossom, Yuhas says.

“Be open. Be there for that person. Notice things and make observational statements like ‘Hey, I’ve noticed you’ve been late to work a couple times. How are you?’,” Yuhas says. “Or ‘I noticed you’ve been having trouble doing your laundry’ or ‘You haven’t been getting out of your room when you come home from work. How are things going?’

“Gentle check-ins and observations are better than accusing them,” she adds.

If the stress of young adulthood is too much to manage or if the person is a threat to harm themselves or others, see a mental health provider right away. One-on-one sessions, sessions with the parents or group sessions are all options. The provider could even help with career coaching.

“It’s a non-judgmental space to talk about the shift in your life. Because it is hard,” Yuhas says.

Learn more

Read more about mental health resources available at OSF that can help build life skills. Some resources, like behavioral health navigators and support groups at hospitals like the one Yuhas works at, are available even if you are not an OSF patient.

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• Changed demeanor, like mood swings
   
• Frequently stepping away, like asking to go to the restroom a lot at school

“They want to go smoke because they’re addicted already. They need that time. They have to go hide,” says Thompson, a breast health navigator. “Same thing at home. They constantly go to their room or bathroom.”

• New odors coming from your child or their belongings. Williams, a radiation therapist, notes that the smell could be good, like minty.
   
• Listen for kids using new phrases. Vapes are also called hookahs, pens, tank systems and mods.

Adults should also know the changing look of vapes. Boyd says they could be in plain sight in your child’s room, and you could miss them. Vapes can look like computer flash drives, ink pens, key fobs, candy canisters and even handheld video games.

Talking to kids

First and foremost, Boyd suggests taking a loving tone when talking to kids about the dangers of vaping. Don’t start by accusing them of wrongdoing.

“Gather information. Encourage them to open up. Make it a safe place,” Boyd says. “If they don’t feel comfortable talking to mom or dad, maybe try somebody at church, an older sibling, a school counselor or a teacher. Find those accountability people.”

If your child has a hard time opening up, talk to their pediatrician so they can broach the subject at the next appointment. During the appointment, offer to step out of the room so the child isn’t nervous to talk about their habits.

Thompson adds to keep kids active. If you’re playing backyard baseball with them, you know they’re not vaping.

“We want you to be healthy and live a long life,” she adds, suggesting words to use with your child. Not to mention the money you’ll save.

What about smoking?

How does smoking a traditional cigarette or cigar play into all this?

Boyd says some people see vaping as a way to quit smoking. She says that’s a bad idea. Talk to your health care provider instead about medication and other options.

At OSF Moeller Cancer Center, Boyd, Thompson and Williams offer a smoking cessation program. Providers can refer patients to the program, or they can self-refer by calling (618) 474-6791. OSF then connects the person with resources to quit and provides regular check-ins. Schools, businesses and community groups can also call to see how they can benefit from the program.

“Working on oncology, we see the back end. We see patients who have been 30-year smokers. They have a CT scan, and they find an abnormal mass,” Thompson recalls. “So we try to catch them early. We have younger patients who are seeing their primary care provider. Their provider says they’ve been smoking for five years, and they put the referral in. Well, we just saved them 25 years of smoking if we can get them to stop now.”

“Don’t see it as a failure,” if you can’t quit right away or if you relapse and smoke a few, Boyd adds. “Try again. We’re not all made the same. Quitting looks different for everyone”

Interview clips - Karen Boyd

Interview clips - Heather Thompson

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Prior to serving as interim president at OSF Saint Anthony’s, Schepers was the hospital’s chief nursing officer. Recruitment for that position will begin immediately.

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Read more news and accomplishments from OSF Saint Anthony's here.

The statistic is no surprise, says Kren Harmon, a licensed clinical social worker at OSF HealthCare: 80% of older adults suffer from at least one chronic health condition like diabetes or high blood pressure.

And since we know the body functions as a whole, it’s also no shock that physical problems for older adults can turn into mental health concerns. Depression over lost independence, purpose or financial stability. Loneliness due to isolation. A fear of death.

Harmon encourages everyone, young or old, to see a mental health professional. But seeing seniors over the years, she’s heard plenty of misconceptions worth debunking.

• “You’re just a shrink.”
  
  Harmon sees this apprehension often. She explains that mental health professionals are not only qualified, but they can link you with resources outside of the office.
  
  “Practical matters such as housing and transportation,” Harmon says. “I hear ‘My doctor told me I can’t drive anymore. How do I get to appointments?’ We network closely with our care management team to handle those social work kind of details.”
   
• “I don’t want to be a burden on my kids.”

On the contrary, Harmon says it’s useful and important to involve the family in coming up with a care plan. She recalls bringing an adult daughter into a counseling session and getting a much different picture of things than what the older adult was letting on.

• “Back in my day, we didn’t talk about this. We handled it on our own.”

Harmon says: “We start with a basic education. What is mental health? How do I know if I’m struggling? What’s the difference between a therapist, psychologist and a psychiatrist?”

Harmon also finds it less challenging when the person’s primary care provider makes a recommendation to get mental health care. She says the older adult has often seen the provider for a while, has built up trust and is more likely to take their advice.

• “I don’t want to take pills.”
  
  “There are just a lot of stereotypes about that,” Harmon says. “It’s going to make me feel like a zombie. I don’t want to be sedated. That’s not what we’re talking about with the newer SSRI [selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor] medications. It’s not going to sedate you. It’s just going to help you be a better version of yourself. Have a little more hope and energy. It’s not going to radically change how you think and feel.

“They’re apprehensive because they’re thinking of medications from yesteryear,” she adds. “They even bring up shock therapy. That is not the first mode of treatment.”

Harmon also tells older adults: I might make a recommendation on medicine down the road, but that’s not why you’re here. You’re here to talk about your emotions.

• “Feeling these emotions makes me feel flawed, weak or not normal.”
  
  Harmon retorts: “Depression can just be a chemical imbalance in the brain. It doesn’t mean you’re not a good follower of your faith. It doesn’t mean you don’t have good values or morals. This is not your fault.”

Read more about mental health resources on the OSF HealthCare website.

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• Maintain a healthy lifestyle through diet, exercise and keeping up with doctor appointments. Brim says this reduces your risk of a stroke, which can lead to a voice disorder. It can also prevent everyday illness and coughing.
  
  “If someone has had the flu or COVID and they’ve had a consistent cough, it can cause trauma to the vocal cords,” Brim explains. “The vocal cords are closing so rapidly with each cough.”
  
  Using a humidifier and taking lozenges without menthol can help with that pesky cough, Brim adds.
   
• Aim for 40 to 60 ounces of water per day.
  
  “That’s very helpful in maintaining a healthy environment for your vocal cords. It makes sure they’re not getting too strained,” Brim says.
   
• Watch your caffeine. High amounts can strain your vocal cords, Brim says.
  
  “Do you really need that second latte at noon?” she asks with a smirk.
   
• Don’t yell all the time. Obvious, right? But it’s tricky if you use your voice for a living.

“Maybe you have a job like an auctioneer or a teacher trying to yell over a group of students. You have to make your voice louder [for your job],” Brim says.

“Try to focus on more projection. And take vocal rests,” she adds. “Take 10 minutes to let your vocal cords reset. Drink water. Try to decrease the trauma to the vocal cords as much as possible.”

Learn more

Read about all the ways medical professionals help restore voices on the OSF HealthCare website.

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“I’ll clean the house later.”

“I’ll fill up the car with gas tomorrow morning.”

“Thinking about putting together a will stresses me out. I’ll deal with it later.”

At one time or another, we’ve all put something off. It may be large or small. It may be put off for five minutes or a year. Whatever the case, procrastination is a part of life. But what’s important is understanding why we procrastinate and how not to let it get out of hand to the point it affects our mental health.

The basics

Ari Lakritz, PsyD, a clinical psychologist at OSF HealthCare, defines procrastination as wanting to do an important task but pushing it off or finding something else to do.

“Despite my best efforts, I just can’t help myself,” Dr. Lakritz says, putting himself in the mind of a procrastinator.

Just like stress activates parts of the brain that control fear and anger, procrastination comes with a sense of relief in the brain, Dr. Lakritz explains.

“All those aversive stimuli in the brain settle and go back to their baseline. Then it’s smooth sailing until at least the next time the issue comes up,” Dr. Lakritz says.

Procrastination is often equated with being able to prioritize and work well under pressure. Don’t confuse the two, Dr. Lakritz warns.

“Procrastination is accompanied by a sense of shame,” he says. “A sense of ‘I know deep down what I’m doing is not the most productive way of working. It’s not the most responsible way of working’.”

For example, take a college student who can type an A+ essay right before the midnight deadline. A provider like Dr. Lakritz may not call them a procrastinator because working at the deadline is part of their plan. They know they are going to finish the task. There’s no opposing force.

The why and the consequences

So why do we put things off?

Dr. Lakritz says for many, it’s about how our brain interprets scenarios. If you pass a coworker in the hallway and they don’t greet you, you may think the person is mad at you. In reality though, the coworker was just lost in their own thought. But your brain doesn’t interpret that.

The same concept applies for procrastinators. And for people with attention deficit disorder, anxiety and depression, it may be worse.

“They’re not so good at understanding or feeling the consequences of what’s going to happen when they come to that big meeting or big test unprepared,” Dr. Lakritz says.

Ironically, those people may be on the other end of the pendulum – too optimistic or confident about what they can accomplish. They lack an understanding of time. They think they can bake a cake in five minutes, for example, when we know it takes longer, no matter your recipe or skill level.

The consequences of procrastination vary by person, but it comes down to missed opportunities and not living up to your potential. For a teenager, putting off homework might lead to missing the work altogether. That means poor grades and fewer chances at the higher education they want. For adults, procrastination may mean missed opportunities to advance up the corporate ladder. And it keeps spiraling from there.

Treatment

Dr. Lakritz says a mental health provider shouldn’t judge how a person organizes tasks or, in general, lives their life. But he says there are some evidence-backed ways to tackle severe procrastination.

•  Find the amount of time you can work without distraction. If it’s 15 minutes, break your project up into small, manageable chunks of around 15 minutes.

“Take a nice little break to revitalize yourself between those small chunks, then get right back at it,” Dr. Lakritz suggests. “You might spend more time overall on this task, but you’ll be working much more consistently.

           “With procrastination, slow and steady wins the race.”

• Rewards like food or music can work, but Dr. Lakritz suggests pairing them with productive work, not after. A work buddy can help here.

“Come up with a contract or rule. You’re only allowed to eat that ice cream or candy bar when you’re working actively,” Dr. Lakritz says. “You’ll begin to associate working with something physically pleasurable. We would expect that to have pretty good effects on your level of motivation going forward.”

Learn more

Learn more about behavioral and mental health resources on the OSF HealthCare website. Just do it today and not tomorrow.

Interview clips

While living in Greene County, Illinois, in the 1980s and 1990s, Lea Anne Varble took a gut punch each time she heard about a suicide in her community. Eight to 10 in total in 15 years, she says.

“It just took me aback,” she says.

What the tragedies had in common: the person faced mental health challenges common to a rural setting.

Varble, a clinical psychotherapist at OSF HealthCare, knew she had to do something about it. So not only did she devote higher education time to studying the problem, but she’s also now getting the word out about the resources available.

The issues

Varble says stress and isolation are often experienced by people living in a rural setting, such as a farmer. There’s also a desire to be self-sufficient – a trope associated with farmers and other rural residents for decades.

“People living rurally often are independent. So, when stress comes, they want to handle it on their own,” Varble says.

Varble also knows the issues – stress, anxiety and even depression – of planting and harvest season.

“Hours and hours,” in the field, she says. “You’re expected to keep working even if you don’t feel well. Even if the stress is getting to you. You have to get up and do it again. Or at least that’s what your father before you did and his father before him.”

The work ethic can be admirable, but it can lead to medical issues if left unchecked.

And, the heads of some rural households are caring for two generations: their kids and their parents. School, chronic illnesses and advanced care planning are just more things to add to the to-do list. Varble adds that older adults in a rural setting are more likely to see themselves as a burden and choose to end their life.

Treatment

Varble says getting better starts simply with noticing the problem and talking about it with a trusted adult, like a friend, family member, faith leader or a medical professional.

The good news is that mental health professionals have made strides in this area, such as telemedicine and mobile health services. And society is more willing to talk about mental health. Farming magazines have articles on mental health, for example.

Other ways to help that Varble has picked up over the years:

• Get to know your neighbors and local organizations, like churches and businesses. Then, lean on them for help when the stress gets to be too much.
   
• Look into resources offered by state or federal agencies. In Illinois, where Varble works, the Family Farm Resource Initiative operates a 24/7 hotline and email.
  
  “Individuals can receive support from trained professionals who understand the unique challenges faced by those in the agricultural sector,” the initiative website states. “The helpline offers specialized assistance, including mental health resources and agriculture-related support, ensuring that farm families have access to the help they need.”
   
• Health care professionals should encourage people with rural backgrounds to become therapists.

               “It’s someone from their community who understands what’s going on,” Varble says.

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Anger. Sadness. Anxiety. Fear.

The Inside Out movies may be onto something.

They’re examples of “big emotions,” says Rachel Yuhas, LCPC, a psychotherapist at OSF HealthCare. Yuhas says it’s OK to feel these emotions, but you should know how to react to them. When you’re angry, for example, swinging your fists at others is a bad idea.

“A big thing is taking accountability first,” Yuhas says of managing these emotions. “Often when you have a big emotion, it can impact people around you.”

Yuhas also preaches techniques to ground yourself like deep breathing, taking time out from stressful situations, meditation, journaling and practicing mindfulness.

“With children, having them interact in a group might be really effective because they can learn from their peers. They can learn how to have those relationships. They even learn how other kids might be having these emotions,” Yuhas says. “I might also incorporate play therapy with kids because it’s more their style. They might receive that better.”

For adults, Yuhas often uses dialectical behavior therapy (DBT). She says it’s a type of therapy where the person learns skills to use in the outside world.

“We talk about mindfulness skills; meditation and interpersonal effectiveness, which is how to communicate with people in an effective way when you’re experiencing big emotions,” Yuhas explains. “We talk about stress. Say you’re at a nine on the stress scale and you need to come down to a seven. There are also emotional regulation skills we talk about.”

Details to know about some of these tactics:

• Mindfulness: As the name suggests, try to keep your mind full. Use your senses to notice things that you wouldn’t otherwise, such as a painting on the wall or the scent of a food truck.
  
  “We want to come back to the here and now instead of ruminating on the emotional turmoil we’re experiencing,” Yuhas says.
   
• Communication: Yuhas will coach people through tough conversations. For example: You’re mad at your partner. Instead of throwing an object against the wall, think about how you’re really feeling and what triggered the anger. Find a way to communicate that without a “catastrophic reaction,” Yuhas says.
   
• Distress tolerance: Yuhas says it starts when knowing that you’re highly stressed – in the “red zone” or toward the top of the one to 10 stress scale. Step away from the situation and find an outlet that helps you calm down, like going for a run.
  
  “Run off some of the steam,” she says.

Read more about mental health resources on the OSF HealthCare website.

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Author's note: this story is part of a series on the parent-teen relationship. Search the OSF Newsroom for Sara Bennett for other installments.



Resolving an argument with a friend, spouse or coworker is hard enough. But how about when it’s with your own teenager?

The idea doesn’t have to be daunting, says Sara Bennett, a psychotherapist at OSF HealthCare. In fact, good conflict resolution skills are critical to being a good parent.

Common problems

Disagreements among parents and teens usually happen around rules, boundaries and expectations, Bennett says. After all, the teen years are a time when the child is becoming more independent. Conflicts can arise about poor grades, time spent playing video games instead of chores or even disagreements about when to go to bed. With older kids, parents might have concerns about friends being bad influences or how the child’s significant other is treating them.

“Sometimes we think we have it figured out, but the conflict gets bigger,” Bennett says, commenting on how these conflicts lead to everyday aches and pains. “Kids can isolate themselves. Parents can even isolate themselves. We feel big emotions about what the kid is doing or not doing. Sometimes it can feel like direct disrespect. We start focusing on the child’s character. We forget sometimes that they’re just kids.”

It’s not unheard of for kids to turn to risky behaviors (like alcohol or drugs) or even run away from home if their home life is not good, Bennett adds.

Repairing the rift

Above all else, Bennett says parents should approach conflict resolution as relationship building, not being a power figure who’s determined to be right.

“Kids really want to be heard. They really like consistency,” Bennett says.

“The next thing you really want to do is hear what they have to say. Understand where they’re coming from. Put yourself in their shoes even if we know it’s a dumb idea or moot point. Validate their emotions,” she adds. “Words like, ‘I understand. That would be very challenging. What was going through your mind when that was happening to you? How did you work through this problem?’”

Then, Bennett says, the parent could share their perspective and try to reach a solution that has something for both sides. For example: mom and dad think their teen should be able to maintain B grades. What’s the child’s take? What would happen if their grades slipped below a B average? What’s a good compromise?

Bennett also stresses that parents should take accountability for their mistakes.

“Kids are going to learn just as much when you step back,” Bennett says. “Words like: ‘I came to you out of frustration. It probably seemed angry. I didn’t mean for it to sound like that. I’m sorry if I hurt your feelings. It was out of fear. I’m going to do better to manage my own stuff so I can really respect where you’re coming from.’”

Seeing a professional

If conflicts with your teen at home are making daily life difficult, you should consider seeing a mental health professional – either separately or together with your child. Bennett says when a child hears an outside perspective, they might have an a-ha moment. “Oh, I do get where mom and dad are coming from,” Bennett says, putting herself in a young person’s shoes.

Adults can also gain parenting strategies through therapy, especially if their child is engaging in risky behaviors or threatening self-harm. Bennett says the child could need to be seen in the emergency department. A therapist can provide parents with ways to cross that difficult bridge.

If the child and parent see a therapist together: “The therapist could act as a mediator and, actively within the situation, model those repairs and resolutions,” Bennett says. “Then the parents and teens can do it more effectively [at home].”

Learn more

Read more about mental health resources available at OSF that can help build good family dynamics. Some resources, like behavioral health navigators and support groups at hospitals like the one Bennett works at, are available even if you are not an OSF patient.

Interview clips

• YES: moles, blisters, bumps, acne, boils, peeling skin from a sunburn, rashes, poison ivy or similar skin reactions, warts, skin tags and bug bites
   
• YES, BUT: Dr. Kumar says freckles and birthmarks are lesions, but they are not harmful.

In other words: “A skin lesion is any type of abnormal growth. It can happen anywhere on the body. If it doesn’t look like normal skin, it’s considered a growth,” Dr. Kumar says.

Causes for each of these lesions vary. We know acne is due to bacteria, and warts are from a virus, for example. Medications, lifestyle choices (like eating certain food that doesn’t agree with you) and medical conditions (such as diabetes and liver failure) are other culprits. But when the cause is unexplained, health care providers might need to investigate.

“We look at the lesion. The majority of the time, we can tell if something is benign or malignant. If we have questions, we err on the side of caution and do a biopsy,” Dr. Kumar explains. That involves cutting out part of the lesion and sending it off to a lab for analysis. “Biopsies can be done in the office. If it’s a bigger procedure, we have to go to the operating room.”

If the biopsy confirms evidence of a problem, such as cancer, the doctor will remove the rest of the bad tissue. Or, Dr. Kumar says some people come to him with a cosmetic or practical reason. They have a large birthmark or cyst on their face, are self-conscious about their appearance and would like it removed, for example. Or, they wear a hard hat for work, and the hat rubs against a lesion on their forehead, causing discomfort.

Dr. Kumar outlines how he would remove a lesion: “Let’s say it’s on your arm. We clean up the arm. We inject some lidocaine, which is a numbing agent. Then with a knife or other instrument, I’m able to cut it all out. Depending on how deep it is and the size of the lesion, we can glue it back together or put stitches in.” Regardless of the method, Dr. Kumar says most of these procedures are routine for providers with minimal aftereffects for the patient. In complex cases, like if the lesion goes down into a muscle, a plastic surgeon might be consulted.

Prevention

We can’t control if we have things like freckles or moles. But there are plenty of things you can do to help prevent problematic lesions.

• Limit your exposure to ultraviolet rays from the sun or by tanning. In fact, Dr. Kumar would not recommend tanning at all. For outdoor activities, use waterproof sunscreen of 50 sun protection factor (SPF) or higher, and reapply every few hours. Wear long sleeves and a wide brimmed hat.
   
• Wear bug spray when doing outdoor activities, such as hiking, where insects are present.
   
• Wash your body regularly.
  
  “Don’t overclean,” Dr. Kumar warns. “If you scratch your skin, that allows bacteria and other things to get into your skin and cause infections.”
   
• Don’t smoke. Dr. Kumar says smoking changes your skin for the worse, such as developing wrinkles and lesions.
   
• Find the right skincare products. If you use a lotion and it causes a rash, for example, don’t use that product again. Dr. Kumar adds that Vaselines and petroleum jellies are good for moisturizing your skin. But they’re thick and can clog pores.
  
  “Keep it simple. The $100 face cream is going to work the same as the $10 one,” Dr. Kumar says.
   
• Know the ABCDEs of suspicious moles.

o    A is for asymmetry. One half of the spot is not like the other half.

o    B is for border. The mole has an irregular, scalloped or poorly defined border.

o    C is for color. The spot has varying colors, like tan, brown, black, white, red or blue.

o    D is for diameter. Dermatologists say melanoma skin cancers are usually greater than six millimeters, or about the width of a pencil eraser. But they can be smaller, so don’t consider diameter alone.

o    E is for evolving. The mole looks different from the rest or is changing in size, shape or color. Dr. Kumar says you can take pictures to show your provider how the mole has changed.

                           If your lesion has any of the ABCDE red flags or you just have a concern, see a provider.

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On a low-dose CT scan for lung cancer: “It can catch lung cancer early. Lung cancer doesn’t have defined symptoms like colon or breast cancer,” Huelskoetter says. “A lot of times, you catch those nodules early and monitor them yearly or every six months based on what the radiologist finds. Then we can get you scheduled for routine low-dose CTs.”

She adds that this exam is geared toward smokers, but you can always bring it up with your provider.

What about kids?

Huelskoetter says children should see a provider at least once a year for a physical exam and to get caught up on vaccines, if needed.

“Make sure the provider records their height and weight. The provider will do an eye exam, an ear exam and things like that,” Huelskoetter outlines. “We want to make sure we’re not missing anything. A lot of times, eye problems in children can be caught in school. But maybe the child isn’t school age yet. We can get them in, do an exam and maybe catch something early.”

At home

Health care doesn’t end when you leave the clinic. Warm temperatures during spring can bring a renewed sense of optimism about changing daily habits.

“One thing I always tell my patients: move your body,” Huelskoetter implores. “I’m not saying you need to go to the gym and do pushups, sit ups and deadlifts every day. Just move your body. Start at a pace that’s good for you. If you have a sedentary job or lifestyle, get a step counter or smartwatch to track your steps and see where you’re at.”

For example, Huelskoetter says if you’re at 2,000 steps a day, set a goal of 10,000. But start small. For the first month, aim for 3,000 steps a day. Then increase it to 4,000, and so on. You can accomplish this, she says, through 30 minutes of exercise for five days a week.

“This can lead to drastic improvements in your cardiovascular health, your mental health and your overall physical well-being,” Huelskoetter says. “Your joints won’t be as stiff because they’re used to movement.”

Exercise should be paired with healthy food choices, such as cutting back on processed food.

Spring might also be the time you say, “I’m finally going to quit that unhealthy habit,” like smoking.

Huelskoetter’s response? “Now’s the time. Let’s do it,” she says.

“Again, let’s start small. Get an appointment with your provider, and talk about options,” Huelskoetter suggests. “If you don’t feel you can quit cold turkey, which is extremely hard, there are options like Wellbutrin, Chantix or nicotine patches and lozenges. Sometimes we’ll even do cognitive behavioral therapy.”

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Author's note: this is part two of a multi-part series on the parent-teenager relationship. In the coming weeks, search the OSF Newsroom for Sara Bennett to find all the stories in this series.


What’s more delicate than a Fabergé egg? The parent-teenager relationship.

“Teenagers are working toward independence. That’s the good part. The hard part is that means they lean more toward their peer relationships,” says Sara Bennett, a psychotherapist at OSF HealthCare. “It can leave parents feeling like they’re drifting apart. It can make parents feel like they’re not very important. And it can make the teenagers a little moodier. They might be taking risks they weren’t once taking. They might find peer relationships that are not very positive.

“All of that can feel really challenging for parents to navigate when it feels like your child is slipping through your fingers,” Bennett adds.

Never fear, mom, dad and other caregivers. Bennett has a checklist to foster some years filled with respect, trustworthiness and positivity.

• Build trust with your teen. Two things for parents to consider here: have clear and concise expectations, and be consistent with your reactions.
  
  For example, if you let your child spend the night with their friend Matt one weekend but not the next, that could breed some confusion and resentment.
  
  “We want to create foresight and perspective so when they are out of our house and on their own making decisions, they can walk logically to make a great space for themselves,” Bennett says.
  
  Bennett says if your teen meets your expectations, you can reward them. Some rewards are inherent, she says. If the youngster gets good grades or calls dad to say they’re going to be late, that means less harping by the parents. But other rewards could include an allowance or treating them to dinner at their favorite restaurant.
   
• Know that advice and parenting strategies will change with age. Handling a 13-year-old is different than handling a 17-or 18-year-old, Bennett says with a smile.

“You start at 13 having more responsibility. Parents open the dialogue and talk about forgiveness, collaboration and developing that perspective. Then maybe by the time they’re 17, they don’t need a whole lot of parenting in that way,” Bennett says. “So maybe a 13-year-old still needs an 11 o’clock bedtime. But by the time they’re 17, they can really navigate their own bedtime. They know when they’re tired. They know when they have work to do. They know when wrestling practice is. Parents can just follow through and make sure they’re staying on track.”

• Give yourself grace. Bennett reminds you that parenting is tough, and there are a lot of people – family, friends and influencers – who try to tell you how to do it. Find what works for your family. Try hard, but cut yourself some slack when things aren’t perfect.
  
  “We all get on ourselves. We have a lot of parent guilt. But when you are loving your kids and putting time into them, the things you do wrong are just part of being a human being. There’s nothing to feel guilty about, and your kids know that,” Bennett reassures. “In fact, I think parents and kids learn the most when they’ve both made mistakes and can find their way through.”

For example, don’t be afraid to say something like: I was really mad this morning, and maybe I said things I shouldn’t have. I’d like to revisit this and do this a different way because I think we both deserve a different outcome. That teaches good conflict resolution, Bennett says.

Or, ask: what can I do for you? What do you want from this situation? Remember that teenagers are experts on issues in their own life, and an adult won’t be able to solve all their problems. Sometimes, Bennett says, kids just want to vent.

Learn more

Read more about mental health resources available at OSF that can help build good family dynamics. Some resources, like behavioral health navigators and support groups at hospitals like the one Bennett works at, are available even if you are not an OSF patient.

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Author's note: this is part one of a multi-part series on the parent-teenager relationship. In the coming weeks, search the OSF Newsroom for Sara Bennett to find all the stories in this series.


What’s more delicate than a Fabergé egg? The parent-teenager relationship.

“Teenagers are working toward independence. That’s the good part. The hard part is that means they lean more toward their peer relationships,” says Sara Bennett, a psychotherapist at OSF HealthCare. “It can leave parents feeling like they’re drifting apart. It can make parents feel like they’re not very important. And it can make the teenagers a little moodier. They might be taking risks they weren’t once taking. They might find peer relationships that are not very positive.

“All of that can feel really challenging for parents to navigate when it feels like your child is slipping through your fingers,” Bennett adds.

Never fear, mom, dad and other caregivers. Bennett has a checklist to foster some years filled with respect, trustworthiness and positivity.

• Find shared experiences. Bennett points out that parents have no problem bonding with young kids. The youngsters want to play with mom and dad all the time. As kids get older, they are more often out of the house and exploring new interests.
  
  “With teenagers, parents tend to focus on the things that they deem important. How’d you do on your math test? How is your relationship with Susie?” Bennett says. “Those are great, and they need to be talked about. But we also need to spend time just doing things we enjoy with each other. Focus on trivial or unimportant things.”
  
  Try these with your teen: game night, a family dinner or a round of mini golf.
  
  “Just something to truly enjoy each other and stay connected in a fun way,” Bennett says. And it’s a time to talk about anything and everything that’s going on with the child. Just make sure it’s an activity the teen wants to do and the parent can tolerate for a couple hours, not the other way around.
   
• Build communication skills. Bennett advises keeping the conversations consistent and light. Try asking: what’s the goofiest thing that happened at school today?
  
  “Connect with them on the things that matter to them. Then when the things that come up that are important to talk about, you can do that,” Bennett suggests. “When you do talk to them about the big, important things, ask them how it’s going. Leave it open-ended, validate their feelings and stay engaged and connected with them. Really try to hear what they’re saying. And before we decide to dive in and give them any constructive tips or problem solve for them, ask them if they would like help. Try to create some forethought and perspective instead of telling them what they should do.”
  
  Examples of open-ended questions on tough topics: What are kids doing with drugs these days? Are your friends drinking on the weekends? What do you think about that? If you’re ever in that situation, are you going to get in a car with someone who’s been drinking? What would your coach think of you doing that?
  
  Verbiage to avoid: You’re going to be in big trouble if you come home tonight and I find out you’ve been drinking.

Learn more

Read more about mental health resources available at OSF that can help build good family dynamics. Some resources, like behavioral health navigators and support groups at hospitals like the one Bennett works at, are available even if you are not an OSF patient.

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• Teeth issues, such as cavities and discoloration. Loose teeth (not baby teeth that are intended to come out) are also a red flag.
   
• Gum issues, such as redness, bleeding or swollen or sore gums.
   
• Chewing and swallowing issues, whether from pain or a diagnosed disorder.
   
• Chemotherapy can also negatively impact oral health, Dr. Splaingard says. So if you’re going through cancer treatment, keep a close eye for changes in your mouth.
   
• And while we can’t control our age or gender, Dr. Splaingard says to be aware: poor oral health and the poor bone health that could come with it are more common as you age. He adds that women who have reached menopause are especially at risk.

Prevention

Having good oral health is no secret. Think back to what your parents told you as kids.

• Brush and floss regularly. The American Dental Association recommends brushing twice per day and flossing once per day. If you have questions about frequency, talk to your dentist.
   
• See a dentist regularly. Twice per year is a good starting point, but some people who need extra attention could go four times per year.
   
• In between those appointments, watch your teeth and gums and let your dentist know if something doesn’t seem right.
   
• Avoid smoking.
   
• Eat a healthy diet that’s low in cavity-causing sugar and high in beneficial things like calcium.
  
  “Calcium and vitamin D deficiencies can affect calcium balance in the bones,” Dr. Splaingard adds
   
• And if you are diagnosed with osteoporosis, follow the medication plan outlined by your health care provider.

Learn more

Read more about how to maintain good oral health on the OSF HealthCare website.

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• First, be honest with your provider about what you’re eating and drinking. They are the experts, so they can work with you to come up with a diet that fulfills you physically and emotionally.
   
• Practice moderation. Don’t have sweet and salty treats around you all the time.
  
  “Don’t go to Costco and buy in bulk,” Adcock says with a smile. “Have just enough to get you through the day.
  
  “Don’t sit down in front of the TV and mindlessly snack,” she adds. “It helps to have portioned servings that are within your meal plan.”
   
• Avoid impulse buys, too. We’ve all seen the rack of candy bars in the grocery store checkout area. If you’ve planned, for example, for a sweet treat with dinner, go for it. If not, resist the urge to just grab the candy for candy’s sake.

• Not all sweets are created equal.
  
  “Anything that’s highly concentrated in just sugar and has zero nutritional value,” is what you want to avoid, Adcock says. “Even fruit juice – that’s kind of a ‘sugar bomb.’ While it does have some nutrients, you’d be better off eating the fruit in its whole form.”
  
  Berries, melons and grapes are good “whole food” options, Adcock says. And dark chocolate is better than regular chocolate, she says. But soda is one morsel to avoid. Replace it with sugar-free beverages.
  
  Another option: “If chips are what you’re after for that crunch, start with a handful of baby carrots. Then finish with 17 chips, which is a typical serving,” Adcock says. “It’s going to fill you up. The carrot has the same crunch as a potato chip, but it has far more nutrients, far less calories and way fewer carbohydrates.”

Know the signs

What should people with diabetes watch for to know if sweets are wreaking havoc on their insides? First, you should always monitor your blood sugar level as advised by your provider. The latest technology is a continuous glucose monitor, which is a patch on your skin with a filament that pricks you every few minutes. Know what numbers are normal for you.

Aside from that, watch for nausea, vomiting, chills, shaking and just a general sick feeling, Adcock says.

“You need to take a dose of insulin that you typically would. Or if you’re not on insulin, let your provider know your blood sugar is high,” Adcock says. “If you’re just feeling blah after overeating and your blood sugar is high, just monitor your blood sugar every half an hour to an hour. After four hours if it’s not coming down, that would be a time to say, ‘Hey, maybe this is more serious.’ Or if you’re having those flu-like symptoms with high blood sugar, then absolutely go to the emergency department.”

Learn more

Read more about preventing and treating diabetes on the OSF HealthCare website.

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When watching a basketball game on television, you may hear coaches and announcers say the star player is missing time with a hernia.

A sports hernia is different than a hernia suffered in everyday life, says Raman Kumar, MD, a colorectal surgeon and general surgeon at OSF HealthCare. But each should be taken seriously.

Hernia

Dr. Kumar says a hernia is when an internal organ or piece of fat goes through a hole in the abdominal wall. The most common type – around 80%  – is an inguinal hernia, when a part of the intestine pushes through the abdominal wall in the lower belly (also called the groin). Anyone can get a hernia, even newborns. But Dr. Kumar says they are seen more in older men. Symptoms include a bulge or swelling in the abdominal area and pain when moving.

“A lot of chronic heavy lifting,” can cause hernias, Dr. Kumar says. “Other things weaken the abdominal wall such as diabetes and smoking. Being obese causes a lot of weight hanging down on the abdominal wall. If you’ve had surgery in the past, that’s also a risk factor.”

So be mindful when lifting objects, Dr. Kumar advises. Lift with your knees, not your back, and don’t try to lift heavy items. Get a cart or a partner to help. Eat healthy and exercise to avoid obesity and diabetes. Avoid alcohol and cigarettes.

Dr. Kumar says an exterior wrap known as a hernia belt or abdominal binder can be a short-term solution. But surgery is often the endgame.

“If you have a hole or defect, it needs to be closed,” Dr. Kumar says. “The reason we fix hernias is because we don’t want a loop of intestine or bowel to get into the hernia, twist off and die.”

That would make a person very sick and possibly threaten their life, Dr. Kumar says.

Sports hernia

Dr. Kumar says a sports hernia is a muscle tear in the groin area. They’re seen in athletes due to all the twisting, turning and bending that comes with competition.

“Stretch before you do any type of activity. Work and develop your core muscles, including your abdominal and hip muscles.” Dr. Kumar says. “If the muscles are strong, they are less likely to tear.”

Athletes who complain of groin pain should immediately leave the competition and get checked out by a trainer or doctor. Resting and icing the groin will help, but a combination of medication, physical therapy or surgery will likely be needed to fully heal.

Be proactive

If you have symptoms of a hernia or sports hernia, see a health care provider right away.

“Nine times out of 10, we can determine you have a hernia just based on a physical exam,” Dr. Kumar says.

But for more complicated cases, your doctor may order an ultrasound or CT scan. Then, the provider will develop a treatment plan.

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Previous coverage

Hernias: More common than you think

Kren Harmon loves a good success story.

The licensed clinical social worker runs a neurological therapy group for older adults at OSF HealthCare in Alton, Illinois. Attendees might have short term memory loss due to a stroke, Parkinson’s disease or Alzheimer’s disease. Those challenges can also bring mental health concerns. But there is hope. Small group sessions like the ones Harmon runs have been proven to help not only with the seniors’ day-to-day life but also their sense of feeling alone.

“I had a new woman in group who said she had memory loss and was embarrassed. Another woman who’s a veteran of the group didn’t miss a beat. She reached over, touched the woman’s hand and said, ‘Honey we all have that’.” Harmon recalls. “The woman burst into tears and realized she’s not the only one dealing with this.

“That’s why I come to work every day,” Harmon says, beaming.

The fears, and how providers can help

Harmon has heard plenty of health concerns from older adults, and they’re all valid. The senior has moved out of their home and is worried about losing independence. They’re worried their health needs will be a burden on family. They might even be scared of dying.

Enter small group therapy. First, Harmon says, it’s a consistent thing on the senior’s schedule where they can look forward to getting out of the house and seeing people. Harmon says studies have shown more socialization for older adults means less confusion. But more importantly, the group connects attendees with others in their situation so they know they’re not alone. Harmon describes the concept in two terms: commonality of experience and installation of hope.

“We all have these same issues, but there’s hope,” Harmon says, restating what is said in a group session. “We can learn coping skills and accept what’s going on. We can support each other.

“Individual psychotherapy is great, but in group they get the benefit of having each other to lean on,” Harmon adds. “They say ‘This worked for me. You might want to try this at home.’”

A typical session might be a mix of camaraderie, memory tasks (medical term: cognitive stimulation therapy) and specialized topics like handling grief.

“We cover current events. What’s the date? What’s the weather?” Harmon outlines. “We do check-ins. Tell me something new in your life. People like that. They talk about their new great grandbaby.”

Harmon encourages her patients to expand on what they learn in group. The medical term for this is acceptance and commitment therapy. Find a way to exercise that works with your limitations. Explore a new hobby, such as puzzles or reading. Watching television all day won’t cut it, Harmon says.

“You’re never too old to learn a new skill,” she reminds.

Getting involved

If an older adult in your life could benefit from group therapy, Harmon says going through a physician might be the way to go. She’s found that seniors sometimes don’t listen to friends and family. But if their neurologist – someone they know and trust – recommends something, it might carry more weight.

“Having the doctor refer, I’ve found, makes a difference with that generation. When someone in a white coat says it, it’s the best idea ever,” Harmon chuckles.

You can also read more about healthy thoughts and behaviors on the OSF HealthCare website.

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Zach Yoder has been appointed interim president of both OSF St. Mary and OSF Holy Family. He will step away from his current role as president at OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony’s Health Center in Alton for up to six months to support this transition. During this period, Lisa Schepers, DNP, currently vice president and chief nursing officer, will serve as interim president of OSF Saint Anthony’s.

Moving forward, OSF plans to align OSF HealthCare Saint Luke Medical Center in Kewanee, OSF St. Mary and OSF Holy Family under a single president through the upcoming search process. This integrated leadership model will strengthen the regional approach for OSF to deliver care throughout the west central Illinois market. OSF Saint Luke will continue to be led by Jackie Kernan, MSN, RN, during this transition. Once this position has been filled, Kernan will remain as president of OSF HealthCare Saint Katharine Medical Center in Dixon.

These interim leadership changes will be effective January 5, 2026.

• In one-on-one therapy, Varble says you’ll talk about making changes to your thoughts and actions to improve your mood.
  
  “What you think determines how you feel, and how you feel determines your behavior,” Varble sums it up. “So if we can change the way someone is thinking about something, many times it changes how they feel about it. And then it changes how they address it and behave toward it.”

• Varble says many of those same concepts are covered in group therapy. The benefit of a group is having a shared experience. You hear from others in your shoes, feel less isolated and become open to new ways of thinking.
  
  “Maybe they all agree they can’t tell their family [about their struggles]. They won’t understand. Then the therapy part of the group is for me to challenge that. I’ll ask: How else can we think about this?” Varble says.
   
• Learn to be assertive and advocate for yourself.
  
  “Speak directly. Communicate what your needs are. Maybe even argue for what you need,” Varble suggests.
  
  She adds that after a long day of the daily grind while dealing with pain, perhaps the last thing you want to do is talk a lot. But it’s important to speak up. She gives the example of going for a medical procedure. It’s not wrong to tell your provider, “My anxiety and pain are bad today. Is there anything you can give me to calm me down before I go in the MRI machine?”
   
• Recognize that chronic illness burnout (physical, mental or emotional exhaustion that makes it difficult to navigate life) is real. Varble says constant doctor appointments and the logistics that come with them can wear you down. 
  
  “[Friends and family] should watch for the person not taking their medications, becoming more apathetic about taking care of themselves and isolating more,” Varble says.
  
  “Burnout might be resolved by having someone in your circle make the appointments. Or give in and get a case manager who can do these things for you,” Varble adds. “Using resources doesn’t mean you’re not independent. It means we’re independent enough to know what resources to use.”

• Also for friends and family, “listening to their needs is always good,” Varble says. Offer to run an errand for the person struggling. Or propose a way for you to tackle the task together and let your loved one keep some independence.
  
  “See how they innovate new ways of doing it. Encourage their creativity. Have them find their own resources,” Varble says. “They then build confidence.”
  
  For example, if someone is dealing with pain flare ups while grocery shopping, they could explore “plan Bs.” Could I bring someone with me to help? (Varble says to frame this as a blessing of fellowship, not a burden.) Could I leave the store mid-trip? If so, what’s the plan to return the items to the shelves and get to the car? Or could I explore other ways to shop, like curbside pickup or delivery?

Learn more

Read more about healthy thoughts and behaviors on the OSF HealthCare website. If your mental health concerns have reached a crisis where you are thinking about harming yourself or others, talk to a trusted adult or mental health professional or go to the emergency department right away. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is also available.

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Sunburns and skin cancer don’t have an exclusive partnership with hot months at the beach. Ultraviolet (UV) rays are still present, even when the temperatures cool down.

November is National Healthy Skin Month, a time to raise awareness about skin health and promoting healthy skin care habits.  

Karen Boyd, an oncology nurse navigator with OSF HealthCare, says sunscreen is an important part of skin safety 365 days a year.

“There are SPF {sun protection factor} sunscreens, we recommend 30 or above that you need to apply to your face, your neck and your ears if they are exposed,” Boyd says. “Don’t forget about your lips; lip balm is so important.”

You’ve probably been told that the sun reflects off the sand or water and can increase your chances of sunburn when you’re at the lake or beach. Boyd says it’s the same idea with snow.

“Even if there’s snow on the ground, you have that glare. Your eyes can feel the effect from the sun,” Boyd says.

And that’s why Boyd recommends UV protective sunglasses.

“UV rays damage eye surface tissue, the cornea, the lens, and can even affect you later, as far as cataracts, acute macular degeneration and even cancers of the eye,” Boyd says while quoting an American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) excerpt. “We don’t think about cancers of the eye often.”

Photokeratitis, also known as an “eye sunburn,” can be very painful. Boyd says an important way to keep your skin healthy, in general, is by hydrating.

“Oral hydration is the key, and water is always the best thing. So, hydrate yourself in the summer and in the winter. It will help protect your body and your skin,” Boyd says.

After a cold and windy day of shoveling snow outside, you may head inside for a mug of hot cocoa and notice your face is extra red. People usually chalk this up to wind burn or just the cold; Boyd says this isn’t always the case.

“How do we know for a fact that that’s not the UV rays?” Boyd asks. “It may be from the reflection off the snow, and it could be sunburn as well.”

The ABCDEs of melanoma skin cancer are important things to keep in mind when it comes to your skin health.

·         A: Asymmetry. “Is it unevenly shaped or notched. Does it look different?” she asks.

·         B: Border irregularity. “The edges of the mole; has it changed? Is it not clearly defined? Is it not a perfect circle?” she asks.

·         C: Color. “Was it a light brown pigmentation but now it’s turning darker? If it looks crusty and it peels off, that’s another key point,” she says.

·         D: Diameter. “Has it changed in size or grown?” Boyd asks.

·         E: Evolution. “Has it evolved or changed? Does it look different?” Boyd asks.

Boyd says, if you’re concerned, you know your body. Mention it to your doctor and they can refer you to a dermatologist.

Video Interview Clips

The transition to menopause – when a person permanently stops having menstrual periods – can bring symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, irregular periods and anxiety. Women may want to find assistance with these symptoms.

Dennis Sands, MD, is an OSF HealthCare gynecologist and chief medical officer at OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony’s Health Center in Alton, Illinois. He cautions you to be wary of over-the-counter medication that claims to help with all menopause symptoms.

“In general, a lot of the at-home remedies are marketed very well. They are touted as cure-alls or things that will work for the most common complaints, like hot flashes,” Dr. Sands says. “What we’ve found is most of them don’t work.”

Dr. Sands adds that these medicines are marketed as dietary supplements, not pharmaceuticals. So, there’s more wiggle room to make claims about their benefits. Dr. Sands says he’s seen menopause medicine labels at the pharmacy that tout vitamin, soy or phytoestrogen ingredients. Equelle is a common brand name. Dr. Sands says these medicines can have a minor effect on menopause symptoms in healthy people, but they are not cure-alls or effective for all people. In particular, he says irregular bleeding usually requires a treatment plan laid out by a health care provider and an evaluation to rule out something more serious.

That’s where your gynecologist comes in, with Dr. Sands reminding that treatment is different for everyone. The first advice you’ll likely hear: keep up with your health.

“We’ve noticed that people who are healthy overall, exercise well, sleep well and are in good relationships generally do pretty well in the menopausal transition,” Dr. Sands says. “The more stress people are under, the more they’re not as healthy as they could be, the more their sleep is disturbed. It seems a lot of those people tend to have a more difficult transition.”

Estrogen patches and progesterone creams can also help, especially in younger women. A provider may also see if other medications you’re taking are making your menopause symptoms worse.

“If you’re struggling, see your provider and review all the options,” Dr. Sands suggests. “There are some great options that are effective and safe. Generally, they’re only used for a short time to get people through the transition.”

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MAR basics

Nelson says a person addicted to things like painkillers (prescribed) or an illegal drug might be a candidate for MAR. The main drug providers use to treat is suboxone. Methadone is also used, but it’s less common, Nelson says.

Suboxone would be prescribed by a professional with training for this area of medicine. It’s then taken in a controlled manner to help with the person’s addiction. Over time, you step down your use. It’s similar to using a nicotine patch to wean yourself off cigarettes, Nelson says.

There might be side effects to suboxone use, Nelson advises, like teeth damage. That’s why it’s important to take it as directed. And, she says, it beats the alternative.

“You’re not buying it on the street. You’re not getting toxic level of things that can kill you,” Nelson says, comparing everyday drug use to MAR.

Nelson also points out that people who try to quit opioids “cold turkey” can suffer painful withdrawal symptoms. MAR seeks to lessen that.

MAR would also go alongside therapy with someone like Nelson.

“There are a lot of people in recovery who have a history of traumatic life experiences. We might deal with that. We might change the way they think about things using cognitive behavioral therapy,” Nelson explains. “So they have the medication to ease their withdrawal. And they have the therapy piece to learn new skills to live a productive life.

“It all really helps,” she says.

Changing attitudes

Nelson says MAR isn’t new, but she’s seen more health care providers consider it for their patients. For some of those patients, Nelson says it’s a “last hope” after they’ve exhausted other treatments. And when there are success stories, it’s gratifying to people like Nelson.

“I would see people going back to work, reuniting with family members who had to cut them out of their lives, getting married and having families of their own,” she says.

If you think you or your loved one could benefit from MAR, talk to a member of your health care team. If someone is deep in addiction and not seeing their doctor regularly or is resistant to help, Nelson points out that some hospital emergency departments can fast track someone into a recovery program.

Learn more

Read more about healthy thoughts and behaviors on the OSF HealthCare website. If your addiction has reached a crisis where you are thinking about harming yourself or others, talk to a trusted adult or mental health professional or go the emergency department right away. There are also hotlines and other resources available: The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, the Illinois Helpline for substance abuse and a treatment hub webpage from the state of Michigan.

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Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, says Heather Thompson. And she would know. Thompson is a breast health navigator at OSF HealthCare, helping patients navigate appointments, insurance and more. And Thompson is, herself, a breast cancer survivor.

But what many in the cancer space might not realize, Thompson says, is that breast cancer can affect men. It’s rare, with 1% of men statistically getting it, Thompson says. But it’s worth knowing how to spot, prevent and treat it.

“There can be severe cases. A lot of times, men don’t notice things or worry about things like women might,” Thompson says. “The cancer is there longer and has a chance to metastasize [spread] and get into their lymph nodes. A lot of times, men will get gynecomastia. That can cause swelling in the breast tissue and a mass.” Those gynecomastia masses can limit a man’s ability to feel a cancerous lump, delaying care.

Breast cancer basics

Genetics (i.e. a family history of cancer), alcohol use and smoking all put you at a higher risk for breast cancer.

So do men need to do monthly self-checks and get mammograms like women are told to? Not always, Thompson says. You should talk with your primary care provider about a plan, especially if you have a family history of breast cancer. That plan could involve genetic testing or blood work to check estrogen levels (since estrogen feeds cancer cells). But day to day, Thompson says to just keep an eye on your breasts. Look for inverted nipples, lumps, redness or achiness.

“Men really do not require regular screening or imaging for breast tissue. That is not in the American Cancer Society guidelines or any other guidelines,” Thompson says. “However, men should monitor their bodies for anything irregular. Then, get it addressed right away. Don’t wait. You might be in that 1%.” Thompson adds that if any type of cancer spreads, it can be fatal.

Treatment for male breast cancer typically involves a mastectomy, or the removal of breast tissue, Thompson says. This could be after cancer is found. Or it could be preventive if you’re at high risk, like the case of actress Angelina Jolie.

“There’s not much tissue that a man has,” Thompson points out, allaying fears that your chest will look significantly different. She says you won’t have a nipple, and your chest will be flat. But that’s about it. “We will still test those lymph nodes during surgery to make sure the cancer hasn’t spread.

“After that, there’s special testing called oncotype,” she adds. This looks at the likelihood of cancer returning. “If it’s a high score, those people sometimes have to have chemotherapy or radiation.”

Changing minds

Thompson knows men can be apprehensive about seeing a doctor in general. But when breast cancer enters the conversation? She’s heard things like “I’m not a woman. I don’t need to worry about that.”

At OSF Moeller Cancer Center in Alton, Illinois, where Thompson works, she sees one to two men per month come in for imaging. Most, she says, are cases of gynecomastia that can be managed by the person’s primary care provider. But some do hear the words “It’s cancer.”

“I tell them they’re not alone,” Thompson says. “Other men have gone through this. We have a roadmap to treat it.”

Learn more

Read more about cancer care, specifically breast cancer care, on the OSF HealthCare website. Cancer care at OSF includes the OSF Cancer Institute in Peoria, Illinois.

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A federal panel recently advised women get a mammogram every other year starting at age 40, rather than 50.

And the American Cancer Society estimates that in 2023, nearly 300,000 women in the United States will learn they have breast cancer. About 43,700 women will lose their life due to the disease.

The headlines are reminders to know your breast cancer risks. While many risks are out of your control, there’s just as much you can control, says Heather Thompson, a breast health navigator at OSF HealthCare.

Major risks you can control

• Active lifestyle and healthy eating: Thompson puts it plainly. If you eat junk, you’ll feel like junk. And any exercise will give you more energy and burn fat. Fat produces estrogen, which feeds cancer cells.

“You want to make sure you’re well-maintained with your weight, even after menopause,” Thompson says.

• Taking hormones: This impacts your ovaries, reducing or adding estrogen. Whether you’re at a routine appointment or you have been diagnosed with breast cancer, talk to your provider about what hormones you’re taking.

“We don’t encourage people who are having menopause symptoms [like hot flashes] to take hormones,” Thompson lists as an example. “We encourage other things to help treat those. It eliminates those estrogen cells increasing.”

• Alcohol and smoking: They are a risk for any type of cancer. But Thompson says one drink per day can increase a woman’s breast cancer risk by 12%. Alcohol is sugary, and that’s a fuel for estrogen.
   
• Night shift work: Thompson says our body expects to sleep when the sun goes down. Night work throws that off.

                “You’re getting artificial light all night. That changes the melatonin that the body naturally makes,” Thompson explains. “When your melatonin is off, it increases estrogen.”

                If you don’t work the traditional day job, see if you can work different shifts so you are not up all night all the time.

Risks you can’t control

• Age: Thompson says women generally develop breast cancer at age 50 and above. 
   
• Family history and genetic mutations: A family history of breast cancer puts you at a higher risk. Thompson says the higher risk is often seen on the person’s mother’s side of the family. For example, your mother and her sister (your aunt) may have breast cancer, and so you’d need to talk to your provider about your risk.

              Some women diagnosed with breast cancer and who have a family history may undergo a genetic test.

“Those tests can tell us if this is something being passed down from generation to generation,” Thompson says.

• Reproductive history: Young women who develop menstruation before age 12 and women who go through menopause after age 55 have an increased risk.

“That gives them a longer time with their ovaries working. They’re producing estrogen,” Thompson says.

• Dense breast: More tissue and less fat mean a dense breast and an increased cancer risk, Thompson says. Usually, the younger you are, the denser your breast is. The density of your breast is something that will be noted on every mammogram result. Thompson says mammogram technology is getting better at finding cancer in dense tissue. An early diagnosis may mean a better outcome.

Takeaways

Make sure your health care provider knows about your circumstances so they can decide on the best preventive care, like a different schedule for mammograms. Some of the information to have handy: a family history of cancer and any physical change you noticed during your monthly breast self-check.

Learn more about breast health and breast cancer care on the OSF HealthCare website.

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It’s like “Mean Girls,” but everyone is 80.

So reads a 2018 Associated Press headline about a problem you may be surprised exists: bullying among older people living in assisted living facilities.

Shunning people from cafeteria tables, gossip, vandalism, physical scuffles and residents checking their mail at night to avoid running into an unkind cohabitant are just some examples.

While the issue may not be widespread, experts are telling the 65+ population, their loved ones and their caregivers why the problem exists and how to confront it.

Causes

Ari Lakritz, PsyD, is a clinical psychologist at OSF HealthCare who has taken a keen interest in mental health care for older folks. He points to a few reasons why senior home bullying might happen.

One, the seniors arrive with untreated (or sometimes even unknown to their caregivers) mental health issues.

Dr. Lakritz sums up the second reason: old habits are hard to break.

“The same types of personality dynamics, the same types of biases these individuals hold maybe as a product of the particular generation they grew up in. Any types of biases or beliefs about individuals different than them. Why would those go away just magically as they grow older?” Dr. Lakritz says.

Another simpler explanation: older people are cranky due to issues that come with age like chronic pain or feelings of helplessness.

Solutions

There’s not a one-size-fits-all solution to the problem of senior bullying. But Dr. Lakritz says it must start with the caregivers.

“A clinician not just reacting to different problems in the facility but proactively speaking with residents at least for a few minutes each day,” Lakritz suggests. “As well as having a really good referral system set up to psychiatrists, psychologists or another type of clinician if mental health concerns really do become a problem with individuals in that facility.”

And the facilities can take short-term steps, such as holding anti-bullying or anger management classes for staff and residents. Don’t allow residents to “claim” things in common areas like chairs or televisions to prevent others from being excluded. Include language on bullying in admission agreements that could allow staff to remove someone if they are a menace.

Families of the residents should check in with them frequently, too. Watch for changes in how they talk and act. A sudden desire to move out of a facility may be a sign of a bigger problem. Drop in for lunch and see if you witness any bullying yourself. If so, report it to staff.

The National Center for Assisted Living also has a document with tips to spot and stop bullying.

Visit the OSF HealthCare website for behavioral and mental health resources. If you or a loved one – of any age – are experiencing a mental health crisis, call 9-8-8, the digits for the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.

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“I found a lump.”

It’s the unsettling phrase providers sometimes hear from women when they are performing their monthly breast self-check for cancer signs.

But lumps are not the only thing to watch for, says Heather Thompson, an OSF HealthCare breast health navigator who is herself a breast cancer survivor.

Signs to know

Each month, keep these in mind.

• Lumps, the most talked about sign.

“A lot of women, especially younger women, have very dense breasts. Sometimes it feels like a bag of rice with little bumps. That’s just the tissue,” Thompson says. “When you feel a hard nodule, fixed in place or sometimes mobile, you definitely want to get that reviewed.”

• Skin changes. This could be an orange peel skin appearance, flaky skin, irritation or a new dimple.
   
• Unexpected release of fluid or blood from the nipple. For example, if you are not breastfeeding, a nipple discharge would be unexpected.
   
• Unexpected inversion of a nipple.
   
• One breast larger than the other, or generally, any unexpected change to breast size.
   
• Any new pain in breast area.
   
• Tenderness, swelling, pain or lumps under your armpit. This is one some women may overlook since it doesn’t deal with the breasts.

“Your lymphatic system drains to armpits,” Thompson explains. “So, if there’s anything going on in the breast, it’s going to show up in your armpit eventually.”

When and how

Thompson recommends women pick a date each month for a self-check and stick with it. The first of each month, for example. This way, you can put it on your calendar, and it’s easy to remember. And, she says the feel of your breasts will change as days go by. But, choosing the same time each month gives you a baseline feel and helps avoid false positives. Thompson also advises making your chosen date a week after your menstrual cycle ends.

Thompson says many women find it convenient to examine themselves in the shower. Regardless of where, she says a good technique is to move your fingertips in a circle from the outside to the center of the breast, pressing down and feeling for abnormalities. Then, do the same under each armpit. And also, glance in the mirror for a good look at visual signs, such as one breast larger than the other.

Some women have a trusted adult, like a spouse, also feel their breast for a second opinion. Others may take photos during their self-check to show their provider. Both ideas are acceptable, Thompson says.

“When you go to the doctor, they can look at the picture. If the abnormality has changed or gone back to normal, then we know it’s nothing to really worry about. But if the issue has increased in size or looks worse, it’s something to be concerned about,” she says.

What happens next

If you find something concerning in a self-check, call your primary care provider or OB/GYN right away and explain what you found. Thompson says the provider will likely order a diagnostic mammogram, an outpatient procedure at a doctor’s office. The radiologist should read the results on the spot. If a closer look is needed, you may undergo an ultrasound, another way to image the breast, or a biopsy, which takes a tissue sample for testing.

It's important not to panic, Thompson stresses. If you have severe pain or an abscess, you should go to the emergency department. But for abnormal findings on a self-check, that’s not necessary.

“If you go to the emergency department with a lump, they’re going to send you home, and you’re going to have to go through the process of calling your provider.

“Breast cancer is not going to change that drastically in three to four weeks,” Thompson adds. “It’s not going to make that big of a difference. However, you want to get yourself scheduled and be proactive. Don’t say ‘Oh let me watch it for a few months and see if it changes.’”

But do keep track of any changes between when you make the appointment and appointment day.

Why it’s important

Thompson says a monthly self-check goes hand-in-hand with regularly scheduled mammograms as the most important ways to prevent breast cancer. You should talk to your primary care provider or OB/GYN about what mammogram schedule is right for you.

“Typically, we do a mammogram every year to get the breast image,” Thompson says. “But during the year, things can develop that you don’t notice. Some things can develop very quickly.

“By doing a monthly exam, you learn your body. You know how it feels,” she adds. “Each month you may say ‘Well I didn’t remember that there last month.’ So you can address it right away.”

Early detection is key for a better outcome. Conversely, unchecked breast cancer is a major killer in the United States. The American Cancer Society estimates about 43,700 women will lose their life to the disease in 2023.

Learn more

Read more about breast health and breast cancer on the OSF HealthCare website.

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The Sisters’ impact

Sister Leopolda passed away in 1994 at age 81. But the impact she and the other Sisters made on OSF Saint Anthony’s is still felt today.

Sister M. Christine Crowder began at the hospital in the 1960s and worked alongside Sister Leopolda.

“Sister Leopolda was so kind and hard-working but always for the Lord. She was so dedicated,” Sister Christne says. “She would take the most difficult patients. The ones who needed the most care. If we were missing a nurse, she would put an apron on and give out medicine. If a housekeeper called off, she would start scrubbing floors.

“When I was working on the floor with her, I’d say ‘202 would like a pain pill,’” Sister Christine also recalls. “Sister Leopolda would say ‘202 is not a person. Mrs. Jones would like a pain pill.’ That spoke to the respect and dignity she showed to our patients.”

Marci Well then and now

Carol and Marci Well are still not sure of the exact ailment Marci caught in 1972. But she recovered with no lasting effects. And she quickly became intrigued by the medical field. Family photos of Marci as a child show her dressing up as a Sister and “playing nurse.” Now, Well, 54, has been a pediatrician in Canton, Illinois, for more than two decades.

“I had Band-Aids on all my dolls and stuffed animals,” Marci Well says. “It felt like I was destined to take care of people.”

“It really touched my heart when she said that,” Sister Christine says. “It’s so meaningful to hear that one of our Sisters influenced a person to work in the medical field with children.”

Learn more

Read more about how OSF provides compassionate care close to home in Alton here.

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Magnet with Distinction™ recognizes hospitals based on quality patient care and nursing excellence. Fewer than 8% of hospitals in the U.S. have earned Magnet with Distinction status. Additionally, the Magnet with Distinction™ program was created as a special designation to "celebrate hospitals and health care organizations that exceed scoring thresholds required to earn Magnet designation."

Receiving the “Magnet with Distinction” honor is even more impressive in the following ways:

• OSF Saint Anthony’s is one of only 47 hospitals internationally to have earned the "Magnet with Distinction" honor to recognize an "elite level" of performance, according to the ANCC.
   
• OSF Saint Anthony’s is one of only seven hospitals in Illinois to receive “Magnet with Distinction” status, and the only hospital south of Champaign-Urbana to receive this specific designation.
   
• OSF Saint Anthony’s is the only hospital in the greater St. Louis metro area on both sides of the Mississippi River to receive “Magnet with Distinction” status. 

The ANCC Magnet Recognition Program recognizes health care organizations that demonstrate excellence in nursing philosophy and practice, leadership and adherence to national standards for improving patient care. Hospitals undergo a rigorous evaluation that includes extensive interviews and review of nursing services, clinical outcomes and patient care. 

OSF Saint Anthony’s was lauded as an exemplar in 14 distinct areas of care as being documented by outpacing national standards in the following: 

• Nursing satisfaction from employee satisfaction survey scores
   
• Inpatient nurse sensitive indicators for falls with injury
   
• Inpatient nurse sensitive indicators for hospital-acquired injuries
   
• Inpatient nurse sensitive indicators for catheter associated urinary tract infections
   
• Inpatient nurse sensitive indicators for central line associate blood infection
   
• Ambulatory nurse sensitive quality indicators for emergency department time from arrival to departure
   
• Ambulatory nurse sensitive quality indicators for emergency department to transfer of behavioral health patients
   
• Inpatient patient experience scores for careful listening
   
• Inpatient patient experience scores for patient education
   
• Inpatient patient experience scores for responsiveness
   
• Inpatient patient experience scores for safety
   
• Ambulatory care patient experience scores for pain
   
• Ambulatory care patient experience scores for patient education
   
• Ambulatory care patient experience scores for safety

“We went well above, and we’re raising the bar,” says Charlotte R. Liley, DNP, CNL, director of professional practice and nursing operations. “We couldn't do this without all of the nursing staff being on board and being involved in the care of our patients.” 

Liley credits the hospital’s “professional practice model” and “transformational leadership” as two reasons why this status was achieved. 

Nurses at OSF St. Anthony’s can “practice at the top of their license,” added Lisa Schepers, DNP, MBA, RN, NE-BC, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer. Schepers notes that while Mission Partners (i.e. employees) are celebrating this milestone achievement, they are also already looking ahead to the next application window to maintain the “Magnet with Distinction” status. 

“As soon as you get the designation, the clock starts for your next one,” Schepers says. “It’s every four years. You don’t just get it and keep it. Every four years, we will have to meet the same criteria, and then they do change the criteria. We’re already looking at, what are we doing now, what do we need to add, what do we need to shore up so that we can continue this road?” 

Schepers adds that this recognition should mean a lot to the Riverbend region, as residents can trust OSF St. Anthony’s to take care of them. “Riverbend residents should feel amazing and proud that OSF Saint Anthony’s represents them in their community. Also, they should feel secure in the knowledge that when they come to OSF St. Anthony’s, they are going to get the highest level of care. Their outcomes are going to be better because the nurses are so engaged, and the nurses have demonstrated this high level of performance.” 

The decision to seek and begin work on achieving Magnet status began in 2022. OSF Saint Anthony’s recognition ensures Magnet designation through 2029.

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Growing up on a farm a couple miles from the clinic where she works, Bethany Huelskoetter, APRN, knows the importance of playing it safe in a rural setting, whether you’re young or old. With National Farm Health and Safety Week coming up, Huelskoetter, a nurse practitioner at OSF HealthCare, says now is the time to review the basics of farm safety.

• Heavy machinery: For big equipment like a tractor or auger, know how to use it before you get in the driver’s seat. Know how to shut the machine off quickly in an emergency. When behind the wheel, know your surroundings. Go slowly and be very cautious in places like driveways where kids run around. Wear fitted, not loose, clothing.

“Machines have shafts and moving parts,” Huelskoetter explains. “You don’t want to have loose sleeves or something that can get caught in that mechanism and cause a catastrophic injury.”

• Driving smaller vehicles: Children and young adults are often found whizzing around a rural property on an all-terrain vehicle or motorbike. That can go south quickly, Huelskoetter warns. A passenger could be flung from the vehicle and get injured or killed.

              Wear a helmet and buckle the seatbelt. Don’t drive too fast, and don’t make sharp turns, especially on loose gravel. Sit in the vehicles the way they are intended. Don’t hang off the back or side. And never operate after drinking alcohol.

• Toxic materials: Farmers and homeowners often handle chemicals like pesticides. Huelskoetter advises reading the label so you know what you’re touching. The label should also tell you what protective equipment to wear and whether the product is toxic to pets.

The American Association of Poison Control Centers website has a national hotline and state-by-state resources for exposure to or ingestion of toxic materials. Huelskoetter says to have that phone number in your cell phone. When you call, someone will ask you basic questions about what happened and tell you what to do. You may be able to treat the issue at home, or the hotline may advise you to go to the nearest emergency department.

• Animal bites: Kids playing in nature may encounter “all kinds of crazy things,” Huelskoetter says. Bites from spiders, snakes and raccoons can happen. The first step, she says: clean the bite thoroughly with soap and water. Then, cover it with a band aid or clean cloth and go to the hospital.

“You never want to mess around with an animal bite,” Huelskoetter says. “Animals’ mouths are very dirty. So you want to start the bitten person on antibiotics quickly.”

Huelskoetter adds that while we view dogs and cats as domesticated, you never know if they have not been vaccinated and are carrying diseases like rabies.

• Heat: Two common heat illnesses are heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Huelskoetter says heat exhaustion generally describes when you overheat. Experts advise to move to a cool place, sip water and put cool, wet cloths on your body. If symptoms don’t improve or you start vomiting, call 9-1-1. Symptoms of the more serious heat stroke include hot, red, dry or damp skin, a fast, strong pulse, headache, dizziness, nausea and confusion. Call 9-1-1 right away. Untreated cases of heat stroke can cause permanent damage to organs or death.

                Some tips to avoid heat illness: Avoid being outside in the middle of the day. Take breaks in a cool area during the day. Keep a cooler full of water and drinks with electrolytes, like Gatorade. Sugar-free sports drinks are a healthier choice                     than the regular ones. Have some healthy snacks, too, like popcorn, pretzels or nuts.

“Whenever your body is sweating, it’s depleting its calories and energy,” Huelskoetter says. “So your body doesn’t just need water. It also needs nutrients to help you keep going throughout the day.”

• Be prepared: Work or play with a buddy. That way, someone is there if you get hurt. If you must go alone, let people know your plans before you leave for the day. Where on the property will you be? When are you expected back? If you don’t return at the right time, that’s a sign for your loved ones to look for you. Keep your phone charged in case you need to make an emergency call. Take a mobile charger with you. And if an emergency happens, call 9-1-1 and take an ambulance to the hospital. Don’t drive yourself or have someone drive you.

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September is Prostate Cancer Awareness Month. It's a reminder that the disease is manageable when caught early.

Uwais Zaid, MD, a urologist who provides care at OSF HealthCare, is urging men to get screening appointments on their calendar at the right time. That’s critical, he says, because some people who develop prostate cancer will not show symptoms.

“It is something we certainly do take seriously in urology,” Dr. Zaid says.

What is the prostate?

The prostate is a male gland about the size and shape of a walnut. It surrounds the upper part of the urethra, or the tube that carries urine from the bladder. The prostate makes some of the fluid that’s part of semen.

Risk factors

Dr. Zaid says the risk for prostate cancer increases with age.

Other risks: “African American men are at a higher risk,” Dr. Zaid says. “Certain dietary things like too much red meat and greasy, fatty food. And certain type of exposures such as Agent Orange for some of our veterans.”

And like most other ailments, a family history of prostate cancer should put you on higher alert.

Screening: how and when

Dr. Zaid says prostate cancer screening involves two simple tests. One is a blood test that measures the amount of a hormone produced by your prostate called prostate-specific antigen (PSA). An abnormally high reading might warrant further examination by your health care provider.

The other test is a digital rectal exam, where your provider will feel for lumps on the prostate.

Don’t get that confused with a colonoscopy, the more invasive screening that looks for colon cancer, Dr. Zaid says.

“It doesn’t require any special or horrible bowel prep,” Dr. Zaid says of the prostate exam. “It’s about a 20 second thing we do in the clinic that can save your life.”

You should always see your health care provider anytime something seems off with your body. But the American Urological Association has guidelines for when to get a prostate cancer screening.

“For most men, we want them to start screening with an annual PSA [test] at age 54 to 69,” Dr. Zaid explains. “For certain men, you want to start earlier if you have a risk factor.”

After age 69, Dr. Zaid says you should talk to your primary care provider about what screenings are right for you.

What should you not do?

Don’t think this type of cancer is so common that you should just let it run its course. Dr. Zaid says there are aggressive types of prostate cancer that can be deadly.

Also, Dr. Zaid warns of herbal remedies for cancer in general. He says your best bet is to see a doctor.

Treatment

Dr. Zaid says treatment for prostate cancer depends, in part, on how much the cancer has spread.

If it’s contained to the prostate gland, he says radiation (sending radiation waves to destroy the cancer cells) or surgery to partially or fully remove the gland are options.

“If the prostate cancer has escaped the prostate gland, there are a lot of treatment options,” Dr. Zaid explains. “This is actually a very active area [in medicine] with all sorts of research and new medications.”

Hormone therapy may be an option here, the doctor says.

“It’s very manageable,” Dr. Zaid says on treatment of the disease.

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“Mom! I have to go!”

“Hold it!”

It's an exchange you probably had as a kid on long car rides. But Uwais Zaid, MD, says it’s not just a funny vacation story. A person of any age or profession can find themselves holding their urine for a long time.

“In the medical field, we see this all the time,” says Dr. Zaid, a urologist who sees patients at OSF HealthCare. “When you’re rushing from patient to patient, doctors, nurses and technicians might not go to the bathroom as much as they should. They hold their urine the whole day.”

Dr. Zaid is sharing his playbook: why this phenomenon happens, how to fix it and what can happen if you don’t.

Why do we hold our pee?

Dr. Zaid says some people hold their urine simply based on the situation. They’re on a long car ride, and stopping will make them late. Or they might be at a dinner party and don’t want to seem rude by leaving the table.

“Then there’s another subset of people who just don’t have the desire to urinate. There’s something medically wrong,” Dr. Zaid explains. “As we get older, we can get dementia and be forgetful. So sometimes people just forget they need to urinate. Sometimes, you can have lack of bladder sensation from neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis. Or they might have had their bladder stretched for so long due to things like an enlarged prostate or scar tissue in the urethra.”

The consequences

In the short term, holding your pee will make you feel uncomfortable and antsy. We all know the feeling. Dr. Zaid has even heard from patients, “The feeling doesn’t bother me that much. What’s the problem?”

A few problems, the doctor says.

“It does increase your risk of urinary tract infections [UTIs]. Your bladder is almost like a swamp instead of flowing like a river. You have stagnation of urine,” Dr. Zaid says. “It can increase the risk of bladder stones. Also, the bladder is connected to the kidneys. It’s one fluid column. So if your bladder gets really distended, it can back up and hurt your kidneys. You can get kidney swelling.

“And when the bladder is chronically distended, you can get pouches called bladder diverticuli. Those pockets can hold on to urine and be sources for infection,” Dr. Zaid adds. Over time, these pouches can also lead to worse urinary control and even the inability to pass urine.

If holding your urine and not getting treatment for it lead to, for example, the kidney issues Dr. Zaid outlined, serious health problems and, rarely, even death are possible. Dr. Zaid says that shouldn’t scare people into drastically altering their bathroom habits. But it is something to be aware of.

Prevention and treatment

So what should be the best practices when we start thinking about the toilet?

• Before you even head for the bathroom, Dr. Zaid urges you to take care of your bladder and kidneys by staying hydrated. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says daily water intake recommendations vary by person. So it’s a conversation you should have with your primary care provider. But, the CDC has general tips about staying hydrated and the dangers of drinking sugary or caffeinated drinks often.
   
• Plan ahead. For example, if you have a long commute, leave early to make time for rest stop breaks, and avoid drinks like soda. If you have a busy day at work, make a promise to yourself that you’ll take breaks to use the restroom. You can set a reminder alarm on your phone to nudge you.
   
• Try the “double void.”
  
  “You get to the toilet. You get done peeing. Wait 30 seconds, and then try to get a little more out,” Dr. Zaid suggests. “But don’t bear down and push because that creates trauma for your pelvic floor.”
   
• For older adults who might simply forget to use the bathroom, make sure they have someone checking in on them. Make sure they are empowered to speak up about their health. Setting an alarm reminder and having a clear path to the toilet can also help.

If someone consistently avoids or forgets to urinate or experiences symptoms like frequent UTIs, discomfort or difficulty emptying the bladder, it’s time to see a doctor.

Dr. Zaid says the first thing a urologist would do is look for anything blocking the urine. For men, this could be an enlarged prostate, scar tissue in the urethra, a bladder stone or tumor or trauma to the bladder area. For women, it could be a prolapse, when the bladder falls through the vagina.

“We can look inside the bladder with a camera. We can do a urodynamic study, which tells us about bladder function,” Dr. Zaid says.

Doctors would then form a treatment plan depending on what’s found. For example, bladder stones could be a “wait and see” situation. Or, a doctor could perform a procedure to remove the stones or break them apart and allow them to pass. Dr. Zaid says this is sometimes done with a laser in a minimally invasive procedure.

Dr. Zaid says in some more serious cases, the bladder stops working entirely.

“It’s something we can’t often fix. It’s really frustrating,” Dr. Zaid says.

Those people, he says, would need a catheter. It could be a short-term one to help drain the bladder or a long-term one to help correct the problem for a while.

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When nature calls

Sore throats: they’re pesky. They’re not just a winter thing (hello, spring allergies). And they can turn serious, such as strep throat.

Do a web search for at-home remedies, and you’ll get a lot of results. Which ones work? Which ones might feel good in the moment but don’t get the job done? Isha McConkey, DO, a family medicine physician at OSF HealthCare, has your checklist:

• Ice cream: Dr. McConkey doesn’t recommend it.
  
  “I know it feels good. But it will increase mucus production in most people. That’s going to exacerbate the [throat] irritation,” she explains. “We also don’t want a lot of sugar,” which could lead to cavities.
  
  In fact, Dr. McConkey says this logic applies to dairy foods overall. Skip them come sore throat time.
   
• Popsicles: These are OK, Dr. McConkey says. Just go for a sugar free or fruit juice-infused option.
   
• Cough drops: Choose cough drops with xylitol, a sugar alternative, Dr. McConkey says.
   
• Honey: “It’s excellent,” Dr. McConkey says. You’re still getting sugar, though, so don’t guzzle it. Try making a drink with hot water, honey and lemon. Or incorporate honey into your tea.
  
  “You can even add a little cayenne pepper. In some types of sore throats, it may make it worse. But most people find it can be very soothing. It has some numbing properties,” Dr. McConkey adds. But don’t take that as a license to eat spicy food. The acidity in tacos, for example, might cause throat irritation.
   
• Soups: Pop that chicken noodle soup in the microwave, Dr. McConkey says. She says research has found that some soups have antibacterial properties that can help with any illness. Opt for a low sodium can.
   
• Salt water: You’ve probably seen online videos or heard the tactic passed down by family members. Yes, it can help, Dr. McConkey says. Gargling salt water can decrease swelling, she says. Try it before you drink your tea or before you go to bed to help get a restful night.

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“It was very simple in the early 60s,” Fisher says. “We had one antibiotic – penicillin. That seemed to cure everything, from a cold to syphilis. I couldn’t believe it!”

Progress continued in 1970 with the addition of the hospital’s intensive care unit. The emergency department came in 1983, and the sleep lab opened in 1997.

“Very busy. I liked to be busy,” Fisher recalls.

“[Change] happened slowly,” she adds. “It didn’t happen in a day. It took months or sometimes years.”

The Sisters’ impact

The contributions from Fisher and all the other Mission Partners (employees) at OSF Saint Anthony’s are cherished by the Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George, who still are visible in the hospital today.

“[Our employees] share the Mission of the Sisters to serve with the greatest care and love. They really take it to heart,” says Sister M. Christine Crowder, who also started at the hospital in the 1960s. “We are really supported by them, and [the Sisters] try to do everything we can to support them.

“With all the growth and advancements, that Mission is still very important and part of our care,” she adds. “That’s what makes OSF Saint Anthony’s what it is today. That Mission and dedication of those first Sisters are still here.”

“There was a very warm atmosphere. It was just different from any other institution. Patients were treated like family,” Fisher says. “People would come back and bring their kids or grandkids and show them off.”

Interview clips - Wally Fisher

Burnout.

It means different things to different people. But one thing’s for sure: you should know the skills to cope with burnout to avoid a mental health crisis.

“Things are really expensive right now. People are looking for jobs. There’s a political climate with a lot of changes. It’s all created a lot of upset,” says Sara Bennett, an OSF HealthCare psychotherapist, commenting on the prevalence of burnout today. “And social media has a big role in how we feel. We see everybody’s problems. Or the opposite: Everybody’s life is so great and rosy. It leaves us wondering what we’re doing wrong.”

Causes and symptoms

Bennett says burnout doesn’t have a written-in-stone clinical diagnosis like, for example, the flu does. But generally, she describes it as physical, mental or emotional exhaustion that makes it difficult to navigate life. Issues with your job, school, finances, health and relationships can all lead to burnout.

“You’re probably going to feel a lack of concern. We call that apathy. You might not care if something’s going on. You might have a lack of interest in things you usually enjoy,” Bennett explains. “You might not be sleeping well. You might get stomachaches or headaches. You may be irritable.”

A sense of hopelessness can also occur. You might feel like things will never get better, or you can never get ahead of your problems, Bennett says.

Treatment

From your home to the doctor’s office, there are ways to navigate burnout.

• First, Bennett says you should take stock of the situation you’re in. Is it one that will resolve itself soon? Or do you need a bigger plan? For example, Bennett says accountants can be stressed during tax season. But after all the filings are done and the chaos dies down, their mental health will likely get a boost.
   
• Take care of the basics. Get good sleep. Eat a healthy diet. Exercise regularly.
   
• Ask someone for help. For example, if caring for an elderly family member causes stress, ask a neighbor to man the house for an hour so you can get some fresh air or take a nap.
   
• Learn to say no. You can’t be all things to all people. So, recognize when you don’t have the bandwidth to take on a task.
  
  “Learn to prioritize,” Bennett suggests. “Figure out the things you can’t say no to. The things that are really important. Or maybe there’s some suffering involved, and you’re the person that can help.”
   
• See a health care provider.
  
  “Doctors can prescribe something that might help you through a short-term experience,” Bennett says. “Therapists can engage you unlike others in your life. They can process stressors with you. They can give you good coping skills and relaxation techniques.”

For example, Bennett says she may work with someone to identify what they can and can’t control in their life and encourage them not to get hung up on the latter. Journaling can also help avoid bottled up emotions. And, Bennett implores people to be grateful for the good things in life.

Learn more

Read more about healthy thoughts and behaviors on the OSF HealthCare website. If your burnout has reached a crisis where you are thinking about harming yourself or others, talk to a trusted adult or mental health professional or go the emergency department right away. The 9-8-8 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is also available.

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Being open and honest about mental health

College students will soon be home for summer break. They’re embarking on their independent phase, so opening up about mental health to their parents might not top the summer to-do list. It can leave parents wondering: How did the school year go? Did they make friends? Are they doing OK mentally?

Rachel Yuhas, LCPC, a psychotherapist at OSF HealthCare, says there are dos and don’ts to get the most out of a conversation with a young adult.

School stress

Yuhas says going off to college is a huge transition. The student may miss home. They may have trouble being accountable with no 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. structure they had in high school. Making friends can also be difficult. Yuhas says college students may be stressed and scared to branch out and meet people.

“They might be anxious or get into a rut of depression. They might isolate. They might sleep too much or not sleep at all,” Yuhas says.

Warning signs

Yuhas says parents should watch for drastic changes in their college student’s appearance as a possible “red flag” of a mental health concern. Some weight gain or loss in college is expected, but significant weight changes should warrant a discussion.

“This might mean they’re not taking care of themselves,” Yuhas says. “Stress might be coming on. They might be depressed. All of those things can cause issues with appetite.”

Other things to watch for:

• The young adult is spending most of their time away from others. Maybe they’re in their room sleeping all day.
   
• They drop hints about their college experience, such as “I didn’t join any new clubs this year.”
   
• The person looks messy. Maybe they used to be a snazzy dresser with groomed hair, but they stopped keeping up that appearance. Or they stopped hygiene practices like using deodorant or brushing their teeth. Parents should ask themselves: Is my child keeping up with daily tasks?

Dos and don’ts

It’s time to talk to your child about their mental health.

• Do: Ask open ended questions, and let the child fill in the blanks. For example: How did final exams go?
  
  Don’t: Ask accusatory questions like: What’s wrong with you? Or: Why aren’t you talking to us?
  
  “If you get mad at them, that makes it worse. They won’t want to open up,” Yuhas says.
   
• Do: Find the right time. Let the child get settled back in, and have a conversation over lunch a day or two later.
  
  Don’t: Bombard your student with questions the moment they get into the house.
   
• Do: Curtail your reactions and judgements. Be kind and mindful.
  
  “Instead of asking ‘Why?’, say ‘Oh my gosh. I didn’t know about this. What’s been going on? Tell me more.’,” Yuhas says.
  
  Don’t: Have knee-jerk reactions like: How could you? Or: Why did you fail that class? Or even: You know I don’t like your major. Why haven’t you dropped it yet?

Next steps

After that first conversation, Yuhas urges parents to not let the issue go.

“I encourage parents to become emotion coaches with their children,” Yuhas says. “Continue to check in. Continue to ask, ‘How are you doing?’ or ‘I saw the college had this event. Was it something you went to?’ Just stay involved in their everyday life, but don’t bombard them.”

If things aren’t improving, the conversation might turn to: I want to help you. Have you thought about talking to a therapist? Would that be a good option?

“Put the ball in their court,” Yuhas says.

“When we go off to college, it can be a huge adjustment. So we try to normalize their feelings,” Yuhas adds, outlining what she might talk to a college student about in a therapy session. “We go over ways to make friends and socialize. We go over how to manage stress, anxiety and depression. We talk about coping skills.”

For example, if a student is leaving their dormitory just for class, Yuhas may suggest going to the library to study. The student may make a friend along the way. Yuhas may suggest exercise or meditation. Or, is homework procrastination causing stress? There are ways to change those habits.

Learn more

Read more about healthy thoughts and behaviors on the OSF HealthCare website. If your stress has reached a crisis where you are thinking about harming yourself or others, talk to a trusted adult or mental health professional or go to the emergency department right away. The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is also available.

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It is said those early Sisters, the Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George, brought only themselves, a bag of oranges and a lot of determination — determination to make Christ’s merciful love more visible.

They would succeed in their goal.

The next year negotiations began for the Sisters to purchase Nazareth Home, a residence for the elderly, in Alton, IL. On April 1, 1925, the Sisters moved to Alton, thus establishing the first Thuiner Franciscan house in the United States, renamed Saint Anthony’s Infirmary - an early iteration of what is now OSF HealthCare Saint Anthony’s Health Center.

OSF Saint Anthony’s is celebrating 100 years in 2025, and despite the hospital’s growth over a century’s worth of technological and societal advances, Sister M. Beata Ziegler, F.S.G.M., Vice President of Operations and Special Projects, OSF Saint Anthony’s, said the care and compassion of those founding Sisters has been a through line for the hospital from its inception to today.

“I think one of the greatest things that we have to offer anyone who walks through our doors is that they will be treated with genuine respect and dignity, as is our underlying mission — to serve with the greatest care and love,” Ziegler said. “I really do believe that people that come to Saint Anthony’s experience that. They know that they’re not a number. They really are cared for as individuals. And on top of that, they will receive very good health care.”

The advances over the decades are too numerous to name, but even in the four-and-a-half years she’s been in her position with the hospital, Sister Beata said she’s seen it grow in several ways. Ziegler said health care has become more expensive and people’s needs and wants have changed — let alone the changes brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic — the hospital responded by pushing further into the digital space.

The presence of OSF HealthCare, which OSF Saint Anthony’s joined in 2014, provided the small community hospital with countless telemedicine capabilities that allowed it to reach and serve an even broader audience than it once did.

“As part of OSF HealthCare, we have the blessing of being connected to so many resources,” Ziegler said. “During COVID, the digital health care space exploded. We’ve really tried to become more a part of that.”

Despite its religious roots, one misconception of OSF Saint Anthony’s is that one needs to be similarly religious to receive care at the hospital. Ziegler said that on the contrary, all are welcome — another pillar on which the hospital was founded.

“It’s always been, whoever comes to us in need,” she said.

The hospital offers comprehensive cancer, cardiovascular, urology, diabetes services and more, and has received awards and recognition from numerous medical organizations. The OSF Moeller Cancer Center in Alton opened in 2019, and Ziegler said they’ve made a concerted effort to strengthen their oncology services and cardiology program, among others, in recent years.

A medical stabilization program to help patients fight substance abuse issues is one of the newest programs rolled out by the hospital. OSF Saint Anthony’s teamed with New Vision withdrawal management service in 2023 to provide the program, including an inpatient stabilization stay to help adults deal with drug, alcohol and other substance-related issues.

“If you look at our community health needs assessment (CHNA), that is always one of the big needs in the Alton area,” Ziegler said.

The hospital’s reach doesn’t end with its main campus at 1 Saint Anthony’s Way in Alton, either. Along with the telemedicine offerings, OSF Saint Anthony’s also has a Godfrey location that features OSF Prompt Care, primary care and pediatrics, and a Bethalto location with primary care physicians as well.

“All of those pieces are part of us,” Ziegler said.

As OSF Saint Anthony’s looks ahead to another 100 years, providing care with love and concern for community will remain at the forefront — regardless of specialty, location or circumstance, just as those founding Sisters would have wanted.

“Even before we became part of OSF HealthCare, we called our employees ‘Mission Partners’ because we believe that they are just that — they work with us to be able to have this Mission move forward,” Ziegler said. “We’ve always been here to serve those most in need, those who are hurting — and that foundation has never changed.

“That’s the beauty of what we do here at OSF Saint Anthony’s. It may look different, but the heart that’s behind it all is the same.”

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Read more about the history of OSF Saint Anthony's here.

B-roll

Author's note: this is part two of a story on outdoor water safety. Click here for part one.


More sun and rising mercury mean people will head outdoors to lakes and forests. But something as simple as drinking river water can lead to an illness that derails your spring.

Bethany Huelskoetter, APRN, a family medicine provider at OSF HealthCare, hits the major safety points about leisure time on the water.

• Bug bites: Coat yourself with bug spray to start the day, and avoid hanging out in tall grass where pests can hide. If your bug bite comes with skin tissue damage, chest pain, muscle cramps, sweating or nausea, see a provider right away. Also, watch for a rash in the shape of a bullseye, which is common with tick bites. To remove a tick, use tweezers to get close to the skin, and gently pull the insect out. Avoid twisting and yanking.
   
• Life jackets: Illinois and Michigan outline their life jacket laws. And some additional suggestions from Huelskoetter: for young kids, use a life jacket that straps on like a diaper. Life jackets that go over the chest could come up over the child’s head, and they could slip out or have trouble breathing. And read the life jacket label to make sure it’s right for you based on your chest size and weight.
  
  Huelskoetter also says a life jacket or any wet object has a risk of mold. So, dry the life jackets by hanging them in the sun.
   
• Fire extinguishers: Like life jackets, Illinois and Michigan laws require a United States Coast Guard-approved fire extinguisher on board most watercraft. Boat fires do happen, Huelskoetter says, and a fire extinguisher can mean the difference between a small fire and an explosion.
   
• Dirty water: It’s tough for kids who want to explore, but Huelskoetter says you should keep lake water out of your eyes and mouth. For kids, that could mean wearing goggles.
  
  “There are bacteria, parasites and other microorganisms that can get in your eyes. Also, don’t open your mouth underwater. You don’t want to drink that water,” Huelskoetter says. “If you swim in a lake and your eyes get red or itchy, that’s a sign you might have an infection from an organism in the water. So we want to put you on the proper antibiotic or whatever medication we feel is best.
  
  If you drink the water, gastrointestinal upset can occur. If you have nausea, vomiting or diarrhea, you definitely want to be seen by a provider. We’ll do testing to determine what bacteria or parasite you came in contact with so we can treat appropriately,” Huelskoetter adds.
   
• Alcohol: Drinking responsibly can be a part of your day on the water. But Huelskoetter says the rules are just like on land: A blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08% is the legal limit, so be aware if you’re the boat captain.
   
• Fumes: My group is in the open air. How much should we worry about boat exhaust?
  
  Huelskoetter says you should be fine, but make sure your watercraft has good ventilation. You can also buy carbon monoxide detectors made to clip on boats or life jackets. This can be extra helpful if your boat has an enclosed cabin, Huelskoetter points out.
   
• Spoiled food: Of course, you’ll want to eat on your boating or fishing trip. That could include perishable items like a sandwich.
  
  Putting the food and drink in an ice-filled cooler isn’t enough, Huelskoetter says.
  
  “Keeping your cooler covered and out of the sun is going to do wonders. It’ll keep that ice nice and cool,” she says.
  
  “Never eat anything that’s been sitting out, and now it’s hot,” Huelskoetter adds. “Once food reaches room temperature, you want to be careful. You can go by smell, too. If it doesn’t smell right, don’t eat it.”

Getting help

Have a first aid kit for minor injuries. For major injuries like a head or limb wound, gently move the person to land and call 9-1-1. The word “gently” is important to avoid further injury like paralysis.

Experts also point out that cell phone service can be spotty in the wilderness. So you should also have a global positioning system (GPS) device.

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Family – literally and figuratively – is a word Fred Smith, 88, knows well, too. After his diagnosis around four years ago, he’s gotten radiation treatment on his neck and intravenous (IV) chemotherapy at OSF Moeller Cancer Center.

“The nurses were so friendly,” Fred says.

“They’re a wonderful couple,” says Jill Pruitt, a licensed practical nurse and certified oncology navigator at OSF Moeller Cancer Center. Pruitt is another part of that support system for cancer patients.

“They’re always positive,” Pruitt adds of the Smiths. “They put their trust in God. They put their trust in us. No matter what news is thrown at them, they take it and go with it.”

Happy anniversary

On August 1, 2024, Fred Smith was due for his first chemotherapy treatment. When Neva called to schedule the appointment, she mentioned it was the couple’s 65^th wedding anniversary but said there was no need to postpone the session.

What greeted Fred and Neva in the infusion bay: cake, a banner and well wishes from OSF Mission Partners.

“It was a monumental day,” Pruitt says.

Fred, Neva and Jill all have the same take-home message: A support system when battling cancer is crucial, and you should find the right people and things that lift you up.

“Stay encouraged, and have friends who encourage you,” Neva says. “When I had [my cancer treatment,] I listened to a lot of gospel music. That helped me.”

“I always say my prayers at night,” Fred adds. “It’s not a religious thing. I’m just so thankful I found this hospital.”

“It’s very important to have someone there with you for support,” Pruitt says. “Someone to give you a ride or bring you a warm meal. As you’re going through [cancer treatment,] you don’t always feel like cooking or cleaning your house.”

Learn more

Read more about cancer treatment at OSF HealthCare, including the OSF Cancer Institute in Peoria, Illinois, the hub of cancer care at OSF. If you need help in your cancer journey, contact the health system, church or social service agency near you to see if they offer patient navigators, social workers, support groups or other resources. Pruitt also says OSF and other health systems use the American Cancer Society’s resources.

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If you see your cardiologist and they throw out the term “heart failure,” your heart might figuratively skip a beat. The heart is a vital organ, and if it’s failing, should I be counting my days?

While advanced heart failure will mean big life changes, Margy Goetten, APRN, a cardiology provider at OSF HealthCare, wants you to know that you can live with heart failure.

What to know about heart failure

Goetten says heart failure occurs when the organ can’t pump blood or relax like normal.

“New heart failure patients may experience shortness of breath. They might have difficulty when laying down. They can’t breathe. Leg swelling and fatigue are also common,” Goetten explains. “But if heart failure is well controlled, a lot of people don’t have symptoms.”

Milder cases of heart failure can be controlled by taking multiple medications – a cocktail of sorts that research has shown to help. Titrate medication, for example, helps with shortness of breath, Goetten says. Managing other health problems and not missing doctor’s appointments are also must-dos.

“It’s really symptom management,” Goetten says.

People with advanced heart failure, called end-stage, are “pretty sick,” Goetten says. She says they often require frequent trips to the hospital.

“Your symptoms are more severe. They come more frequently,” Goetten points out.  “If you miss medications, the symptoms can occur quickly within a day rather than missing medications for a couple days and showing symptoms,” Goetten says.

In addition to medication, end-stage heart failure patients might have a device – an Impella or a balloon pump – put in their heart to help it pump normally. Goetten often sees these people live a “new normal.” For example, they might cut back on long vacation trips in favor of “staycations” where they know their heart care team is just minutes away.

Prevention

Just as the tires on our car wear down with miles driven, our heart wears down with age. It’s inevitable. But healthy habits can help your heart hold up longer. Get on a diet and exercise plan to avoid obesity. Manage conditions such as diabetes, sleep apnea, high cholesterol and high blood pressure.

“Once those are under control, a lot of the symptoms seem to get better,” Goetten says.

Learn more

Read more about keeping your heart in top shape on the OSF HealthCare website.

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We’re talking about sniffing products like paint, markers or nail polish for a temporary high. You might hear it called huffing, chroming or, in the medical community, inhalant abuse.

Health care providers like Justin Rapoff, DO, an emergency medicine physician who sees patients at OSF HealthCare, are again reminding parents about the serious health impacts of this activity and what to do if your child shows symptoms. It’s especially important for kids to steer clear, he says, because their organs are still developing. An interruption to that development could mean trouble. Young people can also be more susceptible to peer pressure, giving in when other kids tell them to try something.

“Inhalant abuse is common because these are things that are easily found in your house," Dr. Rapoff adds. “They’re underneath your kitchen sink and in your garage and bathroom. These are cheap and easy to find for kids.”

The consequences

There are short and long-term effects of inhalant abuse, Dr. Rapoff says. Among the short-term issues is the general haze the activity will put you in. If you have to, for example, drive a vehicle while under the influence, you could crash or face legal consequences. If you’re intoxicated at work or school, your performance will decline.

“You can have cognitive difficulties and even dementia [later in life],” Dr. Rapoff adds of the long-term impacts. “You can have bone marrow suppression and anemia. You can have abnormal coordination.”

Cardiac arrest, when the heart stops beating suddenly, is also possible.

What parents can do

If your child shows signs of intoxication – slurred speech, nausea, confusion and a lack of balance are big ones – call 
9-1-1 and get them to the emergency department.

“Inhalants hit similar receptors to those hit by alcohol. It causes a similar intoxication, which lasts around two to 30 minutes,” Dr. Rapoff says.

That means you should get the child checked out even if they say they feel better. Dr. Rapoff says providers will likely test the person’s blood, urine and heart. There’s no bonafide treatment for inhalant abuse, Dr. Rapoff says. Rather, providers will treat the symptoms. For example, if the child feels nauseous or is vomiting, providers may give an anti-nausea medication.

What about avoiding an unpleasant trip to the hospital in the first place? Dr. Rapoff encourages parents to talk with their kids about the risks of huffing and, generally, any emotional issues they are dealing with. The young ones may be turning to inhalants to cope. In fact, Dr. Rapoff says studies have shown that when young people abuse inhalants, they are more likely to use heroin or even commit suicide later in life.

Parents should also pay attention to kids’ behavior, especially if they make unexplained purchases of things like hairspray or whipped cream canisters. Keep items that could be misused out of reach. Put things like markers and cosmetics out only when it’s time to use them. Keep things like spray paint and gasoline canisters locked up in the garage.

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