General Inquiries
330.375.3000

Appointments
234.867.7965

Schedule an
Appointment

Start a
Virtual Visit

5 tips for safeguarding your home against preventable accidents

Posted December 28, 2021 by Shivonne N Suttles

When you think of home, you often think of it as your safe haven from the outside world. It’s your safe space you get to return to every night. The sobering reality, however, is more than 50 percent of unintentional injuries happen in or around the home, according to the National Security Council (NSC). People of certain ages, especially young children and the elderly, are more susceptible to serious injury from household hazards. The good news is many of them are preventable...

So You Want to Run?

Posted December 22, 2021

Running is great cardiovascular exercise and most of my patients start running to lose weight. It is a great exercise for weight loss, and running has amazing positive feedback. You feel better after a run, and as the pounds start coming off, you get hooked. This is when the problems start. As typical human nature takes over, we think: a little is good, so a lot is obviously better. It starts as an ache — and you keep running. The ache becomes a pain — you keep running (the...

How to introduce moderate exercise into your routine

Posted December 22, 2021

Study after study has shown the positive effects of light-to-moderate physical activity and the negative effects of little or no exercise. Regular exercise is one of the most beneficial (and cost-effective) activities you can do to better your health. Some benefits include: Reduced risk of cardiovascular disease: Stroke and heart disease are two of the leading causes of death in the U.S. According to the CDC, just 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity activity can put...

When Memory Lapses Are Normal – and When to Be Concerned

Posted December 20, 2021

Updated September 2024 Where is my phone? Did someone take my keys from their hook? We all forget things at one time or another. That’s why Find My iPhone and Bluetooth key finders exist on the market. But if you find yourself worried about these or other similar instances of forgetfulness or memory loss, you’re not alone. Subtle changes in memory occur naturally as part of the aging process. In fact, about 40 percent of people in this country age 65 and older deal with the...

The Importance of Knowing Your Family Health History [Podcast]

Posted December 16, 2021

Dr. Lynn Hamrich discusses why it is important to know the health history in your family.

5 questions to consider when creating a birth plan

Posted December 13, 2021

Whether you’re expecting your first baby or expanding your family, when the day you give birth finally arrives, it’ll be one of the most important in your life. That’s why many expecting parents have a written birth plan ready that outlines their preferences for their big day. It’s normal to have expectations for how you’d like your birth experience to happen. Discussing your wishes ahead of time with your partner and obstetrician, or midwife helps ensure everyone is on the...

All About Gestational Diabetes [Podcast]

Posted December 08, 2021 by Katherine Wolfe, DO

Dr. Katherine Wolfe discusses gestational diabetes.

Why Running is the New Trend

Posted December 08, 2021 by Nilesh Shah, MD

There's plenty of scientific evidence that proves regular exercise (30 minutes, five times per week) — and running in particular — has huge health benefits. Here are the top 7 benefits of running, courtesy of Nilesh Shah, M.D. 1. Running makes you happier. No matter how you feel at any given moment, running will make you feel better. This feeling goes beyond the “runner's high” — that rush of feel-good hormones known as endocannabinoids. In a 2006 study published in...

10 ways to stop and prevent nosebleeds

Posted December 06, 2021 by Gary Huang, M.D.

Nosebleeds are very common and can strike at any time. While they can look scary with blood trickling out your nose, the good news is nosebleeds are rarely serious. But you may be wondering, what is causing this messy nuisance? There are many reasons why you could be getting nosebleeds. The most common cause is dry air. During the winter months, dry household heat and cold, dry air outside can irritate nasal membranes and trigger nosebleeds. Other reasons for nosebleeds can...

Get the facts on lung cancer so you can breathe easier

Posted November 29, 2021 by Sandy Kohut, RRT

You’re not a smoker, so you can’t be at risk for lung cancer, right? Not so fast. While smokers, especially cigarette smokers, make up the leading cause of lung cancer deaths, nonsmokers do get diagnosed with this deadly disease. Lung cancer is the second most common diagnosed cancer in both men and women, and the leading cause of cancer deaths, making up almost 25 percent in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS). However, despite how common it is,...

How to Feel Like an Olympian

Posted November 24, 2021 by Scott M. Barbone M.S., AT

Whether it is a urinary tract infection, sinus infection, or an infected wound, most people consider these things to be a part of life. While many infections clear up on their own or with antibiotic medications, some infections progress to a life-threatening condition called sepsis. According to the Sepsis Alliance, 1.7 million Americans are diagnosed with sepsis every year. What’s more, sepsis is the leading cause of death in U.S. hospitals, accounting for 35% of all...

What You Know About Sepsis Could Save Your Life

Posted November 22, 2021 by Ashley Desmett, M.D.

Whether it is a urinary tract infection, sinus infection, or an infected wound, most people consider these things to be a part of life. While many infections clear up on their own or with antibiotic medications, some infections progress to a life-threatening condition called sepsis. According to the Sepsis Alliance, 1.7 million Americans are diagnosed with sepsis every year. What’s more, sepsis is the leading cause of death in U.S. hospitals, accounting for 35% of all deaths...

'Tis the season to avoid asthma triggers

Posted November 17, 2021 by Brian Bauman, MD

Updated November 2024 You know winter has arrived when the days get shorter, snow flurries fill the air and you can see your breath when you speak. When temperatures hover around freezing for months on end, it can make for a long and dreary season for many. But for people with asthma, it can be even more frightful when the frigid winter weather causes their symptoms to worsen. Exposure to cold, dry air is a common asthma trigger and can quickly cause severe symptoms. When...

Overactive bladder? Find the urge to talk to your doctor and get relief

Posted November 15, 2021 by Naveen K Arora, MD

Find yourself rushing to the bathroom in an emergency more than usual? So much so that it’s actually interfering with your daily life? If you answered yes, you might be suffering from an overactive bladder, or OAB. OAB causes the sudden, hard-to-control urge to urinate that cannot be ignored. At times, you may even leak urine, known as incontinence. It occurs when the bladder senses it is full prematurely and communicates to the brain that it’s time to go. According to the...

Prepping for Back to School Sports

Posted November 10, 2021

If you have kids active in sports, July is the perfect time to make sure all their paperwork is in order so they can get back on the field, court or mat. The Summa Health Orthopedic Institute offers a number of services for student athletes from sports physicals to pre-season baseline testing for concussions. Pre-Season Physicals The Summa Health Orthopedic Institute provides pre-participation sports physicals, which are required by school districts in order for your child to...

Pelvic health 101: 6 common vulvar disorders

Posted November 08, 2021 by Sevasti Yeropoli, MD

When women experience pain or discomfort in their pelvic region, many times their first thought is the dreaded yeast infection. That’s not a surprise because most women — as many as 75 percent — will be diagnosed at least once with a vaginal yeast infection during their lifetimes. However, there are vulvar disorders other than yeast — that can cause similar symptoms, including redness and swelling, intense itching, discolored discharge, blisters and white, scaly patches....

Addressing Common Pelvic Health Issues [Podcast]

Posted November 05, 2021 by Megan Cesta, MD

Dr. Megan Cesta and senior physical therapist Amy Senn discuss common pelvic health issues women may experience.

The Future of Epilepsy Care Begins Now [Podcast]

Posted November 03, 2021

Dr. Marvin Rossi leads a discussion on epilepsy, covering symptoms, treatment, as well as new practices in care.

Safe sleep for babies: It's as easy as ABCDE

Posted November 01, 2021 by Karen Frantz DeSeptis, BSN, RNC

It’s true babies sleep a lot. In fact, they can spend up to 16 hours a day asleep in the first few weeks of life. That’s why it’s so important to make sure for every snooze — nighttime and naptime — your baby sleeps safely. Sadly, every week in Ohio, it’s estimated 3 babies die while sleeping due to unsafe sleep practices, according to the Ohio Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics. In fact, Ohio has the eighth-highest infant death rate in the country, and sleep-...

What to Eat Before, During and After Activity

Posted October 28, 2021

Knowing what foods to eat before you or your family participate in exercise can be confusing. Nick Ferguson, Athletic Trainer, shares his tips for choosing the right snacks to keep you feeling healthy and powering through your workouts.

Atrial Fibrillation... What you should know

Posted October 25, 2021

Atrial fibrillation (also called AFib) is a chaotic, or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia) that can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications. According to the American Heart Association (AHA), at least 2.7 million Americans are currently living with AFib and it is estimated that by 2030 more than 12 million Americans will have AFib. With normal electrical conduction, impulses originate from an area in the top right corner of the heart...

What does "High Risk" for Breast Cancer really mean?

Posted October 18, 2021 by Victoria L. Van Fossen, MD

One out of every eight women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime; this is considered average risk for U.S. women. High risk for breast cancer is defined as a greater than or equal to 20% lifetime risk, or in other words, a one in five chance of developing breast cancer over a lifetime. We all know someone — a coworker, family member such as a mother, sister, daughter or friend — that has been diagnosed with this disease. That’s why for decades, October and the...

Dynamic Stretching

Posted October 14, 2021

Purpose Our bodies have many muscle fibers and connective tissues that need to be activated and stimulated before exercise or activity. Warming up with dynamic stretches helps our bodies prepare for work. Increases blood flow to working muscles Moves muscles through their range of motion Prevents injury

Physical therapy: 4 benefits that go beyond better mobility

Posted October 11, 2021

Pain relief PT has been shown to be an effective treatment method to reducing or even eliminating pain — both acute and chronic — without surgery or the need for opioids. Physical therapy uses a variety of therapeutic exercises, and therapeutic interventions such as soft tissue and joint mobilization to help reduce pain, improve range of motion and strength. Patients are educated on proper exercises and many benefit from continuing these exercises long after their program is...

Coming Out: How to Feel and Show Support During a Time of Vulnerability [Podcast]

Posted October 08, 2021

We talk about tips on how to go about telling friends and family. And for friends and family, ways to show support when loved ones share with you.

How can physical therapy help me get back to activity faster?

Posted October 04, 2021

While taking a brisk walk with a friend, you clumsily trip on the sidewalk and sprain you ankle. You’re slowly recovering and managing the pain, but in addition to rest and ice, your doctor recommends physical therapy (PT) You may be wondering, how can PT help me improve my mobility and manage my pain? Isn’t a sprained ankle something you just have to rest? As a matter of fact, physical therapists can develop a program to help you heal safely and even prevent future injuries...

Choosing the Right Sports Drink

Posted September 28, 2021 by Nilesh Shah, M.D.

Summer is a popular time for all sorts of races, from a 5K to a full marathon. While running in the summer heat, it's important to stay hydrated. Here are some recommendations promoted by the American College of Sports Medicine. Hydration/Avoiding Heat Illness Drink 8-10 ounces of sports drink 2-3 hours before the race to make sure you are properly hydrated before arriving at the starting line. 10-20 minutes before the race, drink another 8 ounces of sports drink....

Enlarged Prostate Relief [Podcast]

Posted September 27, 2021

Dr. Jospeh Dankoff and Dr. Kevin Spear lead a discussion on prostate health.

Finding pain relief for your autoimmune disease

Posted September 27, 2021

Chronic, severe pain from autoimmune diseases can have a detrimental impact on your health, work and relationships. When you’re suffering from chronic pain day in and day out, it’s only natural that you become less active, antisocial, moody and find it difficult to sleep. Not to mention, the stress, anxiety and even depression that comes from dealing with pain can make it even worse. Autoimmune diseases are a chronic condition in which your immune system mistakenly attacks...

Why is it so important to get your flu shot this year?

Posted September 13, 2021

Last winter, the community took several precautions to help stop the spread of COVID-19. From masks and social distancing to virtual work and school to cancelled events, an unforeseen positive side effect was a less intense flu season. Flu cases documented during last year’s flu season were historically low by a wide margin. Medical professionals haven’t seen anything like it. So with many precautions still in place amidst an ongoing pandemic, you may be wondering: is...

How to tell the difference between COVID-19 and seasonal allergies

Posted August 30, 2021 by Shanu Agarwal, MD

At the first sign of a scratchy throat or cough, people can’t help but wonder whether they’ve contracted COVID-19 — and rightfully so. But just because you have a sore throat and cough, doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ve contracted COVID-19. Pollen counts are high, affecting you or someone you know with seasonal allergies. COVID-19 and seasonal allergies both affect the respiratory system and share similar symptoms, so it can be difficult to tell them apart. One way to...

4 Alternatives to CPAP masks to treat sleep apnea

Posted August 30, 2021

It’s estimated about 30 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea, according to the American Sleep Apnea Association. That number, however, continues to rise due to the country’s growing obesity epidemic. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a condition that causes your breathing to stop during sleep — sometimes up to several hundred times a night. When you stop breathing, your blood oxygen levels can drop abruptly during the night, which may cause the brain to wake you up to...

Do's and Don'ts for Campfire Safety and Burn Prevention

Posted August 23, 2021 by Kevin D. Markowski, MD

Updated June 2025 For many, summertime is not complete until one activity has been done—a campfire! From gooey s’mores and roasted hot dogs to sharing ghost stories, campfires are a sure-fire way to get into the summery spirit, all while surrounded by family and friends. Unfortunately, a burn from the campfire can quickly put a damper on those summertime memories. As one of the most dangerous activities without the proper burn prevention and protocols in place, campfires are...

5 surprising health benefits of volunteering

Posted August 16, 2021 by Angela Smith System Director, Volunteer Services

Volunteering makes a huge difference in the lives of others. From dishing out meals in a soup kitchen to cleaning up trash in a park to holding babies in the NICU, volunteering gives tremendous help to people in need, worthy causes and the community. Simply put, it helps make the world a better place. But, did you know that volunteering also has benefits for you? Researchers have found that volunteering can give you a positive attitude, increased social interaction and...

Top Questions to Ask Your Provider When You’re Pregnant [Podcast]

Posted August 12, 2021

Dr. Stephen D’Abreau covers important questions and topics that you should be asking your healthcare provider if you are expecting a baby.

When do adults need their tonsils removed?

Posted August 09, 2021 by Ryan Gerritsen, M.D.

Tonsillectomies are common surgeries performed on children. But sometimes adults can benefit from having their tonsils removed, too. Tonsils are two oval-shaped clumps of tissue that sit in the back of your throat to trap germs that enter your body through your mouth or nose. Because they are your immune system’s first line of defense against bacteria or viruses, they are particularly vulnerable to infection and inflammation. This can cause recurring sore throats, snoring...

Summer Safety: Knowing the difference between heat exhaustion and heatstroke could save a life

Posted August 02, 2021 by Lindsey Meade, MD

Summer often brings some much-needed fun in the sun. But as temperatures and humidity rise, so do the dangers of heat illness. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 600 people are killed by extreme heat every year in this country. Infants and people aged 65 or older, especially those with chronic conditions, are most at risk for heat illness. However, it can affect anyone, even young athletes and those in good physical condition. The good news...

Is a Broken Heart a Physical Ailment: Understanding the Grief Recovery Method [Podcast]

Posted July 29, 2021

Love Akron Executive Director Kemp Boyd and Advocate Tracy Carter discuss what the Grief Recovery Method is, why its important to Akron and specifically to the black community.

Are you coping with stress in a healthy way?

Posted July 26, 2021

Stress is inevitable and a natural part of our modern lives. Bills come every month, kids’ activities are year-round and work never seems to slow down. Suffice it to say, stress is something all of us struggle with at times. However, it’s one that all of us cope with differently — some in healthy ways and others in unhealthy ways. Some people may turn to meditation or a friend to release stressful energy, while others may turn to more harmful activities or vices. Choosing...

Sunscreen 101 - 5 reasons you should make it part of your daily routine

Posted July 20, 2021 by Julie Mark, MD

Reviewed July 2025 Did you know skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States? According to the American Academy of Dermatology, one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in their lifetime, and men 65 or older are twice as likely to develop melanoma — the deadliest form of skin cancer — than women. As we head into the summer months, most of us know the importance of wearing sunscreen in the hot, blazing sun. But what you may not realize is the...

Pain Relief After Total Joint Replacement Surgery: Reducing the Need for Narcotics and Opioids [Podcast]

Posted July 19, 2021

Dr. Kiel Pfefferle discusses how Summa Health is moving away from opioids and narcotics as the primary pain relief after joint replacement surgery.

Why do we hiccup and how can we stop them?

Posted July 12, 2021 by Yan Sun, MD

We’ve all experienced it at one time or another: the dreaded hiccups. They can be funny at first, if not hysterical, but they quickly become a nuisance. Hiccups affect everyone, from babies in utero all the way up to senior citizens, but what are these loud, noisy, disruptive and sometimes uncomfortable hiccups? Hiccups occur when the diaphragm, a dome-shaped muscle between the lungs and the stomach, spasms from irritation. The diaphragm pulls down when you inhale to let air...

Best and worst foods for your next sizzling cookout

Posted July 05, 2021 by Laura Ilg RD, LD

Nothing says summer like the classic American barbeque: hamburgers, hot dogs and macaroni salad with berry pie for dessert. Cookouts with family and friends are a favorite summer pastime to enjoy good food, the great outdoors and warmer temperatures. But considering on average a person consumes upwards of 2,000 calories on typical barbeque fare, it’s not a bad idea to switch up this year’s cookouts to include healthier options. Who said cookouts had to be unhealthy to taste...

What does it mean to be an LGBTQ ally?

Posted June 28, 2021 by Summa Health Pride Clinic

Anyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identity, can support the LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning) community. But being an ally of this population takes action. Allies work to stay informed on current LGBT issues and events. They speak up for what’s right and they support equality by fighting for policies that protect LGBTQ individuals from discrimination. Allies are important and welcomed supporters of the LGBTQ movement, as they...

What you need to know about Alzheimer's disease

Posted June 21, 2021 by Natalie Kayani, M.D.

Every 65 seconds someone in the United States develops Alzheimer’s disease, according to the Alzheimer’s Association. It’s the most common cause of dementia and accounts for 60 to 80 percent of cases. Sadly, it is the country’s sixth leading cause of death. Although the risk of Alzheimer’s disease increases with age, it is not a normal part of aging. Alzheimer’s is a neurodegenerative disease that involves the progressive deterioration, or death of cells (called neurons), in...

Summa Health's Workplace Wellness Program

Posted June 14, 2021

In a society that is constantly filled with stress and disease, especially in the role of a healthcare worker, we need to find something to turn to which offers a sustainable solution to addressing life’s difficulties. One solution may be found from three very hot wellness topics of yoga, mindfulness and self care practices. If any of these spark your interest, you won’t want to stop reading because this article will provide you with not only information but more importantly...

PTSD: Symptoms and Treatment [Podcast]

Posted June 08, 2021

Dr. Adam Ripley discusses trauma exposure and options for treatment, not limited to combat trauma.

Morning sickness: What's normal and what's not

Posted June 07, 2021 by Christine Arnold, M.D.

One of the most common symptoms of early pregnancy is nausea and vomiting. Although it is common, it can have a significant impact on patients' quality of life, especially when it is severe or prolonged. Nausea and vomiting is an unpleasant reality for many women in their early weeks of pregnancy, but for some it can extend into the second and third trimester as well. There is a wide variation amongst women who experience pregnancy induced nausea. Some women experience very...

7 Tips to living better with lupus

Posted May 31, 2021

Lupus is a chronic autoimmune disorder where the immune system’s antibodies mistakenly attack the body’s healthy cells. Because it can affect nearly any organ in the body, symptoms vary widely and can include: Fatigue Fever Skin rashes, such as a malar rash that stretches across the cheeks and bridge of the nose (also known as a butterfly rash) Joint pain Mouth ulcers Hair loss Organ complications, such as inflammation in the lining of the heart, abdomen or lungs, and...

How to recognize alcoholism and the need for help

Posted May 24, 2021

For many, alcohol is used occasionally as a way to celebrate, relax, bond and socialize with friends and loved ones. It’s a toast to wedding nuptials or an anniversary, or a shared drink with a loved one to kick off the weekend. When drinking is done in moderation, it is generally not considered to be dangerous to your health or mental wellbeing. The problem for some is it can be difficult to tell when their alcoholic intake has crossed the line from casual or moderate...

All About Sinus Conditions [Podcast]

Posted May 18, 2021 by Dr. Philip Khalil and Dr. Ryan Gerritsen

Dr. Philip Khalil and Dr. Ryan Gerritsen lead a discussion on sinus conditions, as well as treatment options.

Food allergy vs. food intolerance: How to tell the difference

Posted May 17, 2021 by Dr. Julia Thornton

Chances are good at one time or another you have experienced unpleasant symptoms — an upset stomach, diarrhea, nausea or bloating — after eating a delicious meal. Reactions from food are common, but it can be challenging to understand the cause. Food intolerance can trigger some of the same physical symptoms as a food allergy. But, understanding the difference is vital to your health. Eating a food that your body is intolerant to can leave you feeling uncomfortable, but...

Keep an eye out for these 7 everyday habits that are hurting your vision

Posted May 10, 2021 by Jennifer Bohl, M.D.

Vision is something many of us take for granted. We use our eyes to see our loved ones, read a great book or watch a movie, play video games with our children and every activity in between. However, you may be surprised to see that many of the habits you practice every day could actually be putting your eyesight at risk and could lead to painful eye conditions or even vision loss. Yes, some eye conditions are hereditary, but many are a result of poor eye care. Summa Health...

Closing the gap on health disparities in the LGBTQ community

Posted May 03, 2021 by Scott T Hamler, MD

All of us rely on healthcare services at one time or another — and many of us take them for granted. But the sad truth is in today’s world, access to medical advice and treatment isn’t equal. It is true LGBTQ (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Questioning) individuals face health disparities in a number of ways. As a result, this community is at a higher risk for certain medical conditions, has less access to healthcare and experiences worse health outcomes than their...

Things That Go Bump in the Night: Odd Sleep Behaviors [Podcast]

Posted April 30, 2021 by Dr. James Bavis

Dr. James Bavis discusses parasomnias-- a group of sleep disorders that involve unwanted events or experiences that occur while you are falling asleep, sleeping or waking up.

Occupational therapy: What you need to know to get back to life

Posted April 26, 2021

You recently suffered a stroke. You’re recovering well, except that you’re still struggling with weakness in your left leg, along with balance and coordination issues. Your provider has referred you to an occupational therapist (OT) to help overcome these challenges so you can get back to work. But you and other patients in similar circumstances may be wondering, what exactly is occupational therapy? We often hear about physical therapy and its benefits to a patient after an...

8 Facts You May Not Know About Catching Your Zzzs

Posted April 19, 2021

Reviewed November 2024 In today’s fast-paced world, sleep often takes a back seat. But, what many of us may not realize is good sleep is one of the pillars of good health, along with eating right and exercising regularly. Sleep requirements vary by age, genetics and other factors, but the average adult should get between seven to nine hours of sleep every night for peak health benefits, according to the National Sleep Foundation. Find out 8 facts you may not know about the...

What You Need to Know about Colorectal Screenings [Podcast]

Posted April 19, 2021

Dr. John Fondran discusses the importance of colorectal health, and why getting screened is important.

Coughing etiquette 101

Posted April 12, 2021

When you are suffering from a respiratory infection, you risk spreading the infection through your cough. In fact, each cough expels thousands of tiny, infectious droplets that travel up to six feet away. Those droplets can be inhaled by others or land on their face. Droplets also can fall on and contaminate nearby surfaces, where they can be easily transferred to another’s hands. Coughing etiquette, combined with facial coverings and social distancing, is the best way to...

All About COPD [Podcast]

Posted April 06, 2021 by Sarah Serb, APRN-CNP

Listen to this episode of the Healthy Vitals Podcast featuring Paul Bailey, a registered respiratory therapist, and Sarah Serb, an acute nurse practitioner.

Top 5 Health Concerns in Northeast Ohio

Posted April 05, 2021 by Bitan Ghosh, M.D.

COVID-19 remains one of our region’s top health concerns as we navigate this pandemic. Community spread leading to new cases and unfortunate deaths have affected every one of us. It’s important, however, that we don’t ignore other health concerns. Resuming care for regular health checkups, health screenings and management of chronic illness is critical to the overall health of our community. Here are 5 major health concerns in Northeast Ohio that cannot be ignored:...

Using a Catheter for Post-Op Pain Management

Posted March 29, 2021

Undergoing surgery can be a stressful event and most patients are concerned with pain management after the procedure. There are many different techniques and medications that are used to control postoperative pain, including intraoperative local and general anesthesia; but those only last a few hours after surgery. A peripheral nerve block is another option for longer lasting postoperative pain control for 1-2 days at best. Not many patients associate pain relief when they...

Laughter in Times of Stress [Podcast]

Posted March 24, 2021 by Megan Dean

Listen to this episode of the Healthy Vitals Podcast featuring Megan Dean, Laughter Leader.

What is angina and how is it treated?

Posted March 22, 2021

In times of intense stress, does it ever feel like someone is squeezing your heart? Do you feel pain or numbness down your left arm? Does it seem like you get indigestion each time you exercise? If you answered yes to any of these questions, you may be suffering from angina. Angina occurs when the heart muscle does not receive enough oxygen-rich blood. The pain can be mild or severe and often follows exertion or stress. Angina is not a disease, but instead a symptom of a more...

Heavy, painful periods? It could be endometriosis.

Posted March 15, 2021 by Megan A Cesta, MD

Reviewed April 2025 Endometriosis is not PMS, or premenstrual syndrome. It is not pain from your period because endometriosis overlaps with a woman’s cycle, many chalk up the symptoms to just a “bad period.” Severe endometriosis may even lead to pain outside of your period. Endometriosis is caused by endometrial (uterine) cells located elsewhere in the pelvis, outside the uterus. If you’re suffering from endometriosis, tissue that is similar to the uterine lining — known as...

The Effects of COVID-19 on Heart Health [Podcast]

Posted March 15, 2021 by Dr. Roger Chaffee

Listen to this episode of the Healthy Vitals Podcast featuring Roger Chaffee, MD.

Keeping Kidney Stones in Check: Prevention and Treatment Options [Podcast]

Posted March 08, 2021 by Dr. Joseph Dankoff

Listen to this episode of the Healthy Vitals Podcast featuring Joseph Dankoff, MD.

Gluten Digestive Issues Explained

Posted March 08, 2021 by Amin O. Mahdi, M.D.

Gluten intolerance or sensitivity, gluten allergy and celiac disease all have one thing in common - you guessed it, a problem with gluten. The term “gluten-free” has exploded across brand and food marketing the last decade; you can find it on many restaurant menus and products in the grocery store. While this wording may seem like a fad, it’s important to remember that people who have issues with gluten can have terrible, debilitating problems with their digestive tracts....

Stroke Signs, Symptoms, and Recovery [Podcast]

Posted March 01, 2021 by Dr. Susana Bowling

Listen to this episode of the Healthy Vitals Podcast featuring Susana Bowling, MD, FAHA, FNCS.

Living with COPD? What you need to know

Posted March 01, 2021

Smoking cigarettes is a dangerous habit that damages nearly every organ in the body, leading to disease and long-term disability. People who smoke are at a higher risk for lung cancer, stroke, heart disease, diabetes, tuberculosis, eye diseases, and the list goes on. Another major health effect caused from smoking is chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or COPD. COPD is a lung disease that affects the way air flows in and out of your lungs, making it difficult to breathe....

Put Insomnia to Bed [Podcast]

Posted February 22, 2021 by Ketan Deoras, MD

Listen to this episode of the Healthy Vitals Podcast featuring Ketan Deoras, MD.

Weight Loss Options Built for Your Needs

Posted February 22, 2021 by Dr. John Zografakis

Obesity and the need to lose weight is a deeply personal journey. With many new medical options available, it can be difficult to select the best individual approach to be successful with long-term weight loss. Obesity is the second-highest cause of preventable deaths in the United States. The rate at which obesity has worsened over the past 20 years, especially in the state of Ohio is alarming, and there is now a growing amount of national attention focused on the problem....

African-Americans More at Risk for Heart Disease

Posted February 15, 2021 by Grace Ayafor, M.D., FSCAI

February is Black History Month, when we recognize African-Americans and those of color who have played major roles in shaping our present culture. February is also American Heart Health month – a time to raise awareness of heart disease. While these two events are different, they are linked in healthcare. Heart disease remains the number one killer of Americans, and African-Americans are 20 percent more likely to die from heart disease than non-Hispanic whites. We do not...

Summa Doctors Address The Black Community’s Hesitancy With The COVID-19 Vaccine [Podcast]

Posted February 11, 2021 by Yoleetah Ilodi, MD

Listen to this episode of the Healthy Vitals Podcast featuring Drs. Yoleetah and George Ilodi.

Is working from home a pain in the neck — literally?

Posted February 08, 2021 by Ann Wargo PT MsMHA CMCP CAPS

Many agree one positive that has come out of the COVID-19 pandemic is the work-from-home order to prevent further spread. No more long commutes and fighting traffic, more time spent with family and less interruption from chitchat around the water cooler. In the United States, it’s estimated nearly 50 percent of the working population is now working at home. But as more and more companies embrace remote working for the long haul, one negative has emerged: new or worsening...

Battling Drug Addiction in our Community: All About First Step [Podcast]

Posted February 02, 2021

Listen to this episode of the Healthy Vitals Podcast featuring Jason Kolb, MD.

Thyroid disease 101: Early diagnosis and treatment are key to preventing serious complications

Posted February 01, 2021 by James Salem, M.D.

The thyroid gland has an important job to do in the body. It produces thyroid hormones that help regulate metabolism and the body’s overall temperature. Metabolism is a process that turns food into energy, which is vital to keeping all of our body systems working correctly. This small, but mighty gland impacts just about every area of the body, including heart function, digestive function, muscle control, mood and brain development. The thyroid gland is a small, butterfly-...

Managing and Treating Back and Neck Pain [Podcast]

Posted January 26, 2021

Listen to this episode of the Healthy Vitals Podcast featuring Sam Borsellino, MD.

Extinguishing the Burn of GERD

Posted January 25, 2021 by Tyler Bedford, M.D.

Most of us have been there, you meet with friends or family and overdo it a little. Maybe it’s that extra beer or glass of wine or the heaping scoop of Uncle Kenny’s buffalo cheese dip; but the end result is predictable. You get home and snuggle up in bed only to have that unpleasant feeling of burning in your chest and that bitter taste that seems to flow up into your mouth. It’s not a very tantalizing subject but nearly everyone has experienced reflux at some point in their...

Stress Management: How to Tell the Difference Between Good and Bad Stress

Posted January 18, 2021

Stress is a natural part of our modern lives. Bills come every month, kids’ activities are year-round and work never seems to slow down. A little bit of stress is inevitable, but oftentimes that’s a good thing. Stress helps you meet your daily challenges and motivates you to reach your goals, ultimately making you a smarter, happier and healthier person. That’s right. Good stress is vital for a healthy life. Good vs. Bad Stress You may think any type of stress is bad, but...

Urologic cancers 101: Be in the know so you can catch it early

Posted January 11, 2021 by Naveen K Arora, MD

Bladder cancer is the most common urologic cancer in both men and women. Each year, about 57,000 men and 18,000 women are diagnosed with the disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). But, urologic cancers don’t only affect the bladder. They also can affect the kidneys, ureter (tubes that carry urine from the kidneys to the bladder), urethra, and specifically in men, the penis, prostate and testicles. In fact, the CDC states prostate cancer as...

6 tips to setting — and sticking to — your New Year's Resolutions

Posted January 04, 2021 by Stephen Cullen, M.D. and Glenna Jackson, M.D.

Sometimes it seems as if New Year’s Resolutions are made to be broken. As we ring in the New Year, we’re inspired and motivated to make positive changes and crush our goals: lose weight, exercise more, quit smoking and save more.

View More Entries…

Vitality eNews Sign Up

Receive the Summa Health eNewsletter for the latest health tips, advice and updates.

[{"RootId":"ba198066-3078-4dcd-8e69-28251bebb940","RootUrl":"/glossary/"}]

Options to Request an Appointment

If your situation is an emergency, call 911.

Close