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6 Winter Skincare Tips to Prevent Dry, Itchy Skin

Posted December 16, 2024

Dry, frigid temperatures, harsh winds and low humidity are hallmarks of winter weather. Couple that with dry indoor heat and this time of year can wreak havoc on your skin if it’s not protected. Winter elements cause dryness, redness and flaking, damaging your skin barrier, which can make it harder to hold moisture. This can lead to further dryness, irritation, itching and even cracking. What’s the key to combating dry skin? Moisture! So, if you haven’t already, it’s time to...

Fall Prevention for Seniors

Posted December 06, 2024 by Rathna S Shenoy, MD & Amy Hirnikl, BSN, RN, CCRN-K

With the Summa Health Level One Trauma Center being the first level-one trauma center in the Akron area, our expert trauma staff has caring for patients with injuries from falls for more than 25 years. And as the Baby Boomer generation is getting older, we are seeing more and more patients coming in with a higher incidence of falls. Assessing the risk of falls in elderly patients All geriatric patients who come into Summa Health emergency departments are screened for risks of...

How to Handle Holiday Food Pressure

Posted December 02, 2024

“Have some! A few bites won’t hurt. But I made this because I know you like it.” It’s likely we’ve all dealt with comments like this at some point. Instead of providing support, it seems like well-meaning loved ones are trying to derail your healthy eating plan. Intentional or not, the pressure to eat can make you feel uncomfortable, or worse, leave you feeling disappointed in yourself after you’ve gone off-course. It's okay to say no There are many valid reasons to turn...

A Guide to Your Hospital Stay: What Clinical Nurse Specialists Want You to Know [Podcast]

Posted November 26, 2024

When you or a loved one are sick and needing hospitalization, you are often thinking about the here and the now. It can be hard to think of the next steps when you are just trying to focus on the day to day. Hospital staff are here to work with you to reach your individual health goals.

When Seconds Count: Why Summa Health's Advanced Stroke Care Makes a Difference

Posted November 18, 2024 by Dane J. Donich, M.D.

Updated May 2025 In August 2024, Summa Health proudly achieved re-certification as a Comprehensive Stroke Certified Center (CSC) from The Joint Commission for a second time. When the designation was first awarded to Summa Health in 2022, we were the first hospital in Akron to achieve Comprehensive Stroke Center certification. We are extremely proud of this recognition, but does this certification mean, and why is it so significant for both patients and providers?...

Alzheimer’s and the Importance of Early-Stage Diagnosis [Podcast]

Posted October 31, 2024

Alzheimer's disease is the most common cause of dementia, and accounts for 60-80% of cases. Although the risk of Alzheimer’s disease increases with age, it is not a normal part of aging. While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, treatment is available to help slow its progression, reduce symptoms and improve a patient’s quality of life.

What is Pulmonary Hypertension?

Posted October 21, 2024 by Jonathan Buggey, M.D.

Have you noticed shortness of breath or wheezing during usual daily activities like climbing the stairs, running errands or exercising? While many conditions can cause it — ranging from asthma and allergies to obesity, heart disease and lung issues — shortness of breath also can be a sign of pulmonary hypertension (PH). PH is a condition that occurs when blood pressure in the pulmonary arteries — which carry oxygen-poor blood from the heart to the lungs — is too high. In a...

Breathe Easier: Exploring COPD Treatment Options [Podcast]

Posted October 16, 2024

Generally associated with cigarette smoking, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive inflammatory lung disease that causes breathlessness, cough, mucus and wheezing. Emphysema and chronic bronchitis are the common conditions that contribute to COPD and vary in severity depending on the individual.

Who’s Most at Risk for Blood Cancer?

Posted October 07, 2024

Blood plays a vital role in how our bodies function. As blood circulates the body, it’s responsible for supplying all our organs with oxygen, nutrients and antibodies to fight infection and control bleeding. Blood is essential to life. Unfortunately, about every 3 minutes, one person in the United States is diagnosed with blood cancer, according to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Blood cancers account for nearly 10 percent of new cancer cases in this country every year....

ACL Injuries and Treatment [Podcast]

Posted October 02, 2024

The ACL, or the anterior cruciate ligament, is one of the main ligaments in the knee, located in the very center and connects the thigh bone or the femur to the shin bone. It's primary role is trying to provide stability to the knee by preventing the tibia from sliding too far forward relative to the femur. Listen as Dr. Joseph L. Rabe leads a discussion focusing on ACL injuries and treatment options.

Tackling Sport-Related Concussions

Posted September 18, 2024

When you think of football season, thoughts of your favorite team, cheerleaders and packed stadiums probably come to mind. But there’s another thing you’re likely forgetting. Football season also means a higher risk of sports-related concussions, or SRCs. While SRCs can occur in almost any activity, they most commonly occur in contact sports like rugby, soccer, boxing, basketball, hockey and, of course, football. What exactly is a concussion? The Centers for Disease Control...

Exploring the New Wave of Weight Loss Drugs

Posted September 16, 2024

The landscape of weight loss treatment is evolving, with new medications providing effective tools for managing obesity. However, the integration of these drugs into a personalized treatment plan, guided by a medical professional, is essential for sustainable success. Weight loss drugs are not a new concept. In fact, they have been around for decades and have proven helpful in certain circumstances. The newer medications that are often in the media are glucagon-like peptides...

Hospital Stay Expectations [Podcast]

Posted September 12, 2024

In this episode, Allison Plata leads a discussion focusing on what to expect when staying in the hospital.

Listen Up! It May Be Time to Get Your Hearing Checked

Posted September 03, 2024

Hearing is one of the important senses for obvious reasons: You need to hear to communicate and connect with others! But, did you know the ability to hear also is crucial for maintaining other aspects of your health, such as your balance and brain health? It’s true. Hearing loss can significantly impact your daily life, and studies show it can lead to social anxiety and isolation, an increased fall risk, dementia and depression. Unfortunately, hearing loss is a common...

Rotator Cuff Injuries and Treatment [Podcast]

Posted August 27, 2024 by Ryan Urchek, MD

The rotator cuff is a series of four muscles and tendons that connect the shoulder to the shoulder blade. It keeps the shoulder joint stable while allowing the arm to rotate. The leading cause of rotator cuff issues is overuse and not keeping the muscles strong. Join Dr. Ryan Urchek to discuss Rotator Cuff Injuries and Treatment.

A Partner in Health: How Patient Navigators Empower and Support Patients

Posted August 19, 2024

Imagine navigating a health system during a stressful time, like a new diagnosis or chronic illness. That’s where patient navigators come in—they act as personal guides to help patients receive the best possible care at Summa Health. Patient navigators bridge the gap between our patients and the medical system. Although their backgrounds vary, they all deeply understand the healthcare landscape and are passionate about patient advocacy. Patient navigators have especially...

The Importance of Advance Directives

Posted August 05, 2024 by Kyle Yoder, D.O. & Ellen Saal-Patterson, MA, MSW, LISW-S

Many people worry about the medical care they might receive if they become too ill to make their wishes known. There are many reasons you might not be able to speak for yourself in the hospital, including if you are unconscious, if medications or intubation restrict your ability to communicate or if you are confused due to illness, injury or medication. Your inability to communicate may be temporary, but important decisions might need to be made during that time. Advance...

Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy – What Is It All About? [Podcast]

Posted July 31, 2024

Learn more about what pelvic floor physical therapy is all about, who may benefit, and what a typical initial evaluation and treatment session might entail. We will talk about general pelvic floor issues and dispel some common myths about pelvic floor function and treatment.

A Problem-Solving Approach to Improving Care for Patients [Podcast]

Posted July 18, 2024

In this episode, Karrie and Penny will discuss the importance of applying the latest and best research to caring for patients. They will also describe how Summa Health’s Center for Clinical Inquiry is promoting and supporting staff in using the best evidence to improve patient care. Additionally, Summa Health has re-instituted the advanced practice registered nurse called the Clinical Nurse Specialist at the bedside.

Need Fast Relief? Three Natural Ways to Manage Hot Flashes and Night Sweats

Posted July 16, 2024

Many females will experience the dreaded hot flash, the hallmark symptom of menopause. It’s a sudden feeling of warmth, followed by a red, flushed face and neck, sweating, clammy skin and heart palpitations. Hot flashes are by far the most common symptom of menopause. It’s estimated up to 80 percent of females in the United States experience hot flashes around the time of menopause, according to The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. They also can occur at...

What to Expect the Day of Surgery [Podcast]

Posted June 30, 2024 by Heidi Mueller, RN

Heidi Mueller, RN discusses how to prepare for surgery. She offers helpful information on steps to take leading up to the day, as well as how to prepare the day of surgery.

How Cancer Survivorship Programs are Helping Patients Thrive After Treatment

Posted June 17, 2024

In many cases today, cancer has become a chronic disease, rather than a terminal disease, with people living longer and healthier lives after a diagnosis of cancer than ever before. Even more significant, more people are surviving cancer thanks to early detection and more advanced treatment options. The American Cancer Society estimates there are more than 18 million cancer survivors in the United States—and growing each year. At Summa Health, we define cancer survivorship as...

Want to Quit Smoking? Boost Your Success with Smoking Cessation Programs and Nicotine Replacement Medication

Posted June 03, 2024 by Nicole Piriak, RRT, CTTS

It’s never too late to quit smoking or nicotine use — no matter your age or how long you’ve been using tobacco or vaping products. Believe it or not, you’ll reap the health benefits within the first day of quitting. In just 24 hours after quitting, your risk of a heart attack decreases. Within three months after quitting, your circulation, lung function and stamina improve. The health benefits continue to get better the longer you go smoke-free: After one year: Your...

Did You Know Your Oral Health is a Window into Your Overall Health?

Posted May 21, 2024 by Elaine Markowski, DDS

Believe it or not, your mouth has a lot to say about your overall health. Since a young age, we’ve been taught that regularly brushing and flossing our pearly whites helps prevent cavities, stained teeth, bad breath and gum disease. But, what you may not know is that good dental hygiene habits also can have a positive impact on the health of your body. It’s true. According to the U.S. National Institutes of Health, the mouth harbors up to 700 species of bacteria and...

Menopause Symptoms and Treatment Options [Podcast]

Posted April 23, 2024 by Edward Ferris, M.D., FACOG

Dr. Edward Ferris discusses menopause and perimenopause in this episode of the Healthy Vitals podcast. Learn about the significance of open communication with your healthcare provider and proactive management of menopausal transitions for overall well-being.

Cardiopulmonary Health and Rehabilitation [Podcast]

Posted April 17, 2024 by Danielle Greiner, Clinical Exercise Physiologist and Bianca Grover, Fitness Specialist at the Summa Health Wellness Center

Join Bianca Grover, Fitness Specialist at the Summa Health Wellness Center and Danielle Greiner, Clinical Exercise Physiologist, to discuss Cardiopulmonary Health and Rehabilitation.

Osteoporosis: Preventing the Hump

Posted April 15, 2024 by Natalie Hiltbrand, MSN, APRN, FNP-C

As we age, some people get something commonly known as "the hump”. This is when a person has an abnormal outward curve of the upper back, rounded shoulders and a stooped posture. Known as Dowager's hump or kyphosis, the condition is directly related to osteoporosis or thin, brittle bones. Approximately 8 million females and 2 million males have osteoporosis in the U.S. Another 44 million Americans have osteopenia. Individuals with these conditions have increased risk of...

What to Expect at a Sleep Study [Podcast]

Posted April 03, 2024 by Tammy Potts

Sleep is crucial for your health and happiness. Tammy Potts, Director of the Sleep Medicine Center at Summa Health, shares insights on diagnosing sleep disorders through in-lab and at-home sleep studies. Take charge of your sleep health.

Think You Have a Rotator Cuff Tear?

Posted April 01, 2024

If so, you’re not alone. A rotator cuff tear is one of the most common shoulder injuries – making many daily activities extremely painful and difficult to perform. Common signs to watch for include: A deep, dull shoulder pain along the outside of the arm or shoulder that extends down towards the elbow. Weakness or pain when lifting or rotating the arm above the head. Worsening pain with overhead activities, behind the back and at night while trying to sleep. If...

Eat Your Way to Better Health: Why Leafy Greens Are Your Magic Weapon

Posted March 18, 2024

Leafy greens sometimes get stereotyped as the soggy and wilted salad sidekick taking up space in our refrigerator’s crisper drawer. But the fact is they’re so much more! These nutritional powerhouses are loaded with vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants that fuel our bodies and minds in countless ways. Think of Popeye eating his spinach, but instead of only bulging biceps, he’s got strong bones, a sharp mind, radiant skin and a healthy immune system. That’s the kind of...

Fibroids 101: Facts, Causes and Treatment Options [Podcast]

Posted March 15, 2024

Join Dr. Megan Cesta to discuss all things Fibroids. Facts, Causes and Treatment Options.

Spring Forward into Better Sleep Habits

Posted March 04, 2024

It seems like we just changed our clocks – and it’s time to do it again. This time, we lose an hour on the second Sunday in March, as we spring forward at 2 a.m. The change back to daylight saving time disrupts your body’s natural rhythm, the circadian rhythm, which manages sleep and other vital functions, leaving you feeling sluggish and out of sorts. You also may have a more challenging time making decisions. Studies have shown that the transition to daylight saving time...

Support for Families Experiencing a Loss of a Child or Pregnancy [Podcast]

Posted February 19, 2024 by Shannon Blower, MA Pastoral Counseling, MAR in Religious Leadership | Wendy Rickerd, MSN, APRN-CNP, FNP-BC, C-EFM

Trigger Warning: This episode discusses pregnancy and infant loss, which may be triggering for some listeners. In this episode, we delve into the often unspoken reality of pregnancy and infant loss. We discuss the importance of communication and combating the stigma surrounding these sensitive topics. We also explore the importance of offering support to those in your life experiencing this loss and how you can give that support. Please be advised that this podcast does not replace professional medical or mental health guidance. If you have concerns about your pregnancy or mental well-being, prioritize consulting a qualified healthcare professional. Join us as we navigate these sensitive issues with respect and a focus on creating supportive communities. Thank you for listening.

Struggling with Addiction? Summa Health is Here to Help.

Posted February 19, 2024

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports an estimated 46 million people in this country, aged 12 and older, suffer from substance use disorder. Unfortunately, that number continues to rise, as the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated the crisis. Addiction is a chronic brain disease characterized by continued use of drugs or alcohol despite harmful consequences. Continued use of addictive substances triggers the release of chemicals, which alter the brain’s...

Fall Prevention for Seniors [Podcast]

Posted February 07, 2024 by Rathna Shenoy, MD, FACS | Amy Hirnikl, BSN, RN, CCRN-K | Alexandra Carpenter, MHA, BSN, RN, TCRN, CPEN

Join Dr. Rathna Shenoy, Amy Hirnikl, Education and Injury Prevention Coordinator, and Alexandra Carpenter, Trauma Program Manager, to discuss fall prevention for seniors.

Need an Imaging Test or Body Scan? Here’s a Picture of What to Expect

Posted February 06, 2024

When healthcare providers need to see inside your body, the type of imaging test they recommend will depend on your injury or condition. Each modality is unique, creating imagery based on distinct technology and equipment, and offers a different purpose and set of advantages for making an accurate diagnosis. For instance, if doctors need to check for a concussion, a CT scan is the best option for your exam. But if you suspect a broken bone, X-Ray is the better choice....

Winter Blues… or Something More

Posted January 24, 2024

This time of year, it feels like our world is gray and gloomy, bright sunshine will never reappear and the cold winds dampen our spirits at every turn. It’s easy to experience the winter blues. But, for some people winter is quite literally depressing. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that comes and goes with the seasons, typically starting in the late fall and early winter and going away during the spring and summer. As the days become short and...

Myths about Quitting Tobacco

Posted January 08, 2024

Quitting tobacco is hard – let’s start with that. It is not easy to quit. There is a lot of information out there describing the health benefits of quitting tobacco. For instance, the sooner you quit tobacco, the more you can reduce your risk of: Heart disease Stroke Respiratory conditions Various cancers The health risks of using tobacco are widely known, and yet, people still use it. Even for those who want to quit, it is estimated that they may...

The Impact of Hearing Loss [Podcast]

Posted January 01, 2024 by Dr. Amy Welman and Dr. Gabrielle King

Join Audiologist Dr. Amy Welman and Audiologist Dr. Gabrielle King to discuss the impact of hearing loss.

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