More than 17.9 million people die globally from cardiovascular disease each year. Cardiovascular disease develops gradually over time as plaque builds up in the arteries and blood vessels. According to the World Health Organization, one third of cardiovascular disease deaths occur from a stroke or heart attack. Although cardiovascular disease can develop due to hereditary…

The moments and hours after giving birth are filled with many different emotions, ranging from joy to discomfort. This is a beautiful time, and an integral time for mother and baby, known as the “golden hour.” This is a pivotal time as the mother will experience her first instance of uninterrupted skin-to-skin contact with her…

Healthy Aging Month, celebrated annually in September, is a great time to begin implementing lifestyle habits that will help promote lifelong physical and mental health. “By practicing healthy habits, you get to enjoy your life with the body you are given for a longer period of time,” said Alana Elmquist, BSA Amarillo Diagnostic Clinic Gerontological…

At the urging of a friend from church who was already involved with the program, Stephanie B., a voracious reader and beach-lover, accepted an invitation to volunteer her time at BSA. Now, Stephanie is a 15-year veteran of the program. We spoke with Stephanie about her experience and what volunteering at BSA means to her. “One…

The amount of sleep that you should get largely depends on your age. · Newborns should get anywhere from 14 to 17 hours of sleep. · Infants should get anywhere from 12 to 15 hours of sleep. · Toddlers should get anywhere from 11 to 14 hours of sleep. · Preschool children should get anywhere from 10 to 13…

What’s RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)? Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that causes illness of the nose, throat and lungs. RSV is common in adults and children and usually appears with mild symptoms, leading many to believe they’re experiencing the common cold. Common symptoms of RSV include: – Runny nose– Blue tinge to the…

During the heat of summer, achieving restful sleep can be a challenge. Jeannie Pruitt, Manager of BSA Sleep Disorders Center, is sharing tips to help you achieve optimal sleep during the summer. To sleep well during warmer months, Jeannie suggests the following: If you are having trouble falling or staying asleep, the BSA Sleep Disorders Center…

In recognition of Hernia Awareness Month, Dr. Sam Kirkendall, BSA Amarillo Surgical Group General Surgeon is sharing information on hernia symptoms and treatment options. Hernias occur when internal organs or fatty tissue are pushed through a weak spot within a muscle or connective tissue. According to Dr. Kirkendall, there are three common types of hernias:…

Men’s Health Month, celebrated annually in June, is a great reminder for men to practice healthy lifestyle habits. According to BSA Urgent Care Center Physician Assistant, Rob Henry, men can do several things to improve their overall health, including: · Discontinuing smoking, overeating and excessive alcohol consumption · Following any recommended treatment plans for existing chronic conditions…

Strokes not only have many effects on the victim, but they also have many causes. There are five types of stroke: ischemic, hemorrhagic, transient ischemic attack (TIA), cryptogenic and brain stem. Ischemic strokes are the most common type of stroke, accounting for 87 percent of stroke cases. These strokes occur when blood flow to the brain…