At The Lakewood Ranch Medical Center Blog you'll find information you can use to improve your overall health and well-being, and stories about our amazing patients and Healthcare Heroes serving our community.

A Chicken Dish with a Little Zest

February 27, 2024

This dish is full of flavor, with a delightful mix of textures.

Is Your Joint Pain More Than Just the Usual Aches?

February 27, 2024

Joint health is important, and understanding what’s normal helps in maintaining your quality of life.

The Most Common Causes of Accidental Poisoning

February 27, 2024

Most poisonings occur at home. Here's where the danger lies and how to keep your family safer.

What's That Smell? And What Does It Mean?

February 27, 2024

Here's what body odor comes from, why it changes and how to control it.

These Symptoms May Mean You Have Kidney Disease

February 27, 2024

Symptoms during early stages of the disease are hard to spot, but don't ignore these red flags.

This Is What the World's Longest-Living People Eat

February 27, 2024

The diet of people in the Blue Zones may help them live longer. Here's what they eat.

What You Need to Know About Electrolytes

February 27, 2024

Rushiv Patel, DO, provides insight as to what electrolytes are and why they’re a non-negotiable part of everyone’s diet.

Robotic Surgery Helps Patient Beat Colon Cancer

February 20, 2024

Patient Michael Shatto shares his personal insights on cancer and recovery after having a robotic sigmoid colon resection procedure.

Your Best Health and BMI

February 13, 2024

Dr. Ryan Jones offers insight to help us better understand our Body Mass Index (BMI), screenings, and diet and exercise tips.

A Heart-Healthy Recipe for Salmon

January 30, 2024

Pair this balsamic-honey salmon dish with your favorite side for a heart-healthy dinner. 

Would You Recognize These Warning Signs of Stroke?

January 30, 2024

Here's how to spot a stroke and what to do.

Here Are 7 Signs You Might Have Heart Failure

January 30, 2024

Don't ignore these common symptoms of this serious heart condition.

This Is What a Heart Attack Really Feels Like

January 30, 2024

In real life, heart attack symptoms are usually more subtle than what you see in movies.

A Guide to Easing into Exercise after a Heart Attack

January 30, 2024

Exercise helps you recover after a cardiac event and here are tips to help you do it more safely.

Is Your Eyesight at Risk?

January 30, 2024

Good eyesight is often taken for granted – until it is lost. A common eye disorder affects many people 50 years and older.

Winter Comfort Food with an Asian Twist

December 29, 2023

Bring the authentic flavors of Chinese cuisine right into your kitchen.

Weight Gain Isn't Always About Appetite or Willpower

December 29, 2023

If your yearly resolution has to do with reaching a healthy weight, it may be smart to check your thyroid.

4 Small New Year’s Resolutions to Inspire Change

December 29, 2023

Broad and big new year resolutions can be hard to stick with. Try these small habit changes that can lead to a healthier lifestyle.

Do Diabetes Drugs Help You Lose Weight?

December 29, 2023

Here's why drugs originally developed to treat diabetes are being used for weight loss.

4 Foods That May Help You Lose Weight

December 29, 2023

Stay fuller while eating fewer calories by making these satisfying foods part of your diet.

7 Good Reasons to Try Dry January

December 29, 2023

This may be the incentive you need to start the new year alcohol-free.

How to Quit Smoking Gradually

December 29, 2023

Ready to kick your habit? Instead of doing it cold turkey, here are tips to ease into a smoke-free life.

Gut Health and Wellness: What You Should Know

December 4, 2023

Gastrointestinal health is more complex than an occasional stomach ache. Dr. Ronald Andari shares important information on how to maintain a happy microbiome.

Keep Illnesses Away from Your Holiday Gatherings

November 30, 2023

Getting sick slows you down and prevents you from enjoying the festivities. These tips can help you avoid it.

Watch Out for These Common Injuries During the Holidays

November 30, 2023

Don't let an injury ruin your holiday fun. These tips can help keep you injury-free.

Crohn's or Ulcerative Colitis? How to Tell the Difference

November 30, 2023

Here are similarities and differences between these conditions, as well as common symptoms.

Your Guide to Healthy Holiday Travel

November 30, 2023

Before you pack your bags, read these tips so you're more likely to stay healthy during your travels.

'Tis the Season When You're Most Likely to Have a Heart Attack

November 30, 2023

Here's why your heart is more at risk during the holidays, and what you can do to protect it.

What to Know About Foot and Ankle Pain

November 28, 2023

If you’re experiencing foot and ankle pain, consider your questions answered. Dr. James Cottom shares the most common reason for the podiatric issue, and how to avoid it.

Spinal Fusion Surgery Offers Relief for Severe Pain

November 3, 2023

When conservative options have not been helpful, the surgery can provide pain relief in the back and legs, enhancing quality of life.

4 Strategies to Get a Good Night’s Sleep

October 25, 2023

A good night’s sleep can set the tone for the day. These factors play a role. 

How Risky Is Vaping?

October 25, 2023

E-cigarettes and smokeless nicotine were once regarded as a way to avoid lung cancer risk, but there are concerns.

The Best Time to Exercise If You Have Diabetes

October 25, 2023

All exercise is good if you have diabetes, but here's when it may help the most.

How to Save 1,000 Calories at Your Thanksgiving Meal

October 25, 2023

The average American consumes over 2,000 calories on Thanksgiving. Here's how to save half those calories!

The Best Way to Catch Lung Cancer Early

October 25, 2023

If you are a current or former smoker, here's how to protect yourself from lung cancer.

How to Ease Hip Pain

October 25, 2023

If you have pain, stiffness and inflammation in your hip joint, these tips can help.

Knee Replacement Patient Returns to Tennis Court

October 23, 2023

Dottie Wiencek had a goal — getting on the tennis court — even when she needed a second knee replacement in four years.

What Does It Mean to Have Dense Breasts?

September 28, 2023

Nearly half of all adult women have it. What does it mean for their health?

What You Should Know About Diabetes and Sugar

September 28, 2023

High blood sugar causes many of the symptoms and complications of diabetes. Here’s how to manage your blood sugar.

7 Things You'll Notice After Losing Weight

September 28, 2023

More than just the number on the scale will change when you lose weight.

The Scariest Health Hazards of Halloween

September 28, 2023

This holiday is all about having fun. Here are 5 ways to keep it that way.

The Do's and Don'ts of Supporting Someone with Mental Illness

September 28, 2023

Not sure what to do if a friend or family member has mental health issues? These tips may help.

These 10 Foods Help Fight Inflammation

September 28, 2023

Wondering what inflammation-fighting foods to add to your diet? Try these 10 powerhouses.

Quality Care and a Unique Birthing Experience

September 21, 2023

Creating a birth plan can be exciting and overwhelming. Read on for guidance to help better understand how to approach your birth plan.

Are You Missing This Sign of Ovarian Cancer?

August 21, 2023

If you often feel full quickly when eating, don't ignore it.

These 9 Things Make It More Likely You'll Fall

August 21, 2023

Here's how to recognize common fall hazards so you can do something to lower your risk.

These Are the 3 Most Common Prostate Problems

August 21, 2023

If you're a man, here are three conditions that may affect your prostate as you age.

Here's Why AFib May Be Especially Dangerous for Women

August 21, 2023

Women need to be aware of this serious heart arrhythmia because early detection is important.

The Surprising Question That Might Prevent Teen Suicide

August 21, 2023

Today’s generation of teens are at high risk of suicide. Learn what you can do to intervene.

Understanding the Basics of Epilepsy

August 21, 2023

Learn how to identify, and manage, this neurological condition.

Surgeon Performs “Life-Changing” Robotic Splenectomy

August 8, 2023

“When I woke up from the surgery, I felt an incredible weight lifted from my shoulders,” says patient Taylor Butler.

Don't Miss These Signs of Heat-Related Illness

July 31, 2023

Heat-related illnesses can be very serious, so it's important to recognize if they are happening.

Don't Forget to Schedule These Medical Appointments

July 31, 2023

Now is as good a time as any to get these appointments on your calendar.

How to Overcome Loneliness

July 31, 2023

If you are lonely, following these 5 tips can help you feel more connected to others.

Should You Take These Vitamins Every Day?

July 31, 2023

Many people take multivitamins and other supplements daily, but do you need them?

4 Frequent Causes of Knee Pain

July 31, 2023

Your knees aren’t getting any younger. Here’s how to keep them in order.

Stay Safe on the Sports Field

July 31, 2023

Don’t let a sport injury keep you off the field this season. Here’s how to be safe before, during and after an activity.

Get Your Kids Off to a Healthy Start This School Year

July 30, 2023

 These recommendations can help ensure that your child is ready to learn and perform their best the entire year.
 

Hospital’s First Birth Story, Nearly Two Decades Later

July 17, 2023

The first Lakewood Ranch Medical Center maternity patient shares her history of exceptional care

How to Treat Any Burn

June 29, 2023

Whether from the sun, the grill or a sparkler, summer is burn season. Learn how 
to tell the painful inconvenience from the true emergency.

Living with Congestive Heart Failure

June 29, 2023

While serious, people can have fulfilling lives with this condition.

20 Common Causes of Back Pain

June 29, 2023

Is your back hurting? This may be why.

Protect Your Eyes from These Summer Hazards

June 29, 2023

Keep your eyes free from injury and irritation this season with these tips.

Making The Most of Menopause

June 26, 2023

Nurse practitioner and midwife Angie Scarpa, CNM, ARNP, discusses the best ways to keep up with your health while dealing with this transition.

Your Guide to a Safer Summer

June 8, 2023

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and the most preventable, too.
 

The Simplest Way for Men to Improve Their Health

June 8, 2023

Men’s life expectancy is dropping. Their hesitancy to go to the doctor could be a reason why. 

Patient Shares Positive Maternity Experience

May 19, 2023

Patient delivering second child via C-section at the Women’s Center is grateful and pleased with compassionate staff and quality care.

Shining a Light on Women's Health

May 5, 2023

Dr. Eden Yelverton, OB/GYN, discusses how to put yourself first by getting ahead of your routine health screenings. Here's what to know.

The Timeline of a Stroke: Onset to Recovery

April 24, 2023

A stroke can cause chaos. Know what to expect from its start to the recovery process.

Understand Your Allergies

April 24, 2023

Let's dive into the reasons for your pesky itchy eyes and runny noses, and how to avoid them.

Lakewood Ranch Maternity Patient Shares Her Story

April 6, 2023

Anjelica Yoder credits the OB/GYN team from Lakewood Ranch Medical Group for making her first childbirth experience truly special.

5 Things to Know About Hernias

April 2, 2023

They’re common and can happen to anyone. General Surgeon Samuel Yelverton, MD, explains what to look for.

Get to Know the Newest General Surgeon and OB/GYN

March 31, 2023

Lakewood Ranch Medical Group welcomes married couple Sam Yelverton, MD, general surgeon, and Eden Yelverton, MD, obstetrician and gynecologist.

How to Tell if Heartburn Is Something More

March 16, 2023

GERD can start out as an annoyance, but can cause serious damage over time. Avoid long-term effects through simple lifestyle changes and possibly treatment.

What a Headache Could Be Telling You

March 16, 2023

It’s a broad term for a lot of experiences. Learn how to tell if yours are serious.

Which Colorectal Cancer Test is Right for You?

February 24, 2023

Various colorectal cancer screening options can make diagnosis and early detection easier for you.

The ABCs of Joint Replacement Surgery

February 24, 2023

Joint replacement surgery sounds so invasive, but what does it really entail? Here's the breakdown.

Childbirth Options After C-Section

February 21, 2023

Women who have had a previous cesarean section (C-section) may be eligible to experience natural childbirth. Joel Hallam, DO, an OB/GYN at Lakewood Ranch Medical Group, explains.

What Your Heart Is Telling You

January 24, 2023

Not all heart events are the same. Knowing what makes them different can be the key to surviving them.

The Surprising Connection Between Mind and Heart

January 24, 2023

Stress and anxiety could be negatively affecting your heart health AND heart disease can cause stress and anxiety. Here’s how to break the cycle.

Star Nurses Share Their Nursing Career Stories

January 4, 2023

"We take the time to develop our dedicated nurses so they can achieve their career goals at Lakewood Ranch Medical Center." - Sara Wilson, RN, Intensive Care Unit

RSV: What YOU Need to Know

January 4, 2023

The fall and winter have seen a lot of respiratory illnesses, including RSV, which is especially hard on children. Know how to identify and treat it.

New Year’s Most Popular Resolution: Weight Loss

December 2, 2022

Looking to make a change this new year? Dr. Claire McGill, DO, provides helpful information on maintaining a healthy weight.

Try These Steps to Defuse Holiday Stress

November 17, 2022

Put self-care at the top of your to-do list. Identify when stress is affecting you and how you can manage it.

Stay Safe This Flu Season

November 16, 2022

Don’t miss any of the holiday cheer, avoid the flu this year.

Back On Her Feet After Several Surgeries

November 10, 2022

Meet Laura; she became ill on vacation. Dr. David Dexter performed life-saving procedures and now she is living life to the fullest.

5 Ways Quitting Smoking Can Improve Your Life

October 31, 2022

Sometimes the big health reasons to quit smoking are not enough. These small perks might be the push you need to make the commitment.

Prediabetes Is Common, Often Unrecognized, and Dangerous

October 24, 2022

It’s more common than you know. Learn how to avoid it turning into diabetes.

Why Does Breast Density Matter?

October 18, 2022

Breast cancer awareness isn’t confined to one month. Learn how breast density can affect your risk for breast cancer.

Are You at Risk for Varicose Veins?

October 14, 2022

If you have pronounced blue, red or flesh-colored leg veins, you might have varicose veins. Learn about the risk factors and treatment options for this condition.

Your Breast Cancer Screening Questions Answered

October 4, 2022

Is getting a mammogram at the top of your to-do list? If not, schedule it now. It may save your life!

Depression and Aging: Know the Facts

October 3, 2022

Depression is the most prevalent mental health problem among older adults and can lead to a decline in physical, mental and social functioning.

A Day a Local Family Will Not Forget

September 8, 2022

A three-year-old’s injury turns into a positive ER experience.

Tips for Keeping Kids Healthy as They Go Back to School

September 8, 2022

A new school year means buying school supplies, new clothes and preparing lunches. It also means keeping the kids healthy.

The 10-Minute Test That Could Save Your Life

September 1, 2022

When it comes to maintaining heart health, early detection and prevention are key. This simple test can uncover a dangerous condition.

The To-Do Item Men Shouldn't Forget

September 1, 2022

Prostate cancer is the second-most-common cancer among American men, and often progresses with few outward signs. Screening for it is important.

The Best Ways to Deal with Back Pain

August 10, 2022

It's the No. 1 cause of disability worldwide. Learn how to better deal with it.

Delivery at Women’s Center Was “Everything I Could Want”

August 2, 2022

Lakewood resident Lainey Johnson had a positive experience delivering her first child at Lakewood Ranch Medical Center.

Protect Yourself While Enjoying the Summer Sun

July 3, 2022

Want to protect yourself from skin cancer while enjoying the summer sun? Check out these timely tips to indulge in the sun safely.

Summer Safety Essentials

June 29, 2022

Paying attention to the most common types of injury can help keep you and your family safe while getting the most out of the warm months ahead.

How COVID-19 Has Impacted Mental Health

May 10, 2022

COVID-19 has taken a heavy toll on mental health. If you are concerned about yourself or a loved one, here are ways to identify issues and get help.

9 Essential Screenings for Men

May 10, 2022

June is Men’s Health Awareness Month! Regular check-ups and screenings can help men stay healthy by indicating preventive health needs and catching issues before they become more serious.

For Expectant Moms, The Birth They Want To Have

May 5, 2022

If you are expecting, you can create your own birth plan. Learn how.

Recognition for our Remarkable Nurses

April 22, 2022

Nurses are on the frontline of most every healthcare interaction. We celebrate nurses everywhere during National Nurses Week, May 6-12.

5 Ways to Lessen Seasonal Allergies

April 22, 2022

Whether your allergy symptoms are frustrating or debilitating, there are steps you can take to enjoy rather than dread spring.

When You Need Care, Make the Smart Choice

March 25, 2022

Learn when to visit the emergency room versus urgent care.

How to Take Control of Your Neurological Health

March 25, 2022

Knowing what’s happening in your head could save your life.

The Connection Between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Heart Disease

March 22, 2022

If you have rheumatoid arthritis, you may need to get your heart checked. Learn why.

Learn the Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet

February 22, 2022

Lakewood Ranch cardiologist David Buck explains what it does, and why you should consider giving it a try.

Is Diabetes Putting You at Risk for Chronic Wounds?

February 15, 2022

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, talk to your doctor about ways to address and prevent chronic wounds associated with the disease, such as diabetic foot care. 

Could You Have Atrial Fibrillation?

January 12, 2022

What to know about this sometimes silent condition.

Heart Attack Symptoms – What’s Different for Men and Women

January 12, 2022

Knowing the signs and symptoms can save your life!

How to Keep Your New Year’s Resolutions

December 16, 2021

Want a fresh start for 2022? Create realistic, reasonable goals to set yourself up for success.

Could You Have Seasonal Depression?

December 16, 2021

Winter blahs and holiday stress have you down? Read more for helpful strategies to lighten your mood.

Women’s Center Enhances the Patient Experience

June 28, 2021

“Women always remember the experience of giving birth,” says Johanna Pumphrey RN, MBA, Director, Women’s Center.

Expansion Offers Patients Greater Treatment Options

November 16, 2020

Today’s interventional radiology therapies are more precise and more effective than ever, offering patients and their doctors additional options to treat disease.

Breast Cancer Survivors Share Their Stories

October 21, 2020

Breast cancer survivors Candice Ermer and Jean Muccini took different paths to the Breast Health Center, but they agree on this: screenings are essential.

Don’t Put Off Your Annual Mammogram Due to COVID-19

October 12, 2020

Regular screenings are key to detecting breast cancer, and LWRMC has extensive health precautions in place to help keep everyone safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Jimmy Kimmel Honors a Lakewood Ranch Nurse

July 28, 2020

Rob Guerra gets a big surprise after returning from New York City, where he helped care for COVID-19 patients.

The Women’s Center Renovation Has Begun!

July 24, 2020

The new look and feel will focus on comfort for moms and families as they welcome their new arrivals.

Walking Pain-Free After Hip Surgery

July 22, 2020

Rebecca Fulton had her second hip replacement in May. She tells about her experience and the COVID-19 safety measures that reassured her.

Thank You to the Community and Our Staff!

July 20, 2020

Hospital directors share heartfelt messages of gratitude for the response to COVID-19.