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INTEGRIS Health On Your Health Blog

Check back to the INTEGRIS On Your Health blog for the latest health and wellness news for all Oklahomans.

a man sits on his couch holding a tissue and massaging his forehead

Sinus Surgery for Chronic Sinusitis: Is It Right for You?

Dealing with chronic sinusitis can be frustrating. The persistent congestion, facial pressure and difficulty breathing can disrupt your daily life. You’ve likely tried over-the-counter options, maybe even sought advice from your health care provider, but the relief is only temporary. When medications and other remedies no longer work, sinus surgery may be a solution.

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a woman in athletic gear holding a water bottle fights off the summer heat

Staying Safe in the Summer Heat: How Your Medication Can Increase Heat Intolerance

As summer temperatures and humidity rise, INTEGRIS Health cautions people taking certain prescription and over-the-counter medications that they may impair the body’s ability to stay cool. If you find yourself highly sensitive to the summer heat, it could be a sign of heat intolerance.

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An older man in a blue sweater grabs at his neck in pain

Treating a Pinched Nerve in Neck or Shoulder

Between radiating neck pain and tingling sensations to your arm, dealing with a pinched nerve in your neck or shoulder can be a nuisance. If you are one of the many Americans who suffer from this spinal issue, the good news is there are many approaches to help reduce discomfort and speed up healing.

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stock photo of a "patient" undergoing an endoscopy

What Is an Endoscopy and Which Disease Can It Detect?

Endoscopy has transformed how doctors find and treat health problems, offering a way to look inside the body without major surgery. By giving a clear view of what’s happening inside, endoscopy allows for faster answers and more personalized treatments, helping patients feel better sooner.

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a man sitting at a table holds his lower back in pain

Common Causes of Back Pain and How to Alleviate It

Despite the prevalence of back pain on millions of Americans, only those who have lived with it truly understand the toll it takes – not just on the body, but on every aspect of daily life. The constant discomfort, the struggle to move freely and the frustration of feeling held back can be overwhelming.

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a doctor checks a child's ear for signs of an infection

Ear Infections in Children

Ear infections are a common health problem for young children. They happen when the middle ear gets swollen, often because of bacteria or viruses. The eustachian tubes, which connect the middle ear to the back of the nose, can get blocked. When that happens, fluid can build up and cause an infection.

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a woman sitting in a chair holds her knee in pain

Why Does Sitting for Long Periods of Time Hurt My Knees?

When it comes to sitting-related pain, most people picture a stiff neck or an aching back, but knee pain is also a surprisingly common issue that often goes overlooked.

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a middle aged man leans with his head against a wall while looking at empty bottles in the foreground

The Stages of Detox: What to Expect on the Journey to Recovery

Detoxification, often referred to simply as "detox," is the essential first step on the road to overcoming addiction. Whether you're facing alcohol addiction, opioid dependence or another substance use disorder, detox prepares your body and mind for the recovery journey ahead.

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younger man speaks to a surgeon

Is It Better to Get a Hip Replacement at a Younger Age?

Hip replacements have long been associated with older adults in their 70s and beyond. However, a growing trend has emerged, with more people opting for this procedure in their 40s and 50s. This shift isn’t just a coincidence – it reflects advancements in medical technology, changes in lifestyle and the pursuit of a better quality of life. This blog will explore the reasons behind this trend, the recovery advantages of getting a hip replacement earlier and the pros and cons of taking this step at a younger age.

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A physical therapist works with a patient and stretching their back

Why Do I Have a Knot in My Lower Back?

These knots, also called trigger points, can be both uncomfortable and restrictive in terms of how your body can move.

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a man kisses a woman's pregnant belly

Rainbow Baby: Getting Pregnant After Child Loss

Losing a child is one of the most difficult experiences any parent can face, bringing a wave of grief that is often hard to process. Yet, for many, the desire to grow a family remains, and in time, they choose to try again. The term “rainbow baby” captures the hope and healing that can come after such a tragic loss, symbolizing a new beginning after sorrow.

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People in a gym squat with arms extended

How to Implement the 75 Soft Challenge Rules This Summer

The idea of starting a personal challenge can feel intimidating, especially when rigid programs like 75 Hard dominate the scene. Luckily, there's a gentler, yet equally gratifying alternative: the 75 Soft Challenge.

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a couple enjoys a glass of wine

What Are Sulfites in Wine

Sulfites in wine often spark questions and concerns, leaving many people wondering what they really are and what role they play in the winemaking process. Are they natural? Do they cause headaches? And what makes "no-added sulfite" wine different?

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A health care worker in scrubs explains medications to an older patient

Can Rheumatoid Arthritis Medications Cause Long Term Side Effects?

Rheumatoid arthritis has become one of the most common forms of inflammatory arthritis. There are now dozens of medications to both treat and slow down its progression, but side effects may occur and vary by person.

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A woman sits on the steps holding a bottle filled with a yellow electrolyte drink

Are Electrolyte Drinks Good for You

Electrolyte drinks are everywhere these days. Premade drinks, powders, concentrates, tablets – they come in tons of different forms and flavors. You’ve probably seen them in grocery stores, at gyms or advertised by athletes. They promise to hydrate better than water, improve performance and help you recover faster.

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the sun sets over a lake and park

Family Fitness Fun: Outdoor Activities at Oklahoma's Lakes

Looking for a fun way to get your family moving? Oklahoma is home to some of the best outdoor spots for active family time. From hiking and kayaking to swimming and fishing, the state’s lakes offer plenty of ways to stay fit while making memories.

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A photo of a woman cracking her knuckles

Can Cracking Knuckles Harm Your Hands?

For many people, cracking the knuckles of your hands is a satisfying routine. That sharp "pop" can bring a sense of relief, a momentary escape from tension or even just a comforting habit during idle moments. But while it might feel good, have you ever wondered if this common pastime could affect the health of your hands?

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a woman discusses weight loss options with her doctor

What Is Bariatric Surgery?

Struggling with weight can feel overwhelming, especially when it begins to impact your health and quality of life. For many, traditional methods like diet and exercise might not lead to the results they need, which is why options like bariatric surgery and medications such as Ozempic or Mounjaro have become tools on the path to health.

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Portrait of a guy eating a light and healthy breakfast at home

What Is Oral Allergy Syndrome?

Oral allergy syndrome (OAS) is a type of food allergy that intertwines with pollen allergies. For those who suffer from hay fever, particularly allergies to birch, ragweed or grass pollens, this syndrome can become a familiar challenge.

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a woman holds her head in pain while sitting on a couch

How to Spot an Iron Deficiency

Iron deficiency can be a master of disguise, with symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness and irritability often imitating conditions such as stress, sleep disorders or even general burnout. These subtle warning signs might seem inconsequential at first, but they can quietly disrupt your energy levels, focus and overall health.

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Aerial drone photo Scissortail Park Oklahoma City

The Best Green Spaces in OKC

Oklahoma City, or OKC as locals lovingly call it, is home to a variety of green spaces that offer a refreshing break from city life. Whether you're into running, biking, kayaking or just soaking up some sun, OKC’s parks and lakes have something for everyone. From sprawling urban parks to serene lakeside retreats, here are some of the best green spaces you’ll find in OKC.

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group of young people using app on mobile phone in a bar.

What Does It Mean to Have High Functioning Depression

When most of us think about depression, we picture someone unable to get out of bed, overwhelmed by sadness or isolated from the world. While this is a reality for many, there’s another side of depression that often goes unnoticed – high-functioning depression.

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A man visits with his doctor

Prostate Cancer Awareness: Warning Signs, Causes and Treatment Options

Prostate cancer is a major health concern for men, yet many remain unaware of its warning signs, causes and treatments. In this blog, we speak with Tyler Gutschenritter, M.D., a radiation oncologist at INTEGRIS Health Cancer Institute, to help you enhance your understanding of prostate cancer and promote early detection.

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A woman stands up at her desk and holds her lower back in pain

Things to Avoid with Degenerative Disc Disease

As you age, the body undergoes natural changes that affect both the physical and mental aspects of your life. This may show up as the inability to remember things as well as you once did, wrinkles on your face or hair turning gray. Some developments are more physically limiting, though, such as the painful progressive wear and tear on discs in your spine, a condition known as degenerative disc disease.

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An older man gets his blood pressure checked by a nurse in scrubs

The Silent Threats: Understanding Stroke Risk Factors

Hidden risks for stroke often go unnoticed, yet they can significantly impact your health over time. The good news? You have the power to lower your stroke risk by identifying these factors early and making proactive changes. From adopting healthier lifestyle habits to addressing underlying medical conditions, the steps you take today could make all the difference tomorrow.

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a person struggles to sleep in bed while looking at their phone

Why Is Anxiety Worse at Night?

Anxiety is something many people grapple with daily, but for some, it can peak during the quiet hours of the night. If you’ve experienced this, you’re not alone. Nighttime anxiety is common and can feel especially overwhelming when the rest of the world is sleeping. Understanding why this happens and what you can do to manage it can bring relief and help you take control of your evenings.

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A woman looks at her belly in a mirror

What Is PCOS Belly?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disorder in women caused by hormonal imbalances that creates problems with the ovaries. Women with PCOS experience issues with menstruation, unpredictable ovulation and, in many cases, the development of fluid-filled sacs called cysts on the ovaries.

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A doctor discusses ovarian cancer with a patient

Ovarian Cancer Awareness: Challenges in Early Detection and How to Treat It

Raising awareness and education about ovarian cancer is crucial to improving early detection rates and ultimately saving lives. In this blog, we speak to Lara Theobald, M.D., a board-certified physician in medical oncology, internal medicine, palliative care and hospice at the INTEGRIS Health Cancer Institute, to learn more.

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A woman holds a brush filled with hair

Hair Loss in Women

You may be surprised by just how many women are affected by hair loss at some point in their lives. In the medical field, the scientific term for hair loss is alopecia, and there are several different subtypes.

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