Norton Now

Can I see a doctor on Saturday? Norton Healthcare offers the care you need, any time of the week — even on Saturday

Norton Healthcare offers the care you need, any time of the week — you can get an appointment or have a walk-in or virtual visit on a Saturday. You will see an experienced health care provider no matter which option you choose. For example, you may see an advanced practice provider like a nurse practitioner….

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Behavioral Health, Health Equity

Barriers to mental health care are breaking down — with help from professional resources

Mental health conditions do not discriminate. Anyone can have challenges at any point in their lives. The difference is how these issues are addressed and perceived. These differences are glaringly obvious in African American communities. How mental health affects Black communities “We hear often that Black Americans view mental health struggles as a personal weakness,”…

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Bariatric Surgery, Weight Management

After struggles with weight gain, mom finds success with weight loss surgery

Ashley Meredith began struggling with her weight in her 20s. “I was an active teenager, so it had never been a problem,” Ashley said. She remained active through college, but after a torn knee ligament put an end to that and she got pregnant in 2008, her weight crept up. A startling realization Through her…

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Bariatric Surgery, Weight Management

Eating after bariatric surgery

Lots of things change after bariatric surgery (also called weight loss surgery or WLS), but perhaps one of the most important is your diet. After bariatric surgery such as the gastric bypass, what, when and how you eat are crucial to your long-term success. What to eat before and after bariatric surgery Pre-surgery diet Before…

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Norton Now

I need urgent care during the holidays. Where can I go?

The holidays can be a time of family, food, travel and fun. What if you need emergency care, immediate care or other medical care during the holidays? Norton Healthcare has you covered, from the Thanksgiving table through New Year’s Day and beyond. Video visits, eVisits available with local providers Norton eCare video visits and eVisits…

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Spine

Weakness in the legs when walking can be a sign of spinal stenosis

Weakness in your legs when walking can have several causes. If you are having symptoms of a stroke, contact 911 immediately. Other conditions may not be an emergency, but warrant evaluation by a health care professional. Often, the cause of weakness or pain in the legs when walking is a narrowing of the space around…

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Colon Cancer, Colonoscopy, Health Equity, Norton Community Medical Associates

Recommended colon cancer screening for African American men

Colon cancer is a treatable cancer, especially if it is caught in the early stages. Screening saves lives every year. Steven Patton, D.O., family medicine physician, Norton Medical Group, wants African Americans to know that they can benefit from colon cancer screening beginning at age 45. Why should African Americans make this cancer screening a…

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Breast Cancer, Cancer

First mother, then daughter developed breast cancer — now they support each other every step of the way

Parents always want to pass on good things to their children: wisdom, advice, family recipes. Wanda Anderson has modeled strength and resilience for her daughter as they both receive treatment for breast cancer. First diagnosis In 2008, when she was 46, Wanda felt lumps in her breasts. Having just lost her job, she had no…

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COVID19, Flu, Norton Community Medical Associates, Norton Now, Norton Primary Care

COVID-19 or flu? Each has some similar symptoms, but there are key differences

COVID-19 and the seasonal flu have some of the same signs and can range from no symptoms to severe illness. Both infections can cause: Fever or chills Cough Difficulty breathing Fatigue Sore throat Runny or stuffy nose Body aches Headache Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children than adults) One frequent symptom of COVID-19 that…

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Pulmonary

Is my COPD getting worse?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) refers to disorders that cause airflow blockage and breathing-related issues. The classic symptoms of COPD include wheezing, coughing, shortness of breath and trouble taking deep breaths. The signs of COPD getting worse could mean you are having a COPD exacerbation. A COPD exacerbation is sometimes called a flare-up. When symptoms…

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Behavioral Health

CPTSD vs PTSD: What are the differences between post-traumatic stress disorders?

Most people probably have heard of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). This anxiety disorder results from a traumatic event, which can be physical, emotional, spiritual or psychological in nature. Complex post-traumatic stress disorder (CPTSD) has all the characteristics of PTSD and then some. Here is a breakdown of both conditions and their symptoms. PTSD vs. CPTSD…

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Cancer

Is massage therapy good for cancer patients?

Oncology massage has gained popularity as a complement to typical treatments (chemotherapy, surgery, etc.) for many types of cancer. A recent “HopeCast” podcast episode discussed its use at Norton Cancer Institute, which has five massage therapists who work with  people receiving both outpatient and inpatient care. Is massage good for cancer patients? “Oncology massage may help…

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