Blog

Can Nonsmokers Get Lung Cancer

November 6, 2019

Although 90 percent of lung cancer cases affect smokers, the other 10 percent of lung cancer patients have never smoked.

Coping with seasonal affective disorder

October 28, 2019

Researchers have found that light has a lot to do with this disorder: a lack of sunlight may interrupt the body's biological clock that usually...

Lumpectomy vs mastectomy

October 25, 2019

You've completed a breast biopsy and have been diagnosed with breast cancer. Your surgeon has presented you with two treatment options: lumpectomy...

tags: breast , breast cancer , lumpectomy , mastectomy

The nurse behind the viral hurricane onesies

September 12, 2019

Orange Park Medical Center found the silver lining of Hurricane Dorian in the six new lives that were welcomed into the world during the storm...

Orange Park Medical Center volunteers celebrate...

September 9, 2019

This month the volunteers at Orange Park Medical Center are celebrating their 45th anniversary of serving the Orange Park Community. When the...

tags: auxiliary , volunteer

Twelve reasons your stomach hurts

September 9, 2019

Everyone experiences abdominal pain at some point. Whether it’s heartburn, gallstones, cramps or last night’s seafood dinner, there are many ...

Why head injuries affect girls differently than...

September 2, 2019

Bumps and bruises are a normal part of childhood, especially if your young one is a fan of playground activities, like capture the flag or jump...

6 Symptoms you should never ignore in a newborn

August 27, 2019

It’s a delicate balance when you’re a new parent. You don't want to call the doctor for every little hiccup, cough or bump, but you also don't...

Kids, wash your hands!

August 26, 2019

This year, nearly 60 million students will enroll in elementary and secondary schools in the U.S.

tags: back to school , hand washing , kids , moms , parenting , pediatrics

Orange Park Medical Center encourages breastfeeding...

August 21, 2019

During National Breastfeeding Month, the team at Orange Park Medical Center encourages community members to support nursing mothers.

tags: breastfeeding , healthy baby , mom , national breastfeeding month , parenting

4 min Read Time

How to Choose and Use a Sunscreen

July 1, 2019

Every child needs sun protection. The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) recommends that all kids — regardless of their skin tone — wear sunscreen...

Orange Park Medical Center breaks ground on $62...

June 27, 2019

Today leadership from Orange Park Medical Center broke ground on a new 101,435 square foot tower that will house 48 patient beds for medical ...

tags: construction , expansion , groundbreaking

Road safety

May 8, 2019

According to the World Health Organization, there are 1.35 million road traffic deaths each year, and more than half of these deaths are pedestrians...

Sneeze Busting Strategies

March 30, 2019

It's tough, but not impossible, to avoid the pollen that triggers your symptoms. Avoidance is your first line of defense, so try these steps ...

Five Drugs that May Impair Your Memory

March 29, 2019

Modern medicine can help us calm anxiety, lower blood pressure and reduce chronic pain. But certain medications can cause memory loss.

Beware of the Text Neck

January 3, 2019

Your head weighs about 10 pounds, and experts say every inch you tilt it forward doubles the pressure on your spine.

Survivor of Hit-and-run Recovers from Brain Injury...

January 3, 2019

Devon Farrar, a survivor of a hit-and-run, is starting off the new year with hope and inspiration through words

6 Exercise Moves to Steal from Popular Workouts

January 1, 2019

If you're not sure which workout to try or you're getting bored with your regular routine, then try stealing moves from different workouts.

Be Fit in the Winter: Don’t Let the Cold Get You

December 18, 2018 by Sarah Miller, Injury Prevention Coordinator, Trauma Services

If you choose to exercise outdoors, be mindful of slippery roads and sidewalks due to rain, snow, or ice. Here are some suggestions for being...

How to Stay Healthy in an Office Full of Sick ...

November 14, 2018

During the height of flu season, you'll likely find yourself surrounded by coughing, sniffling and sneezing coworkers. And close working quarters...

When Should I Stay Home?

November 14, 2018

Do you have symptoms of a cold or the flu? Wondering if it's okay to go to work?

Flu Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

November 14, 2018

Most cases of the flu are a nuisance - you'll be on your back for a few days or weeks, and then you can return to your normal routine. Make sure...

Stomach Troubles, What Is It?

November 2, 2018

Everyone experiences abdominal pain at some point. Whether it’s heartburn, gallstones, cramps or last night’s seafood dinner, there are many ...

Seven Ways to Fight GERD

November 2, 2018

Sometimes the signs of acid reflux are unmistakable – from searing heartburn to sour-tasting acid burbling up in your throat. Sometimes the signs...

Teen Driver Safety

October 22, 2018 by Sarah Miller, Injury Prevention Coordinator, Trauma Services

Today kicks off National Teen Driver Safety Week. Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death among teens 15 to 18 years old in the ...

Halloween Candy Plan

October 16, 2018

As fun as Halloween can be for children, it can be a challenge for parents. As a parent, how do you keep the holiday fun, but make sure that ...

Symptoms of Breast Cancer You Shouldn’t Ignore

October 15, 2018

Given that a woman in the U.S. has a one in eight chance of developing the disease, being able to identify changes in your breasts and signs ...

Nine Vaccines Your Kids Need

July 25, 2018

School supplies and new clothes aren't the only back-to-school essentials. Childhood vaccinations also top the list of must-haves. Whether you're...

Preventing Head Lice

July 18, 2018

Many of us have received that dreaded note from school: head lice in your child's class. Thankfully, shaved heads and home-schooling are not ...

Get an “A” in Social Media

July 18, 2018

There are plenty of good things about social media -- but also many potential dangers and things that you want your kids and teens to avoid. ...

ACT to Prevent Heatstroke Deaths

July 17, 2018 by Sarah Miller, Trauma Coordinator

One hundred percent of heatstroke deaths of children in cars are preventable. During summer months in Florida, temperatures can easily reach ...

tags: children , heat , heatstroke

10 Ways to Help Kids Succeed at School

July 11, 2018

Parental support plays an important part in helping their kids succeed in school. But as students grow more independent, it can be hard for parents...

Back to School – What Parents Need to Know

July 11, 2018

Whether their summer was jam-packed with activities or filled with complaints about being bored with nothing to do, kids often have a tough time...

4 Ways to Keep Dad Healthy on Father's Day

June 7, 2018 by dosomething.org

Having trouble coming up with the perfect gift for Dad this Father's Day? Instead of the usual necktie or bottle of cologne, try something different:...

tags: orange-park-medical-center

11 Facts About Mental Health

May 7, 2018 by dosomething.org

DoSomething.org is a global movement of 6 million young people making positive change, online and off! The 11 facts you should know about mental...

tags: mental health

4 min Read Time

A Pessimist's Guide to Feeling More Optimistic

May 1, 2018

Optimism is a general expectation that things will turn out well — if not immediately, then in the long run.

tags: optimism

4 min Read Time

7 Depression Symptoms You Shouldn't Ignore

April 3, 2018

Depression is more than an emotional slump—it lasts longer, is more severe and affects your ability to complete everyday tasks. Despite this,...

4 min Read Time

7 Tips for Eating Healthy on a Teachers Schedule

March 27, 2018 by Tammy Baranowski, MS, RDN, LD/N

Here are some tips to help ensure you get through the week energized, nourished, and in-line with your healthy eating goals.

tags: diet , healthy eating , teacher , wellness

3 min Read Time

6 Warning Signs of Diabetes

March 9, 2018

Approximately 30 million people in America have diabetes, and about another 80 million have prediabetes.

tags: diabetes , prediabetes , symptoms , warning signs

Clay County Senior Earns the Gold after Quadruple...

February 15, 2018

71 year old Harry Davis is one of the millions of people watching the Winter Olympics. Not only does he know what it feels like to compete, but...

tags: bike , cycling , heart , heart month , senior

Healthy Pregnancy: Your First Trimester Guide

February 1, 2018

Pregnancy can be a thrilling—and scary—time. That’s why we created this guide to explain your pregnancy week-by-week.

tags: maternity-care-campaign , obstetrics , pregnancy

Breastfeeding FAQs: Getting Started

February 1, 2018

Whether you're a new mom or a seasoned parenting pro, breastfeeding often comes with its fair share of questions. Here are some answers to common...

tags: maternity-care-campaign , obstetrics , pregnancy

11 Things to Do Before Getting Pregnant

February 1, 2018

Are you thinking about trying for a baby? Sure, you know what to expect when you’re expecting, but do you know what to do before you even get...

tags: maternity-care-campaign , obstetrics , pregnancy

How to Avoid Heart Disease: 6 Steps to a Healthier...

January 23, 2018

Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide – accounting for more than 17.3 million deaths per year – according to the American Heart...

tags: diabetes , healthy , heart disease , heart month

Surviving the flu: symptoms, treatment and danger...

January 19, 2018

This year's flu vaccine doesn't cover the dominant strain of the flu. Find out how to treat the flu and recognize complications that can be deadly...

tags: er , flu , general wellness , h3n2 , primary care , urgent care

Why is the flu so bad this year?

January 19, 2018

Some flu seasons are worse than others. Learn why the 2018 flu season is so widespread.

tags: er , flu , general wellness , h3n2 , primary care , urgent care

Be Hip to Hip Fractures!

January 18, 2018

Hip fractures aren’t just for the elderly. While nine out of 10 hip fractures do occur in people older than 65, hip injuries can happen to anybody...

tags: ortho-care-campaign

Is Your Job a Pain in the Back?

January 18, 2018

Maybe you think that if you’re not a lumberjack, farmer or construction worker, you won’t have to worry about back pain at work. You’d be wrong...

tags: ortho-care-campaign

Are You Killing Your Knees?

January 18, 2018

When was the last time you skinned your knee? It's probably been a while since you experienced this commonplace ailment of rough and tumble youthful...

tags: ortho-care-campaign

How Breakfast Affects Heart Disease Risk

January 17, 2018

Not so fast! Running out the door in the morning without eating breakfast is causing some serious damage to your health. So grab a bowl of steel...

tags: heart-health-campaign

Heart Health – Women vs. Men

January 16, 2018

Women's hearts are similar to men's hearts in some ways and different in others.

tags: heart-health-campaign

Pillow Talk for Hypertension

January 16, 2018

If you're debating whether to go to bed early or tackle your to-do list, go for the pillow time.

tags: heart-health-campaign

3 min Read Time

What to Know About Appendicitis

December 18, 2017

Musician John Mayer is recovering after postponing a concert in New Orleans earlier this month to undergo an emergency appendectomy. Luckily ...

tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , abdominal wall appendectomy appendicitis appendix bleeding diarrhea er fever general surgery health history incision infection laparoscope laparoscopic appendectomy large intestine loss of appetite nausea open appendectomy pediatrician pediatrics post-op post-operative sutures trauma vomiting

3 min Read Time

What is bullying?

October 1, 2017

Most experts on bullying define it as the use of force or coercion to abuse or intimidate others.

Diet soda downsides

August 30, 2017

Is it time to ditch diet soda? Many people believe diet soda is a healthier option than the sugar-laden soda alternative – it’s less calories...

tags: alzheimer’s disease , artificial sweeteners , brain health , cardiology , dementia , diabetes , diet soda , general wellness , heart disease , heart health , neuroscience , stroke

Another Reason to Watch Your Salt

August 22, 2017

A low-sodium diet is good for your heart. But you might also keep cancer risk low if you limit these two salty treats: pickles and anchovies.

tags: cancer prevention , cancer risk , cardiac , cardiovascular health , heart health , nutrition , sodium

8 Great High-Tech Health Gadgets

August 14, 2017

Striving to lose weight? Want to sleep better or exercise more? There are tons of gadgets and apps out there that can help.

tags: christmas , exercise , fitbit , fitness , fitness trackers , general health , general wellness , gift , gifts , health gifts , holiday health , holidays , safe toys and gifts month , wearables

Total Solar Eclipse: How to See it Safely

August 14, 2017

Dr. Mark Ewald, an ophthalmologist at TriStar Centennial Medical Center, addresses key questions on eye protection for the Great American Eclipse...

tags: eclipse , eclipse safety , eye protection , eye safety , solar eclipse , sunglasses

Watching the Solar Eclipse: Here's How to Protect...

August 14, 2017

A total solar eclipse will be visible from the contiguous US on August 21, 2017. Try these eye safety tips to avoid injury.

tags: eclipse eye safety , solar eclipse , solar eclipse blindness , solar eclipse eye damage

2 min Read Time

4 Steps to Better Eye Health

August 14, 2017

Your eyes add more depth to each daily experience. Simply put, they're one of your most prized possessions.

tags: diabetic eye disease , glaucoma , macular degeneration , uva radiation , uvb radiation , uv rays , vision health

4 Types of People Mosquitoes Love Most

August 7, 2017

After a long, summer day of barbecue and pick-up sports, you may find yourself covered in bites… while your friends are untouched.

tags: bug bites , general wellness , malaria , mosquitos , pregnancy , west nile virus , womens health , zika virus

Breastfeeding FAQs: Out and About

August 1, 2017

Nursing in front of others can be intimidating and even embarrassing, especially at first. But with a little confidence, the right place and ...

3 Ways to Improve Your Family's Health

July 30, 2017

We all want our kids to grow up strong, smart, happy and healthy. But sometimes, guarding your family's health can seem like you're playing nutritionist...

tags: diet , exercise , find a physician , healthy cooking , healthy eating , nutrition , parenting

Jellyfish stings

July 30, 2017

Playing in the ocean is a summertime tradition, but a jellyfish sting can spoil the fun.

tags: beach , general wellness , jellyfish , muscle spasms , ocean , pediatrics , sting , stingers , summer , swollen lips , swollen tongue , trouble breathing , trouble swallowing , venom , vinegar , vomiting

Summer Beach Time Means Water Safety

July 17, 2017

The millions of Americans who will flock to beaches this summer need to keep safety in mind as they frolic in the sand and surf, an expert advises...

Your Child's Eye Health

July 13, 2017

As kids, we were all told not to sit too close to the television, eat our carrots and to not to cross our eyes because they would stick that ...

tags: eye health , optometry , pediatrics

Three Benefits of Eating Chocolate

June 27, 2017

Chocolate has all but been elevated to superfood status. And the benefits of chocolate keep rolling in.

5 Tips for Preventing Hot Car Deaths

June 1, 2017 by Sarah Miller, MSN, RN-BC - Injury Prevention Coordinator, Trauma Services

During summer months in Florida, temperatures can easily reach 100 degrees. Many cases of children being left in hot cars have been in the media...

8 Reasons to See a Urologist

May 16, 2017 by Mary Ann Kenneson, MD, Urologist

Urologist Dr. Mary Ann Kenneson shares the most common symptoms patients come to her to relieve.

tags: bladder , erectile dysfunction , incontinence , kidney pain , kidney stones , urinating , urology

Why Heart Attack Signs Differ in Men and Women

May 9, 2017

When you think of a heart attack, symptoms like chest pain and shortness of breath probably come to mind. But that’s not always the case for ...

tags: cardiac health , heart attack , heart disease , heart problems , womens health

What to Expect in the ER

April 28, 2017

An ER visit can be a scary experience -- you don’t feel well, waits can be long and you’re worried about yourself or a loved one. Even worse,...

tags: emergency room , er

Pedestrian Safety: Taking Steps to Avoid Injury...

April 25, 2017 by Sarah Miller, MSN, RN-BC - Injury Prevention Coordinator, Trauma Services

As you know, we are all pedestrians at some point. Being distracted while walking in urban areas, crossing busy streets and negotiating traffic...

What to Do If You Think You're Having a Stroke

April 19, 2017

Stroke is the fifth-leading cause of death in the United States and a major cause of disability in adults.

tags: er , stroke , stroke symptoms

Recognizing Veterans

April 19, 2017 by Cary Herold, RN, VA Navigator

In its ongoing efforts to honor veterans, Orange Park Medical Center has added special veteran parking spaces to its campus.

tags: benefits , va , veteran , veteran benefits

April is Donate Life Month!

April 14, 2017 by Sarah Miller, MSN, RN-BC - Injury Prevention Coordinator, Trauma Services

118,000 men, women, and children are waiting on lifesaving organ transplants in the U.S. Every 10 minutes another person is added to the national...

tags: donate life , donor , organ donation , organ donor

Six Ways to Prevent Medication Errors at Home

April 13, 2017

Never give your child any kind of aspirin (not even “baby aspirin,” which is not for babies)

tags: pediatrics

Household Safety: Preventing Poisoning

April 4, 2017

From fertilizer to antifreeze and medicines to makeup, poisonous items show up throughout our homes. Here are some important ways to help prevent...

tags: er , household hazards , pediatrics , prevention

Laughter Therapy for a Healthier Heart

April 1, 2017

Laughter relaxes blood vessels and increases blood flow -- the exact opposite of what your blood vessels do when you are stressed.

ER, Urgent Care or Physician – Know Where To Go

March 22, 2017

Whether it’s a bump on the head or a really bad cold, when your body suffers a blow, all you want to do is feel better. But where do you go to...

tags: emergency , er , primary care

Can an OBGYN provide primary care?

March 22, 2017

If you’re like many other women in America, you’ll also turn to your OB/GYN. In fact, research shows nearly half of all OB/GYNs consider themselves...

tags: gynecology , obgyn , primary care , womens care , womens health

George Michael’s Death Caused by Heart Condition

March 17, 2017

An investigation into the death of George Michael revealed the 53-year-old English pop sensation died as a result of heart disease and fatty ...

tags: cardiology , fatty liver disease , george michael , heart disease , heart failure

Women, Don’t Fall Into the Health Gap

March 16, 2017

The film Suffragette traces British women’s struggle for equal rights, up until 1928 when women over 21 finally got the vote (which occurred ...

tags: domestic violence , mental health , womens care , womens health

When to Go to the ER if Your Child Has Asthma

March 15, 2017

One of the main goals of parents whose kids have asthma is avoiding trips to the emergency room (ER) for breathing problems. But it's also important...

tags: asthma , emergency , er , pediatric asthma , pediatrics

5 Questions to Ask If You Have Stomach Pain

March 10, 2017

Whether you call it a stomach or tummy ache or the more medical “abdominal pain,” we’ve all had stomach pain. In fact, it’s one of the most common...

tags: abdominal pain , blood in poop , blood in urine , bloody stool , chest pain , emergency , er , er emergency , stomach ache , stomach pain , trouble breathing , vomiting

7 Things Sabotaging Your Heart Health

February 6, 2017

Cardiologist Ashesh Parikh, DO, helps us break down seven hidden risks, and offers tips for improving your heart health.

Surprising Signs Your Heart Health is at Risk

February 1, 2017

Learn more about these five lesser-known signs and symptoms of heart disease.

7 Rules to Remember This Thanksgiving

November 23, 2016

Keep the stress and extra pounds away with these 7 things to remember this Thanksgiving.

Don’t Be a Turkey: 4 Ways to Stay Out of the ER...

November 21, 2016

Visiting Grandma's house...running in your local turkey trot...relaxing on the sofa watching football...making a trip to the ER...

2 min Read Time

Healthy Ways to Get Your Pumpkin Spice Fix This...

October 25, 2016

2 min Read Time

Lose Weight and Strengthen Joints with Interval...

October 18, 2016

From walking to engaging in team sports, exercise comes in many forms

4 min Read Time

3 Hidden Lead Sources Lurking in Your Home

October 11, 2016

The Flint, Michigan water crisis, in which thousands of people were exposed to lead through contaminated water and pipes, reminded us that lead...

4 min Read Time

5 Surprising Tips from Breast Cancer Experts

October 6, 2016

Breast cancer steals far too many lives, but we‰Ûªre making progress in learning how to prevent, detect, treat and move on from it.

3 min Read Time

Your Cold and Flu Season Survival Guide

October 4, 2016

Tis the season for aches, pains, sneezes and snot -- Yuck! With germs lurking around every corner, it may seem like getting sick is inevitable...

2 min Read Time

How to Spot the Warning Signs of Heat Stroke

September 27, 2016

6 min Read Time

Prevent and Treat Summertime Rashes

September 20, 2016

When stocking your first aid kit for summertime activities, make sure you don't forget these 8 essentials!

4 min Read Time

The Unexpected Health Benefits of Pokemon Go

September 13, 2016

Still searching for an excuse to venture out and start catching and collecting? Here are three research-backed ways that playing games like Pokemon...

3 min Read Time

Loosen up! Stretches to Try Today

September 8, 2016

Stretching regularly not only feels good, but also helps prevent injuries, improve circulation, protect joints and strengthen muscles. Try these...

2 min Read Time

Average ER Wait Times

Live Your Healthy