What’s the difference between neurologists and neurosurgeons?

If you’ve been diagnosed with some type of condition affecting the brain or spine, you may have been referred to specialized neuroscience providers. Do you have a good understanding of the difference between neurologists and neurosurgeons? Any new diagnosis can be a bit overwhelming. Knowing what to expect in the days and months ahead can […]

Remembering Zoua

Zoua Vang was just 39 years old when she called Hospice of Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC). She felt at peace knowing she would have support – both for herself and for her family – to make it through their final days together after a lifetime spent battling her debilitating genetic disorder. Zoua was diagnosed […]

How long is someone in hospice?

When you hear that someone is in hospice, you probably assume that person is very near the end of life. While that’s true in some cases, hospice doesn’t have a definitive time imit. Once someone begins receiving hospice care, that care can continue as long as it’s needed, even if the person surpasses life expectancy. […]

Can I get pregnant after bariatric surgery?

The short answer is yes, but there are a few caveats you’ll want to consider before getting pregnant after bariatric surgery. In the months immediately following surgery, it can benefit you to remain focused on your own health and wellness. What should you know about getting pregnant after bariatric surgery? Keep reading for the details. The […]

Do I need surgery for spine pain?

Did you know that spine pain is one of the most common causes of missed days of work? It’s a true pain that most people experience at one time or another. In many cases, pain and discomfort affecting the spine go away on their own or after basic at-home care, including rest and the application […]

How long will I be off work after hernia surgery?

Your doctor recommended that you have surgery to repair a hernia. But before you can schedule the hernia surgery, you need to know the answer to a key question: “How much time do I need off work?” You might be surprised by the answer. While individual recovery time after hernia surgery will vary based on […]

Hernia recovery

How long does it take to recover from hernia surgery?

After hernia repair surgery, it is common to experience mild to moderate pain and to feel a little run down. It’s also normal to feel pulling or twinges in the affected area as you heal.  Most people, however, feel better within a few days and much better within a week of surgery.   Recovery time after hernia surgery varies based on factors such as:  When can I […]

How is cancer surgery used as part of treatment?

According to the American Cancer Society, more than 2 million people in the United States will be diagnosed with cancer in 2024. Of that number, approximately 60 percent will have cancer surgery as part of their treatment plan. When it comes to cancer, surgery can be used in many ways. For one, surgery may be […]

It’s almost that time: What are the signs of labor starting?

You’ve finished nesting, packed a bag for the hospital, and know what your little one will wear home from the hospital. Now you’re just waiting on the baby to make an appearance! While you wait, familiarize yourself with the signs of labor.  Whether it’s your first child or simply the newest addition to your family, […]

A race to the finish line

It was as normal a morning run as any for avid runner, Macy Sirmans, when she said she felt sick and stopped to take a breath. “It felt like I was coming down with the flu,” said Macy. “But after a few minutes and a quick phone chat with my boyfriend, I started to feel […]

What’s the difference between a femoral and inguinal hernia?

If someone tells you they have a hernia, you might think you know what that means. After all, one hernia is like another, right? Not exactly! There are multiple types, including femoral and inguinal hernia. The basics are the same. A hernia is a tear in muscle or tissue that allows part of your insides […]

How is lung cancer diagnosed?

The American Cancer Society estimates that 234,580 new cases of lung cancer will be diagnosed in 2024, including more than 7,000 cases here in Georgia. But how is lung cancer diagnosed? When you think about cancer, some of the most common cancers probably come to mind—like breast cancer and colorectal cancer. Thanks to innovations over […]

What can I do to lower my risk of heart disease?

Are you at risk for heart disease? For most Americans, the answer is yes. New research is shining a light on the number of people in the United States who have cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome, a newly defined condition that increases the risk of heart disease. The syndrome, which was defined by the American Heart Association […]

Postpartum exercise: how & when to get started

If you recently brought home a new baby, exercise might be the last thing on your mind. But for women who love working out, starting to exercise after giving birth marks a return to something they truly enjoy. Whichever category you’re in, you can benefit from postpartum exercise. Being physically active after giving birth can help […]

How hospice care can benefit cancer patients

Over the last few decades, advancements in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer have made the disease more survivable. With that said, thousands of Americans still die of cancer each year. Hospice care can help when they near the end of life. The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 2 million Americans will be […]

What conditions may require neurosurgery?

If you heard that someone you know needs neurosurgery, you may immediately think about treatment for a life-threatening medical condition such as stroke. While surgical procedures for such emergency conditions are part of neurosurgery, the specialty also treats less-serious conditions. In fact, neurosurgery is used for the surgical treatment of many different medical conditions related […]

Can younger adults experience atrial fibrillation?

In the past, atrial fibrillation, often called AFib, was primarily diagnosed in older adults. Recent research, though, shows that the condition is more common in younger adults than previously thought. Wondering whether you are at risk for developing this common heart issue? Keep reading for the details. What is AFib? The Centers for Disease Control […]

Robotic surgery option brings relief to Savannah man’s heart — and mind

After he had a heart attack in spring 2023, Ron Josey was told he would need coronary artery bypass surgery. The Savannah man did some research, and the idea of open-heart surgery made him anxious.  “I soon began to realize, if possible, that I did not want the traditional bypass with the sternotomy,” said Ron, 62, using a term […]