Screening for Prostate Cancer With the PSA Blood Test
The Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) blood test is used to diagnose prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in men and the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Every year, approximately two hundred thousand men are told for the first time that they harbor this disease. Approximately thirty […]
Top 5 Reasons to Shop at a Farmers Market
As summer quickly approaches, we transition into a season of picnics, parties, grilled food, and fresh salads. Before you head to the grocery store to buy ingredients for your next summer meal, consider supporting your community by purchasing produce from your local farmers market. Farmers markets provide a great opportunity to get outside and savor […]
What is Orthoptics?
By Rex Brown, C.O., Illinois Eye Center Although many people have never heard of orthoptics, its origin can be traced back to 1550 BC. During this time, humans began experimenting with treatments for misaligned eyes. Today, orthoptics involves the study of eye movements and binocular vision. Orthoptists evaluate patients and administer non-surgical treatment for visual […]
Adopt a Shelter Cat Month
By Bridget Domenighini As most animal lovers can tell you, spring is kitten season at your local animal shelter. At Peoria County Animal Protection Services (PCAPS), we are usually taking in at least 10 litters of kittens each week beginning in April. This is in addition to the standard number of adult cats that are […]
Dad Is Given 24 Hours to Move Out of Assisted Living
By Steven A Buttice Last month, dad decided to walk to the store from his home in assisted living. Going out for a walk is something many do on a nice day, but this walk resulted in an eviction from his home in assisted living. This gentleman, with the guidance of his family, moved into […]
Shin Splints Self-Care
Shin splints occur when you have pain in the front of your lower leg. The pain of shin splints is from the inflammation of the muscles, tendons, and bone tissue around your shin. Shin splints are a common problem for runners, gymnasts, dancers, and military recruits. However, there are things you can do to heal […]
When Thinking and Behavior Decline
Forgetfulness, confusion, or having trouble remembering a name or word can be a normal part of life. But when thinking problems or unusual behavior starts to interfere with everyday activities — such as working, preparing meals, or handling finances — it’s time to see a doctor. These could be signs of a condition known as […]
Putting the Patient First
By Lori Lovely One of the largest private oncology practices in the U.S., Illinois CancerCare, PC, serves patients in 12 clinics throughout Central and Western Illinois. “We bring the services to them,” says Jamie Harper, Director of Clinical Research. It’s just one way they look out for the patients’ best interests. “We have several core […]
Disabilities Don’t Limit Kurt P. White
By Dave Tompkins Despite being born without a right arm and having a three-fingered hand on a partial left arm, scoliosis, and a short leg, don’t call Kurt P. White disabled. He has played golf since he was 10 and even placed in the National Amputee Golf Tournament. He also bowls, shoots pool, hunts with […]
Beware of Bad Breath
At one time or another, everyone has had bad breath, which can be embarrassing. Perhaps you have been in the presence of someone with foul breath and were desperate to end the conversation. Either way, it can be a problem. Bad breath is also called halitosis. Periodically bad breath occurs or can be more prominent […]