Flossing is important for dental health, but did you know it can also prevent stroke? A new study suggests that flossing at least once a week may lower your risk of stroke caused by a blood clot.
Author Archives: Katrina Mata
What You Need to Know About Cancer Screenings
Cancer remains the second leading cause of death in the U.S., yet screenings have the power to change that. According to the National Cancer Institute, cancers found early, when they’re most treatable, can lead to significantly higher survival rates.
When Diabetes Isn’t the Reason You’re Admitted—But Still Shapes Your Care
Diabetes affects far more than blood sugar, it shapes heart health, kidney function, vision, and even surgical recovery.
At Westchester Medical Center, we recognize that even when diabetes isn’t the reason for hospitalization, it demands careful attention. Our integrated, multidisciplinary approach to inpatient diabetes care leads to better outcomes: fewer complications, shorter stays, and safer recoveries.
Purpose After Paychecks: Maintaining Well-Being After Retirement
Retirement is a major life transition, not just a break from work, but a shift in purpose and routine. While some enjoy the freedom, others may feel restless or disconnected. With thoughtful planning, retirement can be deeply fulfilling.
Start by easing into your new routine. Revisit old passions, try new hobbies, and stay socially connected through friends, clubs, or volunteering. Mentoring or part-time work can also bring purpose and structure.
Remember, your identity is more than a job title. Retirement is a chance to redefine what matters to you. If you’re struggling with the adjustment, WMCHealth Physicians and Bon Secours Medical Group offer mental health support to help you thrive.
Your Golf Swing is Hurting Your Game. It’s Also Hurting Your Back
Golf offers a healthy escape, but watch out for common injuries like back issues. Prevent them with warm-ups, core strength, proper grip & equipment, and varied practice. Learn more about spine care at WMCHealth.
A Medical Mystery Solved: Motorcyclist Finally Regains Function After Nerve Injury
After a motorcycle accident left Andrew McGrath unable to move his arm, a rare nerve injury threatened his dexterity and career. Thanks to a complex nerve transfer by WMCHealth’s Dr. Jared Pisapia, Andrew regained function and got his life back. Expert care makes all the difference.
Is Your Heart Ready for That Energy Drink?
Too much caffeine, especially from energy drinks and supplements, can be dangerous for the heart—even in young, healthy individuals. Dr. Alan Gass of WMCHealth explains that high doses of caffeine combined with intense exercise may trigger abnormal heart rhythms and increase the risk of sudden cardiac events. Some energy drinks contain over 200 milligrams of caffeine per can, and when combined with coffee or other sources, the total intake can rise quickly. To stay safe, it’s important to understand your baseline heart rate and blood pressure, ease into new workout routines, avoid energy drinks before exercising, and maintain a balanced approach to fitness that includes cardio, core, and flexibility. For those concerned about heart health, WMCHealth offers same-day cardiology appointments by calling 914.909.6917.
What You Didn’t Know About Living Organ Donation
Over 100,000 people in the U.S. are waiting for a lifesaving organ transplant, and 17 die each day while waiting. Living organ donation can change that.
Many people don’t realize you can donate more than just a kidney, living donors can also give a portion of their liver, pancreas, or even a lung. The human body is incredibly resilient, allowing donors to live full, healthy lives with just one kidney or a partial organ. Plus, you don’t need an exact blood type match to be a donor, compatibility is more flexible than most think.
Living donation is safer than ever, with low risks and strong medical and emotional support systems for donors. Some states even offer tax benefits to help offset costs. Whether donating to a loved one or a stranger, living donors have the power to save lives.
TAVR: An Effective Treatment for Aortic Stenosis
Severe aortic stenosis affects 1 in 50 Americans over 65, increasing the risk of heart failure and sudden cardiac death. Fortunately, treatment options like Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement (TAVR) offer a minimally invasive alternative to open-heart surgery.
TAVR allows cardiologists to replace a diseased aortic valve using a catheter, leading to faster recovery, fewer complications, and improved quality of life.
“TAVR allows us to treat high-risk patients who may not be candidates for open-heart surgery,” says Dr. Ahmed Alabbady, Director of the Structural Heart Program at Good Samaritan Hospital.
What NBA Star Victor Wembanyama’s Blood Clot Teaches Us About Vascular Health
“Many people don’t realize how serious blood clots can be,” says Michael Schwartz, MD, a vascular surgeon at WMCHealth. “A clot that moves to the lungs can block oxygen and be fatal. That’s why early detection and treatment are essential.”