At The Northwest Texas Healthcare System Blog you'll find information you can use to improve your overall health and well-being, and stories about our amazing patients and Healthcare Heroes serving our community.

The Science Behind Mindset and Weight Loss

December 12, 2024

Having difficulty progressing in your weight-loss journey? Here’s how considering your mental health could help.

Back Injuries: The Season’s Silent Strain

December 12, 2024

‘Tis the season for slippery conditions and shoveling. How to protect your back this winter.

What To Do If You Choke While You’re Alone

December 12, 2024

It may be hard to remember these tips when a sudden scary situation such as choking occurs, but having this information tucked away in your memory may help save your life.

Doing Dry January? Here Are Tips for Success

December 12, 2024

If you're ready to kick your beer, wine or spirits to the curb for the month (or forever), here are some tips to help you be more successful.

The Role of a Diabetes Educator

November 25, 2024

Once a patient accepts their condition, they can move forward to bettering their health.

Winter Weather and Your Sinuses

November 14, 2024

Stay ahead of the chill by learning how winter weather affects your sinuses and some practical tips to keep your nasal passages healthy.

Don’t Let the Holidays Hurt Your Heart

November 14, 2024

This time of year can put extra stress on this all-important organ. Here are tips for celebrating safely.

Why You Cough – And How to Stop

November 14, 2024

Coughing is the top reason that people go to a doctor. Knowing what may be causing your cough and how to ease your symptoms can help you feel better.

5 of the Most Effective Holiday Stress Busters

November 14, 2024

The holidays can be a time of comfort and joy but they can also be a time of stress and frustration. Follow these tips to stress less.

Screening for Lung Cancer: What You Need to Know

October 14, 2024

Lung-cancer screening is an essential way to detect disease early, when treatments may be more effective.

Are You at Risk for Kidney Damage?

October 14, 2024

Diabetic nephropathy, also known as kidney disease, is a serious condition that requires medical attention and treatment. Here’s what you should know.

8 Subtle and Surprising Signs of Diabetes

October 8, 2024

You may already be familiar with the most obvious signs, which include increased thirst and frequent urination. But there are other subtle, and often surprising, signs of diabetes that may appear even earlier if you know what to look for.

What’s the Difference Between COPD and Emphysema?

October 8, 2024

Wondering what the similarities and differences are between these two conditions? Here are answers to frequently asked questions about these lung diseases.

Is There a Way to Prevent Sudden Cardiac Arrest?

September 11, 2024

This life-threatening condition usually happens with no warning. However, a person may experience symptoms beforehand. Here’s what to know.

Why It’s Not Too Late to Improve Your Bone Health

September 11, 2024

No matter how old you are, what you eat and how much you move can strengthen your bones.

Breast Cysts: Are They a Problem?

September 11, 2024

Feeling a lump in your breast can be scary. However, not all lumps are cancerous. The most common cause of breast lumps or masses are cysts.

Addressing Chronic Pain with Physical Therapy

September 11, 2024

Physical therapy can help with more than just recovering from an illness or injury. Here’s how people with conditions like arthritis, fibromyalgia or back pain may benefit.

What is a Health Risk Assessment?

August 27, 2024

Learn more about how health risk assessments can help you make important decisions about your health.

How Everyday Choices Affect Spinal Stenosis

August 8, 2024

Spinal Stenosis can be a real pain. These tips for a well-rounded lifestyle can help manage the condition.

School, Stress and Your Child’s Mental Health

August 8, 2024

Back-to-school stress can become overwhelming and even lead to depression and anxiety in children and teens. 

What to Say to Someone Who Seems Suicidal

August 8, 2024

Knowing what to say when you think someone may be suicidal can help the person by showing your support, making them feel less alone and allowing them to work through their feelings rather than acting on them.

What It Means if Your Legs Hurt When You Walk

August 8, 2024

Do your legs hurt when you walk but then feel okay once you are sitting down? Find out what these symptoms could mean.

These Are the Symptoms of a Prostate Problem

August 8, 2024

Being able to recognize the symptoms of prostate problems will help you know when it's time to see a doctor.

Preparing Your Child for Back-to-School

July 19, 2024

Tips to help make the transition a breeze.

Your Guide to Frozen Shoulders

July 13, 2024

The only thing worse than being given the cold shoulder is getting a frozen one. Learn more about the causes, symptoms and treatment options for adhesive capsulitis.

The Benefits of Annual School Physicals

July 13, 2024

School physicals are an effective way to get a check of your child’s general health and to gain vaccine protections against common illnesses.

What Summer Shoes Do to Your Joints

July 13, 2024

Do you spend the summer in flip-flops, sandals and other casual shoes that are lightweight and breathable but have little support? If so, you may not only be hurting your feet but your joints as well.

How to Prevent Achilles Tendon Injuries

July 13, 2024

This is what an injured Achilles tendon feels like and how to protect yourself from injury.

Can Getting More Steps Each Day Lower Your Diabetes Risk?

July 13, 2024

By making positive lifestyle changes, you make it more likely you won't develop this chronic and serious disease.

Are You at Risk from Excessive Heat?

July 13, 2024

With summer in full swing, all this heat can be more than just an uncomfortable annoyance – it can be dangerous to your health.

Do You Know Your Calcium Score?

June 17, 2024

This important tool provides insights into the state of your arteries.

Don’t Ignore These Emergency Eye Symptoms

June 17, 2024

The health of your eyes plays a vital role in the quality of your everyday life. When an eye injury or other condition has the potential to threaten your vision, it’s important to recognize the symptoms that may require emergency care. This guide can help.

How to Recognize Common Forms of Skin Cancer

June 17, 2024

Although skin cancer can resemble other skin issues, these are signs you should look out for.

PTSD Can Happen to Anyone – Here’s Why

June 17, 2024

Many traumatic events can cause PTSD. Here's what to do if you think you have the condition.

Why Now Is a Good Time for These Elective Surgeries

June 17, 2024

Waiting to have a surgical procedure done? Now may be the perfect time to schedule it.

Signs That You Might Need an Interventional Cardiologist

June 17, 2024

What an interventional cardiologist does and why you may need to see one.

Here's Why Prediabetes Is More Serious Than You Think

May 23, 2024

If you have higher than normal blood sugar levels, here's what you need to know.

Orthopedic Injuries That Are More Common in Men

May 23, 2024

Your risk of some injuries to bones, tendons and joints may be higher depending on your sex.

How to Live with Heart Failure

May 23, 2024

Here are answers to common questions about living with this chronic condition.

5 Signs You Might Have a Hernia

May 23, 2024

These are some of the most common symptoms of hernias in the abdomen and groin.

Lifestyle Habits That Aid an Aging Brain

May 23, 2024

As we get older, our bodies and lifestyles change a lot. One of the biggest changes happens in our brains, and this can affect how we live. 

Testicular Cancer: What Younger Men Should Know

May 23, 2024

Testicular cancer is most common between ages 15 and 35. How can younger men protect themselves?

How Sleep Can Impact Your Waistline

May 2, 2024

When we don’t rest and recharge, our bodies are impacted, and getting enough sleep is a non-negotiable in a balanced, healthy lifestyle.

Falls Are Painful, Dangerous and Preventable

May 2, 2024

Falls are not only painful but can also lead to ongoing complications and difficulties. Know the risk factors and how to reduce your risk.

9 Surprising Foods That Keep Bones Strong

May 2, 2024

Not a fan of dairy? Here are other foods to include in your diet to keep bones healthier.

Is There a Safe Amount of Time You Can Be in the Sun?

May 2, 2024

To keep skin protected, wear sunscreen every day when going outdoors.

How Do You Know If You're at Risk for Vascular Diseases?

May 2, 2024

Vascular diseases are pretty common. Here's what they are and what increases your risk.

Strokes and Mini-Strokes: How They're the Same and Different

May 2, 2024

Not sure if your symptoms are due to a stroke or TIA? Here's how to tell.

Mental Health Issues in Today’s Youth

April 16, 2024

Understanding the effects and how to help.

The Small Insect That Can Do Big Damage

March 28, 2024

Spending time outdoors in warmer weather can increase the risk of contracting tickborne illness. Here’s what you need to know.

Do You Have Responsible Drinking Habits?

March 28, 2024

­­Many enjoy drinking alcohol, but overdrinking can make any party turn sour. Learn how to spot the signs of alcohol use disorder and alcohol overdose.

These Protein-Packed Breakfasts Keep You Fuller Longer

March 28, 2024

Begin your day with one of these meals and you’ll be off to a strong start.

Don’t Miss These Signs of Multiple Sclerosis

March 28, 2024

Although there’s no exact pattern of symptoms in MS, don’t ignore these possible warning signs.

This Is What Too Little Sleep Does to Your Body

March 28, 2024

Here’s a look at how long-term sleep deprivation affects your physical and mental health.

Always Stressed? You May Have Too Much Cortisol

March 28, 2024

Too much of this stress hormone can wreak havoc on your health.

Memory and Attention Loss after a Traumatic Brain Injury

March 12, 2024

Learn how therapy and targeted strategies can help.

A Chicken Dish with a Little Zest

February 27, 2024

This dish is full of flavor, with a delightful mix of textures. 

Is Your Joint Pain More Than Just the Usual Aches?

February 27, 2024

Joint health is important, and understanding what’s normal helps in maintaining your quality of life.

Unlocking the Power of Protein

February 27, 2024

Have you been neglecting this essential nutrient in your diet? This is how protein intake affects you now and in the future.

The Most Common Causes of Accidental Poisoning

February 27, 2024

Most poisonings occur at home. Here's where the danger lies and how to keep your family safer.

What's That Smell? And What Does It Mean?

February 27, 2024

Here's what body odor comes from, why it changes and how to control it.

These Symptoms May Mean You Have Kidney Disease

February 27, 2024

Symptoms during early stages of the disease are hard to spot, but don't ignore these red flags.

This Is What the World's Longest-Living People Eat

February 27, 2024

The diet of people in the Blue Zones may help them live longer. Here's what they eat.

Keep Up with Your Heart Health

February 9, 2024

Here's how to improve your odds for a long, healthy life.

A Heart-Healthy Recipe for Salmon

January 30, 2024

Try this delicious heart-healthy salmon with balsamic glaze. 

Would You Recognize These Warning Signs of Stroke?

January 30, 2024

Here's how to spot a stroke and what to do.

Here Are 7 Signs You Might Have Heart Failure

January 30, 2024

Don't ignore these common symptoms of this serious heart condition.

This Is What a Heart Attack Really Feels Like

January 30, 2024

In real life, heart attack symptoms are usually more subtle than what you see in movies.

A Guide to Easing into Exercise after a Heart Attack

January 30, 2024

Exercise helps you recover after a cardiac event and here are tips to help you do it more safely.

Minimally Invasive Heart Surgeries Explained

January 30, 2024

Today, minimally invasive techniques can offer reduced scarring, less pain and quicker recovery for those with cardiovascular conditions.

Starting the New Year on the Right Foot!

January 8, 2024

Getting back to balanced meals now that the holidays are over.

Winter Comfort Food with an Asian Twist

December 29, 2023

Bring the authentic flavors of Chinese cuisine right into your kitchen.
 

Weight Gain Isn't Always About Appetite or Willpower

December 29, 2023

If your yearly resolution has to do with reaching a healthy weight, it may be smart to check your thyroid.

4 Small New Year's Resolutions to Inspire Change

December 29, 2023

Broad and big new year resolutions can be hard to stick with. Try these small habit changes that can lead to a healthier lifestyle.

Do Diabetes Drugs Help You Lose Weight?

December 29, 2023

Here's why drugs originally developed to treat diabetes are being used for weight loss.

4 Foods That May Help You Lose Weight

December 29, 2023

Stay fuller while eating fewer calories by making these satisfying foods part of your diet.

7 Good Reasons to Try Dry January

December 29, 2023

This may be the incentive you need to start the new year alcohol-free.

How to Quit Smoking Gradually

December 29, 2023

Ready to kick your habit? Instead of doing it cold turkey, here are tips to ease into a smoke-free life.

Keep Illnesses Away from Your Holiday Gatherings

December 1, 2023

Getting sick slows you down and prevents you from enjoying the festivities. These tips can help you avoid it.
 

Watch Out for These Common Injuries During the Holidays

December 1, 2023

Don't let an injury ruin your holiday fun. These tips can help keep you injury-free.

Your Guide to Healthy Holiday Travel

December 1, 2023

Before you pack your bags, read these tips so you're more likely to stay healthy during your travels.

'Tis the Season When You're Most Likely to Have a Heart Attack

December 1, 2023

Here's why your heart is more at risk during the holidays, and what you can do to protect it.

Could You Have Seasonal Depression?

October 27, 2023

Winter blahs and holiday stress have you down? Read more for helpful strategies to lighten your mood.

4 Strategies to Get a Good Night’s Sleep

October 25, 2023

A good night’s sleep can set the tone for the day. These factors play a role. 

The Best Time to Exercise If You Have Diabetes

October 25, 2023

All exercise is good if you have diabetes, but here's when it may help the most.

How to Save 1,000 Calories at Your Thanksgiving Meal

October 25, 2023

The average American consumes over 2,000 calories on Thanksgiving. Here's how to save half those calories!

The Best Way to Catch Lung Cancer Early

October 25, 2023

If you are a current or former smoker, here's how to protect yourself from lung cancer.

How to Ease Hip Pain

October 25, 2023

If you have pain, stiffness and inflammation in your hip joint, these tips can help.

What Does It Mean to Have Dense Breasts?

September 28, 2023

Those with dense breast tissue are at higher risk of developing breast cancer and other breast-related issues.

What You Should Know About Diabetes and Sugar

September 28, 2023

High blood sugar causes many of the symptoms and complications of diabetes. Here’s how to manage your blood sugar. 

7 Things You'll Notice After Losing Weight

September 28, 2023

More than just the number on the scale will change when you lose weight.

The Scariest Health Hazards of Halloween

September 28, 2023

This holiday is all about having fun. Here are 5 ways to keep it that way.

The Do's and Don'ts of Supporting Someone with Mental Illness

September 28, 2023

Not sure what to do if a friend or family member has mental health issues? These tips may help.

These 10 Foods Help Fight Inflammation

September 28, 2023

Wondering what inflammation-fighting foods to add to your diet? Try these 10 powerhouses.

How Long Can You Safely Store These Foods in the Fridge?

August 24, 2023

If you have food that's taken up residence in your fridge, here's a guide to know when to toss it.

Are You Missing This Sign of Ovarian Cancer?

August 21, 2023

If you often feel full quickly when eating, don't ignore it.

These 9 Things Make It More Likely You'll Fall

August 21, 2023

Here's how to recognize common fall hazards so you can do something to lower your risk.

These Are the 3 Most Common Prostate Problems

August 21, 2023

If you're a man, here are three conditions that may affect your prostate as you age.

Here's Why AFib May Be Especially Dangerous for Women

August 21, 2023

Women need to be aware of this serious heart arrhythmia because early detection is important.

The Surprising Question That Might Prevent Teen Suicide

August 21, 2023

Today’s generation of teens are at high risk of suicide. Learn what you can do to intervene. 

How to Treat Any Burn

June 29, 2023

Whether from the sun, the grill or a sparkler, summer is burn season. Learn how to tell the painful inconvenience from the true emergency.

Living with Congestive Heart Failure

June 29, 2023

While serious, people can have fulfilling lives with this condition.

Do This to Make Restaurant-Quality Salads at Home

June 29, 2023

Save money and calories with these 10 tips for creating salads that taste like a chef made them.

Is Long COVID Becoming a Chronic Disease?

June 29, 2023

Although poorly understood, some people have symptoms after COVID-19 that don't go away.

20 Common Causes of Back Pain

June 29, 2023

Is your back hurting? This may be why.

Protect Your Eyes from These Summer Hazards

June 29, 2023

Keep your eyes free from injury and irritation this season with these tips.

Your Guide to a Safer Summer

June 8, 2023

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and the most preventable, too.

The Simplest Way for Men to Improve Their Health

June 8, 2023

Men’s life expectancy is dropping. Their hesitancy to go to the doctor could be a reason why. 

The Timeline of a Stroke: Onset to Recovery

April 24, 2023

A stroke can cause chaos. Know what to expect from its start to the recovery process.

Understand Your Allergies

April 24, 2023

Let's dive into the reasons for your pesky itchy eyes and runny noses, and how to avoid them.

Eating Healthy Is Important for Everyone

March 21, 2023

People of all ages – especially those with conditions such as diabetes or heart disease – need to be mindful of their diets.

Do You Know the Signs of an Eating Disorder?

March 16, 2023

How to help your teen if you think he or she is struggling.

How to Tell if Heartburn Is Something More

March 16, 2023

GERD can start out as an annoyance, but can cause serious damage over time. Avoid long-term effects through simple lifestyle changes and possibly treatment.

What a Headache Could Be Telling You

March 16, 2023

It’s a broad term for a lot of experiences. Learn how to tell if yours are serious.

Which Colorectal Cancer Test Is Right for You?

February 24, 2023

Various colorectal cancer screening options can make diagnosis and early detection easier for you.

The ABCs of Joint Replacement Surgery

February 24, 2023

Joint replacement surgery sounds so invasive, but what does it really entail? Here's the breakdown.

What Your Heart Is Telling You

January 25, 2023

Not all heart events are the same. Knowing what makes them different can be the key to surviving them.

The Surprising Connection Between Mind and Heart

January 24, 2023

Stress and anxiety could be negatively affecting your heart health AND heart disease can cause stress and anxiety. Here’s how to break the cycle.

Hospital Emergency Room or Urgent Care?

December 21, 2022

Where to go for minor, non-life-threatening concerns, like the flu, cuts and ear infections.

The Keys to Successful New Year’s Resolutions

December 21, 2022

The time to build healthy habits is here. Don’t think too hard, we’ve come up with a list of resolutions worth keeping.

RSV: What YOU Need to Know

December 19, 2022

This holiday season, when families gather and the risk of spread is high, be aware of common RSV symptoms, treatments and preventive actions.

Are You Struggling With Your Weight-Loss Journey?

December 2, 2022

If your goal is to lose weight, but nothing seems to be working, bariatric surgery can get you where you want to be.

Stay Safe This Flu Season

November 20, 2022

Don't miss any of the holiday cheer, avoid the flu this year.

Try These Steps To Defuse Holiday Stress

November 19, 2022

Put self-care at the top of your to-do list. Identify when stress is affecting you and how you can manage it.

What You Should Know About Anxiety

November 14, 2022

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States, affecting nearly one in five American adults each year.

5 Ways Quitting Smoking Can Improve Your Life

November 1, 2022

Sometimes the big health reasons to quit smoking are not enough. These small perks might be the push you need to make the commitment.

Prediabetes Is Common, Often Unrecognized, and Dangerous

October 31, 2022

It’s more common than you might expect. Learn how to avoid it turning into diabetes.

Know the Risk Factors to Avoid Falls

October 13, 2022

Falls are not only painful but can lead to ongoing complications and difficulties. Learn what you need to know to prevent them from happening to you.

Your Breast Cancer Screening Questions Answered

October 2, 2022

Is getting a mammogram at the top of your to-do list? If not, schedule it now. It may save your life!

Depression and Aging: Know the Facts

September 30, 2022

Depression is the most prevalent mental health problem among older adults and can lead to a decline in physical, mental and social functioning.

Leg Pain While Walking Is a Common Complaint

September 23, 2022

Do you have leg pain while walking? It could be Peripheral Artery Disease. Learn what you need to know.

The To-Do Item Men Shouldn't Forget

August 31, 2022

Prostate cancer affects 1 in 8 American men in their lifetime, and testing is important in identifying and treating it. 

The 10-Minute Test That Could Save Your Life

August 29, 2022

When it comes to maintaining heart health, early detection and prevention are key. This simple test can uncover a dangerous condition.

Protect Yourself While Enjoying the Summer Sun

June 10, 2022

Want to protect yourself from skin cancer while enjoying the summer sun? Checkout these timely tips to indulge in the sun safely.

Summer Safety Essentials

June 10, 2022

Paying attention to the most common types of injury can help keep you and your family safe while getting the most out of the warm months ahead.

9 Essential Screenings for Men

May 10, 2022

June is Men’s Health Awareness Month! Regular check-ups and screenings can help men stay healthy by indicating preventive health needs and catching issues before they become more serious.

How COVID-19 Has Impacted Mental Health

May 10, 2022

COVID-19 has taken a heavy toll on mental health. If you are concerned about yourself or a loved one, here are ways to identify issues and get help.

Recognition for our Remarkable Nurses

April 22, 2022

Nurses are on the frontline of most every healthcare interaction. We celebrate nurses everywhere during National Nurses Week, May 6-12.

5 Ways to Lessen Seasonal Allergies

April 22, 2022

Whether your allergy symptoms are frustrating or debilitating, there are steps you can take to enjoy rather than dread spring.

When You Need Care, Make the Smart Choice

March 25, 2022

Learn when to visit the emergency room versus urgent care.

How to Take Control of Your Neurological Health

March 25, 2022

Knowing what’s happening in your head could save your life.

Is Diabetes Putting You at Risk for Chronic Wounds?

February 15, 2022

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, talk to your doctor about ways to address and prevent chronic wounds associated with the disease, such as diabetic foot care. 

Joint Replacement – Is It for You?

February 15, 2022

If you suffer from chronic joint pain and medications are no longer working, you may be a candidate for joint replacement.

Could You Have Atrial Fibrillation?

January 12, 2022

What to know about this sometimes silent condition.

Heart Attack Symptoms – What’s Different for Men and Women

January 12, 2022

Knowing the signs and symptoms can save your life!

Could You Have Seasonal Depression?

December 16, 2021

Winter blahs and holiday stress have you down? Read more for helpful strategies to lighten your mood.

How to Keep Your New Year’s Resolutions

December 16, 2021

Want a fresh start for 2022? Create realistic, reasonable goals to set yourself up for success.

‘Tis the Season to Be Jolly, Safe and Healthy!

December 2, 2021

Follow these tips to enjoy the holidays safely and in good health.

Therapy That Helps Restore Quality of Life

October 7, 2021

Pelvic floor therapy can lessen pain, UTIs and leakage.

Help Prevent Suicide

September 17, 2021

Know the signs that someone might be at risk, and how to help.

Tips to Tackle Seasonal Affective Disorder

January 18, 2021

That “down” feeling many people experience during wintertime is known as seasonal affective disorder, or SAD. Here’s what you can do to combat the seasonal blues.

How to Break Free from Addictive Behaviors

January 16, 2021

The start of a new year represents a clean slate for many, including people putting themselves on the path to sobriety.

Health Briefs: A Quick Look at Hospital Happenings

December 9, 2020

Medical Nutrition Therapy is a new service that helps connect good nutrition with treating disease. Plus, learn why cardiac screenings are so important for student athletes.

Northwest Urgent Care Opens in Southwest Amarillo

November 10, 2020

When you or someone you love needs care, you shouldn’t have to wait to see a medical professional. That’s where the newly opened Northwest Urgent Care comes in.

'I'm Alive Because of ECMO'

August 10, 2020

This 23-year-old mom’s heart stopped in the operating room after a life-threatening car crash. Advanced heart-lung technology, known as ECMO, played a vital role in keeping her alive.

Getting Bodies Back in Motion

July 13, 2020

This sleek and sophisticated space is redefining physical therapy and sports medicine. Discover what makes Northwest Sports and Ortho so special.

Staff Celebrates Discharge of First COVID-19 Patient

May 18, 2020

Hospital workers lined the hallways on April 15 to celebrate the discharge of their first recovered COVID‑19 patient, Ralph Albracht.

Citizens Unite in Prayer for Healthcare Workers

May 11, 2020

Cars and emergency vehicles filled the hospital’s parking lot to show support for the healthcare workers on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Thank You for Supporting Our Healthcare Teams

April 28, 2020

We've received an outpouring of community support since the COVID-19 outbreak began. Here's a list of the organizations that have supported the cause.

What Services Do Northwest’s Neighborhood EDs Offer?

April 17, 2020

Medical Director Frederick D. Poage, DO, explains what makes Northwest Emergency on Georgia and Northwest Emergency at Town Square special.