McLaren Port Huron

Nothing is more important to parents than the health and safety of their children. So, when parents are looking for the right pediatrician, trust is paramount. “Trust is essential for any doctor-patient relationship,” said Dr. Sonali Vashi, a pediatrician with McLaren Port Huron. “When the patient is your child, as a parent, that level of trust has to be firm and unyielding. The best thing any parent can do to build trust with their pediatrician is to ask questions. Build a relationship and gain an unde...

Many people look forward to the holidays, even with the stress of shopping, gift giving, navigating family dynamics, meal planning and juggling a schedule packed with holiday activities and commitments. But this isn’t always the case. For some people, the holidays can be an emotionally exhausting and difficult time.  “The holidays can be an especially difficult time for those battling depression,” explains William Holmes, Manager of Mental Health Services at McLaren Port Huron. “It’s really importa...

Diane Jovanovich, lead dietician at McLaren Port Huron, recently offered her practical tips on how to avoid the holiday weight gain many people experience. In addition to her suggestions of being mindful of portions and making nutritious choices, Jovanovich offers more tips below that will help you navigate the holiday party season and not gain additional weight. 1. Eat a small snack before going to a party. Arriving to a party on an empty stomach will likely cause you to over-indulge and eat until you ...

The holidays are a magical time, especially when seen through the eyes of children. But it’s also a time for accidents and injuries.  “While it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it is vital for parents to be aware of the potential hazards,” said Dr. Sonali Vashi, a pediatrician with McLaren Port Huron. “Unfortunately, accidents and injuries are common this time of year and by watching out for some potential holiday hazards, you and your family can enjoy a happy...

Traditions are an important part of the holiday season. At McLaren Port Huron, we are celebrating the holidays with three traditions that embody the spirit of the season. The community is invited to celebrate with us and make these traditions part of their own. In the spirit of keeping everyone safe and healthy this holiday season, all the displays are visible from outside. So, bundle up and walk or drive through to see the displays. 33rd Annual Festival of Trees This annual fundraiser for McLaren Port ...

The holidays may be the most wonderful time of the year, but they can also be the most stressful. From shopping and decorating to gatherings with friends and family, things can get overwhelming really fast and lead to stress. Dr. Bashar Maskoni, a primary care physician with McLaren Port Huron, offers five tips to help reduce stress during the holidays: 1.  Plan ahead. Staying organized can help you feel less hurried. Set aside some days for shopping, decorating and traveling. Make a to-do list to ...

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD, is the third leading cause of death by disease in the United States. More than 16 million people have been diagnosed with the disease, but millions more have it without even knowing it. With COPD, the airways in your lungs are blocked, making it hard to breathe. There is no cure for COPD, but it can be managed and treated. Through medications, oxygen therapy, pulmonary rehabilitation and support, many individuals are able to live with COPD for many years.&...

The joy and festivities celebrating the upcoming holiday season can often come at a steep price for many. Calories. The cheer and ‘togetherness’ of the season is often enjoyed with plenty of food and drink. And, in many instances, the end of the season for most is the start of a new season in which they are motivated to lose extra weight and get back on a healthier track. The work to burn off those sugars, fats and excess carbs can be minimized, though, with some planning and a little extra discipline d...

Heading home to visit with your aging parents for the holidays? It might be a perfect opportunity to do a visual inspection of their home to ensure it is safe. Many adult children worry about their aging parents. As your parents enter their golden years, it’s important to check if their home is safe or if there are any potential hazards and safety issues.  The following checklist will help you identify any red flags but being prepared to talk to your parent afterward. Be honest and truthful and dec...

The perception of e-cigarette use – or vaping – is that it is a safer alternative to smoking, one that saves the users from the nasty consequences that come with tobacco use. Companies even promote e-cigarettes as a way to help smokers quit. In the largest study ever conducted on the health effects of e-cigarettes, the American Heart Association (AHA) has concluded this is overwhelmingly not the case. When compared to non-users, e-cigarettes are associated with a 71 percent higher risk for stroke, 59 pe...