McLaren Port Huron

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...

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 decide in...

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 Behavior Health Services at McLaren Port Huron. “It’s really impor...

Trains are a holiday tradition at McLaren Port Huron Video of this year's train display Train If you are unable to make it over to view the train, we've recorded the footage below for you to enjoy. Percy McDonald, MD, has loved trains since he was a little boy growing up in Chicago. For more than 30 years, he’s created a spectacular holiday train exhibit at McLaren Port Huron. It has become a holiday tradition, and a destination point for many families in our community. This year, the train display is i...

Hira Khan, MD, primary care physician 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, Khan offers more tips below that will help you navigate the holiday party season and not gain additional weight. Plan ahead. Ask what foods will be served and offer to bring a healthy option to your next holiday gathering. Watch portion sizes. It’s easy to ...

Flu season is here. It begins in October and continues into the spring. This season could be unpredictable because last year fewer people than normal were infected with flu. That means more people are at risk this year, especially since COVID restrictions are greatly lessened compared to last year. That’s why getting your flu vaccine is important.  Dr. Jason Whateley, primary care physician with McLaren Port Huron, answers five common questions about flu vaccination. 1. What is the best way to be p...

The CDC ranks lung cancer as the leading cause of cancer deaths in the United States, with cigarette smoking as the number one cause of lung cancer. Although many lung cancers are found in the late stages, making it more difficult to treat, the good news is there is a screening that can increase the likelihood of an early diagnosis and better outcomes. Individuals who are at high risk can qualify for a low-dose CT lung screening. This screening is a CT image of the lungs that uses a lower amount of radi...

RSV activity is already high, with health experts predicting a severe flu season. For the past two years, the flu season has been mild to nearly non-existent. Health experts have explained the lack of a severe or even moderate flu season on the COVID-19 pandemic and the precautions being taken to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus. However, with COVID-19 moving out of the pandemic phase and the dropping of mandated mask wearing and other precautions, a severe flu season is forecasted for this year. ...

Only life-long smokers are at risk for lung cancer, right? Wrong. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Every year, more people die of lung cancer than of colon, breast and prostate cancers combined. According to the American Cancer Society, lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death among both men and women, making up almost 25 percent of all cancer deaths. About 80 percent of lung cancer deaths are thought to result from smoking. Despite its worldwide prevalence an...

What is pain? Pain occurs when something hurts, which causes an uncomfortable or unpleasant feeling. It is usually a sign that something is wrong. If pain persists, it can be debilitating and frustrating, and interfere with activities, sleep, work and quality of life. Acute pain vs. chronic pain Acute pain is caused by something specific, such as an injury or surgery. It goes away when the underlying cause of the pain is healed.  Chronic pain is ongoing, continuing even after the injury or conditio...