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Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A Serious Complication of Diabetes – and How to Prevent Them
Read more: Diabetic Foot Ulcers: A Serious Complication of Diabetes – and How to Prevent ThemNatalie Johnson, M.D. Many people are familiar with diabetes or live with the condition themselves. What many do not realize is that diabetes can lead to serious complications that affect mobility, independence and overall quality of life. One of the most significant and often overlooked complications of diabetes is the development of a diabetic foot…
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When to See an Orthopedic Specialist for Joint Pain
Read more: When to See an Orthopedic Specialist for Joint PainAches and pains are a regular part of life, especially as we grow older. But while occasional soreness or stiffness may be common, prolonged pain and discomfort may indicate the need for specialist care. Joint pain can be caused by multiple things, including injury, overuse or degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis. Knowing when to see an…
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What East Texans need to know about kratom
Read more: What East Texans need to know about kratomIn most gas stations or smoke shops, you will likely see colorful displays for a supplement called kratom. It often is marketed as a natural energy booster or a safe way to manage pain without a prescription. But providers in East Texas see a different story in clinics. Jasmine Douglas, M.D., addiction medicine specialist, shares…
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Lung Nodules: When to Worry
Read more: Lung Nodules: When to WorryBy David Gass, M.D. A lung nodule is a small mass that may appear as a spot on the lung during a CT scan or chest X-ray. While the discovery can understandably cause concern, the reassuring news is that less than 5% of lung nodules are cancerous. Still, patients often wonder: When should I be…
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New year is prime time to ease into exercise
Read more: New year is prime time to ease into exerciseBy Robert French, D.O. It’s a new year; a time for fresh starts and new beginnings. Many have set a goal of improving their health in 2026, which includes incorporating exercise in their daily routines. If you are one of these, I applaud you. With the right approach, you’ll gain strength, reduce stress and improve…
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Healthy Lifestyle Choices to Lower Your Breast Cancer Risk
Read more: Healthy Lifestyle Choices to Lower Your Breast Cancer RiskBy Robert Droder, MD, board-certified hematology and oncology physician, at the UT Health East Texas HOPE Cancer Center During Breast Cancer Awareness Month, it’s a good time to think about steps you can take to protect your health. While not all risk factors can be controlled, healthy habits can lower your chance of developing certain…
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Facing breast cancer with faith, friendship and expert care
Read more: Facing breast cancer with faith, friendship and expert careWhen Nancy Webb received her breast cancer diagnosis at the start of 2025, she didn’t panic. She didn’t freeze. She didn’t even cry. Instead, she asked one simple question: “What do we do now?” That calm, determined response set the tone for her journey — a path marked by faith, resilience and the support of…
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Mother of four scores new life after bariatric surgery
Read more: Mother of four scores new life after bariatric surgery“The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, nor a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack of will.” – Vince Lombardi, legendary Green Bay Packers head football coach For Rebecca Boyd, who shares a love of football with her four children, Coach Lombardi’s quote echoes what she said…
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The Importance of Routine Health Screenings
Read more: The Importance of Routine Health ScreeningsRoutine health screenings are a critical component of preventive care. They allow for the early detection and management of potential health conditions, often before symptoms arise. While lifestyle choices such as regular exercise and a balanced diet are essential, they do not replace the need for medical evaluations that can identify underlying issues. Below is…
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Bariatric patient transforms into healthy ‘Miss Skinny’
Read more: Bariatric patient transforms into healthy ‘Miss Skinny’The woman carefully made her way down the narrow airplane aisle and settled into her seat. When she reached to buckle her seatbelt, she realized it didn’t quite fit. Feeling a bit unsure, she quietly raised her hand and gently asked the flight attendant, “I think I need an extension belt.” The flight attendant smiled…
