Health & Wellness

Feeling like pebbles were stuck in her shoes, Rebeca Giacoman pulled into a rest stop while driving to Virginia from a vacation in Tennessee. She took her dog out for a walk and shook out her shoe, finding no pebbles, despite still feeling the sensation.

The 3D tomography machine saved my life, Robyn says. If I'd waited until I could feel the tumor, it could have been much worse.

The joy of having a child can't help but motivate many parents to re-evaluate their lifestyles and goals. Hampton resident Sara Waters is no exception.

Inspired by friends who had undergone weight loss surgery, Pam Sumner embarked on a new path that has led to losing more than 150 pounds.

Not too long ago, nagging back pain from excess weight kept Erin McGlamery from being able to take a walk to burn calories. At 275 pounds, exercising had become increasingly difficult.

Pregnant people can get a jump start on preparing for breastfeeding through education, discussions with OB-GYNs, and connecting with lactation support services before giving birth. Breastfeeding support before and after giving birth helps new moms overcome common breastfeeding challenges. Sentara hospitals offer lactation consultations, postpartum support groups and guidance on techniques like hand expression to boost milk supply.

Respiratory illness is making headlines across the U.S. Symptoms of common illnesses such as colds, flu, COVID-19 and RSV are similar, and treatment options vary based on risk level. High-risk individuals should seek urgent or emergency care. Primary care, walk-in clinics or urgent care facilities are recommended for mild symptoms. Sentara offers various care options, including primary, urgent and emergency care.

If your provider gives you the green light to attempt a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC), having a birth plan and discussing any concerns with your team will go a long way in making sure your birth is a positive experience, no matter what happens. We have some tips to help you prepare.

Stressors, such as loneliness, anxiety about time with extended family and financial worries, can steal some of your joy during the holidays. Learning how to navigate these feelings and other concerns that overwhelm you can make the season brighter.

When choosing a hospital where you’ll give birth, look for one that offers a personalized birth experience. Sentara Maternity Services prioritizes personalized care. Flexibility is a big part of the birth experience and our care team helps laboring moms adapt to changes while promoting a soothing atmosphere.

The holiday season is marked by an increase in heart attacks, particularly in the last week of December. This spike in heart-related incidents, known as the "Christmas holiday effect," is partly due to people delaying treatment for symptoms during the busy season. Factors contributing to this increase include holiday stress, disrupted routines, colder weather, and indulgence in rich foods and alcohol. To reduce the risk, recognize common heart attack symptoms and follow some practical tips for heart health.

A routine lung cancer screening revealed that George had lung cancer. Now, nearly a year later, George has recovered and is living his life to the fullest.

Minor anxiety is common during pregnancy, and it’s important to recognize that you’re not alone. Discussing your feelings with your healthcare provider, prioritizing sleep, mindfulness, self-care and physical activity can help manage pregnancy anxiety. Building a support network and seeking professional help when needed also play a key role in improving mental well-being.

While many people interchange the terms "Alzheimer's disease" and "dementia," they are not the same.

Virginia and North Carolina, like many states, offer patients direct access to physical therapy without a referral. In this article, we’ll look at the origins of direct access and how it can help you feel better faster.