Ocala

Florida’s population increases significantly during the winter months. A bulk of this population is northerners trying to dodge the colder temperatures. A drop in temperature can affect your health, no matter how cold. Research shows that cold weather can affect your heart, your skin, your immune system and your joints. While …

Drug abuse is associated with serious oral health problems including generalized dental caries, periodontal diseases, mucosal dysplasia, xerostomia, bruxism, tooth wear, and tooth loss. Oral health care has positive effects in recovery from drug abuse: patients’ need for pain control, destigmatization, and HIV transmission. Health care systems worldwide deliver services for …

Dr. Mayrene Hernandez, chief medical officer for UnitedHealthcare Florida, explains why getting a flu shot now is important As the holidays approach, so starts the annual flu season. While flu – or influenza – is most serious for older Americans and people with certain chronic conditions, influenza can affect people of …

The Holiday season is upon us, and with all of the festivities, we should be well reminded that this time of year can literally put a great deal of stress on our hearts. Since heart disease is still the leading cause of death in both men and women, what better time …

The holidays are intended for families and special friends to come together and celebrate. Unfortunately, commercialism at times invokes much more stress than pleasure during this time of year. Ev’ents and parties have us rushing, healthy diets are tossed aside and our sleep patterns are often overlooked. For many this …

Most people live their whole lives without thinking twice about their gallbladder. Anyone who has had a gallbladder attack, on the other hand, will never forget theirs. What is the gallbladder? How do you know if it’s acting up? What can you do about it? This article summarizes everything you …

By JAMES COMBS Lori Esarey knows firsthand what it is like to battle disease. As a registered nurse, she worked alongside patients suffering from acute and chronic illnesses. Plus, her family had a history of diabetes, heart problems, and other ailments. When Lori was pregnant, she struggled with high blood …

When we think of the holiday season, we typically visualize family dinners, lasting memories and some relaxation, and we look forward to a peaceful experience. After all, holidays are a time to get away from our stress-filled lives and visit family and friends. In reality, these things hold true, but …

The holidays bring abundant gifts, many of which are intangible. Love. Generosity. Faith. Family. But unfortunately, for many of us, poor health is also on that list. Although it’s an incredibly special time of year, it’s still important to keep track of your physical, emotional and spiritual health. Overindulging, under-exercising and …

By Dr. J. David Holcomb, M.D. During this time of year, most of our schedules are full with work, the kids, shopping, decorating, attending events and the list goes on and on. All of these activities and celebrations are wonderful, but if we’re honest, it can be a stressful time. Stress …