02
Jun
29
May
Genetic counseling uncovers Beacon patients hidden heart risk before symptoms develop
Laura Tuthill, PhD, a proud mother, gardener, adjunct professor and equestrian, looks the very picture of health. But a family health crisis set her on a journey that would change her life -- and possibly save it. When a relative became critically ill with heart disease several years ago, she began...
28
May
Is it allergies, poor air quality or a summer illness? How to tell the difference
Summer often brings more time outdoors, family vacations and packed activity schedules. But it can also bring coughing, congestion, headaches and fatigue — symptoms that can leave families wondering what is actually causing them. Is it seasonal allergies? Smoke or poor air quality? A summer cold? In many cases, the symptoms overlap enough that it can be difficult...
21
May
Summer shifts: What parents should know about learning, play and big emotions
For many families, summer brings a welcome break from busy school schedules. Bedtimes stretch a little later, routines loosen and kids have more freedom to play, explore and just be kids. But along with that flexibility often comes a familiar set of parent questions: Will my child fall behind without school? Should I be...
20
May
Sun safety: Protecting your skin during camping season
Time in the sun is part of nearly every summer activity, but too much exposure can lead to more than just a temporary burn. “Sunburns are very common this time of year, especially for kids who are outside for long stretches,” said Jaclyn Stoddard, PA-C, family medicine physician assistant at Beacon Kalamazoo Immediate Care Woodbridge Hills Portage. Even on cloudy days, UV...
20
May
When kids don’t speak up: Hidden illnesses and injuries at camp
The communication gap parents don’t always see For many families, sending a child to camp whether for the day or overnight is an exciting part of summer. It’s also a time when parents rely on their child to communicate when something isn’t right. The challenge is, kids don’t always speak up. “We often see situations where a child has had symptoms...
20
May
Water safety for kids: What parents should know before heading to the pool, lake or river
Start with safety before kids get in the water From backyard pools to summer lake trips, water is a big part of family fun during the summer. But it also comes with serious risks. “Drowning is the leading cause of death for children under age 4 and one of the top causes...
20
May
Sleep, homesickness and emotional well-being: What parents should know before camp
For many children, going to camp whether for a day, overnight or extended stay is an exciting milestone. It’s a chance to build independence, make new friends and try new things. But even with all the excitement, it’s also completely normal for kids to experience emotional and physical adjustment during that transition. “Not every concern we hear about when kids attend summer camp...
19
May
Eye on Health: A stroke at 39 becomes a wake-up call
Recognizing the signs of a stroke and acting quickly can mean the difference between recovery and lasting damage. For 39-year-old Dylan Friar of Niles, Michigan, that lesson became all too real. What Dylan thought was a migraine turned into a sudden medical emergency. He couldn’t control his hand, and his speech...
14
May