At The Northwest Texas Healthcare System Blog you'll find information you can use to improve your overall health and well-being, and stories about our amazing patients and Healthcare Heroes serving our community.

Keep Up with Your Heart Health

February 9, 2024

Here's how to improve your odds for a long, healthy life.

A Heart-Healthy Recipe for Salmon

January 30, 2024

Try this delicious heart-healthy salmon with balsamic glaze. 

Would You Recognize These Warning Signs of Stroke?

January 30, 2024

Here's how to spot a stroke and what to do.

Here Are 7 Signs You Might Have Heart Failure

January 30, 2024

Don't ignore these common symptoms of this serious heart condition.

This Is What a Heart Attack Really Feels Like

January 30, 2024

In real life, heart attack symptoms are usually more subtle than what you see in movies.

A Guide to Easing into Exercise after a Heart Attack

January 30, 2024

Exercise helps you recover after a cardiac event and here are tips to help you do it more safely.

Minimally Invasive Heart Surgeries Explained

January 30, 2024

Today, minimally invasive techniques can offer reduced scarring, less pain and quicker recovery for those with cardiovascular conditions.

Starting the New Year on the Right Foot!

January 8, 2024

Getting back to balanced meals now that the holidays are over.

Winter Comfort Food with an Asian Twist

December 29, 2023

Bring the authentic flavors of Chinese cuisine right into your kitchen.
 

Weight Gain Isn't Always About Appetite or Willpower

December 29, 2023

If your yearly resolution has to do with reaching a healthy weight, it may be smart to check your thyroid.

4 Small New Year's Resolutions to Inspire Change

December 29, 2023

Broad and big new year resolutions can be hard to stick with. Try these small habit changes that can lead to a healthier lifestyle.

Do Diabetes Drugs Help You Lose Weight?

December 29, 2023

Here's why drugs originally developed to treat diabetes are being used for weight loss.

4 Foods That May Help You Lose Weight

December 29, 2023

Stay fuller while eating fewer calories by making these satisfying foods part of your diet.

7 Good Reasons to Try Dry January

December 29, 2023

This may be the incentive you need to start the new year alcohol-free.

How to Quit Smoking Gradually

December 29, 2023

Ready to kick your habit? Instead of doing it cold turkey, here are tips to ease into a smoke-free life.

Keep Illnesses Away from Your Holiday Gatherings

December 1, 2023

Getting sick slows you down and prevents you from enjoying the festivities. These tips can help you avoid it.
 

Watch Out for These Common Injuries During the Holidays

December 1, 2023

Don't let an injury ruin your holiday fun. These tips can help keep you injury-free.

Your Guide to Healthy Holiday Travel

December 1, 2023

Before you pack your bags, read these tips so you're more likely to stay healthy during your travels.

'Tis the Season When You're Most Likely to Have a Heart Attack

December 1, 2023

Here's why your heart is more at risk during the holidays, and what you can do to protect it.

Could You Have Seasonal Depression?

October 27, 2023

Winter blahs and holiday stress have you down? Read more for helpful strategies to lighten your mood.

4 Strategies to Get a Good Night’s Sleep

October 25, 2023

A good night’s sleep can set the tone for the day. These factors play a role. 

The Best Time to Exercise If You Have Diabetes

October 25, 2023

All exercise is good if you have diabetes, but here's when it may help the most.

How to Save 1,000 Calories at Your Thanksgiving Meal

October 25, 2023

The average American consumes over 2,000 calories on Thanksgiving. Here's how to save half those calories!

The Best Way to Catch Lung Cancer Early

October 25, 2023

If you are a current or former smoker, here's how to protect yourself from lung cancer.

How to Ease Hip Pain

October 25, 2023

If you have pain, stiffness and inflammation in your hip joint, these tips can help.

What Does It Mean to Have Dense Breasts?

September 28, 2023

Those with dense breast tissue are at higher risk of developing breast cancer and other breast-related issues.

What You Should Know About Diabetes and Sugar

September 28, 2023

High blood sugar causes many of the symptoms and complications of diabetes. Here’s how to manage your blood sugar. 

7 Things You'll Notice After Losing Weight

September 28, 2023

More than just the number on the scale will change when you lose weight.

The Scariest Health Hazards of Halloween

September 28, 2023

This holiday is all about having fun. Here are 5 ways to keep it that way.

The Do's and Don'ts of Supporting Someone with Mental Illness

September 28, 2023

Not sure what to do if a friend or family member has mental health issues? These tips may help.

These 10 Foods Help Fight Inflammation

September 28, 2023

Wondering what inflammation-fighting foods to add to your diet? Try these 10 powerhouses.

How Long Can You Safely Store These Foods in the Fridge?

August 24, 2023

If you have food that's taken up residence in your fridge, here's a guide to know when to toss it.

Are You Missing This Sign of Ovarian Cancer?

August 21, 2023

If you often feel full quickly when eating, don't ignore it.

These 9 Things Make It More Likely You'll Fall

August 21, 2023

Here's how to recognize common fall hazards so you can do something to lower your risk.

These Are the 3 Most Common Prostate Problems

August 21, 2023

If you're a man, here are three conditions that may affect your prostate as you age.

Here's Why AFib May Be Especially Dangerous for Women

August 21, 2023

Women need to be aware of this serious heart arrhythmia because early detection is important.

The Surprising Question That Might Prevent Teen Suicide

August 21, 2023

Today’s generation of teens are at high risk of suicide. Learn what you can do to intervene. 

How to Treat Any Burn

June 29, 2023

Whether from the sun, the grill or a sparkler, summer is burn season. Learn how to tell the painful inconvenience from the true emergency.

Living with Congestive Heart Failure

June 29, 2023

While serious, people can have fulfilling lives with this condition.

Do This to Make Restaurant-Quality Salads at Home

June 29, 2023

Save money and calories with these 10 tips for creating salads that taste like a chef made them.

Is Long COVID Becoming a Chronic Disease?

June 29, 2023

Although poorly understood, some people have symptoms after COVID-19 that don't go away.

20 Common Causes of Back Pain

June 29, 2023

Is your back hurting? This may be why.

Protect Your Eyes from These Summer Hazards

June 29, 2023

Keep your eyes free from injury and irritation this season with these tips.

Your Guide to a Safer Summer

June 8, 2023

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and the most preventable, too.

The Simplest Way for Men to Improve Their Health

June 8, 2023

Men’s life expectancy is dropping. Their hesitancy to go to the doctor could be a reason why. 

The Timeline of a Stroke: Onset to Recovery

April 24, 2023

A stroke can cause chaos. Know what to expect from its start to the recovery process.

Understand Your Allergies

April 24, 2023

Let's dive into the reasons for your pesky itchy eyes and runny noses, and how to avoid them.

Eating Healthy Is Important for Everyone

March 21, 2023

People of all ages – especially those with conditions such as diabetes or heart disease – need to be mindful of their diets.

Do You Know the Signs of an Eating Disorder?

March 16, 2023

How to help your teen if you think he or she is struggling.

How to Tell if Heartburn Is Something More

March 16, 2023

GERD can start out as an annoyance, but can cause serious damage over time. Avoid long-term effects through simple lifestyle changes and possibly treatment.

What a Headache Could Be Telling You

March 16, 2023

It’s a broad term for a lot of experiences. Learn how to tell if yours are serious.

Which Colorectal Cancer Test Is Right for You?

February 24, 2023

Various colorectal cancer screening options can make diagnosis and early detection easier for you.

The ABCs of Joint Replacement Surgery

February 24, 2023

Joint replacement surgery sounds so invasive, but what does it really entail? Here's the breakdown.

What Your Heart Is Telling You

January 25, 2023

Not all heart events are the same. Knowing what makes them different can be the key to surviving them.

The Surprising Connection Between Mind and Heart

January 24, 2023

Stress and anxiety could be negatively affecting your heart health AND heart disease can cause stress and anxiety. Here’s how to break the cycle.

Hospital Emergency Room or Urgent Care?

December 21, 2022

Where to go for minor, non-life-threatening concerns, like the flu, cuts and ear infections.

The Keys to Successful New Year’s Resolutions

December 21, 2022

The time to build healthy habits is here. Don’t think too hard, we’ve come up with a list of resolutions worth keeping.

RSV: What YOU Need to Know

December 19, 2022

This holiday season, when families gather and the risk of spread is high, be aware of common RSV symptoms, treatments and preventive actions.

Are You Struggling With Your Weight-Loss Journey?

December 2, 2022

If your goal is to lose weight, but nothing seems to be working, bariatric surgery can get you where you want to be.

Stay Safe This Flu Season

November 20, 2022

Don't miss any of the holiday cheer, avoid the flu this year.

Try These Steps To Defuse Holiday Stress

November 19, 2022

Put self-care at the top of your to-do list. Identify when stress is affecting you and how you can manage it.

What You Should Know About Anxiety

November 14, 2022

Anxiety disorders are the most common mental illness in the United States, affecting nearly one in five American adults each year.

5 Ways Quitting Smoking Can Improve Your Life

November 1, 2022

Sometimes the big health reasons to quit smoking are not enough. These small perks might be the push you need to make the commitment.

Prediabetes Is Common, Often Unrecognized, and Dangerous

October 31, 2022

It’s more common than you might expect. Learn how to avoid it turning into diabetes.

Know the Risk Factors to Avoid Falls

October 13, 2022

Falls are not only painful but can lead to ongoing complications and difficulties. Learn what you need to know to prevent them from happening to you.

Your Breast Cancer Screening Questions Answered

October 2, 2022

Is getting a mammogram at the top of your to-do list? If not, schedule it now. It may save your life!

Depression and Aging: Know the Facts

September 30, 2022

Depression is the most prevalent mental health problem among older adults and can lead to a decline in physical, mental and social functioning.

Leg Pain While Walking Is a Common Complaint

September 23, 2022

Do you have leg pain while walking? It could be Peripheral Artery Disease. Learn what you need to know.

The To-Do Item Men Shouldn't Forget

August 31, 2022

Prostate cancer affects 1 in 8 American men in their lifetime, and testing is important in identifying and treating it. 

The 10-Minute Test That Could Save Your Life

August 29, 2022

When it comes to maintaining heart health, early detection and prevention are key. This simple test can uncover a dangerous condition.

Protect Yourself While Enjoying the Summer Sun

June 10, 2022

Want to protect yourself from skin cancer while enjoying the summer sun? Checkout these timely tips to indulge in the sun safely.

Summer Safety Essentials

June 10, 2022

Paying attention to the most common types of injury can help keep you and your family safe while getting the most out of the warm months ahead.

9 Essential Screenings for Men

May 10, 2022

June is Men’s Health Awareness Month! Regular check-ups and screenings can help men stay healthy by indicating preventive health needs and catching issues before they become more serious.

How COVID-19 Has Impacted Mental Health

May 10, 2022

COVID-19 has taken a heavy toll on mental health. If you are concerned about yourself or a loved one, here are ways to identify issues and get help.

Recognition for our Remarkable Nurses

April 22, 2022

Nurses are on the frontline of most every healthcare interaction. We celebrate nurses everywhere during National Nurses Week, May 6-12.

5 Ways to Lessen Seasonal Allergies

April 22, 2022

Whether your allergy symptoms are frustrating or debilitating, there are steps you can take to enjoy rather than dread spring.

When You Need Care, Make the Smart Choice

March 25, 2022

Learn when to visit the emergency room versus urgent care.

How to Take Control of Your Neurological Health

March 25, 2022

Knowing what’s happening in your head could save your life.

Is Diabetes Putting You at Risk for Chronic Wounds?

February 15, 2022

If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, talk to your doctor about ways to address and prevent chronic wounds associated with the disease, such as diabetic foot care. 

Joint Replacement – Is It for You?

February 15, 2022

If you suffer from chronic joint pain and medications are no longer working, you may be a candidate for joint replacement.

Could You Have Atrial Fibrillation?

January 12, 2022

What to know about this sometimes silent condition.

Heart Attack Symptoms – What’s Different for Men and Women

January 12, 2022

Knowing the signs and symptoms can save your life!

Could You Have Seasonal Depression?

December 16, 2021

Winter blahs and holiday stress have you down? Read more for helpful strategies to lighten your mood.

How to Keep Your New Year’s Resolutions

December 16, 2021

Want a fresh start for 2022? Create realistic, reasonable goals to set yourself up for success.

‘Tis the Season to Be Jolly, Safe and Healthy!

December 2, 2021

Follow these tips to enjoy the holidays safely and in good health.

Therapy That Helps Restore Quality of Life

October 7, 2021

Pelvic floor therapy can lessen pain, UTIs and leakage.

Help Prevent Suicide

September 17, 2021

Know the signs that someone might be at risk, and how to help.

Tips to Tackle Seasonal Affective Disorder

January 18, 2021

That “down” feeling many people experience during wintertime is known as seasonal affective disorder, or SAD. Here’s what you can do to combat the seasonal blues.

How to Break Free from Addictive Behaviors

January 16, 2021

The start of a new year represents a clean slate for many, including people putting themselves on the path to sobriety.

Health Briefs: A Quick Look at Hospital Happenings

December 9, 2020

Medical Nutrition Therapy is a new service that helps connect good nutrition with treating disease. Plus, learn why cardiac screenings are so important for student athletes.

Northwest Urgent Care Opens in Southwest Amarillo

November 10, 2020

When you or someone you love needs care, you shouldn’t have to wait to see a medical professional. That’s where the newly opened Northwest Urgent Care comes in.

'I'm Alive Because of ECMO'

August 10, 2020

This 23-year-old mom’s heart stopped in the operating room after a life-threatening car crash. Advanced heart-lung technology, known as ECMO, played a vital role in keeping her alive.

Getting Bodies Back in Motion

July 13, 2020

This sleek and sophisticated space is redefining physical therapy and sports medicine. Discover what makes Northwest Sports and Ortho so special.

Staff Celebrates Discharge of First COVID-19 Patient

May 18, 2020

Hospital workers lined the hallways on April 15 to celebrate the discharge of their first recovered COVID‑19 patient, Ralph Albracht.

Citizens Unite in Prayer for Healthcare Workers

May 11, 2020

Cars and emergency vehicles filled the hospital’s parking lot to show support for the healthcare workers on the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Thank You for Supporting Our Healthcare Teams

April 28, 2020

We've received an outpouring of community support since the COVID-19 outbreak began. Here's a list of the organizations that have supported the cause.

What Services Do Northwest’s Neighborhood EDs Offer?

April 17, 2020

Medical Director Frederick D. Poage, DO, explains what makes Northwest Emergency on Georgia and Northwest Emergency at Town Square special.