Health Archives - Page 28 of 36

‘Man Flu’ is Real, Researcher Claims

December 12, 2017

Site Staff,

(Shutterstock) (FOX NEWS) – The so-called “man flu” has been a punchline for decades, but according to one expert it may be time to stop taking it lightly. Dr. Kyle Sue, a Canadian doctor whose findings are published in the British Medical Journal, claims that physiological differences between men and women can lead to different responses to colds and viruses….

Wisconsin Health Professionals Hope to Expand Vaccine Access

December 12, 2017

The Associated Press,

MILWAUKEE (AP) – The Medical College of Wisconsin wants to expand access to vaccines by having drug stores offer immunizations. Wisconsin Public Radio reports that the college is spending $489,000 on a vaccination project with the Pharmacy Society of Wisconsin. The statewide project is expected to last two and a half years. The college’s dean, George MacKinnon, says the project…

Superior High School Students Hold Discussion About Concussions

Kaleb Ullan Got Two Concussions Playing Hockey Last Year and Wanted to Teach Facts to the Community

December 11, 2017

Andrew Kirov,

SUPERIOR, Wis. – Over the last few years, we’ve all heard a lot about the effects concussions can have on athletes. Two Superior High School students looked into the information and on Monday, they presented a community discussion about concussions. Kaleb Ullan was diagnosed with two concussions while playing hockey last season. This year, he and his friend Blake Hanson…

Northland Doctors Discuss Ethical Patient Care

Northlanders can do their part addressing the opioid epidemic.

December 7, 2017

Lauren Leigh,

DULUTH, Minn.- Northland medical professionals are discussing ethical issues when treating patients with pain or addiction. The goal of the Medical Ethics Conference is to make sure patients are being treated fairly. When treating chronic pain medical professionals have a lot to take into consideration; from when opioids should be prescribed, to what to do if your patient develops an…

Coldest Air Of Season Creates Concern For Homeless

CHUM and Life House In Need Of Donations

December 4, 2017

Joey Norton,

DULUTH, Minn- The coldest air of the season is settling in on the Northland, which has advocates concerned for homeless in the area. Typically, the CHUM homeless shelter in Duluth hosts about 50 people a warm night, according to CHUM support staff member Shawn Carr. But he says that number can double when the deep freeze sets in. “During cold…

Essentia Health Pharmacies Accepting Unwanted Medications

Anyone can safely and anonymously drop off at all pharmacy locations

December 4, 2017

Melissa Lentz,

DULUTH, Minn. – Essentia Health is looking to keep unused or expired medications out of the wrong hands, as well as out of landfills and waters. Essentia announced Monday that anyone looking to get rid of prescription and over-the-counter drugs can do so anonymously at any Essentia Health retail pharmacy. Pharmacies are now equipped with bright blue drop-off boxes. Certain…

Several Northlanders Hospitalized from Possible Carbon Monoxide Exposure

Several Northlanders were hospitalized due to possible exposure, some were airlifted into Duluth.

December 3, 2017

Lauren Leigh,

VIRGINIA, Minn.- Seven Northlanders on the Iron Range are in the hospital after possible carbon monoxide exposure. The owner of the residence where this happened says three people live in the home and four others were visiting. Their condition has not been released Sunday. Fire Department Officials say it’s important for people to be educated about this silent killer. The…

‘Tree of Lights’ Ceremony Helps Grieving Families

Essentia Health's Annual Ceremony Is a Fundraiser for Grief Support Services

December 3, 2017

Andrew Kirov,

DULUTH, Minn. – A ceremony at Essentia Health helps grieving families get through the holiday season. The holidays can be difficult for families experiencing the loss of a loved one. At Essentia Health’s Tree of Lights Ceremony, people experiencing grief come together to connect with others going through the same emotions. At the ceremony, families remember, honor and thank special…

Hermantown Students Graduate from D.A.R.E.

More than 170 sixth graders graduated the program

December 1, 2017

Graham Hakala,

HERMANTOWN, Minn. – Hermantown kids are ready for some of life’s toughest lessons, thanks to the D.A.R.E program. More than 170 sixth grade students graduated from the 2017 D.A.R.E program In Friday. Hermantown police handed out certificates and prizes. The program teaches kids about the effects of drugs and alcohol, but it doesn’t stop there. “The D.A.R.E. program is so much…

Northlanders Raise Awareness on World AIDS Day

More than 36 million people are living with HIV

December 1, 2017

Graham Hakala,

DULUTH, Minn. – A candlelight vigil took place in Downtown Duluth to commemorate the lives lost to HIV and AIDS, as well as draw attention to the illness as a way to de-stigmatize the topic. “People with HIV and AIDS are just that – They’re people,” advocate Will McGraw said. “I think that all people deserve to feel safe and respected…

Health Care Fallout: Fate of 8M Low-Income Children in Limbo

December 1, 2017

The Associated Press,

MINNEAPOLIS (AP) – The collateral damage from Congress’ struggle to repeal President Barack Obama’s health care law could include a program that covers more than 8 million low-income children. The Children’s Health Insurance Program, also known as CHIP, provides low-cost coverage to children in families that earn too much to qualify for Medicaid. But it has become caught up in…

Expert Tips for Sticking to a Diet and Exercise Plan During the Holidays

Active Adventures: Anytime Fitness Duluth

December 1, 2017

Natalie Froistad,

DULUTH, Minn. – -Sticking to a diet and exercise plan can be difficult during the holiday season. FOX 21 spoke with a personal trainer from Anytime Fitness in Duluth. The trainer, Andy Schobert, says it’s important to manage your portions when at holiday events. Schobert says using a fitness tracker can help because people can know how many calories they’re…

Fon du Lac Tribal & Community College Holds Opioid Overdose Training

Signs of an opioid overdose include difficulty breathing, small pupils and pale and clammy skin

November 30, 2017

Haydee Clotter,

CLOQUET, Minn. -Many people living in St. Louis and Carlton County know the effects of the opioid all crisis too well. They might have dealt with or have family members dealing with an addiction. Naloxone or Narcan is one drug that reverses the effects of an opioid overdose. Several people were at Fon du Lac Tribal & Community College for…

Autism, Sleep Apnea Added as Minnesota Medical Marijuana Qualifiers

November 30, 2017

The Associated Press,

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – Minnesota health officials say they’re adding autism spectrum disorders and obstructive sleep apnea as conditions that qualify for medical marijuana. Health Commissioner Ed Ehlinger says there is increasing evidence that medical marijuana can help people with severe autism or obstructive apnea. The state health department takes public input each year on conditions that might be…

Twin Ports Mayors Unite For AIDS Proclamation

Only 60 percent of people living with HIV know their status

November 28, 2017

Haydee Clotter,

SUPERIOR, Wis., – Dec. 1 is recognized as World AIDS Day. Twin Ports Mayors Emily Larson and Jim Paine held a dual proclamation to show how they’re working together to place the spotlight on the disease in the Northland. Both mayors agree that HIV and AIDS is a big problem and it affects millions, but it also hits close to…

State Parks Offer Free Admission for Free Park Friday

November 24, 2017

Natalie Froistad,

DULUTH, Minn. – Black Friday deals aren’t just taking place inside shopping malls and storefronts today. State Parks across the country are offering free admission for Free Park Friday. Some are even hosting programs. Tettegouche State Park is teaching Primitive Fire Starting from noon until 2:00 p.m. For more information head to www.dnr.mn.us. Categories: Community, Entertainment, Environment, Features, Health, Links,…

Salmonella Poisoning Symptoms and Warning Signs

November 23, 2017

Site Staff,

(FOX NEWS) – You’re feeling sick for several hours after a tasty meal – is it just a “food coma,” or a case of salmonella poisoning? If it’s the latter, you may feel ill and experience discomfort for several days. The infection is rarely fatal. The problem may stem from your own dinner table: consuming raw and undercooked animal products…

100,000 Minnesotans Sign Up for Private Health Insurance So Far

November 22, 2017

The Associated Press,

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) – Officials say more than 100,000 Minnesotans who buy health insurance on their own have signed up through the state’s insurance exchange so far. Open enrollment for 2018 health coverage began Nov. 1. Gov. Mark Dayton and MNsure CEO Allison O’Toole released the new enrollment numbers Wednesday. More than 50,000 Minnesotans already have signed up through…

Animal Blood Donors Needed in the Northland

Dogs and Cats Can Be Tested to See if They're Eligable to Donate

November 22, 2017

Brett Scott,

DULUTH, Minn. – According to the American Red Cross, every two seconds someone in the United States is in need of donated blood. Experts say it’s why blood drives are so critical in every community across the Northland. But have you ever thought about your animals when it comes to donating? Every year thousands of humans do good by donating…

At Least 50 Employees Fired From Essentia For Not Getting Flu Shot

99.5 Percent of Employees Got Flu Shot

November 21, 2017

Lauren Leigh,

DULUTH, Minn.- The Duluth based Essentia Health has fired nearly 50 workers w ho did not get a shot and now union leaders are fighting back. When asked what the next steps for these 50 some fired workers are? An Essentia Health representative said the now former employees have no next step with the company. Also stating this is only…

Transgender Day of Remembrance Vigil Held in Duluth

Vigil and Rally Aim to Raise Awareness for Trans Rights

November 20, 2017

Andrew Kirov,

DULUTH, Minn. – Trans people and their allies across the world are standing together to honor transgender lives lost to hate and violence. For Transgender Remembrance Day, a vigil and rally were held in Downtown Duluth at the corner of Lake Avenue and Superior Street. Organizers say their goal is to raise awareness for trans rights in the Northland. “If…

Working Out with Kettlebells

Active Adventures: Duluth YMCA

November 17, 2017

Natalie Froistad,

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth YMCA in downtown offers several options for exercise. They have offerings from group classes, rock climbing, racquetball, to swimming lessons, pickleball, basketball, and much more. For this week’s Active Adventures, FOX 21’s William Seay learned how to work with kettlebells. Alisha Bradley, Director of Healthy Living for the YMCA, says it’s a strength training device…

The Great American Smokeout Reaches Out to Northlanders

The American Lung Association shows Northlanders options to use while quitting smoking.

November 16, 2017

Lauren Leigh,

DULUTH, Minn.- The American Lung Association has been helping smokers put down cigarettes for over 35 years. The Great American Smokeout offers Northlanders looking to quit smoking cigarettes, many suggestions. The Minnesota Medicaid program covers; NRT Gum, NRT Patches, counseling, and other options to make the process a little easier. “I did the lozenges, I did the patch, and made…

St. Luke’s Plastic Surgery Associates Hosts Black Friday Sale

Discount on Make Up and Skin Care Products

November 16, 2017

Natalie Froistad,

DULUTH, Minn. – Thanksgiving is a week away meaning Black Friday sales are also right around the corner. St. Luke’s Plastic Surgery Associates is hosting another Black Friday sale. All make up, skin care and injectables gift certificates will be 25 percent off on Friday, November 24. Also, if a customer spends $30, they’ll receive a $15 coupon for future…

Blood Pressure Guidelines Changed By American Heart Association

Almost Half of Americans Are Now in the High Blood Pressure Category

November 15, 2017

Andrew Kirov,

DULUTH, Minn. – Almost half of all Americans are now considered to have high blood pressure according to the new parameters released by the American Heart Association. They say blood pressure should now be treated at 130/80 instead of 140/90. About a third of Americans were in the high blood pressure category before, but after moving the guidelines it now…

FDA Clears Nerve Stimulator to Aid Recovery from Opioids

November 15, 2017

The Associated Press,

(Courtesy of Innovative Health Solutions, Inc. ) WASHINGTON (AP) – U.S. health authorities have cleared a brain-stimulating device for patients suffering from debilitating withdrawal symptoms caused by addiction to heroin and other opioids. The nerve stimulator is the first device to treat such symptoms including joint pain, anxiety, stomach aches, and insomnia. The announcement Wednesday by the Food and Drug…

MNSURE Sees Twice as Many Enrollees

Process for MNSURE is Also Going Smoother This Year

November 15, 2017

Site Staff,

ST. PAUL, Minn.-MNSURE has registered about 92,000 people this year through its health insurance exchange, which is twice as many as last year. Reports are also suggesting the open enrollment period has gone much smoother compared to year’s past. “Our first two weeks have gone very smoothly,” said CEO Allison O’Toole. “MNsure’s enrollment is looking strong out of the gate. ……

Medical Experts Want You To Think About Advanced Care Planning Options

Essentia Health allows patients to complete a directive plan online through a MyHealth account.

November 14, 2017

Haydee Clotter,

DULUTH, Minn. – With Thanksgiving around the corner, medial experts want you to bring something else to the table. The conversation of advanced care planning, which may cause fear in some, but it’s an important topic to discuss. “When these conversations don’t happen and the patient expires families never talk to each other ever again, because people in the family…

Half of US Adults Have High Blood Pressure in New Guidelines

November 13, 2017

The Associated Press,

ANAHEIM, Calif. (AP) – New guidelines lower the threshold for high blood pressure, adding 30 million Americans to those who have the condition, which now plagues nearly half of U.S. adults. High pressure, which for decades has been a top reading of at least 140 or a bottom one of 90, drops to 130 over 80 in advice announced Monday by a dozen…

St. Luke’s Showcases Traveling Art Show

Art Can Be Seen On Third Floor

November 10, 2017

Joey Norton,

DULUTH, Minn. – St. Luke’s hospital is adding some new art to their hallways for a short period of time. The hospital is hosting the traveling, community focused art exhibit known as, to really see. The exhibit focuses on the display of creative medication use stories that users, artist, and participants want to express and share. “I would like this…

Gearing Up for Cold Weather

Active Adventures: Proper Dressing for Frigid Temperatures

November 10, 2017

Natalie Froistad,

DULUTH, Minn. – Below average temperatures have been keeping the Northland cold throughout the week. For this week’s Active Adventures, FOX 21’s William Seay got advice for dressing for the cold weather. Eve Graves told William how to dress if he’s interested in skiing, jogging, or doing some other active activity in frigid temperatures. Graves tells FOX 21, “there’s no…

Saint Scholastica Hosts Health Career Fair

30 Employers Met With About 150 CSS Students Seeking Health Careers

November 8, 2017

Andrew Kirov,

DULUTH, Minn. – A health career fair was held Wednesday at the College of Saint Scholastica. Thirty employers from across the region including St. Luke’s, Essentia, and the Mayo Clinic met with CSS students wanting to enter the healthcare industry. “For a recruiter to be able to see someone and to make that face to face connection, it can really…

Safe Sleep Infant Week Promotes Healthy Sleeping Environment

Safe Infant Sleep Week is Nov. 5-11

November 8, 2017

Haydee Clotter,

DULUTH, Minn. – As part of Infant Safe Sleep Week medical leaders in Minnesota are making a push to cut down on unexpected infant deaths. St. Luke’s Hospital in Duluth is at the forefront of this initiative. That’s because it’s the first hospital in the state to receive a National Safe Sleep Certification by maintaining a safe sleep policy. “Our…

“Lettuce Meet Up” with the Duluth Community Garden Program

The community garden group holds a meet up every month

November 7, 2017

Graham Hakala,

DULUTH, Minn. – The Duluth Community Garden Program held their first monthly get–together at Bent Paddle on Tuesday. It’s called “Lettuce Meet Up!” It’s a way for community gardeners to get to know each other, and discuss tips and tricks. “You can meet people from different gardens, some all the way in west side, some all the way in Chester…

Mental health conference held in Duluth

The conference brought mental health professionals from all over the region together

November 7, 2017

Graham Hakala,

DULUTH, Minn. – Mental health professionals from around the region met up in Duluth on Monday and Tuesday. It was the third annual Comprehensive Mental Health Conference. Organizers say it’s a way for health professionals to learn more about their practice, network, and encourage young professionals to seek careers in the mental health field. “This work can be tremendously fulfilling,…

Health Emergency Declared on Bad River

November 7, 2017

Site Staff,

BAD RIVER, Wis.-The Bad River Tribe near Ashland has declared a public health emergency as they face an opioid abuse crisis. The goal of the declaration is to help bring more funding into the community to fight its growing drug problem. Other tribes in the region have taken similar steps including Red Cliff and Lac Courte Oreilles. “This is a…

Wisconsin Lawsuit Blames Drug Makers for Opioid Crisis

November 7, 2017

The Associated Press,

MILWAUKEE, Wis. (AP) – Nearly two dozen Wisconsin counties say in a federal lawsuit that “nefarious and deceptive” marketing campaigns from pharmaceutical companies are responsible for the nation’s opioid overdose epidemic. The lawsuit filed Tuesday says local governments’ health and law enforcement services “have been strained to the breaking point” because of widespread opioid abuse. The lawsuit seeks unspecified monetary…

P.T.S.D. discussion held at Duluth Public Library

Health officials say it's important to talk about mental health

November 6, 2017

Graham Hakala,

DULUTH, Minn. – With Veteran’s Day coming up this week, some groups are having discussions surrounding mental health. A presentation was held a the Duluth Public Library discussing Post-traumatic Stress Disorder in veteran’s. Organizers say it is important for people to talk about mental health, and understand that help is out there. “Mental illness is still a stigma, unfortunately, so…

Anthem Picks Former UnitedHealth Executive to Become CEO

November 6, 2017

The Associated Press,

INDIANAPOLIS (AP) – Blue Cross-Blue Shield insurer Anthem has picked a former top executive from its biggest competitor to replace Joseph Swedish as its next CEO. Anthem said Monday that Gail K. Boudreaux will start Nov. 20 Swedish will serve as executive chairman until May and then as senior adviser for a couple more years. A statement Monday from Indianapolis-based…

Essentia Health Introduces New Surgical Robot

Robot Is Expected to Help Patients Heal Faster After Surgeries

November 6, 2017

Andrew Kirov,

DULUTH, Minn. – Essentia Health has a new surgical robot that’s expected to help patients heal faster after surgery. Surgeries performed by robots allow patients to spend less time in the hospital, feel less pain, and take fewer medications. St. Mary’s Hospital in Duluth performs more than four-hundred robotic surgeries every year. With the new robot, they can expand that…

Key Court Hearing for State Official in Flint Water Scandal

November 6, 2017

The Associated Press,

FLINT, Mich. (AP) – A judge has begun hearing testimony against a Michigan official who faces criminal charges tied to a Legionnaires’ disease outbreak during the Flint water crisis. Dr. Eden Wells is the state’s chief medical executive. She’s charged with involuntary manslaughter, obstruction of justice, and lying to an investigator. The state attorney general says Wells and others could…

AG Tells Walker Board Can Make Self-Insurance Available

November 6, 2017

The Associated Press,

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – Attorney General Brad Schimel says the state Group Insurance Board can offer self-insurance plans to municipal employers. Gov. Scott Walker asked Schimel in April for a legal opinion on whether state law authorizes the board to set up a self-insurance plan open to municipal employers. under such a plan, the state would pay medical claims directly….

How Technology Can Help You Have a Good Night’s Sleep

November 6, 2017

Natalie Froistad,

DULUTH, Minn. – As we experienced the “Fall Back” of Daylight Savings Time on Sunday, the Northland is going to be seeing less daylight. This can affect mood and sleep cycle. Verizon Wireless Solutions Specialist Rachel Agurkis visited FOX 21 to describe technology that can help with the sleep cycle. The Fitbit Charge 2 can help monitor how much light,…

Fire Officials Remind to Check Smoke Detector Batteries This Weekend

According to fire officials, a majority of house fire related deaths are in houses with faulty smoke detectors

November 3, 2017

Graham Hakala,

SUPERIOR, Wisc. – Sunday is the day to set the clocks back for daylight saving time, which means it’s also an important time to check something else around the house. Fire officials say it’s time to change the batteries on those smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms. Experts say having a functioning smoke detector is a matter of life or…

Alzheimer’s Disease Discussed at UWS Conference

10 Percent of Elderly Have Some Form of Dementia

November 3, 2017

Site Staff,

SUPERIOR, Wis.-Alzheimer’s is a disease that has devastating effects on much of the elderly population. Today, a conference was held at UWS that looked at the future of Alzheimer’s treatment and where research is headed next. Event organizers said the problem of Alzheimer’s in Wisconsin seems to be increasing. “The prevalence of Alzheimer’s as our state ages is going up…

Essentia Health Hosts Fundraiser for Patients, Community

Fundraiser Will Be Held in Three Locations at Hospital

November 2, 2017

Site Staff,

DULUTH, Minn.-Essentia Health’s holiday fundraiser has begun. Two of their gift shops, along with their community room, will be open tomorrow to sell baked goods and many different gift items like ornaments. All the funds for this sale, will go toward a great cause. “All the profits from this show and throughout the year go to our St. Mary’s Auxiliary…

Fundraiser Being Held at St. Luke’s to Help Patients

Event Will be Held Tomorrow From 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

November 2, 2017

Site Staff,

DULUTH, Minn.-It’s that time of the year again, where St. Luke’s Hospital needs your help. Their Volunteer Service Guild is hosting a fundraiser sale that goes through tomorrow at the hospital’s gift shop. Multiple items are on sale there, including jewelry and clothing. Volunteers at the event said the funds raised will go toward patient care programs along with medical…

Eat Smart Month Aims to Help Northlanders Improve Heart Health

The American Heart Association Partners with Essentia Health, St. Luke's and Super One Foods to Promote Healthy Eating

November 1, 2017

Brett Scott,

DULUTH, Minn. – It’s time to gobble up the rest of your Halloween candy and prepare for a healthy holiday season. The American Heart Association is looking to help consumers celebrate National Eating Healthy Day. The Association along with Essentia Health and St. Luke’s hosted an event Wednesday evening at Super One Foods near the Miller Hill Mall. The event…

Healthcare Enrollment Begins in MN – And There Are Folks Available to Help Out

November 1, 2017

William Seay,

DULUTH, Minn. — Starting today, Minnesotans can enroll in healthcare coverage through the open enrollment process. Minnesota is one of only 12 states with a state health insurance exchange. The process can be a little complicated, but there are some agencies around the area that can help. Generations Healthcare Initiative is one of those resources, with folks called “navigators” on…

St. Luke’s Honored with American Heart Association Awards

Hospital Has Received Awards Four Consecutive Years

November 1, 2017

Andrew Kirov,

DULUTH, Minn. – St. Luke’s Hospital was honored with awards from the American Heart Association recognizing their quality care for heart attack and stroke patients. The hospital held a presentation and luncheon today to thank the members of their cardiac team. “To recognize them and recognize their efforts and dedication to their craft and how good they are at it…