child nose blowing

Goodbye sniffles, hello tissues: teaching toddlers to blow their nose

If you have a toddler, you probably know this scene all too well: Your child’s nose is running like a faucet, and every time you reach for a tissue, they turn their head, swipe at their face with their sleeve or worse – just sniff the mess right back in. It’s not a skill that comes naturally, and most little ones have no idea how to make air come out of their nose on purpose. Teaching nose-blowing is one of those small parenting challenges that pays off in a big way. With the right tools, tricks and a little patience, your toddler can master this milestone.
sun hat

Summer heat & anxiety medications: What you need to know

As summer temperatures soar, it’s important to be aware of how hot weather can interact with your mental health medications—particularly if you’re managing anxiety. While most people know to drink more water or apply sunscreen when the heat hits, fewer realize that certain anxiety medications can actually make it harder for your body to cope with high temperatures.
Back to school with SIU Medicine, group of girls walking to class

Back to school: tips for success

Is it back-to-school time already? Going back to, or even starting school, can be chaotic. And once they start that school, it doesn’t get any easier. Here are a few simple tips to help manage the
Dr. Eric Nelson

Top 10 common women’s health myths and the truths behind them

Despite decades of medical advancements and increased awareness, misinformation about women’s health continues to circulate. These myths can lead to confusion, influence health care decisions and even prevent women from seeking the care they need, causing unnecessary suffering.
fair

Elephant ears, corn dogs and shake-ups, oh my!

The smells of deep-fried goodness, sizzling meats, and sweet treats in the air can only mean one thing: The Illinois State Fair is back! Maybe you’re team corn dog, funnel cake or chocolate shake — or
Man up at night, sundowning

Understanding sundowning and creating a better nighttime routine

If you’re a caregiver for someone with dementia, you may notice a pattern that’s as frustrating as it is heartbreaking: as the sun sets, your loved one becomes more confused, anxious or agitated. This
swimming

Dry drowning: What you need to know this summer

As temperatures rise and families flock to pools, lakes and beaches, it's the perfect time to talk about an important—and often misunderstood—summer safety concern: dry drowning (also known as secondary drowning). While rare, dry drowning can be serious, and understanding the signs can help you act quickly and confidently if something seems off after water play.
summer hat

Summer skin safety: evidence-based tips to protect your skin

As temperatures rise and outdoor activities fill our calendars, protecting your skin should remain a top health priority. More than 5.4 million cases of basal and squamous cell skin cancers are diagnosed each year in the U.S., along with nearly 100,000 new cases of melanoma, according to the American Cancer Society. The good news? The majority of these cases are preventable with consistent, evidence-based sun safety practices. This summer, protect your and your family’s skin with simple, smart strategies.
social gathering

ADHD & Substance Abuse: Understanding the link, breaking the cycle

ADHD: Low Dopamine ADHD is naturally geared to lower levels of dopamine —the brain chemical that affects motivation, focus, and reward. Daily activities feel less satisfying, such as sports, movies or