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INTEGRIS Health On Your Health Blog

Check back to the INTEGRIS On Your Health blog for the latest health and wellness news for all Oklahomans.

several fiber rich foods are shown on a table with fruits, whole grains, seeds, nuts and vegetables

Fibermaxxing: Foods to Add and Foods to Avoid for Better Gut Health

Fiber has long been an important part of nutrition advice, but a social media trend called fibermaxxing has brought it renewed attention. Fibermaxxing encourages people to eat more high-fiber foods to support digestion, regularity and gut health. But increasing fiber too quickly can cause gas, bloating and cramping. Learn which fibermaxxing foods to add, which foods to approach carefully and how to increase your fiber intake safely.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

an older couple smiling in the kitchen while cutting vegetables and cooking a healthy meal

More Than Looking Younger: Daily Longevity Habits to Help You Move, Think and Feel Better

Most people associate aging well with how they look, but the habits that actually add quality years to your life have very little to do with appearance. Discover INTEGRIS Health's healthy aging tips to help you move, think and feel better. This guide covers the daily practices that support a sharper mind, a stronger body and a more resilient sense of well-being. Small shifts that, over time, make a real difference in how you live.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

a woman with knee pain uses a cane while being guided by a caregiver and walking into an orthopedic doctor's office

Knee and Hip Pain: Signs You Should See an Orthopedic Surgeon

Knee or hip pain can gradually change how you sleep, move and participate in everyday activities. If pain or stiffness continues despite medication, physical therapy, activity changes or injections, it may be time to talk with an orthopedic specialist.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

an older man in a blue shirt is seen speaking to a cardiologist about chest pain as he holds his hand to his chest while talking to the doctor

Can Heart Failure Be Reversed? Understanding Your Symptoms and Treatment Options

Heart failure is not always permanently reversible, but in some people, heart function and symptoms improve significantly when the underlying cause is treated. Even when heart function improves, ongoing treatment and monitoring are usually important.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

a woman looks with concern at her comb filled with clumps of hair

Why Am I Losing So Much Hair? Understanding Shedding vs. Hair Loss

Waking up to loose strands on your pillow feels alarming. Running fingers through your hair only to pull away handfuls sparks panic. You have to wonder, “Why am I losing so much hair?” Discovering the root of the problem is the only way to take control of your hair loss treatment plan. You are not alone, and finding a path forward begins with clear information.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

an older woman and her caregiver smiling

Heart Disease in Oklahoma: Know Your Risk and When to Seek Care

Heart disease can develop quietly over many years. High cholesterol and plaque buildup often cause no noticeable symptoms, so many people may not recognize their risk until a serious cardiovascular event occurs. This is especially concerning in Oklahoma, where heart disease is the leading cause of death.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

Happy multi generational women having fun together

“It’s Just a Normal Part of Aging,” and Other Menopause Myths Doctors Want to Challenge

Somewhere between the hot flash jokes and the hushed conversations, a lot of real information about menopause gets lost. For millions of women, the experience is far more complex than pop culture suggests, and the gaps in understanding can lead to symptoms going unaddressed for years. What is menopause, and why do myths matter? INTEGRIS Health is helping women understand perimenopause and menopause symptoms that deserve real care, not dismissal. Let’s bust some of the most common menopause myths, so you can walk into your next conversation with clarity and confidence.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

a man grabs his chest with his hand as he experiences heart attack symptoms like intense pressure and chest pain

Heart Attack Symptoms You Should Never Ignore

Chest pain can send a sudden jolt of panic through anyone. It is a terrifying experience that often brings the absolute worst-case scenarios to mind. Chest pain or pressure can have many causes, but new, unexplained or persistent chest discomfort should never be self-diagnosed. Heart attack symptoms are not always sudden or severe. They may begin as mild pressure, tightness or discomfort and may occur with shortness of breath, nausea, sweating, lightheadedness or pain elsewhere in the upper body.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

an older man's hands are shown holding a prescription bottle and medicine

Daraxonrasib for Pancreatic Cancer: What Patients Should Know

Pancreatic cancer has long been one of the most difficult cancers to treat, partly because most cases aren't diagnosed until they've already spread. For patients with metastatic disease, treatment options have historically been limited, and survival rates have reflected that reality. A new drug called daraxonrasib may be changing the conversation. This once-daily pill shows promise in improving pancreatic cancer survival rates, and INTEGRIS Health is helping patients understand what daraxonrasib means for pancreatic cancer treatment and future options.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

Student athletes take a supervised water break during outdoor practice.

Heat Safety for Student Athletes: Doctor Shares Hydration Tips and Warning Signs

Summer conditioning and fall practices can expose young athletes to dangerous heat. Sports medicine physician Andrew Young, M.D., explains the symptoms families and coaches should never ignore.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

Woman measuring blood pressure at wooden table indoors

When Is Blood Pressure Too High? Symptoms to Act on Fast

High blood pressure affects nearly half of all adults in the United States, yet most people don't know what it feels like until something goes wrong. Symptoms are easy to dismiss. They might involve a headache, some dizziness, maybe a little nausea, but in some cases, those same signs point to something far more serious. When is blood pressure too high? INTEGRIS Health is helping patients recognize dangerous high blood pressure symptoms and act fast.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

an older man is shown covering his mouth with chronic cough warning signs including chest pain and shortness of breath

Chronic Cough: When It's Serious and When to See a Doctor

You blame the pollen. You blame the dry air, the dog, the change of seasons. Weeks slip by, and the cough hangs around, rattling through your chest at the worst moments. Most coughs fade once a cold or allergy flare-up runs its course. Learn more from INTEGRIS Health’s guide to when a chronic cough is something you shouldn’t ignore. A cough that drags on past a few weeks can signal something deeper than a stuffy nose.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

a slice of bread is shown spread with peanut butter, along with the knife used and a jar of peanut butter on top of a wooden table

Is Peanut Butter Heart Healthy? Understanding Its Impact on Cholesterol

Patients frequently ask doctors at INTEGRIS Health, “Is peanut butter bad for cholesterol?” It makes sense to wonder about a food so rich and creamy. Many of us grew up eating it every day. Now, as adults, we worry about our cardiovascular health. Let us look at the facts and figure out if this pantry staple helps or hurts your lipid levels.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

a bottle of peptides is shown sitting on a stool as a hand holds a dropper

What Are Peptides?

Claims about peptides abound online these days. Their purported health benefits range from weight loss and glowing skin to anti-aging and anti-inflammatory effects, to name a few. But what are peptides and how do you separate facts from advertising? Finding reliable guidance from INTEGRIS Health on peptides is entirely possible without wading through dense medical jargon. You deserve straightforward answers about how these microscopic compounds actually influence your biology and whether they live up to the lofty claims made by healthcare marketers.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

parents with their two children playing and laughing together while sitting on the floor in the living room

Beat the Fall Rush: Schedule Preventive Screenings Before Fall Schedules Fill Up

As families prepare for back-to-school routines, fall sports, holiday planning and year-end commitments, INTEGRIS Health encourages community members to prioritize their health by scheduling preventive screenings and annual wellness visits now.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

a woman balances herself against a wall as she appears dizzy and in distress

What Is POTS? Understanding Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome

You might have seen the term trending on social media or discussed in recent health news, but many people still find themselves asking the experts at INTEGRIS Health a simple question: What is POTS? It is a complex condition affecting the autonomic nervous system, often leaving individuals feeling lightheaded, dizzy or faint simply by standing. While the symptoms can feel overwhelming and sometimes debilitating, understanding the mechanics of this syndrome is the vital first step toward reclaiming your quality of life.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

a doctor is shown talking with a patient as he explains test results from a monitor

No Symptoms Doesn’t Mean No Risk: Colon Cancer Screening Options You Should Know

Colon cancer can develop quietly. Many people feel completely well, have no pain, no bleeding and no change in bowel habits — and still have precancerous polyps or early colorectal cancer. That is exactly why screening matters. Screening gives physicians the opportunity to find cancer earlier, when treatment is more effective, and in many cases, to prevent cancer by finding and removing precancerous polyps before they become dangerous. Colorectal cancer remains one of the most important preventable cancers in the United States. The good news is that patients have more screening options than ever.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

a woman holds a damp cloth to her head while standing outside in the heat, trees seen in the background

Heat Can Be Hazardous to Your Heart

With many areas of Oklahoma reaching peak summer temperatures, the INTEGRIS Health Heart Hospital and the American Heart Association (AHA) are preaching prevention. It’s not something many people think about, but temperatures over 100 or even temperatures in the 80s with high humidity can cause a dangerous heat index that can be hard on the heart.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

Ashwagandha Dry Root Medicinal Herb with Fresh Leaves, also known as Withania Somnifera, Ashwagandha, Indian Ginseng, Poison Gooseberry, or Winter Cherry. Isolated on Dark Background.

The Role of Ashwagandha in Managing Stress, Anxiety and Overall Well-being

With the relentless pace of modern life, stress and anxiety have become pervasive challenges affecting millions. Coping with these pressures necessitates a holistic approach to well-being, and one natural solution that has gained widespread attention is ashwagandha. This ancient adaptogenic herb, rooted in traditional Ayurvedic medicine, has been lauded for its potential to alleviate stress and anxiety. The use of ashwagandha has vast scientific evidence, and practical applications in managing stress and anxiety.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

Sunglasses placed on the sand with nature reflection in polarized lenses and blurred sea view in the background

Healthy Travel Tips for a Safe Summer Journey

As families and travelers hit the road, skies and rails for summer vacations, healthcare professionals at INTEGRIS Health are encouraging travelers to prioritize their health and safety during long trips.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

a man hiking in the woods wipes sweat off his forehead with one hand while holding a water bottle in the other

Heat-Related Illnesses: When to Seek Emergency Care

With July and August typically bringing Oklahoma’s hottest temperatures, INTEGRIS Health encourages residents to understand the difference between heat exhaustion and heat stroke and know when symptoms require emergency medical care.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

an older woman looks into a mirror with her hands grabbing at the skin around her eyes and face

What Causes Loose Skin After Weight Loss, and What Can Help?

Losing a significant amount of weight is an incredible achievement that transforms your overall health and well-being. It takes dedication, hard work and a complete lifestyle overhaul to reach your goals. Loose and sagging skin can feel like a cruel reward for your hard work, but there are things you can do to help.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

Close-up of hands striking crystal singing bowls with mallets during a sound healing session. Calm wellness atmosphere, mindful music practice, relaxation therapy and positive vibrations.

What Is a Sound Bath?

In the fast-paced world we live in, where stress and anxiety are often unwelcome companions, people are increasingly turning to alternative wellness practices to find balance and relaxation. One such practice gaining popularity is the sound bath. But what exactly is a sound bath, and how does it contribute to our well-being? Let’s delve into the origins, components, benefits and experiences of a sound bath to understand its growing appeal, as well as the potential impact of this meditative practice and its many health benefits.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

five older adults are shown doing tai chi in the park

Tai Chi Walking: A Gentle Way to Improve Balance and Mobility

Finding an exercise routine that feels safe, effective and enjoyable can be a challenge, especially if you deal with stiff joints or the lingering fear of a fall. Many people assume they need to sweat through high-impact cardio or lift heavy weights to see real health results, but gentler approaches often yield profound benefits. This graceful practice, often described as “meditation in motion,” slows everything down to help you build strength.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

a woman is shown looking in the fridge as she wonders what to eat

Why You Feel Hungry: The Three Types of Hunger

Have you ever found yourself wandering into the kitchen just an hour after lunch? You might stare into the fridge and wonder if your body actually needs food. Your mind is hungry, but your body isn’t. This is easily explained by understanding the three types of hunger. Understanding these signals is a great step toward building a better relationship with what you eat.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

a woman pushes her glasses to the side while massaging her eyes and forehead from pain

Why Rest Doesn't Feel Restful Anymore, and How to Reset

We all have days when we drag ourselves out of bed, but occasionally, a good night of sleep simply does not cut it. Read INTEGRIS Health’s guide to understanding chronic fatigue. You might be dealing with something deeper if your exhaustion lingers for weeks or months. Let us take a deeper look at medical causes like persistent and chronic fatigue.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

a woman sits on the couch while massing her head in pain

Botox for Chronic Migraines: How the Treatment Works

Migraines are often more than just a bad headache, as they can completely derail your daily life with throbbing pain, nausea and sensitivity to light. For those suffering from chronic migraines, finding relief is often a journey filled with trial and error. While many people associate Botox with cosmetic procedures, it has become a vital tool for managing chronic pain. Understanding how it works can help you decide if it is the right path for your pain management.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

a clinician is shown drawing blood from a patient

Blood Cancer Symptoms You Shouldn’t Ignore

Blood cancers can develop quietly, often masking their early signs as minor health issues like fatigue or frequent infections. Many people dismiss these symptoms as stress or seasonal illnesses and put off further medical help. Timely detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes and quality of life.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

a woman is shown at an office desk pinching her nose and looking distressed

Aneurysm Symptoms Explained: When to Seek Emergency Care

Aneurysms are silent until they aren’t. Your knowledge gap ends here. Aneurysms affect thousands of people each year, and while they can be life threatening, understanding the warning signs offers a powerful defense. By knowing what to look for, you can take control of your health and potentially save a life — maybe even your own. In this blog, we help you understand aneurysm symptoms across different parts of the body so you can act fast.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

a man is shown sitting at a table and sorting his medications into a pill planner

Polypharmacy Risks: The Danger of Drug Interactions

Managing one prescription can feel like a chore. Managing five or six? That’s a whole different ballgame. Millions of Americans, especially older adults, take multiple medications every day to keep chronic conditions in check. Learn about polypharmacy risks, including the increased danger of drug interactions, from INTEGRIS Health. The more pills you add to the mix, the higher the odds that something gets mixed up, from unexpected side effects to dangerous medication interactions.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

Happy sporty couple eating vegetable salad after intensive workout

Plant Based Diets Growing in Popularity

Plant-based diets are no longer just a trend – they’ve become a lifestyle choice embraced by people for a variety of compelling reasons. From health benefits to environmental concerns and ethical values, the shift toward more plant-centric eating has gained momentum in recent years. But how did it all start, and what’s fueling this growing movement?

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

woman looks out a window while her reflection stares back at her

Understanding Early-Onset Alzheimer’s and How It Differs from Typical Alzheimer’s

It’s natural to worry about memory loss as we age, but for some, significant cognitive changes can occur much earlier in life. This condition, known as early-onset Alzheimer’s, presents unique challenges compared to the more common late-onset form of the disease.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

a hand is shown where the tip of the middle finger has turned a pale, white color that's characteristic of Raynaud's

Raynaud's Phenomenon: What You Need to Know

Have you ever noticed your fingers or toes turning white and feeling numb in the cold? While it might be a normal reaction to chilly weather for some, it can also be a sign of a condition called Raynaud's phenomenon.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

a woman in professional attire is shown massaging her head in distress as several hands are shown reaching toward her with different requests

High-Functioning Burnout: Feeling Fine on the Outside but Exhausted Inside

People often assume exhaustion looks like someone who can barely get out of bed. The reality is much more complex for many individuals managing daily life. You might go to work, take care of your family and keep your house clean while running on empty. Pushing through daily tasks requires immense effort when your internal battery is completely drained. Friends and coworkers see a capable person handling responsibilities without issue. They miss the hidden struggle happening beneath the surface.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

a man is shown at a consultation with a physician

When to See a Doctor About Enlarged Prostate Symptoms

As men age, conversations about health can sometimes feel uncomfortable, especially when they involve personal topics like prostate health. Knowing the difference between a minor issue and a more serious condition is key to taking control of your health.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

Side view mature Caucasian man sitting on living room sofa holding his painful shoulder

Listen to Your Body: 10 Musculoskeletal Symptoms That Warrant Medical Evaluation

The musculoskeletal system frequently signals underlying pathology through pain or functional limitation. While transient discomfort after activity is common, persistent or progressive symptoms may indicate structural, inflammatory or neurologic conditions that benefit from early evaluation. Knowing when discomfort is temporary or when it is a sign of a bigger problem is important for recovery.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

gynecologist communicates with her patient, pointing to the structure of the uterus, on her computer

Understanding Normal vs. Abnormal Vaginal Discharge

Vaginal discharge is a natural and essential part of your body’s self-care routine, yet it can be a source of confusion or concern for many women. Understanding what’s normal is an important step in recognizing your body’s signals. This blog breaks down the basics of vaginal discharge, providing insight into how its color, texture, smell and amount can vary throughout your cycle.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

a young woman is shown mixing water into a white neti pot

Natural Sinus Relief: Are Neti Pots Worth It?

Sinus congestion amounts to a lot more than just a stuffy nose. Prolonged congestion can make it hard to enjoy any part of your daily routine. One popular solution that you may have seen trending is the neti pot. These nasal cleaning tools present attractive claims, but how true are they?

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

a middle aged to older man with salt and pepper hair sits on a couch while holding his elbow in pain

Exploring New Options for Arthritis Pain: Is Low-Dose Radiation Right for You?

Living with constant joint stiffness can drain the joy from everyday activities. You might wake up dreading the simple act of walking down the stairs or gardening in the backyard. Trying to find effective treatments can leave you feeling exhausted.

INTEGRIS Health Editorial Team

a teen is shown looking down at their phone while sitting on their bed in a dark bedroom as the bright screen reflects light around them

Social Media and Teen Mental Health: Tips for Healthy Online Habits

Growing up has always had its challenges, but today’s teens face a digital world that can make things even more complicated. Social media likes, comments and shares can feel just as important as real-life conversations. At INTEGRIS Health, we know that helping your teen find a healthy balance with technology is a top concern for many families. While smartphones help us stay connected, they can also impact your child’s self-esteem, sleep and overall well-being.

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a college aged guy is shown sheepishly wearing a backpack in the background while blurry figures of people walk past in the foreground

Breaking Barriers: Essential Tips for Overcoming Social Anxiety

Imagine this scenario: You're invited to a party or a social gathering, and your heart starts pounding, your palms get sweaty and you feel an overwhelming urge to escape. Social anxiety, also known as social phobia, can turn seemingly ordinary social situations into terrifying ordeals, leaving you feeling self-conscious and anxious.

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a man is shown lying on his stomach with his back up as a provider examines a mole

What Does Skin Cancer Look Like?

Skin cancer touches millions of lives every year, making it the most common cancer in the U.S. Often overlooked, your skin serves as your body’s largest and most visible line of defense, shielding you from the outside world. It works tirelessly, but it needs your attention too. Every freckle, mole or change tells a story, and knowing which ones to take seriously can protect your health in remarkable ways. By understanding the signs of skin cancer and acting early, you can take charge of your skin’s health.

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a child with his back turned to the camera holds his hands over his ears

PTSD and Child Trauma Isn’t Just Caused by Big Events

When most people think of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), they picture major catastrophic events like military combat or violent assaults. While these experiences certainly can lead to trauma, it’s important to recognize that PTSD in children can also stem from less extreme sources. The constant drip of smaller repeated stressors can be just as damaging as a single overwhelming event.

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an older male is shown sitting at a kitchen table with food and drinks in front of him while he grabs at his upper chest and neck in discomfort

Trouble Swallowing? It Could Be a Schatzki Ring

You are sitting at a restaurant enjoying a steak dinner when suddenly the bite you just took refuses to go down your throat. It feels stuck in your chest, causing panic and discomfort. At INTEGRIS Health, we occasionally treat patients who are surprised to find out their Schatzki ring symptoms are not just the result of eating too fast, but a sign of a real medical condition.

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High angle view of woman wearing sleeping eye mask in bed.

Understanding Sleep Sound Colors: What Are They and How Do They Work?

Sleep is essential and finding ways to improve it has become a key focus for many people. Whether you’re seeking better rest, enhanced focus or stress relief, sound therapy has emerged as a helpful tool. A growing trend in health care and wellness involves using “sleep sound colors” to achieve these benefits. These sound colors, including white, pink and brown noise, are more than just pleasant background sounds. They are categorized by their unique frequency properties, and research suggests they can help mask distractions, promote relaxation and improve sleep.

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A woman is shown holding a prescription bottle and examining medical paperwork

GLP-1 Medications Explained: Pills, Shots and Possible Side Effects

Choosing a treatment plan after being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, obesity, moderate to severe sleep apnea and/or coronary artery disease can be stressful. At INTEGRIS Health, we offer injectable and oral GLP-1 medications that help manage blood sugar and support weight loss, while also helping mitigate other possible comorbid conditions. These treatments work by copying natural hormones that control appetite and insulin.

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Mature business man holding his back in pain. He is sitting at a desk with a computer, mobile phone and a notebook. He looks very stressed, uncomfortable and he is grimacing. He is massaging his lower back in a modern office

When Sitting Too Much Leads to Pain: Dead Butt Syndrome

Many of us spend hours sitting, whether at work or while watching TV. We might worry about eye strain or a stiff neck, but there’s another hidden risk. Sitting too long can make your glutes stop working as they should, which can cause pain and other problems. Here’s what you need to know about dead butt syndrome from INTEGRIS Health.

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a wooden serving tray with several different kinds of cheese

The Healthiest Cheeses and How to Choose the Best Option

Cheese often gets a bad rap in the nutrition world, usually labeled as a guilty pleasure or a diet-wrecker due to its fat content. Yet, for many of us, a life without melted mozzarella or a sharp cheddar seems dull and flavorless. We are here to separate fact from fiction and show you how this dairy staple can fit into a balanced lifestyle.

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Woman with ankle and foot pain at home.

Don’t Ignore That Sore: Why Early Foot Care Matters for Diabetes

Living with diabetes requires constant vigilance over your health, but your feet are often the last place you look, until something goes wrong. At INTEGRIS Health, our providers emphasize that proper diabetic foot care isn’t just about hygiene. It’s a critical daily practice that can save your mobility.

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a young woman sips from a soda can with a straw

Gut-Friendly and Delicious: The Rise of Probiotic Sodas

Probiotic sodas are bubbling up everywhere, promising to refresh your taste buds while supporting your digestive health. These fizzy drinks blend the familiar satisfaction of soda with the added benefit of beneficial bacteria for your gut. Wondering about the trend of probiotic sodas? We'll explore what makes these beverages different from traditional soft drinks, examine their potential benefits and help you make informed choices about incorporating them into your wellness routine.

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