At The South Texas Health 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.
How COVID-19 Has Impacted Mental Health
May 11, 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.
9 Essential Screenings for Men
May 11, 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.
“All I Can Say Is, ‘Don’t Give Up!’ ”
May 4, 2022
In July 2018, at the age of 14, Aristeo Cantu returned home from a haircut, hopped in the shower and, seemingly out of nowhere, suffered a massive stroke. Today, the 18-year-old has defied all expectations as he gets ready to graduate from high school.
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.
Recognition for our Remarkable Nurses
April 22, 2022
Nurses are on the frontline of most every healthcare interaction, from emergencies to routine checkins, and their lifesaving work has an incredible impact on patients, their families and communities as a whole. We celebrate nurses everywhere during National Nurses Week, May 6-12.
“You’re Going to Go Home and See Your Baby”
March 31, 2022
When the time came to deliver her baby, Amara Rodriguez was shocked to learn she was positive for COVID-19 – despite showing no signs.
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.
“Get Your Steps In!” – Fact or Fad?
March 24, 2022
The rise of fitness trackers and other wearable tech has made it easier than ever to count your steps. While this encourages a fun approach to fitness, the compelling reasons to track your steps may surprise you.
Women’s Health in the Spotlight
March 11, 2022
National Women’s Health Week kicks off on Mother’s Day each year. During this important week – and throughout the year – South Texas Health System® emphasizes the importance of making preventive care a vital part of women’s everyday health.
A Healthier You in 2022
February 22, 2022
To be a healthier you in 2022, it’s important to take charge of your health before issues arise. South Texas Health System® is here for you – ready to provide quality care when you need us, where you need us.
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.
From Junior Volunteer to Intensive Care Nurse
January 31, 2022
Inspired by living a healthy lifestyle, Miguel Grajeda joined the Auxiliary to South Texas Health System as a junior volunteer. Years into his nursing career, he returned feeling ready to measure up to the hospital’s standards of care.
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!
Enjoying Her Newly Active Life After Weight Loss
January 12, 2022
With a family history of high cholesterol and her own declining health, Mayra Reyes knew she had to make a change. She turned to South Texas Health System Heart for help.
Valued Employee Retires After More Than Five Decades
January 10, 2022
For Nora Cruz, the friendly culture and support from her team have made her job at South Texas Health System feel like a second home. She departs with lifelong friends and countless memories.
It’s Okay to Not Feel Okay Around the Holidays
December 20, 2021
Major life changes can impact the holidays, transforming them into a time of dread. Psychiatrist Ricardo Irizarry, MD, shares some simple practices to help shake a case of the holiday blues.
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.
Help Yourself to a Healthier Holiday
November 30, 2021
Dietitian Cinthia Duenez, RDN, LDN, shares healthy strategies for enjoying the season without sacrificing food and fun.
Veteran Has a (Healthy) Change of Heart
November 9, 2021
After multiple heart attacks, Richard Green is getting back to the adventurous life he loves thanks to the South Texas Health System Heart Intensive Cardiac Rehabilitation Program.
Medical Emergency? We Have You Covered
October 13, 2021
When you or a loved one has a medical issue that requires immediate care, it’s important to know where to go.
Falls Are on the Rise — Here’s What You Can Do
September 27, 2021
Older adults are at the greatest risk for falls, which can be life-altering and impair your independence. Follow these tips to help lower your risk.
Surgery Without the Scar
September 22, 2021
LESS surgery (or laparo-endoscopic single-site hysterectomy surgery) is considered an evolution in laparoscopic surgery.
Get Ready to Act Fast In an Emergency
August 30, 2021
Knowing what to do when someone is bleeding uncontrollably just might make the difference between life and death.
The Downside of Sunshine – Understanding UV Rays
August 4, 2021
While summer is great in the Rio Grande Valley, it is not the time to be careless when it comes to protecting your skin.
Learn How to STOP THE BLEED®
July 28, 2021
Community members who complete the training program are able to take on a critical role before the patient makes it to the emergency room.
How to Reduce Stress In Challenging Times
December 8, 2020
Get self-care tips to manage your stress and improve your quality of life during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.
Not All Stroke Centers Are Created Equally
September 2, 2020
When it comes to experiencing a possible stroke, minutes matter. And when it comes to stroke care, 42-year-old Alfredo Sanchez will tell you, going to the right place matters.
From a Troublesome Pregnancy to a Flawless Delivery
August 25, 2020
Just 14 weeks into her pregnancy, Sonia Montemayor was experiencing excessive bleeding. She turned to the doctors at South Texas Health System Clinics for help.
Certified Stroke Care, Close to Home
May 21, 2020
South Texas Health System McAllen was recently designated as the Upper Valley’s first and only DNV-GL Certified Comprehensive Stroke Center.
How to Donate Plasma to Help Others
May 19, 2020
In the midst of treating COVID-19 patients, surgeon Luis Reyes contracted the virus. Now back at work, he is helping others by donating his plasma.
A Miraculous Recovery
May 17, 2020
The first critically ill COVID-19 patient was recently released from South Texas Health System McAllen after being hospitalized for 21 days.
Honoring Our #HealthcareHeroes
May 15, 2020
Light-up events show appreciation for frontline workers. There’s amazing unity between hospital staff, first responders and patients to beat the virus. Just watch!
Thanks for Your Support
May 14, 2020
See a list of the organizations who have supported South Texas Health System since the COVID-19 outbreak began.