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.

Is Your Joint Pain More Than Just the Usual Aches?

February 22, 2024

Joint health is important, and understanding what’s normal helps in maintaining your quality of life.

A Chicken Dish with a Little Zest

February 22, 2024

Try Making Crispy Lemon-Garlic Chicken Thighs with Roasted Potatoes & Carrots

Unlocking the Power of Protein

February 22, 2024

Have you been neglecting this essential nutrient in your diet? This is how protein intake affects you now and in the future.

The Most Common Causes of Accidental Poisoning

February 22, 2024

Most poisonings occur at home. Here's where the danger lies and how to keep your family safer.

What's That Smell? And What Does It Mean?

February 22, 2024

Here's what body odor comes from, why it changes and how to control it.

These Symptoms May Mean You Have Kidney Disease

February 22, 2024

Symptoms during early stages of the disease are hard to spot, but don't ignore these red flags.

This Is What the World's Longest Living People Eat

February 22, 2024

The diet of people in the Blue Zones may help them live longer. Here's what they eat.

Meaningful Milestones in Caring for Kids

February 15, 2024

For nearly two decades, South Texas Health System Children’s has been providing compassionate, quality care to the children of the Rio Grande Valley. These are some of the major milestones they have achieved along the way.

A Heart-Healthy Recipe for Salmon

January 29, 2024

This recipe will yield perfectly cooked, 4-ounce salmon fillets with a delightful honey balsamic glaze, ideal for a tasty, healthy meal.

Would You Recognize These Warning Signs of Stroke?

January 29, 2024

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

Here Are 7 Signs You Might Have Heart Failure

January 29, 2024

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

This Is What a Heart Attack Really Feels Like

January 29, 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 29, 2024

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

Is Your Eyesight at Risk?

January 29, 2024

Good eyesight is often taken for granted – until it is lost. A common eye disorder affects many people 50 years and older.

Minimally Invasive Heart Surgeries Explained

January 29, 2024

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

Making an Impact for Nearly 50 Years (and Counting!)

January 22, 2024

Caring for patients at South Texas Health System McAllen comes naturally for Anesthesia Tech Francisca Chapa, LVN – after all, she’s been doing just that for more than 50 years.

A Weight Off Her Shoulders

January 15, 2024

Celia Juarez was at risk for sudden cardiac arrest. The South Texas Health System Intensive Cardiac Rehabilitation Program helped put her on the path to recovery.

Winter Comfort Food with an Asian Twist

December 27, 2023

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

Weight Gain Isn't Always About Appetite or Willpower

December 27, 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 27, 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 27, 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 27, 2023

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

7 Good Reasons to Try Dry January

December 27, 2023

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

How to Quit Smoking Gradually

December 27, 2023

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

6 Ways to Care for Your Skin This Winter

November 28, 2023

Here’s why you should pay extra attention to your body’s first line of defense as temperatures drop.

Keep Illnesses Away from Your Holiday Gatherings

November 28, 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

November 28, 2023

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

Crohn's or Ulcerative Colitis? How to Tell the Difference

November 28, 2023

Here are similarities and differences between these conditions, as well as common symptoms.

Your Guide to Healthy Holiday Travel

November 28, 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

November 28, 2023

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

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.

How Risky Is Vaping?

October 25, 2023

E-cigarettes and smokeless nicotine were once regarded as a way to avoid lung cancer risk, but there are concerns.

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 29, 2023

Nearly half of all adult women have it. What does it mean for their health?

What You Should Know About Diabetes and Sugar

September 29, 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 29, 2023

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

The Scariest Health Hazards of Halloween

September 29, 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 29, 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 29, 2023

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

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.

Understanding the Basics of Epilepsy

August 21, 2023

Learn how to identify, and manage, this neurological condition.

Don't Miss These Signs of Heat-Related Illness

July 25, 2023

Heat-related illnesses can be very serious, so it's important to recognize if they are happening.

Don't Forget to Schedule These Medical Appointments

July 25, 2023

Now is as good a time as any to get these appointments on your calendar.

How to Overcome Loneliness

July 25, 2023

If you are lonely, following these 5 tips can help you feel more connected to others.

Should You Take These Vitamins Every Day?

July 25, 2023

Many people take multivitamins and other supplements daily, but do you need them?

4 Frequent Causes of Knee Pain

July 25, 2023

Your knees aren’t getting any younger. Here’s how to keep them in order.

Stay Safe on the Sports Field

July 25, 2023

Don’t let a sport injury keep you off the field this season. Here’s how to be safe before, during and after an activity.

How to Treat Any Burn

July 5, 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

July 5, 2023

While it's a serious condition, with appropriate management and treatment, many people with CHF can continue to lead active and fulfilling lives.

Make Restaurant-Quality Salads at Home

July 5, 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?

July 5, 2023

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

20 Common Causes of Back Pain

July 5, 2023

Back pain is the leading cause of disability around the world and is one of the most common reasons people go to a doctor.

Protect Your Eyes from These Summer Hazards

July 5, 2023

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

Your Guide to a Safer Summer

June 6, 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 6, 2023

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

Understand your allergies

April 25, 2023

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

The timeline of a stroke – from onset to recovery

April 25, 2023

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

After 3 Kidney Transplants, Patient Strives for Normalcy

April 14, 2023

Melissa De Los Rios was just 21 years old and newly married when she discovered her kidneys were failing. More than three decades – and three transplants – later, she continues to aim for a normal life.

How to Tell if Heartburn Is Something More

March 21, 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 21, 2023

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

The ABCs of Joint Replacement Surgery

March 11, 2023

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

Which Colorectal Cancer Test Is Right for You?

March 9, 2023

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

What Your Heart Is Telling You

February 1, 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 31, 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.

“I Want to Give Back What Was Given to Me”

December 14, 2022

Enrique “Quique” Rodriguez was driving home one night when his car was struck by a vehicle involved in a police chase. The young nursing student’s long journey back to wellness then began.

Try These Steps to Defuse Holiday Stress

December 5, 2022

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

RSV: What YOU Need to Know

December 5, 2022

Cases of the respiratory virus are surging throughout the country. Learn how to protect your family.

Stay Safe This Flu Season

December 3, 2022

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

Proud to Be Recognized as One of the Best

November 1, 2022

STHS Edinburg has been recognized as one of the Best Regional Hospitals in Texas by U.S. News & World Report. It's the only hospital or healthcare system in the Rio Grande Valley to make the list.

5 Ways Quitting Smoking Can Improve Your Life

October 30, 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 Overlooked, and Dangerous

October 29, 2022

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

Suicide Prevention in the Age of COVID

October 5, 2022

An increased awareness of mental health and enhanced access to behavioral health services helped save lives as the country responded to COVID-19. Here’s what you need to know now to help continue that trend.

Depression and Aging: Know the Facts

October 5, 2022

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

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!

Halloween Dos and Don’ts for Ghosts and Goblins

September 27, 2022

Are you ready to have a safe and spooky holiday? Follow these guidelines to help stay safe when you are out and about.

South Texas Health System Edinburg Is Towering Forward

August 22, 2022

State and local leaders joined South Texas Health System Edinburg leaders for a commemorative ribbon-cutting at the new patient tower.

“You Have to Have a Mindset to Not Give Up”

August 9, 2022

After suffering a stroke, veteran Ken Campbell was supported in his recovery by multiple people and places – including the rehabilitation team at South Texas Health System McAllen.

The Best Ways to Deal with Back Pain

August 9, 2022

It's the No. 1 cause of disability worldwide. Learn how to better deal with it.

Get Your Kids Off to a Healthy Start This School Year

August 6, 2022

These recommendations can help ensure that your child is ready to learn and perform their best the entire year.

Timely Tips to Help Beat the Heat

July 18, 2022

During extreme heat, it’s important to follow these smart strategies to help prevent heat-related illnesses.

What YOU Need to Know About Gun Safety

July 11, 2022

Since firearm violence has a tremendous impact on the overall safety and well-being of all Americans, physicians with the South Texas Health System Trauma & Critical Care Institute are reminding the community about the importance of firearm safety.

Protect Yourself While Enjoying the Summer Sun

June 19, 2022

Want to protect yourself from skin cancer while enjoying the summer sun? Check out these timely tips.

Enjoy Summer Safely

June 11, 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.

What Does Value-Based Medicine Mean for You?

June 7, 2022

Value-based care seeks to advance the triple aim of providing better care for individuals, improving population health management strategies, and reducing healthcare costs.

Scoliosis: An Overview for Parents

May 27, 2022

The orthopedics team at South Texas Health System® Children’s specializes in diagnosing and treating a wide range of orthopedic conditions – including scoliosis.

Retiring CNO Reminisces Over Hospital’s Many Milestones

May 26, 2022

Libby Smith has been with South Texas Health System Heart since the day it began welcoming patients. Two titles and nearly three decades later, she retires with a lifetime of memories and long-lasting friendships.

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.