If you feel stiff in the morning or your back hurts more when you rest, spondylitis might be the reason. Dr. Marcia Johnson at Franciscan Health breaks down the signs and what to do next. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/spondylitis

Millions of women worldwide are affected by #COPD. This debilitating lung condition often goes undiagnosed or misdiagnosed in women due to subtle signs. Even though COPD has no cure, COPD symptoms can be managed with the right treatments. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/copd-in-women

Heart palpitations are typically harmless. But occasionally they can signal a deeper cardiac issue. Know the signs, risk factors and when it’s time to call your doctor. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/afib-heart-palpitations-pulse-skipping #AFibRisk #HeartPalpitations

Maintaining good gut health can reduce negative symptom. Our Franciscan Health gastroenterology experts weighed in on the importance of gut health. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/gut-health-why-is-it-important

Welcome infectious disease physician Marrium Siddiqui, DO, to Franciscan Physician Network Specialty Center Crown Point located at 12750 Saint Francis Drive, Suite 410. To schedule an appointment, call (219) 769-8340. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/find-a-provider/marrium-siddiqui-1407484330

Does your period disrupt your daily life? Are you bleeding again after menopause? If abnormal uterine bleeding has you worried, learn about the symptoms, risks and treatments from Franciscan Health. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/irregular-periods

Join Ric Federighi and Dean Mazzoni, President and CEO of Franciscan Health Michigan City, for an episode of "WellBeings," starting at 9:10 a.m. CT today in northwest Indiana or streaming on Facebook on WIMS Radio.

Debbie Rodgers was diagnosed with stage four small cell lung cancer, but a new FDA-approved treatment at Franciscan Health offered her a path to healing. Read her story and learn why regular lung scans matter. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/small-cell-lung-cancer-debbie-story

Do you turn to marijuana to ease pain or help you sleep? If so, you’re not alone — millions of people do the same thing. But if you take a prescription, talk with your doctor. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/weed-interacts-with-medications

Welcome board-certified psychiatrist Kenn Vattathara, MD, to Franciscan Physician Network Behavioral Health Munster, located at 720 45th St. in Munster, Indiana. To schedule an appointment, call 219-852-2513. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/find-a-provider/kenn-vattathara-1114500592

Exciting job opportunities are waiting for you! We’re looking for radiologic techs, EAP therapists and athletic trainers to join our team. Interested? Apply online at jobs.franciscanhealth.org.

Franciscan Health sports medicine physician Thomas Schmittdiel, MD, explains why adequate sleep is important for high school athletes and how much sleep they need.

Did you know that donating your extra breast milk can save the lives of fragile and premature babies? During times of uncertainty, donated breast milk can provide vital, safe nutrition to the tiniest members of our community. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/donating-breast-milk

For patients who meet the criteria for obesity, Franciscan Health's Cardiometabolic Health Program takes a whole-person approach to this complex disorder, focusing on weight and heart health. Learn more: https://www.franciscanhealth.org/healthcare-professionals/for-physicians/physician-referrals

Is cancer genetic? Wondering if you should get tested? Franciscan Health’s genetic counselors explain what to expect and how testing helps you plan ahead. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/genetic-counseling-for-cancer-risk

Would you know how to recognize walking pneumonia? Franciscan family medicine physician shares information about the symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of this common lung infection. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/walking-pneumonia-kids

#Diabetes and kidney health are more connected than you might think. High blood sugar can damage your kidneys over time — but small steps like staying hydrated, taking your medications and eating well can make a big difference. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/diabetes-kidney-disease

Franciscan Health is hosting a flu and immunization clinic Nov. 8, 1 to 4:30 p.m., at Chin Evangelical Baptist Church, 5610 S. Meridian St. in Indianapolis from 1-4:30 p.m. Clinics are open to anyone. Bring an insurance card and photo ID. Walk-ins are welcome. Info: Call (317) 224-3253.

Liver tumors can be treated — especially when caught early. Learn about risks, symptoms, and how Franciscan Health’s team delivers expert care. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/liver-tumors-risks-signs-and-treatments

Malavika Praseed McGrail, a genetic counselor with Franciscan Health, talks about what it means for your health if your parents have a history of cancer.

Stress before a big game doesn't stop at affecting your performance. It can also contribute to your risk of an injury. Franciscan Health sports medicine physician Thomas Schmittdiel, MD, explains how.

Inflammatory breast cancer (IBC) can cause redness, swelling or warmth instead of a lump you can feel. Because of that, diagnosis sometimes happens later than it should. Here's what to look for. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/inflammatory-breast-cancer-might-not-have-a-lump

👁️ Did you know? Diabetes increases the risk of eye diseases like glaucoma, cataracts and diabetic retinopathy. Schedule a yearly dilated eye exam to protect your sight and your future. Learn more: https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/5-ways-to-help-prevent-diabetic-eye-diseases

You quit smoking, and that was a huge step for your health. But did you know your risk for #lungcancer can remain long after you quit? Yearly #lungscans help detect lung cancer early, when it’s most treatable. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/smokers-need-yearly-lung-scans

Dense breast tissue can make mammograms more difficult to read and small cancers harder to spot. Understanding your breast density helps you make informed choices about follow-up tests and take steps to protect your health. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/dense-breasts-and-mammograms

Roughly 1 in 7 strokes are caused by #AFib complications — but most can be prevented with early detection and treatment. Learn how to protect your heart and reduce your stroke risk today. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/afib-and-stroke-connection

Wrapping up #breastcancer month with our Breast Day Ever event to celebrate caring for yourself by caring for your health. Thanks to all of you who joined our event last week in Dyer.

Franciscan Health Munster will host a free QPR Suicide Prevention Course from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Monday, Nov. 10, in the St. Clare Conference Room, 701 Superior Ave. Registration is free and required by Nov. 9. To register, contact [email protected].

Take some time for your health before the end of the year. Many health plans including preventative screening reset benefits on Jan. 1. Learn which preventative screenings are covered. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/get-screened-before-year-end

Looking for your next career move? Join the amazing team at Franciscan Health! We're hiring for roles like mammography supervisor, supervisor of MRI and home health physical therapist. If you love making a difference, we'd love to meet you. Apply today at jobs.franciscanhealth.org.

Helicopter pilot Scott Bishop was one of the first patients treated at the Franciscan Health Heart Center in Indianapolis. 💙 Read his incredible story of resilience and gratitude: https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/pilot-credits-franciscan-health-heart-center-indianapolis

Craig Schneider, MD, radiation oncologist and an independent physician who chooses to practice at Franciscan Health Cancer Center Indianapolis, explains the health risks of radon. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/radon-lung-cancer-risk

Heart fluttering could be a sign of atrial fibrillation (AFib). The condition affects 1 in 20 Americans but it’s manageable with the right care and lifestyle choices. Learn more: https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/what-causes-fluttering-in-my-chest

Learn about the different types of dementia, early signs and practical caregiving tips. Franciscan Health shares how to bring calm and comfort into dementia care. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/understanding-dementia

Pancreatic Cancer: Risks, Symptoms and Treatment [podcast] https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/pancreatic-cancer-signs-treatments

Stay a step ahead—learn the signs, risks, and prevention tips for lung cancer. Protect yourself and your loved ones with knowledge. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/lung-cancer-signs-risks #LungCancer

Franciscan Health is hosting a flu and immunization clinic Nov. 1, 1 to 4:30 p.m., at Chin Bethel Christian Church, 857 North State Road 135 in Greenwood. Clinics are open to anyone. Bring an insurance card and photo ID. Walk-ins are welcome. Info: Call (317) 224-3253.

🎃 Happy Halloween 🎃 From costume choices to street safety, our experts share helpful tips to make sure your night is full of fun not fright. Read our blog for safety tips: https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/tips-for-staying-warm-and-safe-on-halloween

Are you making these common AFib mistakes? Learn what they are and how to lower your risk of heart complications. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/mistakes-afib-patients-make

🧡👶 Our tiniest patients are getting into the #Halloween spirit! 🎃 Newborns at Franciscan Health Crown Point NICU are celebrating their first Halloween. (Photos are for artistic purposes only and do not reflect American Academy of Pediatrics’ Safe Sleep recommendations.)

OB laborists help us provide 24/7 physician coverage at our Family Birth Center. It’s one more way we emphasize safety for the moms and babies we serve. Learn more from OBGYN Nicole Cataldi, DO. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/ob-laborists

💙 A big thank-you to Old National Bank for donating $15,000 to support Franciscan Health’s Food Insecurity Program! This generous gift will fund food purchases for three months at our Fresh Start Market, helping feed local families facing food insecurity.

👏 Congratulations to Franciscan Health Lafayette East for achieving GolFranciscan Health Lafayette East has earned Gold Certification as a Cribs for Kids® National Safe Sleep Hospital! 🍼 Safe sleep saves lives. Remember the ABCs: Alone, on their Back, in a Crib.

🎀 October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month 🎀 Breast cancer doesn’t wait and neither should you. Brittany’s story reminds us that even younger women must be proactive about their health. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/when-you-have-a-family-history-of-breast-cancer

Welcome Hematologist and Medical Oncologist Jeremy Johns, MD, to Franciscan Health Cancer Center Munster located at 701 Superior Ave., Suite 2500 in Munster, Indiana. ☎️ To make an appointment, call 219-922-4081. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/find-a-provider/jeremy-johns-1326598897

Welcome gynecologic oncologist Hubert Fornalik, MD, to Franciscan Physician Network Gynecologic Oncology Specialists Indianapolis. ☎️ To schedule an appointment, call 317-528-2555. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/find-a-provider/hubert-fornalik-1255549812

Discover exciting career opportunities at Franciscan Health. We are seeking dedicated ultrasound technologists, nursing supervisors and patient care coordinators. Apply online at jobs.franciscanhealth.org.

Breast cancer affects all women, but Black women face unique challenges and may face unequal care. Understanding these differences is crucial for improving outcomes and saving lives. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/black-women-and-breast-cancer

You have options. Learn how breast cancer surgery at Franciscan Health — from lumpectomy to reconstruction — is more personalized, more advanced and more hopeful than ever. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/breast-cancer-surgery-options #BreastCancer #FranciscanHealth

Recovering as quickly as possible is at the top of everyone's mind after surgery, so don't hold back your questions. Jessica Blanford, MD, general surgeon at Franciscan Health, answers your questions after surgery. https://www.franciscanhealth.org/community/blog/recovery-from-surgery