Health briefs 8/9/07

Saint Francis' Stroke Center reaccredited

Saint Francis Medical Center's Stroke Center has again been accredited by The Joint Commission, a national honor awarded to top-notch stroke programs. The center also received The Joint Commission's Certificate of Distinction in Disease-Specific Care for Primary Stroke Treatment, which it first received in 2005 (accreditation is valid for two years).

New orthopedic clinic opens in Saint Francis

Saint Francis Medical Center has started a Knee, Hip, Shoulder Clinic that will be held from 12:30 to 4 p.m. every Tuesday on the second floor of Saint Francis' Health and Wellness Center. Doctors will diagnose injuries and get patients on the road to recovery quickly. Walk-ins are welcome to this clinic, and a physician referral is not required. Treatment options may include medication, physical therapy, further diagnostics or other interventions. Saint Francis will work with the patients' primary-care physician and involve other specialists as needed. The visit will be billed as a doctor's appointment. For more information, call 331-5153.

Take precaution against summer allergies

As humidity increases during the summer months, so does the presence of dust mites. The microscopic mites are second only to pollen in creating allergic reactions ranging from sneezing, itchy noses, to severe asthma attacks. Dust mites thrive in warm and humid conditions. Experts recommend washing bedding once a week in 130-degree water. People with allergies should avoid using curtains, drapes or fabric blinds on windows.

-- From staff reports