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Keep the sneeze away year-round

Submitted by emily.griffin on

If you suffer from allergies, you may think you only need to worry about flowers, pollen and pets. Did you know that dust mites are one of the most common allergy triggers? Dust mites are microscopic insect-like pests that are everywhere.

 

To reduce dust and dust mites follow these tips for the:

Air

  • Don’t use window or attic fans, which bring pollen, mold spores and other allergens inside.
  • Use air conditioning instead of opening windows.
  • Use a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter. This can help remove allergens and tobacco smoke from the air in your home.


Furniture and carpets

  • Use dust-proof pillow and mattress covers made from a tight-weave fabric that keeps out dust and dust mites.
  • Remove stuffed toys, wall hangings, books, knickknacks and artificial flowers.
  • Avoid wool blankets and down quilts.
  • Avoid carpet, rugs and upholstered furniture that collect dust.
  • Occasionaly steam clean carpets. 

 

Floors

  • Damp-mop hard floors once a day.
  • Dust and vacuum once or twice a week.
  • Use a dry cloth to wipe hard surfaces such as countertops and tables weekly.
  • Use a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter or a double-thick bag.
  • Wear a mask to avoid dust mites stirred up during cleaning.
  • Keep humidity less than 50% in your home. Dust mites don’t do well in dry conditions.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

If you suffer from allergies, you may think you only need to worry about flowers, pollen and pets.

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Prediabetes is like a warning light

Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Some people tend to ignore check engine lights or put off changing a furnace filter when the sensor goes off. One warning you can’t afford to ignore is a prediabetic diagnosis. 

 

What is prediabetes? 

Prediabetes is usually the result of an A1C test that indicates your blood sugar is higher than normal, between 5.7% and 6.4%. A result of 6.5% or higher is generally accepted as a diabetes diagnosis.

 

Blood sugar is measured through an A1C test that reveals your average blood sugar level over the previous three months, so you can’t cram for this test at the last minute by ignoring desserts for a week. Consider prediabetes as your last chance to make changes to keep from becoming diagnosed with diabetes. 

 

What to do if you have prediabetes? 

Hearing that you have prediabetes is similar to a rare do-over opportunity in life. Typically, if you are willing to change your lifestyle habits, you can often lower your A1C and prevent or at least delay diabetes. The best way to lower your A1C is to:

  • Eat healthy foods.
  • Be physically active each day.
  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Don’t smoke.
  • Control blood pressure and cholesterol. 

 

Risk factors 

For optimal health, you should try to live a healthy life and avoid reaching prediabetes status, especially if you fit into a high-risk category. According to the Genesis Diabetes & Nutrition Education Department, diabetes risk factors include:

  • Being overweight.
  • Having increased amounts of stress.
  • Certain ethnicities.
  • Being over the age of 45.
  • Sedentary lifestyle.
  • Family history.
  • Having diabetes during pregnancy. 

 

Stay informed

Most insurance plans will cover an A1C test as part of an annual wellness visit. If you have any of the risk factors, talk to your doctor for a plan to prevent prediabetes or reverse your trend if you have been diagnosed with prediabetes. 

 

 

Want to prevent diabetes? Indulge on our tips and not desserts.

For more information on staying healthy, especially avoiding a prediabetes or diabetes diagnosis, try our online content. We have several articles that provide health tips backed by research. 

 

If you prefer to listen because you are exercising, which is great, try these podcast episodes: 

 

Diabetes Management

Whether you've just been diagnosed with diabetes, recently changed treatment or are having difficulty controlling your condition, turn to Genesis HealthCare System. Learn more HERE.

 

 

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Prediabetes

Prediabetes is usually the result of an A1C test that indicates your blood sugar is higher than normal. Learn about the risk factors and ways to prevent diabetes.

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Spotlight on Mark Kenamond, M.D.

Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Mark Kenamond, M.D., has joined the Genesis Cancer Care Center in Zanesville, specializing in radiation oncology.

 

Dr. Kenamond first became interested in imaging and pathology of medicine because his father was a radiologist. Dr. Kenamond was the recipient of a first-year stipend in medical school, which further drove his interest in learning radiation oncology.

 

During his internship in 2019, Dr. Kenamond received the E.B. Flink Award in Internal Medicine. The annual honor recognizes one student with the most outstanding performance during their third year of medical school.

 

Originally from Wheeling, West Virginia, he chose Genesis because of the welcoming opportunities to get to know his patients and colleagues.

 

“The staff is friendly,” said Dr. Kenamond. “I got to know everyone I’d be working with daily during my interview. I felt these are the kind of people I want to be around.”

 

His medical philosophy is to get to know the patient first, then create a treatment plan to deliver the best care possible. He is committed to providing outstanding patient care and advancing treatment plans in radiation oncology.

 

Dr. Kenamond is an avid runner and has participated in many marathons. He is also a skilled piano player, taking lessons until he began college.

 

Dr. Kenamond is accepting new patients at the Genesis Cancer Care Center, 2951 Maple Ave., Zanesville. Patients can schedule appointments by calling 740-454-5271. View his profile here.

 

Doctor of Medicine:

West Virginia University School of Medicine Morgantown, West Virginia

 

Residency:

Radiation Oncology

University of Kentucky Markey Cancer Center Lexington, Kentucky

 

Internship:

Internal Medicine

Charleston Area Medical Center

Charleston, West Virginia 

 

 

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Mark Kenamond MD

Radiation Oncology

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Navigating the fall time change

Submitted by emily.griffin on

As crisp autumn air returns and daylight becomes shorter, the time change can impact our overall 

well-being. While gaining an extra hour of sleep is a bonus, the adjustment can disrupt our body’s internal clock. 

 

We can proactively alleviate these concerns and embrace the seasonal shift as we set our clocks back one hour. 

 

Time change impact 

The end of daylight saving time is the first Sunday in November. According to the National Institute of General Medical Sciences, this change can affect our circadian rhythm, the natural internal process regulating the sleep-wake cycle.  

 

Disruptions to this cycle can lead to: 

  • Decreased energy levels. 

  • Impaired cognitive function. 

  • Mood changes. 

  • Sleep disturbances. 
     

Tips to navigate 

1. Healthy sleep habits 

  • Adjust your bedtime ahead of a time change to 15-20 minutes earlier, according to the Sleep Foundation. 

  • Create a sleep-friendly environment by keeping bedrooms cool, dark and quiet. 

  • Reduce exposure to electronics an hour before bedtime. 

  • Maintain a consistent wake-up time to help regulate your internal clock. 

 

2. Maximize light exposure 

  • Spend time outdoors to reset your circadian rhythm and improve alertness. 

  • Lack of sunlight contributes to lower amounts of vitamin D, according to the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. This is linked to sadness, depression and fatigue. Consider using a light therapy box if you have limited access to sunlight. This can be beneficial for those with seasonal affective disorder. 

  • Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise five days a week to boost energy and improve sleep. Incorporate outdoor activities like hiking, biking, running or walking. 

 

3. Mindful eating 

  • Maintain a diet with fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins to support your overall health and energy levels. 

  • Avoid consuming caffeine and alcohol too close to bedtime. 

  •  

4. Mental health check 

  • Incorporate deep breathing techniques, meditation or yoga to manage stress and anxiety. 

  • If the time change significantly impacts your well-being, consider talking with a mental health professional. 
     

Embrace a positive mindset  

While the time change can pose challenges, it also presents opportunities to improve daily habits. Take a moment to prioritize your health, stay active and enjoy the new season. Minor adjustments can make a big difference in maintaining our physical and mental well-being. 

 

Go to genesishcs.org for more wellness resources. 

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Fall time change

While gaining an extra hour of sleep is a bonus, the adjustment can disrupt our body’s internal clock. 

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A life-altering procedure

Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

For some people, heartburn is a mild discomfort to occasionally deal with during taco night or a stressful day at work.

 

For Christine Wolford, heartburn was ruining her life. Christine’s symptoms were much more severe than mild annoyance when she ate spicy food. It was daily pain that was brought on regardless of what she ate.

 

For years, she tried eating different types of food, different portion sizes and at different times of the day.

 

Experiment after experiment failed and usually resulted in severe pain and occasionally waking up in the middle of the night coughing and vomiting blood. She only found relief by eating one small meal daily and sleeping in a chair.

 

Eventually, she was diagnosed with a paraesophageal hernia that was so big it was compressing both of her lungs. When she heard the news, she knew she needed to see Joshua K. Moore, D.O., Fellowship- trained and Board-certified General Surgeon at the Genesis Center of Surgical Excellence. 

 

“Dr. Moore was so personable. When describing the procedure, he made the complicated seem simple. I felt safe with him as my doctor.”

 

Trusted, ongoing care 

The previous year, Christine’s husband had seen Dr. Moore for hernia surgery, which turned out to be a double blessing. While preparing for his hernia surgery, the doctors at Genesis identified a heart condition her husband had.

 

During preparations for heart surgery, her husband had a heart attack and was successfully treated with a pacemaker at the Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute. After recovering from heart surgery, her husband returned to Dr. Moore for hernia surgery.

 

Christine and her husband were impressed by Genesis and the care they received.

 

“Everything about my hernia procedure was wonderful,” said Christine. “Dr. Moore was so personable. When describing the procedure, he made the complicated seem simple. I felt safe with him as my doctor.”

 

Dr. Moore said the minimally invasive hernia procedure uses small incisions and pinpoint precision. This method reduces the recovery time for patients, without the need for open surgery.

 

“Christine had a severe case of heartburn that had gone untreated for too long,” said Dr. Moore. “It had caused part of her esophagus to erode. To treat her, we performed a robotic-assisted laparoscopic paraesophageal hernia repair with toupee fundoplication. We reduced her stomach back into her abdomen, restoring normal anatomy and then wrapped part of her stomach around the lower part of her esophagus. This reinforces the anti-reflux valve.” 

 

Return to favorite foods

After Christine’s procedure, she spent a few weeks working her way back to solid foods. About a month later, after she was released to eat what she wanted, she decided to celebrate with pizza. She had loved pizza all her life and had not been able to enjoy it in seven years.

 

After her celebratory dinner, she said the meal was delicious, but the rest of the night was even better as she didn’t have any heartburn. 


Learn more at genesishcs.org/heartburn. 

 

 

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Christina Wolford

Heartburn was a daily nuisance for Christine Wolford. Diagnosed with a paraesophageal hernia, Christine returned to eating her favorite foods after a minimally invasive procedure without the need for open surgery. 

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Cycling to recovery: Heart care close to home 

Submitted by Kyle.Norton on

Pastor Andy Winters began his Easter Sunday 2024 sermon with a thank-you for support following a sudden heart attack.

 

“Life changes fast,” Andy told his Zanesville Christian and Missionary Alliance Church congregation, where he has been lead pastor since 2006.

 

Andy started March 18, 2024, like many Mondays. He prepared for a church meeting and worked on his next sermon. He then headed to the gym for a routine workout.

 

Andy felt discomfort while using a machine and attributed it to asthma. Pressure built in his chest after he moved to a second machine. He wasn’t sure what to do next. 

 

No heart attack drills in life

 “I decided to press on and keep going,” said Andy. He wondered if the trouble was with his heart. “I soon realized something wasn’t right, and I couldn’t walk things off.”

 

He managed to walk downstairs to the locker room. After showering, he was still soaked in sweat. Andy said he was stumbling, unable to pick up his phone.

 

He walked to the parking lot, hoping to drive to the hospital. “I probably should have stopped exercising sooner than I did,” said Andy. “I didn’t know all the things you should do. We don’t have heart attack drills like fire drills.”

 

Andy realized he had left his phone behind and drove to the entrance, asking someone to retrieve it.

 

Andy called his wife, Cyndi. “Now, don’t panic,” Andy said. “But I think I’m having a heart attack ... could you come and get me?” 

 

Urgent response 

Cyndi quickly advised Andy to call 911. Members of Genesis Community Ambulance began treating Andy on the scene before rushing him to the hospital.

 

Andy asked God for strength. He told an emergency medical technician (EMT) to tell Cyndi he loved her. The EMT replied, “Oh no, you’re going to tell her yourself.”

 

Arriving at the Genesis Emergency Department, he was quickly rushed to the cardiac catheterization lab for an emergent procedure. Andy’s anterior heart wall artery, notoriously known as the widowmaker artery, was 100% blocked. The vessel was emergently opened, and two stents were placed.

 

Kinan Kassar, M.D., Fellowship-trained and Board-certified Interventional Cardiologist at the Genesis Heart & Vascular Institute, was Andy’s heart doctor.

 

“When Andy arrived at the Emergency Department, his heart condition was critical,” said Dr. Kassar. “Our EMTs did an exceptional job stabilizing him until we could perform the life-saving procedure.” 

 

“My care was excellent.”

 

Returning to the bike

Andy was discharged in two days. He compliments Dr. Kassar and Genesis Community Ambulance for their excellent care. Andy encourages others to trust their medical symptoms and seek help as soon as possible.

 

As Andy continues recovering from the heart stent procedure, he has returned to his active lifestyle, including long walks and workouts. He is also back to biking. This past summer, he completed a 120-mile ride in Michigan with friends. 

Heart attack symptoms

The American Heart Association provides these warning signs of a heart attack. Men and women experience varying symptoms. Even if you don’t think it’s a heart attack, immediately call 911 for help. 

  • Chest pain or discomfort.
  • Arm or shoulder discomfort or pain.
  • Feeling a cold sweat.
  • Pain in the jaw, neck or back.
  • Shortness of breath.
  • Vomiting, feeling lightheaded or nauseous. 

Learn more at genesishcs.org/heart. 

 

 

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Andy Winters

Pastor Andy Winters has returned to his active lifestyle following a sudden heart attack. He encourages others to trust their medical symptoms and seek help as soon as possible.  

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Honor a loved one with a Snow Angel

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Benefiting Genesis Hospice Care 

Genesis Hospice Care is a charitable, nonprofit hospice that has been providing compassionate, end-of-life care for more than 35 years. We are the only hospice in the area offering comprehensive care, including in-home, Morrison House, nursing homes and assisted living facilities. 

 

How it works 

For $25, the name of the person you’re remembering will be placed on a beautiful snow angel to display in your home. Once your snow angel arrives, we will notify you via email when it can be picked up from the Genesis HealthCare Foundation at 1135 Maple Ave. in Zanesville. 

 

Order through Dec. 9, 2024.

 

Order here

 

Sponsored by: 

APG | Architects, LLC 

 

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Snow Angel

For $25, the name of the person you’re remembering will be placed on a beautiful snow angel to display in your home.

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A letter from our President and CEO | LiveWell Autumn 2024

Submitted by emily.griffin on

A five-star rating and a silver milestone 

Genesis Hospital has earned a Five-Star 2024 U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Overall Hospital Quality Star Rating. The Five-Star Rating demonstrates exceptional patient care and our continuous implementation of innovative quality and safety practices.  

 

As one of the 8% of hospitals in the U.S. to earn five out of five stars, this recognition celebrates your trust in Genesis and the work and determination of our entire team. Five areas were evaluated for the national study, including patient experience and communication, timely and effective care, patient safety, hospital readmission and low mortality rates.  

 

We’re additionally commemorating 25 consecutive years of accreditation from the nationally-recognized Intersocietal Accreditation Commission for vascular ultrasonographic testing. The silver milestone honors our commitment to vascular testing. We’re proud to share this distinction with our community as a testament to our ongoing quality care.  

 

Life-changing experiences  

Learn about four patients and their journeys to improved health. Andy Winters’ life was saved during  a heart attack because of the speedy care from Genesis Community Ambulance. Our Cancer Care Center helped Johnna Pieper put her health first after a breast cancer diagnosis. David Desender is back to golfing after varicose vein treatments, thanks to the Genesis Vein Center. And our Heartburn Center repaired Christine Wolford’s hernia so she could once again enjoy her favorite foods.  

 
New doctors ready to serve you  

You’ll meet six new physicians who are already making a difference in our patients’ lives, including Katherine Hill, M.D., with Genesis Orthopedic Group in Coshocton and Mark Kenamond, M.D., who joined the Genesis Cancer Care Center. Their range of training and skills make them excellent additions to our Genesis team.  

 

As we embrace the fall and holiday seasons, may you celebrate health and happiness into the new year. We’re thankful to care for you and your family.  

 

In good health, 

Matthew Perry signature

Matthew J. Perry 

President & CEO 

 

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

An update from our President and CEO, Matthew J. Perry.

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Flu season is here

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Flu season is here 

Colder weather is often associated with some of our favorite activities, such as football season, pumpkin patches and the holidays. Chillier weather can also bring fevers, chills, coughs, body aches and sore throats, all symptoms of influenza. 

 

One of the simplest ways to prevent the flu is to get a yearly flu shot. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that the annual vaccination has several advantages, including minimizing the risk of flu, time spent in the hospital and flu-related deaths. 

 

Each year, there are different flu strains. The CDC recommends getting a flu shot in October to prepare for the peak season starting in December. 

 

According to the CDC, anyone six months of age or older should receive the seasonal flu shot, although there are some rare exceptions. There are different types of flu shots for different age groups. 

 

Adults 65 years old or older should receive a specific flu shot, which will give them more protection from the flu. Talk to your doctor if you have questions about the best flu vaccine for you. 

 

Be mindful of others 

If you don’t get the flu shot for yourself, get it for someone else. Our well-being is a priority, but we also want to ensure our friends and family are healthy. For example, children, pregnant women, grandparents and those with chronic health conditions, such as diabetes or cancer, are at a higher risk for flu complications. 

 

Many pharmacies and local health departments offer flu shot clinics. At Genesis Pharmacies, our Taylor, Maysville, New Concord, Roseville and Somerset locations offer the flu shot. Most insurance companies cover the flu shot and your healthcare provider can help you prepare for this year’s flu season. 

 

Visit genesispharmacies.org for more information. 

 

Ready to get healthy?

Sign up for our digital newsletters to receive health tips, recipes, success stories for inspiration and information about new doctors to help you on your journey to better health.

 

 

Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Flu Season 2024

Each year, there are different flu strains. The CDC recommends getting a flu shot in October to prepare for the peak season starting in December.

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Spotlight on Katherine Hill, M.D.

Submitted by emily.griffin on

Orthopedics 

Katherine Hill, M.D., has joined the Genesis Orthopedic Group at Genesis Physician Services in Coshocton. She specializes in orthopedic surgery.  

 

“I was raised on a farm and was always helping my dad,” said Dr. Hill. “From that, I learned that I love working with my hands. I worked in the operating room, and I found my love for orthopedics when I assisted with an ankle fracture. From there, I was determined to continue orthopedic surgery and become the best surgeon for my patients.” 

 

Dr. Hill understands that you and your family need excellent medical care close to home. “I want to provide my patients with access to the best care for their orthopedic needs,” said Dr. Hill. 

 

Dr. Hill was the 2021 Summa Health Resident of the Year. She is a member of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the American Society for Surgery of the Hand and the Alpha Omega Alpha medical honorary. 

 

Originally from Quaker City, she wanted to pursue medical school and return close to home to give 

back to the community. 

 

She enjoys spending time with her fiancé and his two children. They recently bought a new home and plan to raise animals. 

 

Dr. Hill still visits her dad’s farm and helps with various tasks, including caring for zebras. She also enjoys playing softball and watching baseball, including the Cleveland Guardians. 

 

Dr. Hill is accepting new patients at Genesis Physician Services, 23599 Airport Road, Suite B, Coshocton. She is performing surgeries at the Genesis Coshocton Medical Center. Patients can schedule appointments by calling 740-722-9555. 

 

Doctor of Medicine: 

Northeast Ohio Medical University 

Rootstown, Ohio 

 

Residency: 

Orthopedic Surgery 

Summa Health 

Akron, Ohio 

 

Learn more about Genesis physicians at genesishcs.org. 

 

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Catherine Hill MD

Katherine Hill, M.D., has joined the Genesis Orthopedic Group at Genesis Physician Services in Coshocton. She specializes in orthopedic surgery.

 

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