Healthy Vitals

Healthy Vitals

By Summa HealthHealth & Fitness
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Healthy Vitals episodes

  • Breast Surgery & Reconstruction – What to Expect at Every Step, Part 1: Before Surgery

    What are my reconstruction choices after a breast cancer diagnosis? Breast reconstruction options are the focus here. Eveline Klenotic, DO, specialist in breast surgery/breast surgical oncology at Summa Health, and Mike Tran, M.D., Physician in Plastic Surgery at Summa Health, explain how choices differ between breast-conserving surgery and mastectomy, implant versus autologous (your own tissue) reconstruction, nipple-sparing approaches, and the role of shared planning between breast and plastic surgeons to match treatment to your goals.

    11 min
  • TAVR vs. Surgery: Understanding Your Heart Valve Options

    TAVR or open-heart surgery? If you need an aortic valve replacement, knowing the differences can help you make a more informed decision. In this episode, James Brockett, M.D., board-certified cardiothoracic surgeon at Summa Health, explains how TAVR, mechanical valves, and bioprosthetic valves compare in terms of durability, recovery, and long-term outcomes.

    Learn who may benefit from each approach, what recovery is really like, and why lifetime valve planning is an important part of treatment. Whether you're newly diagnosed with aortic valve disease or considering your treatment options, this episode provides the information you need to have meaningful conversations with your care team. 

    Schedule an appointment with Dr. Brockett

    18 min
  • Life After Gynecologic Cancer: Pelvic Health, Intimacy & Survivorship

    What does life after gynecologic cancer look like? In this episode, Clarissa Polen-De, M.D., gynecologic oncologist at Summa Health, explores the often-overlooked aspects of survivorship, including pelvic health, intimacy, emotional well-being, and quality of life.

    From pelvic floor symptoms and vaginal dryness to fatigue, brain fog, and relationship changes, Dr. Polen-De explains the common effects of cancer treatment and the resources available to help patients recover and thrive. Learn how pelvic floor therapy, counseling, symptom management, and a team-based approach can help survivors regain function, confidence, and control over their health.

    If you've ever wondered whether a symptom is "normal" after cancer treatment or where to turn for support, this episode provides practical advice and encouragement for every stage of survivorship. 

    Request an Appointment with Dr. Polen-De 

    13 min
  • How Heat & Humidity Affect Asthma and COPD—And What You Can Do to Stay Safe

    Hot, humid summer weather can make breathing more difficult—especially for people living with asthma or COPD. In this episode, Dr. Aliaksandr Ramaniuk,Summa Health pulmonologist explains what happens in your lungs during extreme heat and shares practical tips to help you stay safe, recognize early warning signs, and prevent flare-ups. Learn how simple steps—like checking air quality, staying hydrated, and planning ahead—can help you enjoy summer with confidence. 

    Schedule an Appointment with Dr. Ramaniuk 

    11 min
  • Stress or Trauma? Understanding the Difference and What to Do Part 2

    This episode breaks down the key differences between stress and trauma and explains when symptoms may indicate PTSD or another trauma-related condition. Dr. Jennifer Knetig, Ph.D., explains common reactions like nightmares, hypervigilance, avoidance, and numbing—and why recognizing them early matters for recovery. Keywords: stress vs trauma, PTSD symptoms, trauma response, coping strategies, mental health, behavioral health. Learn more or get care at Summa Health: https://summahealth.org/behavioral or call 234-475-HELP (4357). 

    Learn more about Dr. Jennifer Knetig 

    13 min
  • Stress or Trauma? Understanding the Difference and What to Do Part 1

    This episode explains trauma treatment options, why evidence-based care matters, and how tailored plans support real recovery. Featuring Dr. Jennifer Knetig, Ph.D., from Summa Health Behavioral Health Institute, we discuss trauma treatment, trauma-focused therapy, EMDR, PTSD care, and behavioral health approaches in everyday terms. Learn what to expect from prolonged exposure, cognitive processing therapy, and other proven interventions — and how to find crisis support if you need it.
    Visit sumahealth.org/behavioral or call 234-475-HELP (4357) to connect with care. 

    Learn more about Dr. Jennifer Knetig 

    17 min
  • Mindfulness for the Caregiver

    In this enlightening episode, we explore the transformative role of short mindfulness breaks at work. Learn how small moments of reflection and relaxation can lead to significant improvements in resilience and overall effectiveness in your professional environment.

    26 min

About Healthy Vitals

From the publisher's feed

Inspiring patient stories, helpful insights, and health tips from Summa Health thought leaders to give you actionable steps to improve your overall health and strengthen the pulse of our community.