While people with mild flu cases may downplay the severity or mistake it for a cold, in some cases, the flu can be far more serious than the common cold. Both diseases are contagious and caused by viruses, but flu symptoms can be more intense and sudden, leading to more serious complications including pneumonia in some cases. 

Young children, older adults, and people with chronic conditions are most prone to complications from the flu. Below, Brian Nguyen, DO, a pediatrician with Dignity Health Woodland Clinic answers some common questions about flu season. 

Summer is officially here and the rising temperatures, coupled with outdoor activities and longer days, can quickly leave us feeling depleted and even ill if we don’t drink enough water.

Thankfully, maintaining optimal hydration doesn't have to be a daunting task. Monica Tolentino Gianni, DNP, a family medicine provider with Dignity Health Medical Group — Inland Empire, shares essential tips for staying hydrated during the summer months, helping you make the most of the sunny season while staying safe and refreshed.

We’re pleased to share that our Dignity Health Mercy Medical Group Otolaryngologists, also known as Ear Nose and Throat specialists (ENTs), performed their 50th Inspire procedure. Congratulations to Scott McCusker, MD; Deanne Nyland, MD; Shoab Siddique, MD and Mike Desy, OR technician on achieving this milestone.

Talking about your prostate, urinary symptoms, or sexual dysfunction can be uncomfortable, but it’s essential to men’s health. The prostate is a tiny reproductive organ the size of a walnut located below a man’s urinary bladder. It’s responsible for making semen and tends to grow larger with age.

“An enlarged prostate is often called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a noncancerous condition that may affect sexual function,” says Steven Guarnaccia, MD, a urologist with Dignity Health Medical Group — Sequoia. “Its symptoms include slow urine flow, difficulty urinating, frequent or urgent need to urinate, dribbling after urination, and waking up at night to urinate.”

Pickleball is one of the fastest-growing American sports and is only continuing to rise in  popularity as summer approaches. But as with many activities, injuries are likely to happen without proper technique and preparation.

Arati Dunbar, MD, an orthopedic surgeon at Dignity Health Medical Group — Sequoia, shares how to prevent getting hurt while engaging in fun sports this summer.