At The George Washington University Hospital Blog you'll find information you can use to improve your overall health and well-being, and stories about our amazing patients and Healthcare Heroes serving our community.
What Is an ENT?
November 12, 2024
Ear, nose and throat (ENT) physicians focus on the diagnosis and treatment of a wide range of conditions. Take a closer look at these medical professionals and learn how they help patients at GW Hospital.
Diagnosed with Breast Cancer? What to Expect.
October 1, 2024
Anita McSwain, MD, MPH, FACS, is a board-certified breast surgeon and the Associate Director of the GW Hospital Comprehensive Breast Care Center. She discusses, step-by-step, how she cares for patients diagnosed with breast cancer.
Lifesaving Care After a Traumatic Accident
June 13, 2024
Adam Say visited D.C. to accept a prestigious national award. Little did he know that about an hour later, he would be in trauma care at The George Washington University Hospital.
Beating Cancer with a Baby on Board
February 17, 2024
Claudia Acosta was 20 weeks along in her pregnancy when she experienced abdominal discomfort that was different from her usual morning sickness. What happened next was scary, and amazing.
Kidney Donation: Redefining What Friends Are For
February 16, 2024
If you’re lucky in life, you have at least one close friend you can count on. But do you have a friend who would give you an organ?
Bouncing Back from Prostate Cancer
February 16, 2024
Jeffrey Gray is a prostate cancer survivor, thanks to the GW Cancer Center, and back to doing the things he loves.
Winter Comfort Food with an Asian Twist
December 29, 2023
Bring the authentic flavors of Chinese cuisine right into your kitchen.
Weight Gain Isn't Always About Appetite or Willpower
December 29, 2023
If your yearly resolution has to do with reaching a healthy weight, it may be smart to check your thyroid.
4 Small New Year’s Resolutions to Inspire Change
December 29, 2023
Broad and big new year resolutions can be hard to stick with. Try these small habit changes that can lead to a healthier lifestyle.
Do Diabetes Drugs Help You Lose Weight?
December 29, 2023
Here's why drugs originally developed to treat diabetes are being used for weight loss.
4 Foods That May Help You Lose Weight
December 29, 2023
Stay fuller while eating fewer calories by making these satisfying foods part of your diet.
7 Good Reasons to Try Dry January
December 29, 2023
This may be the incentive you need to start the new year alcohol-free.
How to Quit Smoking Gradually
December 29, 2023
Ready to kick your habit? Instead of doing it cold turkey, here are tips to ease into a smoke-free life.
Welcome GW's Newest Surgeon Sora Ely, MD
December 5, 2023
Dr. Ely specializes in the treatment of lung and esophageal cancer
6 Ways to Care for Your Skin This Winter
December 5, 2023
Here’s why you should pay extra attention to your body’s first line of defense as temperatures drop.
'Tis the Season When You're Most Likely to Have a Heart Attack
December 4, 2023
Here's why your heart is more at risk during the holidays, and what you can do to protect it.
Crohn's or Ulcerative Colitis? How to Tell the Difference
December 2, 2023
Here are similarities and differences between these conditions, as well as common symptoms.
Your Guide to Healthy Holiday Travel
December 2, 2023
Before you pack your bags, read these tips so you're more likely to stay healthy during your travels.
A Healthy Side Dish for the Holidays
December 2, 2023
You don't have to sacrifice enjoyment when eating healthy.
Keep Illnesses Away from Your Holiday Gatherings
December 1, 2023
Getting sick slows you down and prevents you from enjoying the festivities. These tips can help you avoid it.
Watch Out for These Common Injuries During the Holidays
December 1, 2023
Don't let an injury ruin your holiday fun. These tips can help keep you injury-free.
The Best Way to Catch Lung Cancer Early
November 19, 2023
If you are a current or former smoker, here's how to protect yourself from lung cancer.
We Keep Patients Talking
November 19, 2023
Most of us take our voices for granted every day. The mere act of talking is something we don’t think twice about. Not Joy West. When she learned she had cancer in her voice box, she turned to GW Hospital and Joseph Goodman, MD, FACS at the GW Cancer Center.
4 Strategies to Get a Good Night’s Sleep
November 17, 2023
A good night’s sleep can set the tone for the day. These factors play a role.
How to Ease Hip Pain
November 10, 2023
If you have pain, stiffness and inflammation in your hip joint, these tips can help.
How Risky Is Vaping?
November 5, 2023
E-cigarettes and smokeless nicotine were once regarded as a way to avoid lung cancer risk, but there are concerns.
How to Save 1,000 Calories at Your Thanksgiving Meal
November 1, 2023
The average American consumes over 2,000 calories on Thanksgiving. Here's how to save half those calories!
The Best Time to Exercise If You Have Diabetes
October 25, 2023
All exercise is good if you have diabetes, but here's when it may help the most.
Doc Q&A: Treating Colorectal Cancer in a Pregnant Patient
October 6, 2023
Matthew Ng, MD, a colorectal surgeon at GW Cancer Center, helped treat successfully patient Claudia Acosta when she was 20 weeks pregnant.
What Does It Mean to Have Dense Breasts?
September 28, 2023
Those with dense breast tissue are at higher risk of developing breast cancer and other breast-related issues.
These 10 Foods Help Fight Inflammation
September 19, 2023
Wondering what inflammation-fighting foods to add to your diet? Try these 10 powerhouses.
What You Should Know About Diabetes and Sugar
September 17, 2023
High blood sugar causes many of the symptoms and complications of diabetes. Here’s how to manage your blood sugar.
7 Things You'll Notice After Losing Weight
September 11, 2023
More than just the number on the scale will change when you lose weight.
The Do's and Don'ts of Supporting Someone with Mental Illness
September 3, 2023
Not sure what to do if a friend or family member has mental health issues? These tips may help.
Which Colorectal Cancer Test is Right for You?
February 24, 2023
Various colorectal cancer screening options can make diagnosis and early detection easier for you.
The ABCs of Joint Replacement Surgery
February 24, 2023
Joint replacement surgery sounds so invasive, but what does it really entail? Here's the breakdown.
What Your Heart Is Telling You
February 1, 2023
Not all heart events are the same. Knowing what makes them different can be the key to surviving them.
The Surprising Connection Between Mind and Heart
January 31, 2023
Stress and anxiety could be negatively affecting your heart health AND heart disease can cause stress and anxiety. Here’s how to break the cycle.
The Surprising Connection Between Mind and Heart
January 23, 2023
Stress and anxiety could be negatively affecting your heart health AND heart disease can cause stress and anxiety. Here’s how to break the cycle.
The Keys to Successful New Year’s Resolutions
December 26, 2022
The time to build healthy habits is here. Don’t think too hard, we’ve come up with a list of resolutions worth keeping.
Are You Struggling With Your Weight-Loss Journey?
December 26, 2022
If your goal is to lose weight, but nothing seems to be working, bariatric surgery can get you where you want to be.
RSV: What YOU Need to Know
December 24, 2022
This holiday season when families gather and the risk of spread is high, be aware of common RSV symptoms, treatments and preventive actions.
Try These Steps to Defuse Holiday Stress
November 23, 2022
Put self-care at the top of your to-do list. Identify when stress is affecting you and how you can manage it.
Stay Safe This Flu Season
November 21, 2022
Don’t miss any of the holiday cheer, avoid the flu this year.
Protect Yourself While Enjoying the Summer Sun
June 11, 2022
Want to protect yourself from skin cancer while enjoying the summer sun? Check out these timely tips.
9 Essential Screenings for Men
June 9, 2022
June is Men’s Health Awareness Month! Regular check-ups and screenings can help men stay healthy by indicating preventive health needs and catching issues before they become more serious.
Recognition for Our Remarkable Nurses
April 22, 2022
Nurses are on the frontline of most every healthcare interaction. We celebrate nurses everywhere during National Nurses Week, May 6-12.
5 Ways to Lessen Seasonal Allergies
April 22, 2022
Whether your allergy symptoms are frustrating or debilitating, there are steps you can take to enjoy rather than dread spring.
When You Need Care, Make the Smart Choice
March 25, 2022
Learn when to visit the emergency room versus urgent care.
Fighting Liver Cancer with Advanced Surgery
February 23, 2022
Adanech Biratu is now cancer-free, thanks to a unique liver procedure at GW Hospital.
Is Diabetes Putting You at Risk for Chronic Wounds?
February 15, 2022
If you have been diagnosed with diabetes, talk to your doctor about ways to address and prevent chronic wounds associated with the disease, such as diabetic foot care.
Joint Replacement – Is It for You?
February 15, 2022
If you suffer from chronic joint pain and medications are no longer working, you may be a candidate for joint replacement.
Focus on Black History Month
February 10, 2022
Dr. Raymond Pla answers crucial questions about the healthcare disparities in the Black community, including the shortage of Black physicians.
COVID-19 Vaccines Q&A
January 18, 2022
Physicians at GW Hospital answer common questions about the COVID-19 vaccines.
Could You Have Atrial Fibrillation?
January 12, 2022
What to know about this sometimes silent condition.
Heart Attack Symptoms – What’s Different for Men and Women
January 12, 2022
Knowing the signs and symptoms can save your life!
Could You Have Seasonal Depression?
December 16, 2021
Winter blahs and holiday stress have you down? Read more for helpful strategies to lighten your mood.
How to Keep Your New Year’s Resolutions
December 16, 2021
Want a fresh start for 2022? Create realistic, reasonable goals to set yourself up for success.
What’s New at GW? Technology!
September 13, 2021
As an academic hospital, we continue to invest in new, advanced technology throughout our facilities and services.
Her Weight Loss Journey: 'I Never Imagined Being Here'
July 13, 2021
Patient credits surgery, and support, for improved health. For more than a decade, bariatric patient Delorce Ferrell tried counting calories and exercising.
Back in the Swing After Surgery
July 12, 2021
Richard Weiss was suffering from extreme back pain but didn’t want to have major surgery. He found a better option at GW Hospital.
Empowered by Facial Feminization
June 9, 2021
Ameirah Neal shares her personal journey about the gender-affirming surgery that changed her life.
A Young Adult’s Cautionary COVID-19 Tale
September 17, 2020
Francis Wilson was a healthy 29-year-old who figured coronavirus "wasn't too major” — until it nearly killed him.
COVID-19 Q&A: How and Where the Virus Lives
September 14, 2020
A microbiologist explains how the virus infiltrates the body and how to fight against it.
Keeping You Safe During COVID-19: Facebook Live Q&A
September 10, 2020
Experts recommend scheduling doctor's appointments and surgeries now, before a possible increase in COVID-19 infections this fall.
COVID-19 Q&A: An Inside Look at Testing
September 9, 2020
A pathologist addresses testing practices and the critical role they play.
How to Maintain Emotional Wellness During a Pandemic
September 3, 2020
How can you feel balanced in the midst of COVID-19? GW Psychiatrists discuss coping strategies and key steps you can take.
COVID-19 Q&A: Immunities, Vaccines and More
August 28, 2020
An infectious diseases physician discusses the challenges and path forward.
Tackling COVID-19 with Teamwork and Technology
August 25, 2020
Virtual reality imaging and advanced heart-lung care help doctors better understand and treat the deadly virus.