Southwest General

04/13/2026

This past Saturday, the Southwest Health Foundation's Tiara Gala brought together employees, donors and community supporters at the Cleveland Museum of Art to honor retired pulmonologist Dr. L.C. Rao and his wife, Jean.

The evening was filled with celebration, gratitude and shared purpose, celebrating the Raos’ $3 million gift to the Foundation to help Southwest General continue providing exceptional care.

We are profoundly grateful to Dr. Rao and Jean, and to all those support our mission! Thank you for your dedication to our community’s hospital.

04/13/2026

Health advice travels fast; however, not all of it is accurate. Over the years, many health myths have taken on a life of their own. Some sound convincing, but science tells a different story.

Swipe through as we separate fact from fiction and take a closer look at a few common health beliefs. Sometimes the most helpful health advice starts with understanding what’s actually supported by science.

💬 What’s a health myth you’ve heard before?

04/11/2026

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) affects millions of people, yet many still struggle to understand what it really is.

Here are three important things to know:
• It’s common. IBS affects an estimated 10–15% of adults.
• Symptoms can vary. People may experience abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation or a mix of both.
• Triggers are different for everyone. Stress, certain foods and hormonal changes can all play a role.

While IBS can be frustrating, the right diagnosis, lifestyle adjustments and treatment options can help many people manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

If digestive symptoms interfere with your daily life, a conversation with your healthcare provider is a good place to start.

04/10/2026

Many people don’t associate cancer with younger men, but testicular cancer most often affects men between the ages of 15 and 35.

Because symptoms are often painless, the signs can be easy to overlook. Knowing what to watch for and paying attention to changes in your body can make a meaningful difference.

In our latest blog, we explain:
• Why testicular cancer often appears in younger men
• Symptoms that shouldn’t be ignored
• When it’s time to talk to a healthcare provider

Taking time to learn the signs could make all the difference. Read more: https://bit.ly/4eb6zMO

Testicular cancer often affects men aged 15–35. Learn the signs, risk factors and when to get checked.

04/10/2026

Many symptoms seem small or easy to dismiss. We tell ourselves we’re just tired, stressed or getting older.

Sometimes, though, the body sends signals that deserve attention.

Symptoms that shouldn’t be ignored include:
• Chest discomfort or pressure
• Unexplained weight loss
• Persistent fatigue
• Changes in bowel habits
• Shortness of breath
• Unusual bleeding or bruising

Most of the time, these symptoms turn out to have manageable explanations. However, paying attention early can make a meaningful difference in protecting your health.

04/09/2026

Have you registered yet?

The 43rd Old Oak Run is almost here — and there’s still time to sign up.

Grab a friend, lace up your shoes and be part of this long-standing community tradition.

📍 Southwest General’s Main Campus (18697 Bagley Rd., Middleburg Heights)
📅 April 18, 2026
🏃 5K Race & 1-mile Walk

Sign up today at the link in bio.

04/08/2026

There’s still time to join the fun. The 43rd Old Oak Run at Southwest General is right around the corner — and registration is still open.

Whether you’re running for a personal best, walking with friends or simply enjoying the energy of race day, it’s a great way to get moving and be part of a community event that has brought people together for more than four decades.

📍 Southwest General’s Main Campus (18697 Bagley Rd., Middleburg Heights)
📅 Saturday, April 18, 2026
🏃 5K Race & 1-mile Walk

Register today: https://runsignup.com/Race/OH/MiddleburgHeights/OldOakRun

04/06/2026

Can cancer always be prevented?
No, but many risks can be lowered.

Research shows that everyday choices can make a meaningful difference over time. Steps such as avoiding to***co, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, protecting your skin from UV exposure and keeping up with recommended screenings all play a role. Additionally, vaccines can help prevent certain cancers. For example, the HPV vaccine protects against several cancers later in life.

Prevention isn’t about perfection.
It’s about making informed choices that support long-term health.

04/05/2026

Wishing you a joyful and peaceful Easter.

Whether the day is spent with family, sharing a meal, attending services or simply enjoying the arrival of spring, we hope this season brings moments of renewal, hope and connection.

From all of us at Southwest General, happy Easter.

04/04/2026

Most people think of vitamin C as the vitamin you reach for during cold and flu season. However, its role in the body goes far beyond immune support.

Vitamin C:
• Helps heal wounds and form scar tissue
• Supports collagen production for healthy skin and joints
• Helps improve the body’s ability to absorb iron from foods
• Acts as a powerful antioxidant that helps protect cells

Because the body can’t store vitamin C long-term, it’s important to get it regularly through foods like citrus, strawberries, peppers and broccoli.

🥦 What’s your favorite vitamin C-rich food?

04/03/2026

Many people assume rosacea is simply facial redness. In reality, it’s a chronic skin condition that affects millions of adults.

Common signs can include:
• Persistent redness on the cheeks, nose or forehead
• Visible blood vessels
• Acne-like bumps
• Skin sensitivity or burning

Rosacea often comes and goes in cycles, with symptoms flaring and calming over time. Triggers can vary from person to person, but common ones include sun exposure, stress, hot beverages and certain foods. While rosacea can’t be cured, treatment options and lifestyle adjustments can help manage symptoms and improve skin comfort.

04/02/2026

Let’s bust some myths about advanced practice providers (APPs).

❌ Myth: I won’t get quality care unless I see a doctor.
✅ Fact: APPs are trained to diagnose, treat, prescribe, and coordinate care. They’re a vital part of your health care team and work closely with patients to support their care.

❌ Myth: "Nurse practitioners and physician assistants can’t prescribe medication."
✅ Fact: In Ohio, both CNPs and PAs can prescribe medications. They work under collaborative agreements and provide safe, appropriate prescriptions just like a physician would.

❌ Myth: “CNPs and PAs only handle minor issues.”
✅ Fact: Advanced practice providers care for a wide range of health needs, from preventive visits and chronic condition management to diagnosing new symptoms and coordinating specialty care.

❌ Myth: “Seeing an CNP or PA means I won’t get the full expertise of the care team.”
✅ Fact: CNPs and PAs are an essential part of an integrated care team. They collaborate closely with physicians and specialists to ensure patients receive the right care, at the right time, with seamless coordination.

Still unsure? Ask us! We're here to explain how our team works together for your best health.