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.

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.