Health Education

Health tips from our providers to keep you at your healthiest.

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Tick Prevention 

June 2026 // Health Matters Monthly Column By Tina Opelt, APNP, FNP-BC, Family Nurse Practitioner Lyme disease is an infection spread by deer ticks, which are about the size of a pinhead. They peak in our area in late spring and early summer. The CDC estimates there are 476,000 cases of Lyme…

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When Kids Get Stuck in Survival Mode

“I can’t go to school. My stomach hurts.” By Tamilyn White, LPC, Behavioral Health Therapist Sometimes children really do have stomach ailments. But what does it mean when a kiddo complains about feeling sick, but rest, medicine, and doctors don’t find anything physically off? The Brain-Body Connection Although we sometimes talk…

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Situational Awareness & Well-being

Health Matters Monthly Column // May 2026 By Tina Opelt, APNP, FNP-BC, Family Nurse Practitioner Do you notice what’s happening around you throughout your day—or are you on “autopilot,” moving from one task to the next? Situational awareness is the ability to observe, understand, and respond to what’s happening in…

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Understanding Dementia

Early Signs, Misconceptions & How Families Can Help Memory changes are often one of the first things families notice when an older loved one begins to experience dementia. But according to Joan Hamblin, MD, FAAFP, family physician at NorthLakes Community Clinic in Eau Claire, the earliest signs are not always…

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Menopause and Perimenopause

Health Matters Monthly Column // April 2026 By Tina Opelt, APNP, FNP-BC, Family Nurse Practitioner Symptoms and Treatment The average age of menopause—the end of menstrual cycles—in the United States is 51. However, symptoms of “the change” can begin up to 10 years earlier, during perimenopause. These hormone changes can…

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Could a Simple Test Save Your Life?

What You Need to Know About Colon Cancer Screening Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States—but it’s also one of the most preventable. Nurse Practitioner Jennifer Halverson at NorthLakes Community Clinic says, “regular screening can catch problems early, when they’re easiest to treat.” Here’s what you need to know: Who Should…

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5 Things to Know About Dementia

Dementia affects millions of families, but the early signs and symptoms are often misunderstood. Dr. Joan Hamblin, MD, FAAFP, a family physician at NorthLakes Community Clinic in Eau Claire with extensive experience in dementia care, shares five important things families should know. 1. Early signs are not always just memory…

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Finding Your Path Forward

A Conversation with Sheila Gohr, LPC For many people, deciding to seek counseling is just the beginning — walking through the door for the first time may be the hardest step they’ll ever take. Fear of being judged is one of the biggest barriers to seeking therapy. That’s exactly where therapist…

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From Sidelines to the State Meet

Sports Chiropractic Care at Oconto Whether you’re a competitive athlete pushing through a tough season or a weekend warrior dealing with a nagging injury, chiropractic sports medicine may offer more than you think. NorthLakes Community Clinic in Oconto is home to Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician Claire Tomashek, DC, CCSP, whose…

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Heart Health Month

Health Matters Monthly Column // February 2026 By Tina Opelt, APNP, FNP-BC, Family Nurse Practitioner February is known for Valentine’s Day and, more importantly, for American Heart Health month—a timely reminder that the best valentine you can give yourself is a healthy heart. Heart disease, which includes heart attack and…

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Supplements galore!

Health Matters Monthly Column // January 2026 By Tina Opelt, APNP, FNP-BC, Family Nurse Practitioner Things to consider before taking supplements In the US, there is a rapidly growing trend with people seeking “natural” remedies for a wide range of health conditions or symptoms. However, the very best way to…

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The Skinny on Fats

Understanding Dietary Fats By Rebecca Crumb-Johnson, RDN, MA, CDCES Registered Dietitian and Nutritionist and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist Dietary fats are important for maintaining good overall health. Fat helps give your body energy, protects your organs, supports cell growth and brain function, and helps your body absorb vital…

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