BJC ST. CHARLES
COUNTY BLOG

Explore topics related to medical, health and wellness from Barnes-Jewish St. Peters Hospital and Progress West Hospital experts.

Understanding Blood Pressure

Understanding Blood Pressure

Blood pressure refers to two different measurements: pressure in the arteries when the heart contracts, and pressure in the arteries when the heart relaxes. Normal blood pressure is 120/80 or lower.

Why You Shouldn’t Skip Your Annual Wellness Exam

Why You Shouldn’t Skip Your Annual Wellness Exam

June 2022 - You shouldn’t only see your doctor when you’re sick. Your annual wellness exam is an important part in keeping you well. This visit with your doctor once a year focuses on prevention and ensuring your optimal health, often at no cost to you. Learn more about why you should be keeping up with your annual wellness exams.

Women’s Health: The Importance of Annual Exams

Women’s Health: The Importance of Annual Exams

June 2021 - If you’re young and healthy, you might not see the need for an annual appointment with your doctor. However, these women’s wellness exams are important in prevention and early diagnosis for women of all ages. Learn more about why staying on schedule with these exams is key in your overall health and wellness.

A Refresher on Health and Wellness

A Refresher on Health and Wellness

March 2021 - It’s that time of year again when our New Year’s resolutions to live a healthier lifestyle may begin to dwindle or disappear completely. While it can be difficult to stay motivated, health and wellness doesn’t need to be challenging. John Wendt, MD, a BJC Medical Group family medicine physician in Wentzville, shares some helpful advice to stay on track to living well.

Primary Care That’s Easier Than Ever

Primary Care That’s Easier Than Ever

March 2020 - Technology has helped make it easier than ever to be seen by a primary care physician, says John Paul Shoup, BJC Medical Group internal medicine and pediatrics physician in Wentzville, MO.

Women’s Health - A Holistic Approach

Women’s Health - A Holistic Approach

February 2020 - Caitlin Rogers, DO, BJC Medical Group primary care physician and obstetrics specialist at Progress West Hospital, explains the benefits of women taking a comprehensive approach to their health care.

Aging in Health

Aging in Health

November 2019 - As we age, our health begins to decline. Oftentimes, this can be managed by a primary care physician; however, some older patients with complex health issues might benefit more from being cared for by a geriatrician. 

Make Primary Care a Priority

April 2019 - If you’re feeling well, you might think a visit to the doctor isn’t needed. However, having a primary care provider who is focused on your overall health and well-being is important to ensure you stay well, now and in the future. 

Is It a Cold or the Flu?

Is It a Cold or the Flu?

March 2019 - It can be hard to discern a common cold from the flu. A cold can be caused by more than 200 different viruses while the flu is often caused by the influenza A and B viruses. Here’s how to tell the difference between these two viral illnesses and what you can do to get back to feeling well. 

Need Motivation to Exercise? Try the Buddy System

Need Motivation to Exercise? Try the Buddy System

November 2018 - Are you thinking about a New Year’s resolution to work out more? Research shows that exercising with a buddy can give you both mental and physical boosts.