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Home is where the heart is

Read more about Home is where the heart is

You may have heard the saying that your heart is like a house. Kettering Health describes hearts as having rooms, doors, pipes and wiring.

Let’s take a quick tour:

Rooms: The heart is like a two-story house with four rooms. There are two rooms, or chambers, on each floor. Hearts pump blood through the chambers.

Doors: Hearts have valves. Like doors, valves open and close, allowing blood to move to the lungs and different parts of the heart. The opening and closing make two sounds or a heartbeat.

Plumbing: The heart has arteries. Just like clogged water pipes, a heart blockage is unwanted. Blockages can lead to heart attacks, strokes or heart failure.

Wiring: Hearts have electrical circuits to power our bodies. Irregular heartbeat conditions, like atrial flutter or atrial fibrillation (AFib), impact the heart’s wiring system.

Although eating right, managing an ideal weight and exercising regularly are excellent habits, our hearts still need checkups and maintenance.

Scripps Health describes a few of the experts who keep hearts beating strong:

General cardiologists

Studying hearts like blueprints, general cardiologists identify and treat a variety of conditions. They help patients with preventive care and work with heart specialists.

Cardiovascular surgeons

Like calling a professional to fix a wall or replace the roof, cardiovascular surgeons are the master carpenters in heart care. They perform procedures to rebuild the heart, such as bypass surgeries or aortic repairs.

Interventional cardiologists 

The heart’s arteries can become partially blocked. Interventional cardiologists are heart plumbers who clear and repair arteries. They restore blood flow, replace valves and are a call away for a heart emergency.

Electrophysiologists  

Like the lamp cord that needs to be fixed, the heart’s electrical system sometimes needs repairs. Electrophysiologists are heart electricians who keep hearts beating regularly. They help with arrhythmia conditions, such as AFib, and perform pacemaker procedures.

Hearts need routine care, just like our homes. The next time you call the handyman, take time to schedule your annual wellness or cardiologist visit. If you’re experiencing heart attack symptoms such as chest pain, arm or shoulder discomfort, shortness of breath or vomiting, call 911 immediately.

Genesis is one of America's Top 50 Heart Hospitals

For the 2nd year in a row, as rated by Fortune Magazine and PINC AI.

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Genesis Heart and Vascular provider comforting a patient

Genesis Heart & Vascular Services

We bring together an outstanding team of specialists, nationally accredited care and life-saving technology in a heart institute conveniently in Zanesville, Ohio. From our hybrid operating room to our electrophysiology and cath labs to our rehabilitation center, inside the Heart & Vascular Institute, you’ll find a highly skilled staff, board-certified physician specialists and the latest technology.

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Make an Appointment

Make an appointment with one of our board certified specialists, including Cardiologists, Cardiothoracic Surgeons, Electrophysiologists and Vascular Surgeons.

Zanesville Office 740-454-0804 Cambridge Office 740-421-9234 Coshocton 740-623-4481

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Genesis HealthCare System’s Health and Wellness content conveniently provides accurate and helpful information. Your health history and current health may impact suggestions provided through our Health and Wellness content. Although we hope this information is helpful, it is not a substitute for your doctor's medical advice. Before making any significant changes, please consult your doctor.

Heart & Vascular

Tue, 08/12/2025 - 08:00

Hearts need routine care, just like our homes. The next time you call the handyman, take time to schedule your annual wellness or cardiologist visit.

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Tee off to good health

Read more about Tee off to good health

Golf is a great activity to catch up with friends, spend time outdoors and close business deals.

Golf is also connected to many health and fitness advantages, including improving mental focus and lowering the risk of heart disease.

Take the quiz to see if you’re up to par with your golf health.

The next time someone says you’re on the course too much, have these health facts handy. Unlike higher-impact activities, an added benefit of golf is that many adults can continue to play into older ages. This helps keep the body in shape while enjoying the many health and social benefits of the sport.

Reference links:

Getting into the swing of golf | Harvard Health Publishing

Golf Reduces Stress and Improves Mental Health, Says Expert | Golf & Health

Hitting the links could be a hole in one for your health | American Heart Association

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Fitness

Quiz

Thu, 08/07/2025 - 08:00

Take the quiz to see if you’re up to par with your golf health.

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The spicy truth. Do peppers help you burn fat?

Read more about The spicy truth. Do peppers help you burn fat?

When it comes to weight loss, many people are looking for quick fixes or magical foods to help them shed those extra pounds. One food that often gets a lot of attention is spicy peppers. You might wonder if adding these fiery foods to your diet can help you burn fat. Let’s explore the facts.

What makes peppers hot?

The secret behind the heat in spicy peppers is a compound called capsaicin. According to the National Library of Medicine, this gives peppers their spiciness and has been linked to several health benefits. Some studies suggest that capsaicin can boost your metabolism and increase calorie burning. Essentially, when you consume spicy food, your body might burn a few extra calories as it processes the heat.

The metabolism boost

Eating spicy peppers may temporarily increase your metabolic rate. This means your body could burn more calories for a short period after eating. According to Piedmont Healthcare, research has shown that it can increase your metabolism by up to 5%.

Eating habits matter

Another factor to consider is how spicy food affects your eating habits. Many people find that spicy foods can reduce their appetite, leading them to eat less overall. On the other hand, some may find that spicy foods can trigger cravings for richer, calorie-dense foods. If you’re reaching for nachos after a spicy meal, those extra calories can easily offset any potential fat-burning benefits from the peppers.

Moderation is key

Incorporating spicy peppers into a balanced diet can add flavor and variety to your meals. You can enjoy them in salads, stir-fries or sauces. However, they are not a magic solution for weight loss. For effective fat burning, focus on a well-rounded diet and regular exercise.

The bottom line

So, do spicy peppers help you burn fat? They may provide a slight metabolic boost and could help control appetite, but they aren’t a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. Enjoy spicy peppers as part of a balanced diet, but don’t rely on them as your only strategy for weight loss.

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Nutrition

Tue, 08/05/2025 - 08:00

You might wonder if adding spicy peppers to your diet can help you burn fat. Let’s explore the facts.

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Mammograms

Read more about Mammograms

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the most common cancer among women. Thankfully, it is treatable, especially with early detection. Even so, many women avoid scheduling or keeping an appointment for a mammogram.

What is a mammogram?

A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast. Its primary function is to detect breast cancer or other abnormalities in the breast tissue.

When should women start getting mammograms?

General recommendations for cancer screenings vary based on age:

Women older than 30 only need to have a mammogram if they exhibit symptoms, like a lump.

Women between the ages of 40 and 54 should be screened for breast cancer each year.

Women over age 55 should be screened for breast cancer every other year.

If you have a family history of breast cancer, your Primary Care Physician (PCP) may recommend beginning screenings sooner or more frequently.

Why are mammograms so important?

Mammograms can detect abnormalities sooner than a manual breast exam, making them a great first line of defense. According to the American College of Radiology, mammography has helped reduce breast cancer mortality in the U.S. by nearly 40% since 1990.

Although mammograms are a key part of breast cancer prevention, many women put off their mammograms or avoid them entirely. Sound familiar? You’re not alone.

According to a new study from MedStar Health, here are the most common reasons women don’t get mammograms (and why you should rethink getting that appointment on your calendar):

“I haven’t gotten around to it.”

Life is busy, and it’s easy to let preventive care fall by the wayside, especially when taking care of family. However, your health is important, too. Next time you make an appointment with your PCP, mention that you’re due for a mammogram and schedule it.

“I’ve had normal mammograms in the past,” or “Breast cancer doesn’t run in my family.”

If breast cancer isn’t a concern for you, missing a mammogram or two doesn’t seem like a big deal. However, the risk of developing cancer increases with age, regardless of family history. It’s critical to continue getting tested to ensure you are healthy.

“Mammograms are painful.”

Many women complain that mammograms are uncomfortable or painful, but they don’t have to be. If you’re avoiding your mammogram due to pain, talk to your PCP about your options.

Avoid scheduling your mammogram the week before your period to avoid sensitivities from hormonal changes. Take acetaminophen before the appointment. If the position of the imaging plates is uncomfortable,

ask the technician to adjust them.

"I’m afraid. What if they find something?”

Anxiety around medical testing is common, and understandable, particularly when it comes to tests that can reveal something like cancer.

Talk to your PCP about your concerns. Bring a loved one with you for moral support before and after the test.

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Cancer Care

LiveWell

Fri, 11/03/2023 - 08:00

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Willis, Ashlei A.

Read more about Willis, Ashlei A.

Doctor ID

5906

Ashlei A Willis, APRN-CNP

First Name

Ashlei

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Willis

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APRN-CNP

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Female

Office Phone

740-454-8193

NPI

1871248476

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FALSE

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FALSE

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Genesis Medical Group

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Genesis Medical Group

999 Garden Road
Zanesville, OH 43701
United States

57197

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Tessmer-Tuck, Jennifer A.

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5923

Jennifer Ann Tessmer-Tuck, MD

First Name

Jennifer

Middle Name

Ann

Last Name

Tessmer-Tuck

Professional Titles

Gender

Female

Office Phone

740-454-8800

NPI

1124088737

Accepting New Patients

FALSE

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Navigating the fall time change

Read more about Navigating the fall time change

As crisp autumn air returns and daylight becomes shorter, the time change can impact our overall

well-being. While gaining an extra hour of sleep is a bonus, the adjustment can disrupt our body’s internal clock.

We can proactively alleviate these concerns and embrace the seasonal shift as we set our clocks back one hour.

Time change impact

The end of daylight saving time is the first Sunday in November. According to the National Institute of General Medical Sciences, this change can affect our circadian rhythm, the natural internal process regulating the sleep-wake cycle.

Disruptions to this cycle can lead to:

Decreased energy levels.

Impaired cognitive function.

Mood changes.

Sleep disturbances.

Tips to navigate

1. Healthy sleep habits

Adjust your bedtime ahead of a time change to 15-20 minutes earlier, according to the Sleep Foundation.

Create a sleep-friendly environment by keeping bedrooms cool, dark and quiet.

Reduce exposure to electronics an hour before bedtime.

Maintain a consistent wake-up time to help regulate your internal clock.

2. Maximize light exposure

Spend time outdoors to reset your circadian rhythm and improve alertness.

Lack of sunlight contributes to lower amounts of vitamin D, according to the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center. This is linked to sadness, depression and fatigue. Consider using a light therapy box if you have limited access to sunlight. This can be beneficial for those with seasonal affective disorder.

Aim for 30 minutes of moderate exercise five days a week to boost energy and improve sleep. Incorporate outdoor activities like hiking, biking, running or walking.

3. Mindful eating

Maintain a diet with fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins to support your overall health and energy levels.

Avoid consuming caffeine and alcohol too close to bedtime.

4. Mental health check

Incorporate deep breathing techniques, meditation or yoga to manage stress and anxiety.

If the time change significantly impacts your well-being, consider talking with a mental health professional.

Embrace a positive mindset

While the time change can pose challenges, it also presents opportunities to improve daily habits. Take a moment to prioritize your health, stay active and enjoy the new season. Minor adjustments can make a big difference in maintaining our physical and mental well-being.

Go to genesishcs.org for more wellness resources.

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Lifestyle

LiveWell

Mon, 10/21/2024 - 08:00

While gaining an extra hour of sleep is a bonus, the adjustment can disrupt our body’s internal clock.

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Flu season is here

Read more about Flu season is here

Colder weather is often associated with some of our favorite activities, such as football season, pumpkin patches and the holidays. Chillier weather can also bring fevers, chills, coughs, body aches and sore throats, all symptoms of influenza.

One of the simplest ways to prevent the flu is to get a yearly flu shot. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that the annual vaccination has several advantages, including minimizing the risk of flu, time spent in the hospital and flu-related deaths.

Each year, there are different flu strains. The CDC recommends getting a flu shot in October to prepare for the peak season starting in December.

According to the CDC, anyone six months of age or older should receive the seasonal flu shot, although there are some rare exceptions. There are different types of flu shots for different age groups.

Adults 65 years old or older should receive a specific flu shot, which will give them more protection from the flu. Talk to your doctor if you have questions about the best flu vaccine for you.

Be mindful of others

If you don’t get the flu shot for yourself, get it for someone else. Our well-being is a priority, but we also want to ensure our friends and family are healthy. For example, children, pregnant women, grandparents and those with chronic health conditions, such as diabetes or cancer, are at a higher risk for flu complications.

Many pharmacies and local health departments offer flu shot clinics. At Genesis Pharmacies, our Taylor, Maysville, New Concord, Roseville and Somerset locations offer the flu shot. Most insurance companies cover the flu shot and your healthcare provider can help you prepare for this year’s flu season.

Visit genesispharmacies.org for more information.

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Family Health

LiveWell

Mon, 10/21/2024 - 08:00

Each year, there are different flu strains. The CDC recommends getting a flu shot in October to prepare for the peak season starting in December.

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You could save your life with a colonoscopy

Read more about You could save your life with a colonoscopy

In 2018, the American Cancer Society lowered the recommended age from 50 to 45 for colon cancer
screening. The change was made because more middle-age and young adults are getting colon cancer.
There are multiple colon cancer screening options. However, colonoscopies continue to be the best.

For more information on colon screenings, visit genesishcs.org/screenings.

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Cancer Care

LiveWell

Thu, 01/18/2024 - 08:00

The American Cancer Society has lowered the recommended age to 45 for colon cancer screening.

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Breast cancer screening can save your life

Read more about Breast cancer screening can save your life

According to the American Cancer Society:

Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women in the United States, except for skin cancers.

Every 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer in their lifetime.

5-year survival rates for breast cancer are:

99% if detected early before it spreads.
86% if it spreads to lymph nodes or nearby structures.
30% if it spreads to distant parts of the body, like lungs, liver or bones.

Screenings

National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines recommend:

All women age 40 and older at average risk of breast cancer should have an annual screening mammogram.

All women should have a clinical breast examination by a physician every year, along with a monthly self-examination.

Women with higher-than-average risk of breast cancer should have a clinical breast examination by a physician every 6 to 12 months and should consider a high-risk screening of an annual breast MRI along with an annual mammogram.