UP Health System - Bell

09/04/2026

🚨 If you needed medical care this long holiday weekend, would you know where to go?

A sore throat. A sprained ankle. A high fever. A serious injury. Not every situation needs the ER — but knowing the right place to go can help you get the care you need, when you need it.

Before the Labor Day weekend gets busy, take a minute to know your options. 👇

🏥 Primary care → For routine care and ongoing health needs

🩺 Urgent care → For illnesses and injuries that need prompt attention

🚑 Emergency room → For serious or life-threatening conditions

Save this post. Share it with your family. And know where to go before an unexpected illness or injury happens. 💙

UP Health System is here to help you find the right care.

👉 UPHealthSystem.com/get-care-now

09/03/2026

Flu season typically runs from October through May, with peak activity between December and February. Getting your flu shot now gives your body time to build immunity before the virus starts spreading widely. It's recommended for anyone 6 months and older. Have you scheduled yours yet?

09/02/2026

“But my baby sleeps so much better next to me…”

We get it. ❤️

For many parents, sharing a bed with their baby can feel comforting and convenient — especially during those long nights when everyone is exhausted.

But when it comes to sleep, where and how your baby sleeps matters.

The safest place for a baby to sleep is on their back, on a firm, flat sleep surface, with no pillows, blankets, bumpers or other soft items. The CDC also recommends keeping your baby’s sleep area in the same room where you sleep, ideally until your baby is at least 6 months old.

Those middle-of-the-night cuddles are precious. Just make sure your little one has a safe place to sleep when it’s time to rest. 💙

👉 Learn more about baby sleep safety tips: https://www.cdc.gov/sudden-infant-death/sleep-safely/index.html

👶 Need a family medicine provider or pediatrician for your little one?
https://www.uphealthsystem.com/search?vertical=providers&sort=CLOSEST&location=Ishpeming,%20MI%2049849&latitude=46.488136&longitude=-87.665062&zipcode=49849

09/01/2026

🎗️ When it comes to prostate cancer, don’t wait for symptoms to take action.

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers among men — and when caught early, it’s also one of the most treatable.

Your risk can be influenced by factors like age, family history and race, and early-stage prostate cancer often has no symptoms at all. That’s why knowing your risk and talking with your provider about screening is so important.

💙 Take the first step: talk with your provider about when screening may be right for you.

👉 Find a provider: https://www.uphealthsystem.com/

We’re here with specialized care focused on you — every step of the way.

08/31/2026

September is Healthy Aging Month! 🌟

Healthy aging isn't about adding years to your life. It's about adding life to your years. No matter your age, small, healthy choices today can help you stay active, independent, and feeling your best for years to come. September is recognized as Healthy Aging Month, an observance focused on the positive aspects of growing older and encouraging healthy lifestyle habits.

✅ Keep Moving

Regular physical activity helps maintain strength, balance, mobility, and heart health. Aim for activities you enjoy, whether that's walking, swimming, gardening, or group fitness classes. Even a short daily walk can make a difference.

✅ Fuel Your Body Well

Focus on balanced meals that include fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and plenty of water. Nutritious foods provide the energy and nutrients your body needs to stay healthy and active.

✅ Stay Strong as You Age

Healthy aging isn't just physical. Keep your mind engaged by learning new skills, reading, trying new activities, and staying connected with family and friends. Lifelong learning and social connection support overall well-being.

This September, take a step toward a healthier future. Your best years can still be ahead of you! 💙

To meet with a family medicine provider about your journey in aging, visit https://www.uphealthsystem.com/ and use our Find a Provider tab.

08/28/2026

Meet Samantha, a certified medical assistant at UP Health System – Bell, and this week's healthcare hero.

Samantha has a multifaceted role, also serving as the primary coordinator for the Michigan Care Improvement Registry in our family medicine clinic. Her days are spent doing everything to rooming patients and giving vaccines, to speaking with the Health Department and filling medications.

Asked what she enjoys most about working at UPHS - Bell, Samntha said, "I enjoy the coworkers I work with in Family Med. There is never a dull moment around them, which makes every day enjoyable."

https://www.uphealthsystem.com/news/2026/08/28/uphs---bell-heroes---samantha-johnson--cma

Thank you, Samantha, for your compassion and energy in our community.

I'm a certified medical assistant in the Family Medicine Clinic at UP Health System – Bell.

08/27/2026

Headaches are common and can often be linked to factors like stress, dehydration, lack of sleep, too much screen time, caffeine withdrawal or skipping meals. While most headaches improve with rest and self-care, it's important to know when symptoms may require medical attention.

08/26/2026

❤️ Could It Be Atrial Fibrillation (AFib)? Know the Signs.

Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, is the most common type of irregular heartbeat. It can cause the heart to beat too fast, too slow, or unevenly, increasing the risk of stroke and other heart complications. Some people have no symptoms at all, while others notice signs that come and go. Common symptoms include a fluttering or racing heartbeat, fatigue, shortness of breath, dizziness, weakness, and chest discomfort.

✅ Talk to your doctor if you experience:
• A racing, fluttering, or irregular heartbeat
• Unexplained fatigue or weakness
• Shortness of breath during normal activities
• Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting episodes
• Ongoing chest discomfort or pressure

🚨 Seek immediate medical attention or call 911 if you have:
• Chest pain or pressure
• Severe shortness of breath
• Fainting or near-fainting
• Signs of a stroke, such as sudden weakness, numbness, trouble speaking, or vision changes

Early diagnosis and treatment can help reduce the risk of stroke and heart failure. If something doesn't feel right, don't ignore it. Your heart may be trying to tell you something important. ❤️

To learn more about our cardiology services, visit https://www.uphealthsystem.com/cardiology

If you are experiencing a medical emergency that requires immediate attention, dial 911. You can visit https://www.uphealthsystem.com/emergency-room for location info on emergency care.

08/25/2026

What is a sleep study, and who should get one?

Sleep studies are used to diagnose problems of excessive fatigue, sleepiness, snoring, or restless sleep. Patients are monitored while they sleep for brain wave patterns, eye movements, muscle tension, air flow and respiratory effort, oxygen levels and heartbeat.

If you experience any of these symptoms, you may be a candidate for a sleep study. A physician referral is needed to obtain one, though, so it helps to consult your family physician first.

A sleep study involves an overnight stay, but is considered an outpatient procedure. It's a good idea to check with your insurance carrier before moving forward in the process.

To learn more about our sleep medicine services across all three hospitals, visit https://www.uphealthsystem.com/sleep-medicine

08/24/2026

As the seasons change, many of us are excited to get back to our favorite cool weather sports and outdoor activities. Whether you're getting yourself back into skiing, hockey or snowshoeing form, it's important to remember that your body may not be in the same condition it was at the end of last season.

Jumping back in too quickly can increase your risk of strains, sprains and other injuries. Taking time to ease back into activity can help you stay healthy and enjoy your sport all season long.

Here are three tips for working your way back to last year's form:

- Start slow and build gradually: Increase the intensity, duration or frequency of your workouts a little at a time rather than all at once.

- Focus on strength and flexibility: Incorporate stretching, mobility exercises and strength training to prepare your muscles and joints for increased activity.

- Listen to your body: Mild soreness is normal, but pain, excessive fatigue or lingering discomfort may be signs that you need more recovery time.

A successful season starts with a healthy foundation. Be patient with your progress, stay consistent and give your body the time it needs to adapt. Your future self will thank you.

If this transition has brought back feelings of pain or discomfort related to a past injury, visit https://www.uphealthsystem.com/rehabilitation to see how we can get you back up to speed.