HMH Doctors Address Your Top Health Concerns

In the 10 years since the Hackensack Meridian Health merger, we’ve gotten to know our community of New Jerseyans very well. We’ve been listening closely to what you truly care about when it comes to your health, and we’re here to help you every step of the way. 

No question is too complicated; no concern is too small; no treatment is out of reach. You can trust HMH doctors to provide you with the latest and greatest advice. 

Read on to learn their answers to your top health care questions for 2026.

1. How Are Insomnia and Sleep Apnea Connected?

Insomnia and sleep apnea are the most common co-occurring sleep disorders, affecting up to 30 percent and 10 percent of adults, respectively. 

While they are distinct disorders, they can exacerbate each other: Obstructive sleep apnea arises when your airway becomes blocked as you’re lying down, making it difficult for oxygen to consistently reach your brain. That disruption can cause or worsen insomnia. 

Conversely, having difficulty falling or staying asleep can worsen sleep apnea symptoms and increase your risk. If you snore, gasp for air at night or struggle with getting enough rest, it’s important to see a sleep specialist.

Left untreated, sleep apnea can lead to serious health problems. And if anxiety is keeping you up at night, breaking the insomnia-anxiety cycle is possible with the right approach.

Not sure where to start? Here are tips for falling asleep without a sleep aid.

2. What Screenings Should I Ask About at My Next Annual Checkup?

Preventive screenings are one of the most effective ways to catch serious conditions early, when they’re easier to treat.

Your doctor’s recommendations will depend on your age, sex, family history and risk factors for certain diseases. Come prepared with details about your family’s health history, and ask whether you need screenings for colon cancer, breast cancer or lung cancer if you currently smoke or have in the past.

You can also use our “What Health Screenings Do You Need?” quiz to get a better sense of what to discuss at your visit.

3. Why Are My Allergies Worse This Year, and What Can I Do to Treat Them?

If your allergy symptoms feel more intense lately, you’re not imagining it. Experts believe longer pollen seasons — driven by warmer temperatures — are making symptoms worse for many people.

To reduce exposure:

• Keep windows closed during high pollen days. 
• Change clothes after being outdoors. 
• Shower before bed to remove pollen from skin and hair. 

If over-the-counter medications aren’t helping, or symptoms are getting worse, see a doctor. Treatments like prescription medications, allergy shots or sublingual immunotherapy may provide relief.

4. What Causes Nerve Pain, and How Can I Get Relief?

Nerve pain often happens when a nerve root near the spine is compressed by a herniated disc, inflammation or surrounding tissue. It can lead to symptoms like numbness; tingling; or sharp, radiating pain.

Common causes include arthritis, injury or pregnancy.

You may find relief with:

• Rest and activity modification 
• Ice or heat therapy
• Splints or supportive devices 
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) 

If pain lasts more than one to two weeks or worsens, see a doctor. Treatment options may include physical therapy, medications or, in some cases, surgery.

5. What Lifestyle Changes Help With Stress, and When Should I See a Doctor?

Stress is a common health concern, but small daily habits can make a big difference.

Regular exercise helps regulate mood by boosting endorphins and lowering cortisol levels. Staying connected — whether through volunteering or calling a friend — can also improve emotional well-being.

If social media or news increases anxiety, consider limiting screen time and replacing it with more restorative activities.

If stress or anxiety starts to interfere with daily life, talk to your primary care provider or a mental health professional.

6. Which Treatments Work Best to Lower High Cholesterol Levels?

More than a third of New Jerseyans have been told they have high cholesterol. 

Your doctor should work with you to estimate your overall cardiovascular risk, using your cholesterol numbers as well as blood pressure and other pieces of your health history, and then discuss lifestyle changes and possibly medication that could help lower your risk. 

Steps that can help lower cholesterol include:

• Eating foods low in saturated fat, trans fat and sodium
• Adding more fruits, vegetables and fiber to your diet
• Exercising regularly — aim for 30 minutes, five days a week

But some people can’t overcome their body’s natural cholesterol production, and medication, such as statins, may be recommended by your doctor.

Want to dive deeper? Learn four simple ways to lower your cholesterol and find out what really impacts your cholesterol levels.

7. How Can I Improve My Mobility as I Age?

Changes in muscle strength, joint health and balance can affect mobility over time. The good news: Targeted support can help you stay active and independent.

Talk to your doctor about working with a physical therapist or occupational therapist. These specialists can create personalized exercise plans to improve strength, flexibility and range of motion. They may also use hands-on therapies to reduce pain and improve movement.

If vision or hearing changes are affecting your balance or confidence, addressing those issues can also improve mobility.

8. What Are the Latest Treatments for Prostate Cancer?

While prostate cancer can be life-threatening, it’s often slow-growing, localized and quite treatable. Even better news: There are many effective emerging treatment options. 

Newer approaches include:

• Hormone therapies that may work when earlier treatments have stopped being effective
• Checkpoint inhibitors that target prostate cancers with specific gene changes
• Targeted therapies like PARP inhibitors, which block a DNA repair pathway used by cancer cells
• Single-incision robotic prostatectomy, a less-invasive surgical option

With about 1,000 clinical trials currently researching emerging therapies in the U.S. alone, there are many reasons to be optimistic. 

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed, start with the basics: Learn what you should know about prostate cancer, understand why cases are on the rise and explore what to expect from radiation therapy.

9. What Should I Ask My Doctor If I Suspect I Have an Autoimmune Disorder?

Autoimmune conditions occur when the immune system attacks healthy tissue, causing inflammation throughout the body.

Symptoms vary widely and may include:

• Joint pain or swelling that accompanies rheumatoid arthritis
• Fatigue and rashes that come with Lyme disease
• Dizziness, headaches and stiffness associated with fibromyalgia 
• Bloating and abdominal cramping that define celiac disease

Keep a record of your symptoms and bring it to your appointment. Ask your doctor:

• What tests are needed? 
• What do those tests involve? 
• Should I see a specialist, such as a rheumatologist?

10. Which Vaccines Does My Child Need, and Are They Safe?

Vaccines remain one of the most effective ways to protect children from serious illness.

The recommended immunization schedule is carefully designed based on when a child’s immune system responds best and when their risk is highest. It includes protection against diseases like measles, polio and whooping cough.

Even if multiple vaccines are given in a short time, research shows this is safe and does not overwhelm the immune system.

If you have questions, your child’s pediatrician can walk you through the schedule and address any concerns.

Next Steps & Resources:

• Make an appointment online with a doctor near you, or call 800-822-8905.
• Learn more about primary care services at Hackensack Meridian Health.