The Scope Radio

Should you go to the doctor for a cold? It's a pretty common question. After all, colds can be miserable and who wouldn't want to feel better? Find out if a trip to your physician's office is worth it. Internal medicine physician Tom Miller, MD, talks about things you can do to make a cold more bearable and if antibiotics can help make you feel better.

Is your child's teething causing their ear infections? Will they catch a cold if you let them go outside with wet hair? What about if you leave a window open while they're sleeping? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, set the record straight on three of the more common old wives' tales about colds and ear infections.

Being kind is good for your health. Practicing kindness improves health across four vital domains: physical, social, emotional, and spiritual. Kirtly Parker Jones, MD, talks about the science behind why being kind can lead to positive emotions, increased mindfulness, and reduced illness symptoms, and discusses some simple ways to practice being kind that can improve your overall well-being.

Does it seem like your child gets bad colds every winter? If it lasts longer than a month, there is a good chance the sneezing and sniffling are not from a cold at all. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains how to tell the difference between seasonal colds and winter allergies.

Should you take daily vitamin D supplements? How much should you be getting? The discussion around vitamin D remains contentious, with debates on optimal supplementation doses and associated health benefits. Women's health expert Kirtly Jones, MD, reviews studies on vitamin D and what they mean for you.

Marijuana use may not be quite as risk-free as previously believed—especially for teens. Cindy Gellner, MD, explains recent research into the rise in teen marijuana use. Learn more about its association with serious health issues like temporary psychosis and the increased risk of developing disorders like schizophrenia and cannabis hyperemesis syndrome.

Health is more than just your physical well-being. Health is more than how many steps you have walked or how many calories you have eaten for the day. The Center of Excellence in Women's Health at University of Utah Health defines health as "a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being." Women's health expert Kirtly Parker Jones, MD, talks about the seven domains of women's health and why it is unhealthy to be obsessed with your health.

Winter air inversion affects kids differently than adults, especially kids with breathing problems such as asthma. On a day with heavy inversion, is it safe for your child to play outside? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, defines what inversions are and why children are more at risk during periods of bad air quality. Dr. Gellner also discusses how to decide whether the air quality is good enough for your child to be out during recess at school and what to do if it's not.

Perimenopause is the final stretch before you stop having periods altogether. For many women, it's a frustrating time filled with hot flashes, heavy and unpredictable bleeding, and a lot of hormones. Even though perimenopause is different for every woman, Kirtly Parker Jones, MD, talks about what you can expect before those pesky periods leave your life forever.

Shoulder pain can be more than just a nuisance—it might be arthritis. Orthopedic specialist Chris Joyce, MD, explains how to recognize arthritis in the shoulder, the risk factors associated with this condition, and the various treatment options available to provide some relief.

Is regular exercise the key to managing ADHD, anxiety, and depression in children? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, examines recent evidence that shows how increased physical activity can significantly improve mental health conditions in kids. Also, learn practical strategies that parents can use to integrate more exercise into their children's daily routines.

When do your child's typical worries and stresses become a concern for anxiety or depression? Pediatrician Ellie Brownstein, MD, differentiates typical childhood fears from more serious mental health issues, discusses the rise in certain conditions post-COVID-19, and offers practical strategies for parents to discuss mental well-being with their children.

If your child comes down with the flu, there is not much you can do except make them comfortable and wait for the virus to run its course. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, shares advice for making the flu as bearable as possible for your little ones. Dr. Gellner discusses the foods your child should eat, how much water they should drink, their medications, and when they are able to go back to school.

There can be confusion between syndromes, symptoms, and diseases. A disease usually has a defining cause, distinguishing symptoms and treatments. A syndrome, on the other hand, is a group of symptoms that might not always have a definite cause. Kirtly Parker Jones, MD, talks about three specific syndromes common in women and discusses why 'syndrome' might not always be the best labeling for a medical condition.

Ever wondered about the screening questions at doctor's office that ask about things like your sleep, concentration and appetite? They're actually part of a depression screening called SIGECAPS. Matt Chabot, MD, explains what how the tool is used in identifying the often-overlooked signs of depression and potential treatment options for those diagnosed with a mental health condition.

Recent studies suggest a link between increased screen time in toddlers and developmental delays in speech and problem-solving skills. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, discusses what the research shows and provides practical advice for parents. Learn how to reduce screen time, and how to select high-quality educational content for those moments when screen time is appropriate

Research shows caffeine is a stressor in pregnancy, and babies with stress in the uterus are more likely to have health problems as children and adults, one of those problems being overweight. Kirtly Parker Jones, MD, talks about why large amounts of caffeine intake during pregnancy can restrict the growth and development of the fetus.

When a child has a serious breathing problem at home, paramedics have limited options. But a new study, guided by Sarah Becker, DO, wants to see if special hospital medicines can work outside the hospital. Dr. Becker explains the Salt Lake City T-RECS Study and the good and not-so-good aspects, allowing parents to make the best decision for their child's health. Because children are automatically included in the study, Dr. Becker also explains how parents can choose not to be part of the study. If you have additional questions, call 801-986-0962 or email pemresearch@hsc.utah.edu.

As parents, you may want to bubble wrap your kids to protect them from getting sick from their surrounding environment. But are those fears and concerns validated? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, talks about what you should and shouldn't worry about when keeping your kid healthy.

Last week's dinner has been in the fridge for several days now, is it still safe to eat? Registered dietitian Theresa Dvorak answers all the questions you might have about leftovers. She goes over some food safety basics concerning storing, freezing, and reheating food so it doesn't go to waste.

If you're doctor has diagnosed you with high blood pressure, what should you know? Tom Miller, MD, explains why hypertension is often called the "silent killer." Learn how high blood pressure is diagnosed as well as the treatment options available, including lifestyle changes and medications that can help keep your blood pressure in check and safeguard your heart health.

Halloween is filled with spooky fun and sugary treats, but for kids with food allergies, it can be genuinely scary. Pediatrician Ellie Brownstein, MD, provides parents with strategies to ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday. From trick-or-treating to costume parties and public events, discover ways to navigate potential hazards. Plus, learn about the emerging teal pumpkin trend—a symbol for safe, allergy-friendly festivities.

A recent study in The Journal of Nutrition challenges the notion that late-night snacking increases the risk of breast cancer, countering the findings of a previous extensive study that linked nocturnal eating with elevated breast cancer risk. Kirtly Parker Jones, MD, compares the methodologies of the two studies and shares her perspective on the initial research, which suggests a potential connection between late-night snacking and breast cancer risk.

With so many teeth whitening options available at the local grocery store, it's hard to know which ones truly deliver results. Dentist Arman Farhadtouski, PSM, DDS, explains the effectiveness of at-home whitening kits and the important ingredients that can genuinely brighten your smile and deliver the most bang for your buck.

As a busy parent, it's easy to let your child's routine doctor appointments slip through the cracks. But skipping or missing those check-ups can have consequences for your child's health—and prevent other kids from receiving care. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains the importance of keeping those appointments and why canceling and rescheduling is always a better option than simply not showing up.

Managing Alzheimer's disease requires an intricate understanding of available treatments. Michelle Sorweid, DO, MPH, sheds light on anti-amyloid antibody therapy, how it works, and what patients are good candidates. While not a cure, this therapy can decelerate disease progression for certain patients. Learn who might be eligible and why timely intervention could be key to optimizing potential benefits without exacerbating the condition.

The "4M" approach is an emerging framework for age-friendly care that shifts the focus from treating conditions to treating people. The "4Ms" stand for: What Matters, Medication, Mentation, and Mobility. Timothy Farrell, MD, explains these critical elements of care and how they can be utilized to provide a more holistic and effective medical treatment for older patients.

Keeping your child on the bottle for too long can lead to dental and nutritional risks associated with prolonged bottle use. But weaning a toddler off the bottle is easier talked about than accomplished. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, acknowledges how difficult this transition can be for both toddlers and parents. Dr. Gellner shares effective strategies and age-appropriate guidelines for a smooth transition from bottle to cup.

Recent advancements have certainly improved thyroid cancer outcomes, but are all treatments and surgeries essential? Jason Hunt, MD, the clinical director of neck and throat surgical oncology at Huntsman Cancer Institute and University of Utah Health, breaks down the risks of overdiagnosis and overtreatment. Learn the pivotal questions to ask your doctor and understand when the contemporary "wait and see" strategy might be your best path forward.

In an age when social media heavily influences youth, many teens are quick to label themselves with mental health conditions they see trending online. Pediatrian Cindy Gellner, MD, highlights the intricacies of diagnosing conditions such as anxiety, depression, and ADHD. She also emphasizes the need for expert mental health evaluations and helps parents understand the potential hazards when teens misdiagnose themselves based on online content.

If you or your young athlete experiences abdominal pain in the upper left side after a collision, seeking immediate medical attention can be crucial. Emergency room physician Troy Madsen, MD, talks about the serious, potentially life-threatening risk of a spleen injury. Dr. Madsen guides listeners through recognizing spleen injury symptoms and shares insights on when a visit to the emergency room is needed.

Think you know how to brush your teeth? Think again. The world of oral health is evolving, and so should your brushing technique. Dentist Arman Farhadtouski, PSM, DDS, dives into the details of effective brushing (like how, when, and how often) to protect against common dental issues.

It's kind of gross to talk about, but you can learn a lot from snot. While mucus may be a bit of an annoyance, it plays an important role in your child's body. Mucus lines organs with a protective layer, keeping dust and dirt out to help fight off infections. But not all mucus is the same. Different colors can mean fungal infection or other serious health issues. And mucus from allergies is different from that of the common cold. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, explains what the different colors of mucus coming out of your child's nose really mean, and when you should visit the doctor.

As the kids leave home, parents often anticipate newfound freedom and excitement. However, the reality can sometimes be quite different. Family physician Kyle Bradford Jones, MD, delves into the phenomenon of empty nest syndrome. He discusses the emotional challenges, the return of the "boomerang generation," and navigating the evolving dynamics of caregiving roles within the family.

Shingles is more than just an itchy problem that impacts older individuals—the condition can dramatically impact a person's quality of life. Tom Miller, MD, explains the basics of shingles, who is at risk, and why getting vaccinated might be a smart move for you.

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS) is a heartbreaking occurrence that affects too many families. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, sheds light on the risk factors associated with SIDS and provides insights into its prevention. Discover what science has unraveled about SIDS and the practical steps you can take to safeguard your child from this tragic condition.

A large-scale study shows a connection between the eating habits of women and the chance of developing breast cancer. More surprisingly, eating junk food late at night may increase your risk. Women's health expert Kirtly Parker Jones, MD, explains what types of foods you should be eating—and when you should be eating them—to reduce your risk of breast cancer.

What does it mean to be a functional neurosurgeon? This episode of Seven Questions for a Specialist aims to answer that. Specialist Ben Shofty, MD, PhD, explains the conditions he typically treats, questions he is frequently asked, and a crucial point everyone should know about their brain's health.

Not all ankle injuries are created equal, and what one person considers "just a sprain" can sometimes be much more serious. Learn about the four main types of ankle injuries that can happen and how they're diagnosed by a specialist. Orthopedic specialist Chris Gee, MD, also explains why ignoring the pain of any type of ankle injury can seriously prolong your recovery.

Summer weather can often lead to bug bites. What do you do if your child gets bit by an insect while playing outside? From mosquito bites to a bite from a black widow, pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, talks about the most effective treatments for bug bites.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death in women, killing more women each year than breast, ovarian, and uterine cancer combined. Yet, lung cancer is also the most preventable cancer. Women's health expert Kirtly Parker Jones, MD, talks about a new study that finds young women get lung cancer more often than young men, and how to distinguish the different signs and symptoms of lung cancer in women from those in men.

On this episode of Seven Questions for a Specialist, The Scope speaks with Tamara Dangerfield, a physical specialist at University of Utah Health who specializes in treating pain. What are the latest methods for treating pain? What is the one thing she wants all physical therapy patients to know? Tamara has the answers to these questions and more.