The Scope

Memory changes are common but not necessarily a normal part of the aging process. Many issues related to an aging brain can be treated—and in some cases prevented. Geriatric specialist Dr. Michelle Sorweid explains how the Aging Brain Program at University of Utah Health can help diagnose and treat memory conditions by providing support to both the patient and their loved ones.

Evidence shows that masks work at preventing the spread of COVID-19 . But could wearing a mask increase the amount of carbon dioxide your kid breathes during the day? Pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner debunks this mask myth and explains the science behind the safe long-term use of masks—even for children.

Whether it’s a pap smear, a mammogram, or even a colonoscopy, medical screenings are vital to staying healthy as we age. But is there a point when you no longer need them? Dr. Kirtly Jones takes a look at the research behind common preventive screenings and under what circumstances you may no longer need to be tested.

A vasectomy is often considered a form of permanent sterilization, but as many as ten percent of men report wanting more kids after they’ve had the procedure. For those patients, a highly effective surgical option can help them become fertile again. Dr. Jim Hotaling explains the ins and outs of vasectomy reversal and if it is right for you.

Could your child have a learning disability? It’s a frequent question for pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner . Whether it be dyslexia, dyscalculia, or another learning disorder, identify the common signs to look for and when you should speak with your pediatrician about getting the help your child needs to succeed.

Planning for a family is an exciting step, but questions about stopping birth control and fertility often arise. How soon can you become fertile after discontinuing contraception methods? Do you need to wait before trying to conceive? When should you consult a doctor about potential fertility concerns? OB/GYN Kirtly Jones, MD , helps you make informed decisions about family planning and highlights...

A lot of parents are concerned about keeping their kids safe during the COVID pandemic. Parents and teenagers may be vaccinated, but younger kids are not eligible to receive the shot yet. Is it safe to let them return to playdates? Should they be wearing masks? Dr. Cindy Gellner discusses current recommendations and considerations parents should take before letting their children return to play.

If you or a loved one are experiencing issues like spinal stenosis or an impacted disk, you may be considering spinal surgery. This may seem like a complicated operation with a very long recovery time, but recent advancements may make an outpatient endoscopic procedure an option for you. Dr. Mark Mahan explains how the procedure is different and whether or not you are a candidate.

According to Dr. Priyanka Kanth , misconceptions about colorectal cancer may be the cause of a significant percentage of deaths from the disease. Educate yourself about the causes of colorectal cancer, screening, and who’s at risk—because by the time you have symptoms, it may already be too late.

PMOS, or polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, is one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting women of reproductive age. It can cause irregular periods, excess hair growth, weight changes, insulin resistance, and fertility challenges—but symptoms vary widely from person to person. Women's health expert Kirtly Jones, MD , explains what PMOS is, why it happens, and how birth control pil...

Cosmetic and reconstructive surgery is not a magic overnight process. To get results, these surgical procedures take a lot of time, after-care, and money. Dr. Courtney Crombie explains the realities of cosmetic procedures that all patients should know when considering an operation.

Spend enough time outside during the summer months and you may feel tired, thirsty, or a little nauseous. These are relatively common symptoms of heat exhaustion. But if your body temperature gets too high, you may experience potentially life-threatening heatstroke. Dr. Troy Madsen explains how to protect yourself and your loved ones from severe heat exposure.

As a parent, if you suspect your child may be engaging in self-harming behaviors, you may not be sure what to do to help. Psychiatrist Dr. Thomas Conover explains how to identify signs of self-harm, provides strategies for discussing your worries with your teen, and resources available to help parents in this scary situation. The National Suicide and Crisis Prevention Lifeline is available 24/7 by...

Most children—especially child athletes—will complain of heel pain at some point in their development. This may be an inflammatory condition called Sever’s Disease. Dr. Cindy Gellner explains why this common heel pain occurs during growth spurts and how you can help relieve your kid's foot pain.

When it is dangerously hot outside and someone starts acting strangely or passes out, it could be more than just dehydration. Emergency physician Graham Brant-Zawadzki, MD , explains why heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency—and how to spot the red flags before it is too late. Learn cooling strategies, when to call 911, and how to protect the most vulnerable in your community.

A daughter’s first period marks her entry into womanhood. For a lot of parents—mothers in particular—this is also a time of new anxieties and concerns about their child’s health. Dr. Cindy Gellner explains what’s normal, what’s not, and what to expect now that your daughter has had her menarche.

It has been years since you went through menopause, but you are still regularly experiencing night sweats. Is that normal? Women's health specialist Kirtly Jones, MD , explains what is typical with changes in body temperature and when your symptoms may be something more serious.

If you’re suffering from headaches and over-the-counter medication doesn’t seem to help, education may be the answer. The University of Utah Health Headache School aims to help you get relief from migraines and chronic headaches through video courses and virtual courses with headache experts. Dr. Jared Bartell describes how you can participate in the free program and start getting relief from your...

Liposuction and abdominoplasty are two common surgical options to remove stubborn fat from the stomach. While both cosmetic procedures aim to make your midsection look flatter or tighter, the procedures are very different. Cosmetic surgeon Courtney Crombie, MD , explains the differences between the procedures and which one would be best for you.

Many people do not talk to their doctor about headaches—even when they interfere with work, school, or daily life. Karly Pippitt, MD , primary care physician and headache specialist at University of Utah Health, explains how to prepare for a dedicated headache appointment, the importance of tracking symptoms, and treatment options from acute relief to prevention. Learn about how to work with your...

Forty-five is the new fifty, at least when it comes to screening for colorectal cancer. New guidelines from the American Cancer Society suggest patients start screening for deadly cancer earlier. Dr. Priyanka Kanth from Huntsman Cancer Institute explains why the change in the screening age and how catching cancer early can save your life.

Most parents have never thought about the difficult decision of whether or not you should donate your child’s organs when the unthinkable happens. Pediatrician Dr. Cindy Gellner discusses the potential benefits of pediatric organ donation and the considerations involved in the process.

If you suffer from headaches more than 15 days in a month or weekly migraines, it may be a chronic headache disorder. The condition can be painful and disabling, but there are treatments available. Neurologist Dr. Jared Bartell explains what can be behind those chronic headaches and how seeing a headache specialist can be your first step to long term relief.

Atrial fibrillation, or A-fib, is a rapid irregular heartbeat that impacts as many as 2% of Americans under the age of 65. For many, the condition shows little to no symptoms but may lead to complications including stroke, clots, and heart failure. Dr. Jared Bunch explains A-fib and the treatments available to significantly reduce the chance of complications.

Your lifestyle can make a significant impact on the frequency and intensity of headaches or migraines. Medications can only do so much. Karly Pippitt, MD , explains how improving habits like sleep, stress reduction, and nutrition can help minimize your headaches.