Your Checkup: Patient Education Health Podcast

This episode of "Your Checkup" tackles norovirus, a highly contagious virus that's a leading cause of vomiting, diarrhea, and foodborne illness in the U.S. We'll break down how it spreads, explore common outbreak locations like healthcare facilities, restaurants, schools, and even cruise ships, and give you practical prevention tips. We'll also cover current food safety al...

This episode is designed to inform listeners about cardiovascular health. It explains what cardiovascular risk is, its significance, and the various risk factors involved, such as smoking, hypertension, and diabetes. The episode details how cardiovascular risk is assessed, including the use of risk calculators for different age groups and the importance of considering risk-enhancing factors. The p...

This episode is a comprehensive episode designed to educate listeners about the complexities of cholesterol and its impact on cardiovascular health. The episode defines hyperlipidemia  detailing various types of lipids, including LDL, HDL, and triglycerides. The discussion covers recommended lipid screening guidelines, risk factors, and the importance of personalized risk assessment. By the end of...

The FDA has recently announced a ban on Red Dye No. 3 in food and ingested drugs due to concerns about its safety, based on studies showing it caused cancer in male laboratory rats. This episode of Your Checkup will explore what this means for you, the consumer, including which products commonly contain Red Dye No. 3, why it's being banned, and what to look for on food labels in the meantime....

This episode of "Your Checkup" provides an in-depth look at Human Metapneumovirus (hMPV), a common respiratory virus that often circulates alongside seasonal influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). We will explore how hMPV spreads, its typical cold and flu-like symptoms, and when it can become more severe, potentially leading to complications like pneumonia or bronchiolitis. You...

This episode of "Your Checkup" provides an in-depth look at the current H5N1 bird flu situation, including recent outbreaks in the U.S. Learn how the virus spreads, who is at risk, and practical steps to protect yourself. We'll discuss food safety, how to handle sick or dead birds, and when to seek medical attention. Learn the difference between seasonal flu and bird flu, as well as...

This episode of "Your Checkup" dives deep into the science of effective goal setting, offering practical strategies to help you reach your full potential. We'll explore the SMART framework, a powerful method for creating goals that are clear and achievable, and the "fresh start effect," a psychological phenomenon that can significantly boost your motivation. Learn how to u...

During our holiday break we wanted to highlight an important episode of our curriculum as people make goals heading into the new year. Exercise remains one of the most important things you can do for your health. Tune in to learn just how important.  In this episode of "Your Checkup," we tackle the age-old question: How much exercise do you really need to reap its incredible health benef...

This week, we're discussing a significant development in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). The FDA has recently approved Zepbound, a medication used in combination with diet and exercise, as the first drug option for moderate to severe OSA in adults with obesity. We'll break down how Zepbound works by targeting hormones that reduce appetite, which leads to weight loss, and...

Join us as we demystify insulin treatment for type 2 diabetes! We'll break down the different types of insulin, how they work, and when you might need to start them. We'll also cover practical tips for injecting insulin, factors that affect its effectiveness, and how to handle special situations like eating out and travel. This episode is packed with essential information to empower you...

This episode explores the science behind flatulence odor and introduces a simple, over-the-counter remedy: Pepto-Bismol. The episode explains that the unpleasant odor associated with flatulence is primarily caused by hydrogen sulfide (H2S), a gas produced in the colon during the breakdown of food. Pepto-Bismol, or bismuth subsalicylate, works by binding to hydrogen sulfide in the colon and reducin...

This episode breaks down the different medications used to treat type 2 diabetes, helping patients better understand their treatment options and how these medications work in the body. From metformin to insulin and everything in between, we'll cover the mechanisms, benefits, and potential side effects of each medication class, empowering you to have more informed conversations with your healt...

In this episode of Your Checkup , we break down everything you need to know about checking your blood sugar levels at home. Learn the step-by-step process of monitoring your glucose, the importance of timing, and what your readings mean for your overall diabetes management. Whether you're newly diagnosed or looking to fine-tune your routine, this guide will help you understand the numbers and...

Are you monitoring your blood pressure at home? Did you know that using the wrong size blood pressure cuff can lead to inaccurate readings? In this episode, we'll discuss the importance of choosing the right blood pressure cuff size and the different types of blood pressure monitors available. We'll provide tips for selecting a validated device and ensuring you get the most accurate read...

Millions of people suffer from sleep apnea, a condition that disrupts sleep and impacts overall health. In this episode, we discuss the types of sleep apnea, how it occurs, the health risks, and various treatment options available to improve sleep quality and overall well-being. Tune in to learn if you, a loved one, or a neighbor may be experiencing sleep apnea and find out how to get help. Takeaw...

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that can be dangerous for infants. This episode of Your Checkup provides essential information about RSV, exploring new prevention methods like the monoclonal antibody nirsevimab and the maternal RSV vaccine. We discuss how they work, who should consider them, and their safety profiles. Tune in to learn how to safeguard your baby from...

This episode of Your Checkup explores the common but often misunderstood condition of GERD. We break down the science behind the burning sensation, discuss risk factors and symptoms, and offer practical advice on seeking help. From lifestyle changes to medications and potential complications, we cover everything you need to know to manage GERD and find relief. Takeaways GERD is a digestive disorde...

In this episode of Your Checkup , we’re diving into a topic that’s all about saving lives: breast cancer awareness! We'll break down everything you need to know about mammograms—what they are, why they matter, and how they play a crucial role in early detection. Whether you’re wondering when to start screening or just curious about the process, we’ll make it simple, clear, and even a little f...

 In this episode of Your Checkup , we dive into simple, effective ways to start managing acne at home. From understanding the importance of cleansing routines to selecting the right over-the-counter treatments, we’ll guide you through the basics of skincare that can make a big difference. Tune in to learn how to tackle common triggers like excess oil, clogged pores, and inflammation, while also de...

In this bonus episode of Your Checkup , titled "Tasty Tip," we’ll share a quick piece of health advice that came up during the week, whether it's something that could benefit your own health, that of a neighbor, or a loved one. Plus, we’ll talk a little bit about something delicious we’ve enjoyed eating recently! It’s a short and sweet addition to keep you informed and inspired.  Ta...

 In this episode of Your Checkup , we're diving into a topic that's got everyone… stuck! Constipation may not be glamorous, but it's a real pain in the gut for millions of Americans. We’ll break down the common causes, from ignoring your body’s natural cues to skimping on fiber, and share simple lifestyle changes that can get things moving again. From morning coffee tricks to the fi...

 In this episode of Your Checkup , we tackle the flu and why getting vaccinated is crucial for staying healthy. We break down who should get the flu vaccine, how often the flu impacts people each year, and why it's so important to protect yourself and others through vaccination. Drawing from trusted CDC guidelines, we give you the facts you need to make informed decisions this flu season. Tun...

 As children head back to school, colds and RSV are on the rise. In this episode of Your Checkup , we pull back the curtain on what happens when a sick child ends up in the hospital and when it’s time to seek professional help. We also share expert advice on common at-home remedies to help manage your child’s symptoms and keep colds in check this season. From prevention tips to knowing when to act...

 In this episode of Your Checkup , we dive into the world of weight loss medications, with a special focus on the popular GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic, Wegovy, and Zepbound. We’ll explain how these medications work, the potential challenges they present, and their role in the broader treatment of obesity. Whether you're curious about the science behind these treatments or wondering if they'r...

In this must-listen episode of Your Checkup , we dive into three essential facts that can transform your approach to weight loss. Discover which diets have proven success, learn the truth about processed versus unprocessed foods, and find out why the timing of your meals might be just as important as what’s on your plate. Plus, we’ll reveal some surprising numbers about how your metabolism works t...