The Scope

Migraine treatment is not a single pill; it is a toolbox. Karly Pippitt, MD , a family physician and headache specialist at the University of Utah Health headache clinic , walks through rescue medications like triptans and CGRP antagonists, prevention options ranging from blood pressure drugs to Botox, and why setting realistic expectations matters more than chasing a cure.

Thinking about weight loss surgery but unsure where to start, especially with GLP-1 medications everywhere? Ellen H. Morrow, MD, MS, FACS , a surgeon with the bariatric surgery program at University of Utah Health , breaks down who qualifies, how safe it is, what life looks like afterward, and how to weigh surgery against GLP-1s when deciding which path fits your goals.

Managing diabetes every day is exhausting, and over time, that weight can lead to something called diabetes burnout. Michelle Litchman, PhD , medical director of the Intensive Diabetes Education and Support Program at University of Utah Health , explains how burnout differs from everyday stress, the warning signs that it is setting in, and four concrete approaches to get back on track. Learn what...

Many people associate measles with its distinctive rash, but the illness actually begins days earlier with symptoms that look much like a severe cold. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , explains how to recognize the warning signs of measles, why the virus spreads so easily, and the serious complications it can cause in children and pregnant women. Learn what makes measles dangerous, how vaccination...

A migraine is not just a bad headache, and you do not need to be curled up in a dark room for it to count. Karly Pippitt, MD , a family physician and headache specialist at the University of Utah Health headache clinic , explains how migraines are diagnosed, what triggers them, what aura is, and when to seek treatment.

Measles is on every parent's radar right now, but the disease is just one of many childhood rashes that can look alarming. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , details the most common viral rashes in kids—from measles and chickenpox to scarlet fever, roseola, and hand, foot, and mouth disease—and explains when to call your child's pediatrician.

A glaucoma diagnosis can feel alarming, especially knowing that optic nerve damage cannot be reversed. Rachel Simpson, MD , a glaucoma specialist at the John A. Moran Eye Center at University of Utah, explains what glaucoma does to your vision over time, why the treatment approach has shifted toward laser as a first-line option over eye drops, and how a new category of minimally invasive procedure...

Blurry vision, glare around headlights, and duller colors are classic signs of cataracts. Austin Nakatsuka, MD , a glaucoma and cataract specialist at the John A. Moran Eye Center at the University of Utah, explains what cataracts are, how UV exposure accelerates them, and how to choose between the lens options available to you, from standard insurance-covered lenses to multifocal, extended depth...

Being called a glaucoma suspect can feel like a half-diagnosis—enough to worry, but not enough to know what to do. Rachel Simpson, MD , ophthalmologist and glaucoma specialist at John A. Moran Eye Center at the University of Utah, explains what the label actually means, how doctors weigh risk factors like optic nerve appearance, eye pressure, and family history to determine low versus high risk, a...

Rehabilitation after a severe brain injury is not just about survival—it is about creating the best chance for meaningful recovery. Derrick Allred, MD , from Craig H. Neilsen Rehabilitation Hospital , describes how a disorders of consciousness program differs from typical inpatient rehabilitation and why patients who cannot yet participate in three hours of therapy a day still benefit from special...

When should you see a dermatologist? What does “pay attention to your skin” really mean? And which warning signs should not wait? Luke Johnson, MD , a dermatologist at University of Utah Health, answers common questions about dermatology. Learn simple, effective acne treatments, how moisturizers support your skin barrier, and why sun protection is the best daily habit for long-term skin health.

Sudden vision changes can be a brain problem, not just an eye problem—and luckily, there are specialists trained for the job. Judith Warner, MD , a neuro-ophthalmologist, explains how the eyes and brain work together, the red-flag symptoms you should never ignore (like a brief “black curtain” over one eye), and the most common reasons people get referred (unexplained vision loss and double vision)...

Cavities do not appear overnight—and waiting for pain is often the biggest mistake people make. James Bekker, DDS , breaks down how cavities form, why frequent sugar exposure is more damaging than occasional treats, and how everyday habits quietly increase risk. Learn how brushing, flossing, diet choices, and saliva chemistry all play a role in tooth decay, what early warning signs to take serious...

Choosing a baby formula does not come with a one-size-fits-all answer. Babies tolerate formulas differently—some thrive on standard milk-based options while others need sensitive, reflux-friendly, or specialized formulations. Pediatrian Cindy Gellner, MD , gives guidelines on how to spot what works best for your baby and why your pediatrician’s guidance can help you choose with confidence.

Therapy is not a last resort—it is often the best first step for children with anxiety, mood changes, or behavior concerns. Pediatrian Cindy Gellner, MD , explains why early support matters, how therapy can work even when medications are not an option, and what families should expect from a realistic treatment plan. Get practical advice on screening, choosing therapy styles, navigating insurance,...

A gestational diabetes diagnosis is manageable—and early action makes a difference. Michelle Debbink, MD , talks with Kirtly Jones, MD , about how elevated sugars affect fetal growth and delivery, what to expect from care plans, and the simple daily habits that help most pregnancies stay on track. Get clear guidance on meal planning, label reading, movement, and when medication helps, along with w...

Your doctor should not just be someone you see when you are sick—they should be your health advocate. John Barrett, MD , chair of the Department of Family and Preventive Medicine at University of Utah Health, explains how having a trusted primary care clinician helps you navigate a complex health care system, manage screenings, and coordinate care when new concerns arise. Learn how a simple wellne...

For many men with prostate cancer, weeks of daily treatments are no longer the norm. Jonathan Tward, MD , a radiation oncologist at Huntsman Cancer Institute , explains how image guidance, real-time motion tracking, and AI-assisted treatment planning allow highly precise therapy—often in just one to five sessions. Learn how this technology helps protect bowel, bladder, and sexual function while ma...

Ten minutes with your child's teacher can reveal more than grades—it can surface early signs of anxiety, attention issues, or social struggles. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , discusses how to prep and what to ask so you can spot learning delays, behavior red flags, and "mental milestones" like focus, frustration tolerance, and peer relationships. Learn how to review sleep, screens, and schoolwor...

Many parents link fevers, diarrhea, and even ear pulling to teething. But are those symptoms actually related? Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, breaks down what teething does and does not cause, along with how to tell when your baby's fussiness might be connected to more than just new teeth.

Stress is part of everyday life, from work deadlines to family responsibilities. But when the tension does not fade—even when the stressor is gone—it may be a sign of something more serious. Jason Hunziker, MD , chief of adult psychiatry at Huntsman Mental Health Institute, explains how stress and anxiety overlap. He discusses how anxiety can persist, disrupt sleep, and interfere with relationship...

Nearly 75% of pregnant women will face gum problems at some point, and the consequences can go beyond tooth loss. Daniel Thunell, DDS , explains how pregnancy hormones change your body’s response to bacteria and why gum care matters for both mother and child. Learn the safest times for treatment, the symptoms to watch for, and how prioritizing your own oral health helps protect your baby.

For decades, parents have blamed sugar for their children's wild energy—but research tells a different story. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD , explains how placebo studies, parental expectations, and social cues contribute to the myth. She also shares smart strategies for managing sugar in your child's diet while promoting healthy habits.

Whether you are speaking to loved ones, leading a classroom, or taking calls at work, your voice is one of the most important tools you use to connect with the world. Marisa Ryan, MD , a voice and airway specialist, explains how to recognize strain, avoid harmful habits, and keep your voice clear and resilient for years to come.

Richmond Doxey, MD, breaks down what it means to be an internist and how culinary medicine empowers patients to make real, lasting changes. He dispels the most common nutrition myth and discusses how to overcome discouragement while focusing on what you are doing right to achieve better health outcomes.