This episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast dives deep into the world of rosacea and dandruff. Dr. Jonette Keri, Professor of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery at the University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine is here to help dispel the myths and misconceptions of this skin condition. She is also Chief, Dermatology Service at Miami VA Hospital. Dr. Keri is a familiar face on the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast and joined us back in Season 3 to talk about anti-aging and skincare myths.
 
This episode begins with an introduction to rosacea overall.  Then Dr, Keri answers whether rosacea is a form of acne, whether certain foods or drinks can cause flare-ups and treatment options. The podcast then shifts to debunking myths about dandruff. She answers questions whether dandruff is contagious, impact of weather and if washing hair less often even helps. 
 
To learn more about this condition, please visit merckmanuals.com
Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for more information.

In this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, Dr. Bradley Kesser, MD, a specialist in congenital ear disease, ventures into the intricate world of ear health, exploring various types of ear infections and their treatments, Dr Kesser dissects symptoms, delves into the necessity of antibiotics, and uncovers why some children are more prone to ear infections than others. The episode also tackles common myths about ear cleaning methods, from Q-tips to ear candling. Join the conversation as they address crucial questions surrounding ear health, offering valuable information to empower listeners. Medical knowledge is power – pass it on. 

Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for more information.

Dr. Leila M. Khazaeni, Associate Professor of Ophthalmology at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, lends her expertise to demystify strabismus and dispel prevalent myths surrounding the condition. Delve into the different types of strabismus and understand key distinctions from amblyopia. Dr. Khazaeni addresses common misconceptions, such as the influence of screen time on strabismus and the belief that it will resolve on its own. Gain insights into screening, treatment, and the significance of early intervention. Medical knowledge is power – pass it on. 

Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for more information.

Discover the progressive metabolic bone disease that affects bone mineral density and structure, leading to fragility fractures. Explore common myths surrounding osteoporosis and gain valuable insights into prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Dr. Bolster, a Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, separates fact from fiction, provides expert answers to key questions and leaves listeners empowered with the knowledge to take charge of their bone health. Don't miss this informative discussion on osteoporosis. Medical knowledge is power – pass it on.

Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for more information.

In the latest episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, Dr. Brenda Tesini from the University of Rochester Medical Center sheds light on the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). As hospitals grapple with an unprecedented surge in respiratory illnesses, Dr. Tesini, with a focus on infectious diseases in children, explores the symptoms of RSV and distinguishes it from COVID-19, flu, and other respiratory illnesses. Uncover the truths behind RSV myths, including its impact on premature babies, parental susceptibility, and the misconception of letting it run its course like a common cold. Gain valuable insights into prevention, risk factors, and effective strategies for treating RSV. Medical knowledge is power – pass it on. 
*This episode was recorded before the FDA approved a vaccine.
Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for more information.

In this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, Dr. Bernard J. Hennessy, DDS, from Texas A&M University, School of Dentistry, unveils the truth about halitosis, commonly known as bad breath. The discussion dives into the basics of halitosis, its prevalence, and the myths surrounding its causes and cures. Dr. Hennessy dispels common misconceptions about mouthwashes, breath mints, and the effectiveness of brushing teeth in curing bad breath. Explore the impact of diets on halitosis, debunked myths, and discover natural remedies like parsley, probiotics, and peppermint oil. Gain insights into recognizing and preventing halitosis, understanding its potential links to medications and underlying health issues. Medical knowledge is power – pass it on for a breath of fresh insight. 

Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for more information.

In this informative episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, Dr. Ranya N. Sweis, an Associate Professor of Cardiology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, joins to unravel the distinctions between heart attack and cardiac arrest. With over a decade of experience, Dr. Sweis clarifies the causes, symptoms, and treatments for each condition, debunking common myths that could hinder prompt action during emergencies. Delve into risk factors, warning signs, and immediate treatments, gaining practical advice for maintaining a healthy heart. Medical knowledge is power – pass it on for heart health awareness. 

Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for more information.

Mental health affects every aspect of our lives: how we feel about ourselves and the world; solve problems, cope with stress, and overcome challenges.
 
 Mental health challenges can be difficult to define and address. Dr. Michael B. First joins this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast. Dr. First is a Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Columbia University and is the editor and co-chair of the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition, text revision, known as DSM-5-TR.

He joins the podcast to examine the misconceptions surrounding mental health. Dr. First will also highlight how to help you or someone you know who is dealing with a mental health crisis.

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, we lose about 50 to 100 strands of hair from our head every day. But some people will experience even more significant hair loss in their lifetimes, which can be a source of anxiety and in some cases, an indicator of more serious medical issues.

On this episode of the Merck Manuals, Wendy S. Levinbook, MD, Hartford Dermatology Associates, breaks down the most common misconceptions about hair loss – along with the facts people should know.

Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for more information.
 

Kidney stones are becoming more common in recent decades. Today, one in 10 Americans will suffer from one at some point in their lives. Kidney stones are hard masses that form in the urinary tract and may cause pain, bleeding, infection, or block of the flow of urine. Given the extreme pain that often accompanies kidney stones, many people are worried about getting them. That’s led to a lot of myths and misconceptions around kidney stones, what causes them, and how best to prevent them.

Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for more information.