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 ..read more

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.  ..read more

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 ..read more

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 ..read more

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 i ..read more

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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 misco ..read more

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. About Merck For over 130 years, Merck, known as MSD outside of the United States and Canada, has been inve ..read more

In this bonus episode, Dr. Richard Schwab, chief of the Division of Sleep Medicine and professor of Medicine at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania discusses dreams. Dr. Schwab explains the nature of dreams as well as other sleep-related phenomena such as nightmares, sleep paralysis, sleepwalking, and lucid dreaming ..read more

In this episode of Merck Manuals Medical Myths, Dr. Richard Schwab, the chief of the Division of Sleep Medicine and professor of Medicine at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania discusses the importance of sleep health. Dr. Schwab shares insights on the numerous factors that can affect sleep patterns and tips for getting a good night's rest ..read more