The Curbsiders Internal Medicine Podcast

Helena Pasieka, a dual board certified internist and dermatologist specializing in complex dermatology, shares valuable insights on hair and nail health. She discusses the psychosocial impact of hair loss, emphasizing compassionate communication and effective coping strategies. The conversation covers assessment methods, treatment options for conditions like alopecia and psoriasis, and highlights the importance of cultural practices in hair care. Helena also sheds light on common myths and the emotional toll of hair loss, promoting individualized patient counseling.

Discover essential tips for safe summer travel as the hosts share humorous anecdotes and discuss common travel health issues. They emphasize infection prevention, especially malaria, while navigating vaccination guidelines and managing diabetes abroad. The conversation touches on the resurgence of wrestling culture alongside music recommendations, including a deep dive into the legacy of Harry Nilsson. Expect lighthearted commentary mixed with valuable medical insights tailored for globetrotters!

Bradley Beeler, an academic hematologist and program director in San Antonio, shares his expertise in benign hematology. He discusses how to decode low neutrophil counts and the nuances of thalassemia without unnecessary testing. The conversation dives into managing bleeding disorders, with practical advice on assessing patient histories and utilizing bleeding assessment tools effectively. Beeler emphasizes the importance of understanding ethnic variations in lab results and offers strategies for navigating the complexities of chronic anemia.

Joining the discussion is Dr. Tara Lech, Director of Anticoagulation Services at Beth Israel Leahy Health, known for her expertise in developing antithrombotic policies. Dr. Lech dives into selecting and dosing direct oral anticoagulants, emphasizing tailored approaches for different patient populations. She also clarifies the complexities of managing venous thromboembolism, treating failures, and practical tips for anticoagulation during travel. The episode highlights the pharmacist's crucial role in patient education and optimal management.

Dr. Kimberly Trotter, an Assistant Professor of Medicine at the University of Chicago and co-director of the Lupus Center, dives into the world of rheumatology, specifically focusing on crystalline arthropathies. She discusses diagnosing gout, including the critical use of uric acid levels and arthrocentesis. Trotter shares insights on effective acute treatments and emphasizes the importance of long-term management and patient education to prevent future flare-ups. Her expertise sheds light on the challenges faced by hospitalists in tackling these conditions.

Nora Taranto, the Digest's editor, teams up with epidemiologist Alexander Chaitoff to explore groundbreaking medical topics. They dive into cytisinicline as a promising new option for smoking cessation, examining its efficacy compared to traditional treatments. The conversation also highlights the benefits of combination therapy with statins and ezetimibe, and the impressive results of exercise on survival in colorectal cancer patients. Listen for insights on male partner treatment for bacterial vaginosis and the potential impact of recent innovations in screening methods!

Dr. Jessica Merlin, a professor at the University of Pittsburgh and expert in addiction medicine, shares invaluable insights on managing chronic pain among patients with opioid use disorder. She busts myths surrounding pain management and emphasizes the necessity for integrated care approaches. The conversation highlights the significance of behavioral interventions like cognitive therapy and mindfulness, as well as the importance of personalized treatment plans, to enhance patient outcomes and reduce stigma in this complex field.

Dr. Brindha Bavan, a reproductive endocrinologist and clinical assistant professor at Stanford, dives into the complexities of infertility in this enlightening discussion. She emphasizes the importance of comprehensive evaluations for both partners and when to refer patients. Key topics include the emotional support needed for couples facing infertility, the role of primary care in initial assessments, and innovative treatment options like IUI and IVF. Dr. Bavan also sheds light on the financial implications of fertility care and the necessity for clear communication in navigating these sensitive issues.

Join Dr. Lenny Feldman, a trailblazer in urban health from Johns Hopkins, and Dr. Tony Breu, Harvard's resident education director, as they dissect high-value care decisions. They challenge the effectiveness of lactate-guided resuscitation in sepsis, question the routine discontinuation of beta-blockers in cocaine users, and debate the risks of anticoagulation in fall-prone patients. Plus, discover the implications of pushing for hospital discharges before noon. It's a mix of insightful medical discourse and engaging anecdotes!

Join resident epidemiologist Rahul Ganatra and associate writer Laura Glick as they dive into some hot topics in health! They discuss the surprising impacts of vitamin D3 and omega-3 fatty acids on physical performance, sparking debate on their actual benefits. The conversation shifts to gabapentin and its risks of falls among older adults, as well as gepotidacin, a promising new antibiotic for UTIs. Finally, they explore intermittent fasting's intriguing potential for weight loss, all sprinkled with humor and expert insights!