Merck Manuals Medical Myths
47 episodes - English - Latest episode: 21 days ago - ★★★★★ - 30 ratingsThe Merck Manuals pits myths against medical degrees. Should you put butter on a burn? Drink coffee to sober up? Feed a cold and starve a fever? On this podcast, physicians from around the country set the record straight and help you make more informed decisions about your health. For listeners in the U.S. and Canada, visit MerckManuals.com to learn more. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for more information.
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Episodes
Understanding Multiple Sclerosis with Dr. Michael C. Levin
June 26, 2024 09:00 - 20 minutes - 13.6 MBOn this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, we focus on Multiple sclerosis or “MS”. MS is characterized by disseminated patches of demyelination in the brain and spinal cord. Dr. Michael C. Levin joins us for this episode and is a Professor of Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, Canada, where he is the inaugural Saskatchewan Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Research Chair. During the episode, Dr. Levin provides insights into MS and dispels the m...
Debunking Skin Myths: Rosacea and Dandruff with Dr. Jonette Keri
June 19, 2024 09:00 - 21 minutes - 12.4 MBThis 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-agi...
Ear Infection Myths
January 03, 2024 19:18 - 28 minutes - 51.6 MBIn 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 th...
Strabismus Myths
January 03, 2024 19:17 - 13 minutes - 25 MBDr. 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 t...
Osteoporosis Myths
January 03, 2024 19:16 - 17 minutes - 32.8 MBDiscover 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 infor...
RSV Misconceptions
October 10, 2023 17:14 - 18 minutes - 33.5 MBIn 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 p...
Got Bad Breath?
October 10, 2023 17:13 - 13 minutes - 25.5 MBIn 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 ...
Heart Attack vs. Cardiac Arrest
October 10, 2023 17:12 - 21 minutes - 24.5 MBIn 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, a...
Coping with Mental Health Challenges
September 08, 2022 10:30 - 25 minutes - 46.3 MBMental 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 Men...
Coping with Mental Health Challenges
September 08, 2022 10:30 - 25 minutes - 46.3 MBMental 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 Disorde...
Dispelling Hair Loss Misconceptions
August 24, 2022 10:30 - 11 minutes - 16.4 MBAccording 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...
Dispelling Hair Loss Misconceptions
August 24, 2022 10:30 - 11 minutes - 16.4 MBAccording 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. A...
Debunking Kidney Stone Myths
August 10, 2022 10:30 - 14 minutes - 13.4 MBKidney 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 t...
Defining Dreams
July 27, 2022 19:15 - 10 minutes - 9.16 MBIn 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.
Sleep Myths
July 27, 2022 10:30 - 21 minutes - 20.1 MBIn 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.
Sleep Myths
July 27, 2022 10:30 - 21 minutes - 20.1 MBIn 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.
Heatstroke Myths and Misconceptions with Dr. Diane Birnbaumer
July 13, 2022 10:30 - 23 minutes - 43.6 MBAs we approach hot summer days, we are excited to welcome Dr. Diane Birnbaumer, Emeritus Professor of medicine at David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, to discuss some myths about heat strokes and staying healthy in extreme temperatures. For listeners in the U.S. and Canada, visit MerckManuals.com to learn more. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for more information. 0:00 – 0:54 Introduction of Dr. Diane Birnbaumer, Emeritus Professor of medicine at ...
Travel Myths - Part 2
August 04, 2021 10:00 - 8 minutes - 7.65 MBNow that many COVID-19 travel restrictions are loosening and people are beginning to travel once again, we're thrilled to welcome back Dr. Christopher Sanford, author of “Staying Healthy Abroad: A Global Travel’s Guide”, to talk about some more myths about staying safe and healthy while traveling abroad. Click here to learn more about health and travel. For listeners in the U.S. and Canada, visit MerckManuals.com to learn more. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManua...
Anti-aging and Skincare Myths
July 21, 2021 10:00 - 13 minutes - 11.9 MBMany of us want to look younger and have beautiful skin, but what kind of myths are we believing on how to achieve that? Do anti-aging creams actually work? Are the more expensive or luxury skincare products more effective than cheaper alternatives? Is sleeping in your makeup bad for your skin? On this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, we welcome back Dr. Jonette Keri, Associate Professor of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery at the University of Miami, Miller School of Med...
Anti-aging and Skincare Myths
July 21, 2021 10:00 - 13 minutes - 11.9 MBMany of us want to look younger and have beautiful skin, but what kind of myths are we believing on how to achieve that? Do anti-aging creams actually work? Are the more expensive or luxury skincare products more effective than cheaper alternatives? Is sleeping in your makeup bad for your skin? On this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, we welcome back Dr. Jonette Keri, Associate Professor of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery at the University of Miami, Miller Scho...
Vaping and Smoking Myths
July 07, 2021 10:00 - 23 minutes - 20.8 MBMost people (hopefully) know the dangers involved with smoking. But is vaping just as bad for your health as smoking? Is actually worse for you as some say? Is vaping more harmful for younger people than it is older people? Is there an effective way to quit? What’s the best way to kick this habit and talk to teens about why it’s dangerous? On this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, we welcome Dr. Judith Prochaska, Professor in the Department of Medicine at Stanford...
Children's Mental Health - Part 2
June 23, 2021 12:00 - 17 minutes - 15.1 MBIn Part 2 of our discussion on children's mental health, the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast welcomes back Dr. Josephine Elia, psychiatrist with a specialty in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Nemours, A.I. duPont Hospital for Children in Delaware. On this episode, Dr. Elia discusses some ways parents can manage and address some of the mental health difficulties that children face, with practical tips anyone can use. Click here to learn more about mental health disorders in...
Children's Mental Health - Part 1
June 23, 2021 10:00 - 18 minutes - 16.3 MBIn a brief break from the traditional look into medical myths, this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast will delve into the difficult and sometimes taboo topic of children's mental health. Especially during 2020 and into 2021, children were forced to confront challenges and disruptions that no one could've imagined. And while adults have their own way of dealing with trauma, stress and mental health in general, children can be much different. To help us unpack some o...
Sun Protection Myths
June 09, 2021 10:00 - 12 minutes - 11.3 MBAs the summer season approaches and many of us head outside to bask in the sun, what sorts of myths have we been telling ourselves about the best ways to protect our skin from the sun? Is 100 SPF really necessary? How long can you be outside before the sun starts to damage your skin? Do you only need sunscreen in the summer? How much is enough sunscreen to put on your skin? On this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, we welcome back Dr. Jonette Keri, Associate Profe...
Travel in the World of COVID-19
May 26, 2021 10:00 - 16 minutes - 14.8 MBThis podcast has covered a handful of travel health myths before, but the way people travel has changed drastically in the COVID-19 world. While the world is beginning to work its way back to normal thanks to increasing vaccinations, that only means there are more questions as people look to resume their travels once again. What is the safest way to travel? Are airplanes really cleaning out air better than we think? Are masks enough on public transit? DO we need to wear masks inside...
Acne Myths
May 13, 2021 10:00 - 13 minutes - 12.4 MBAcne is a skin condition so many of us encounter during our lives. But the severity of the condition can differ greatly from person to person, and it's led to a number of myths surrounding what causes it? Is chocolate the culprit? Is fatty and unhealthy foods the issue? Is acne only something that pubescent teens have to deal with? On this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, we talk all things acne with Dr. Jonette Keri, Associate Professor of Dermatology and Cutan...
Medical Myths Podcast - Season 3 Trailer
May 05, 2021 16:14 - 2 minutes - 2.72 MBComing soon: the Merck Manuals, one of the world’s most widely used medical resources since 1899, will be releasing the 3rd season of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths Podcast! All new episodes coming the week of May 10, 2021! Season 3 once again dispels common medical myths and misconceptions through revealing conversations with nationally recognized physicians. These new episodes encompass just the first half of Season three and address a number of topics that are top of mind for ...
Hangover Myths
July 29, 2020 16:39 - 21 minutes - 49.5 MBSpending a fun night out has no regrets until it's met with that dreaded familiar feeling the next morning. Can coffee cure hangovers? What about the old “hair of the dog” trick? Is the saying “beer before liquor never been sicker” really true? Dr. Rika O’Malley, physician at Albert Einstein Medical Center joins us to debunk some of these myths and tells us how to deal with (or prevent) a hangover after drinking alcohol. Click here to learn more about alcohol and its affects on drinkers. F...
Hangover Myths
July 29, 2020 16:39 - 21 minutes - 49.5 MBSpending a fun night out has no regrets until it's met with that dreaded familiar feeling the next morning. Can coffee cure hangovers? What about the old “hair of the dog” trick? Is the saying “beer before liquor never been sicker” really true? Dr. Rika O’Malley, physician at Albert Einstein Medical Center joins us to debunk some of these myths and tells us how to deal with (or prevent) a hangover after drinking alcohol. Click here to learn more about alcohol and its affects on dri...
Dental Myths
July 16, 2020 15:24 - 27 minutes - 61.9 MBFrom questions about how to get the whitest teeth to what the proper brushing and flossing techniques are, there are a number of questions out there surrounding dental care. Is flossing good or unnecessary? Does charcoal toothpaste clean your teeth or do the opposite? Is it really necessary to remove our wisdom teeth? And why do they call them that anyway? On this episode, we welcome Dr. David F. Murchison, a practicing dentist for more than 40 years and a professor at the Texas A&...
Myths About COVID-19 and its Effect on Kids
June 23, 2020 20:27 - 25 minutes - 58.7 MBThe entire world is grappling with how to deal with COVID-19, from what precautions we should take to how it affects each of us differently. But children are different. From the way COVID-19 affects childrens' bodies to how parents should approach the virus in kids, there are a lot of myths out there. On this episode, we talk to Dr. Catherine Soprano, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, about what parents should think about when it comes to Coronavirus and their children...
Myths About COVID-19 and its Effect on Kids
June 23, 2020 20:27 - 25 minutes - 58.7 MBThe entire world is grappling with how to deal with COVID-19, from what precautions we should take to how it affects each of us differently. But children are different. From the way COVID-19 affects childrens' bodies to how parents should approach the virus in kids, there are a lot of myths out there. On this episode, we talk to Dr. Catherine Soprano, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, about what parents should think about when it comes to Coronavirus and their children. Click...
Vision Myths
June 10, 2020 15:20 - 30 minutes - 68.7 MBEyesight is extremely valuable, and we are constantly being told what is bad and what is good for our eyes. Dr. Sunir Garg, retina physician and surgeon, provides us with some much-needed clarity on the subject. Click here to learn more about the biology of our eyes, vision and proper eye health. For listeners in the U.S. and Canada, visit MerckManuals.com to learn more. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for more information.
Gastrointestinal Myths
June 10, 2020 15:14 - 26 minutes - 60.1 MBStomachs can be very sensitive. Factors such as what you eat and how fast you eat can cause issues from indigestion to ulcers and more. Dr. Jonathan Gotfried joins us to share his insights and help us digest some of the biggest myths around gastrointestinal problems, while also sharing tips for how to keep a healthy gut. Click here to learn more about gastrointestinal disorders, gut health, digestion and more. For listeners in the U.S. and Canada, visit MerckManuals.com to learn m...
Hypertension Myths
June 03, 2020 13:20 - 21 minutes - 49.8 MBHigh blood pressure can often be associated with aging or with being a hot head, but there are a number of other causes of high blood pressure that should not be overlooked. Dr. George Bakris joins us to share some insights and breaks down the biggest myths around high blood pressure, cholesterol and hypertension. Click here to learn more about hypertension. For listeners in the U.S. and Canada, visit MerckManuals.com to learn more. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSD...
Vertigo Myths
May 27, 2020 13:18 - 25 minutes - 57.4 MBYou’ve heard of “Vertigo” the movie, and it’s likely that everyone has experienced the sensation before. But do you know what it is and why we feel it? Dr. David Kaylie discusses the differences in dizziness and vertigo, hearing loss and treatments that can help and the myths associated with Vertigo. Click here to learn more about vertigo. For listeners in the U.S. and Canada, visit MerckManuals.com to learn more. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for mo...
Arthritis Myths
May 27, 2020 13:13 - 26 minutes - 61.4 MBCracking your joints can often bring a feeling of relief or satisfaction, but are you doing damage to your joints? And while the term arthritis is typically used as a catch-all for joint issues, rheumatoid arthritis and osteo arthritis are not interchangeable, and in fact, they’re quite different. Dr. Brian Mandell explains these differences as well as addressing the many myths that surround joint pain and stiffness. Click here to learn more about arthritis and other joint disorder...
Arthritis Myths
May 27, 2020 13:13 - 26 minutes - 61.4 MBCracking your joints can often bring a feeling of relief or satisfaction, but are you doing damage to your joints? And while the term arthritis is typically used as a catch-all for joint issues, rheumatoid arthritis and osteo arthritis are not interchangeable, and in fact, they’re quite different. Dr. Brian Mandell explains these differences as well as addressing the many myths that surround joint pain and stiffness. Click here to learn more about arthritis and other joint disorders. For l...
Travel Health Myths
June 24, 2019 13:18 - 29 minutes - 67.8 MBWhen traveling to foreign lands, you want to embrace local customs and “do as the locals do.” But is it safe? Dr. Christopher Sanford, author of “Staying Healthy Abroad: A Global Travel’s Guide”, discusses common myths about staying safe and healthy while traveling abroad. Click here to learn more about health and travel. For listeners in the U.S. and Canada, visit MerckManuals.com to learn more. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for more information.
Travel Health Myths
June 24, 2019 13:18 - 29 minutes - 67.8 MBWhen traveling to foreign lands, you want to embrace local customs and “do as the locals do.” But is it safe? Dr. Christopher Sanford, author of “Staying Healthy Abroad: A Global Travel’s Guide”, discusses common myths about staying safe and healthy while traveling abroad. Click here to learn more about health and travel. For listeners in the U.S. and Canada, visit MerckManuals.com to learn more. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for more information. ...
Hearing Loss Myths
June 17, 2019 16:00 - 23 minutes - 53.4 MBHearing loss is often thought of as an inevitable part of getting older. But how much do things such as noisy entertainment venues, audio devices, and powered recreational equipment expose people to damaging levels of sound– especially the younger generation? Dr. Lustig is here with us today to discuss and break down the biggest myths around hearing loss and how consumers can prevent it. Click here to learn more about hearing loss and its affects on people of all ages. For listene...
Hearing Loss Myths
June 17, 2019 16:00 - 23 minutes - 53.4 MBHearing loss is often thought of as an inevitable part of getting older. But how much do things such as noisy entertainment venues, audio devices, and powered recreational equipment expose people to damaging levels of sound– especially the younger generation? Dr. Lustig is here with us today to discuss and break down the biggest myths around hearing loss and how consumers can prevent it. Click here to learn more about hearing loss and its affects on people of all ages. For listeners in the...
Dispelling Common Aging Myths
May 31, 2019 15:31 - 22 minutes - 52.1 MBProviding medical care to older people can be complicated. People often see multiple specialists and take various different medications. Dr. Michael Wasserman joins us to share some insights and break down the biggest myths around aging, while also sharing tips for how family members and caregivers can take a more active part in older people’s care. Click here for more information on the health issues older individuals face. For listeners in the U.S. and Canada, visit MerckManuals...
Diet Myths and The Real Truth
May 08, 2019 20:47 - 23 minutes - 53.1 MBTrying to lose weight can be extremely frustrating. With so many new diet myths and trends hitting the market, it’s hard for anyone to determine which are right for them. Some of these fad diets and weight-loss myths are not only unhealthy ways to quickly lose weight, but could actually cause long-term problems for your health. Dr. Adrienne Youdim is our guest today to break down today’s most popular diet myths and share tips for healthy, sustainable weight loss. Click here to lear...
Debunking Pregnancy Myths
May 08, 2019 20:45 - 24 minutes - 55 MBWhen you're pregnant it seems like everyone you know has advice, and it can be overwhelming. You may expect some of the changes that occur during your pregnancy, but others may seem fascinating or even surprising. The internet is full of conflicting information about how to stay healthy during your pregnancy and today we invite Dr. Lara Friel to dispel some of the biggest pregnancy myths and help listeners have the healthiest possible experience for them and their future baby. Click here to...
Debunking Pregnancy Myths
May 08, 2019 20:45 - 24 minutes - 55 MBWhen you're pregnant it seems like everyone you know has advice, and it can be overwhelming. You may expect some of the changes that occur during your pregnancy, but others may seem fascinating or even surprising. The internet is full of conflicting information about how to stay healthy during your pregnancy and today we invite Dr. Lara Friel to dispel some of the biggest pregnancy myths and help listeners have the healthiest possible experience for them and their future baby. Clic...
Myths About Bites and Stings
April 18, 2019 20:35 - 20 minutes - 47.5 MBKnowing whether that red bump is a serious issue or merely an irritation can be difficult. Dr. Gerald O'Malley shares the importance of identifying bites and stings in order to get the right treatment. Join us as we debunk common myths related to spider bites, snake bites, jellyfish stings, and more. Click here to learn more about bites and stings of all types. For listeners in the U.S. and Canada, visit MerckManuals.com to learn more. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit...