Itchy and Bitchy: Recent Episodes
Karen Nickell
Nurse practitioner Karen Nickell discusses the realities of menopause and the female midlife in a way that is both informative and fun.
(00:00:00) 228: Foods That Can Kill You; and What You Can't Do About IT!
(00:00:11) Welcome to the Itchy and Bitchy Podcast
(00:00:42) Doc Itchy Medical Pets Supplements
(00:01:02) The Dirty Dozen: Pesticide Contaminated Produce
(00:07:07) The Pathogen Problem: Foodborne Illnesses on the Rise
(00:15:28) The Controversy: What to Do About Contaminated Food
(00:25:56) Practical Steps to Reduce Food Contamination Risk
(00:31:32) Closing Remarks and Future Episode Preview
(00:31:39) Doc Itchy Medical Pets Supplements (Repeat)
Cyclospora and Cyclosporosis is infection tens of thousands of AMERICANS causing some deaths. More and More food pathogens are affecting us through contaminated food items and they are making us sick.
Add to that the unavoidable contamination of our food with chemicals and pesticides and we are experience a food crisis.
Even if you try to eat "Healthy" food items, these may be inthe "dirty Doozen" most contaminated foods available in stores.
The Docs discuss the problem, the pathogens, and the pesticides and how we came to find ourselves in this crappy toxic and dangerous time. The Docs will also discuss - argue over what you can or can't do the avoid or prevent your exposure to the pathogens and poisons on and in your foods.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.
Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
(00:00:00) 227: The Spreading Years with More of Me to Love: Geriatric Weight-Gain
(00:00:11) Welcome to the Itchy and Bitchy Podcast
(00:00:42) Doc Itchy Medical Pets Supplements
(00:01:02) The Complexities of Midlife Weight Gain
(00:04:18) The Four Key Factors Contributing to Weight Gain After 40
(00:09:12) Hormonal Changes and Their Impact on Weight
(00:14:13) The Importance of Sleep and Behavioral Factors
(00:18:11) Sarcopenia, Body Composition, and Inflammation
(00:22:51) Legit or Bullshit: Muscle-Skin Communication and Fecal Microbiota Transplant
(00:28:17) Closing Remarks and Call to Action
Thanks Hormones, Very Cool: Why Your Body Decided Middle Age Was the Perfect Time to Expand
Congratulations, you survived your twenties, powered through your thirties, and your reward is a metabolism that has apparently gone into witness protection. Nobody told you that simply existing after forty would require a completely different operating manual, and yet here we are, buying pants with "comfort waistbands" and calling it self-care.
The science is as delightful as you'd expect: declining estrogen, tanking testosterone, and a thyroid that's essentially on vacation are conspiring in real time to redistribute your body in directions you never requested. Your muscle mass is ghosting you, your cortisol is throwing a party, and your fat cells got the memo to settle permanently around your midsection.
Itchy & Bitchy is the podcast for anyone who has ever felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health and hormone health to autoimmune disease and chronic pain, we investigate what science actually says. We examine functional medicine, holistic health, and alternative medicine with the same skeptical If it’s pseudoscience, we’ll call it. If it’s medical gaslighting, patient advocacy failure, or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.
For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers, and wellness skeptics WE OFFER No filters. No BS. Just the truth your doctor didn’t have time to tell you.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.
Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
(00:00:00) 226: Itchy & Bitchy ClinicCrawl: Plastic in Your Penis and Herpes Contagion
(00:00:11) Welcome to Itchy and BITCHI
(00:00:42) Doc Itchy Medical Pets Supplements
(00:01:02) Microplastics in the Human Body
(00:04:38) Shingles and Canine Quarantine
(00:08:00) Closing Remarks and Contact Information
(00:08:23) Follow and Contact Information
Scientists have confirmed microplastics are now showing up in human penile tissue, with four out of five samples from men with erectile dysfunction containing seven different types of microplastics. Microplastics have also been detected in human brain, placenta, and testes .... because apparently your body is now a landfill.
Meanwhile, everyone's favorite lurking virus is back for revenge: shingles itself isn't contagious, but the varicella-zoster virus absolutely can spread to ONLY people who NEVER had chickenpox or the Vaccine.
Visit itchyandbitchy.com
From gut health and hormone health to autoimmune disease and chronic pain, we investigate what science actually says. We examine functional medicine, holistic health, and alternative medicine with the same skeptical If it’s pseudoscience, we’ll call it. If it’s medical gaslighting, patient advocacy failure, or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.
For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers, and wellness skeptics WE OFFER No filters. No BS. Just the truth your doctor didn’t have time to tell you.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.
Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
GLP-1 was completely under estimated by the medical community and has turned out to be ALMOST a MIRACLE therapy for ALMOST everything.
We review how we got this SO wrong and missed the potential of this therapy and ALL of the NEW and POTENTIAAL benefits.
We also review the down side and potential Adverse Effects - Mild to Deadly ....
From gut health and hormone health to autoimmune disease and chronic pain, we investigate what science actually says. We examine functional medicine, holistic health, and alternative medicine with the same skeptical If it’s pseudoscience, we’ll call it. If it’s medical gaslighting, patient advocacy failure, or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.
For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers, and wellness skeptics WE OFFER No filters. No BS. Just the truth your doctor didn’t have time to tell you.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.
Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
(00:00:00) 224: DOCs Itchy&Bitchy Answer YOUR Questions - Global Edition!
(00:00:11) Welcome to Itchy and Bitchy
(00:00:42) Doc Itchy Medical Pets Supplements
(00:02:32) Hormone Replacement and GLP-1: Navigating Medical Decisions
(00:08:06) Brain Fog and Alzheimer's: When to Worry
(00:11:11) Menopause in Dogs: A Misunderstanding
(00:16:48) The Truth About Alcohol Consumption
(00:22:10) GLP-1 and Addiction: A Complex Discussion
(00:27:41) Probiotics: The Unknown Frontier
(00:32:05) Closing Thoughts on Supplements and Health
Ask Docs Itchy&Bitchy:
Your Questions on Weight, Hormones, and the GLP-1 additction ...
You're writing in from everywhere, and your questions don't hold back, so neither will we. Why is your dog carrying extra weight even though nothing about mealtime has changed? On the human side: does Ozempic actually rewire your brain's reward system, not just your appetite? Emerging research says GLP-1 drugs quiet the same dopamine pathway that drives cravings for food, alcohol, and drugs which raises a wild question we're tackling this season: could a diabetes drug end up treating addiction? We're also digging into whether "Ozempic personality changes" are real, why weight-loss drugs hit women differently at midlife, and what nobody's telling you about pet supplements.
Got a question? Send it — nothing's off limits.
Visit itchyandbitchy.com
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.
Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
(00:00:00) 223: Menopause Explained so Even a Husband can Understand
(00:00:12) Welcome to the Itchy and Bitchy Podcast
(00:00:43) Doc Itchy Medical Pets Supplements
(00:01:03) Explaining Menopause in Simple Terms
(00:03:39) The Pituitary-Hormone Axis: A Toilet Analogy
(00:07:12) Menopause as a Hormone "Dumpster Fire"
(00:08:22) Break Announcement
(00:08:35) Four Hormone-Chaos Events in Life
(00:13:22) Break Announcement
(00:14:04) Sleep Disorders and Aging
(00:24:10) Break Announcement
Here's the deal.
Think of your hormonal system like a toilet. Your ovaries are the water tank. When they're full of estrogen, the pituitary gland, your body's master control panel, sees a full tank and relaxes. Everything flushes smoothly.
We break down this hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis in plain English, no medical degree required. You'll finally understand why your body is doing what it's doing, and what you can actually do about it.Because you deserve to understand your own plumbing.
Itchy & Bitchy is the podcast for anyone who has ever felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health and hormone health to autoimmune disease and chronic pain, we investigate what science actually says. We examine functional medicine, holistic health, and alternative medicine with the same skeptical If it’s pseudoscience, we’ll call it. If it’s medical gaslighting, patient advocacy failure, or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.
For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers, and wellness skeptics WE OFFER No filters. No BS. Just the truth your doctor didn’t have time to tell you.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.
Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
(00:00:00) 222: A Tick Just Stole Your Steak. Here's How to Get Revenge
(00:00:11) Welcome to the Itchy and Bitchy Podcast
(00:00:42) Doc Itchy Medical Pet Supplements
(00:01:13) Introducing Alpha-Gal Syndrome
(00:04:51) The Tick's Deadly Spit
(00:06:32) Symptoms and Diagnosis of Alpha-Gal
(00:07:47) Dietary Avoidance and Prevention
(00:12:56) Tick-Borne Diseases: The Scary Truth
(00:15:09) Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment Challenges
(00:21:39) Tick Prevention and Safety Tips
(00:23:33) Isoxazolines: A New Era in Tick Prevention
Ticked Off,The Tiny Bug That Could End Your BBQ ForeverTopic: Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS) | Tick-Borne Food Allergy | Red Meat AllergyHost:
What Is Alpha-Gal Syndrome?Alpha-gal syndrome is an IgE-mediated food allergy triggered by lone star tick bites.
Symptoms including hives, abdominal pain, and potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis, typically occur three to eight hours after eating meat, making the connection easy to miss.
The Diagnosis ProblemAs of 2022, 42% of U.S. healthcare practitioners had never heard of alpha-gal syndrome, meaning patients often suffer for years without answers.
What You Can Do
Management focuses on avoiding mammalian meat and products containing alpha-gal, preventing future tick bites, and referral to an allergist for severe reactions. The good news: the syndrome tends to wane over time with strict avoidance.
Itchy & Bitchy is the podcast for anyone who has ever felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health and hormone health to autoimmune disease and chronic pain, we investigate what science actually says. We examine functional medicine, holistic health, and alternative medicine with the same skeptical If it’s pseudoscience, we’ll call it. If it’s medical gaslighting, patient advocacy failure, or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.
For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers, and wellness skeptics WE OFFER No filters. No BS. Just the truth your doctor didn’t have time to tell you.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.
Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
(00:00:00) 221: Itchy & Bitchy ClinicCrawl: Your Dog Brought a Killer Into Your House; Skipping Your Meds could Kill You
(00:00:11) Welcome to the Itchy and Bitchy Podcast
(00:00:42) Doc Itchy Medical Pets Supplements
(00:01:34) Hypertension and Medication Compliance
(00:03:52) The Importance of Taking Medications as Prescribed
(00:07:40) Ticks and Tick Prevention
(00:11:34) Closing Remarks and Call to Action
Two Silent Threats: What's Hiding on Your Dog and in Your Medicine Cabinet
Itchy & Bitchy is the podcast for anyone who has ever felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health and hormone health to autoimmune disease and chronic pain, we investigate what science actually says. We examine functional medicine, holistic health, and alternative medicine with the same skeptical If it’s pseudoscience, we’ll call it. If it’s medical gaslighting, patient advocacy failure, or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.
For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers, and wellness skeptics WE OFFER No filters. No BS. Just the truth your doctor didn’t have time to tell you.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.
Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
(00:00:00) 218.2: Itchy & Bitchy ClinicCrawl: CPR and Cats Coughing up LungWorms (remix)
(00:00:11) Welcome to The Itchy and Bitchy Podcast
(00:04:55) The Importance of CPR Training
(00:07:05) Closing Remarks and Next Episode
(00:07:07) Doc Itchy Pet Supplements
Your Cat Isn't Allergic — She Has WORMS in Her Lungs.
Also, Do You Know CPR? Because You Might Need It After Reading This.
Itchy & Bitchy is the podcast for anyone who has ever felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health and hormone health to autoimmune disease and chronic pain, we investigate what science actually says. We examine functional medicine, holistic health, and alternative medicine with the same skeptical If it’s pseudoscience, we’ll call it. If it’s medical gaslighting, patient advocacy failure, or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.
For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers, and wellness skeptics WE OFFER No filters. No BS. Just the truth your doctor didn’t have time to tell you.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.
Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
(00:00:00) 220: From TikTok to Doctor's Office: The Truth About 'Cortisol Moon Face'
(00:00:11) Welcome to the Itchy and Bitchy Podcast
(00:00:42) Doc Itchy Medical Pets Supplements
(00:01:05) Revisiting Cortisol Face Controversy
(00:04:21) The Importance of Sleep in Young Adults
(00:09:02) Melatonin's Benefits for Dogs and Humans
(00:12:45) Brief Intermission
(00:13:01) Hormones and Growth During Sleep
(00:19:17) Second Intermission
(00:19:45) Melatonin's Wide-Ranging Benefits
(00:21:52) Melatonin Safety and Dosage
Scroll through TikTok for five minutes and you'll find thousands of teenagers diagnosing themselves with "cortisol face" puffy cheeks, a rounded jawline, swelling they swear is proof their stress hormones are out of control. It's everywhere. It's viral.
And it's terrifying parents and confusing doctors in equal measure.
We reveal what cortisol actually does to a teenager's face and body, how to tell a real hormone disorder from a viral delusion, and why dismissing every kid who brings this up to their doctor could be a dangerous mistake.Buckle up. This one's controversial.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.
Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
(00:00:00) 219: A Perfect Birth… Then a Deadly Heart Attack
(00:00:11) Welcome to the Itchy and Bitchy Podcast
(00:00:42) Doc Itchy Medical Pets Supplements
(00:01:04) A Tragic Case of Postpartum Cardiomyopathy
(00:02:31) Understanding Postpartum Cardiomyopathy
(00:06:43) Risk Factors and Statistics
(00:08:36) Treatment and Recovery for Mothers and Babies
(00:14:39) Quick Break Announcement
(00:15:06) Legit or Bullshit: Trend Analysis
(00:15:53) Cortisol Face: Myth or Reality?
(00:19:04) The Parasite Cleanse Deception
She was only 26.
She had just delivered a healthy baby.
Then, without warning, her heart stopped.
In this episode, we uncover the terrifying reality of postpartum cardiac death—the rare but devastating heart emergencies that can strike young mothers after childbirth. A healthy baby came home, but a young mother never got the chance to raise her child.How does a 26-year-old die of a heart attack after pregnancy? What warning signs are missed? And why are women still being told they are “just tired,” “just anxious,” or “just recovering” when their bodies may be screaming for help?This is the story no new mother, partner, doctor, or family member can afford to ignore.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.
Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
(00:00:00) 217: Healthcare Is a Dumpster Fire with Better Branding but the System Still Sucks!
(00:00:03) Welcome to Itchy and Bitchy
(00:00:19) Meet the Doctors
(00:00:42) Doc Itchy Medical Pets Supplements
(00:01:05) DocItchy.com Sponsor
(00:03:40) The System is Broken
(00:06:49) Provider Burnout and Workload
(00:10:34) Break Announcement
(00:10:50) The EMR Dilemma
(00:19:00) Break Announcement
(00:19:20) The Social Media Dilemma
(00:25:02) Insurance think they are the Doctor
In this brutally honest relaunch episode of the Itchy & Bitchy Podcast with 2 new hosts.
The new hosts say the quiet part out loud: the medical system is broken, abusive, exhausting, wildly expensive, and often designed to make patients and pet owners feel stupid for needing help in the first place.
Doc Itchy and Dr. Stephen Miller, DNP, ACNP rip into the bureaucracy, burnout, corporate medicine, insurance games, rushed appointments, garbage communication, and “follow the protocol and shut up” culture that has turned healthcare into a customer-service nightmare with needles.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.
Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
Karen marks a major transition for Itchy and Bitchy as future hosts Stephen Miller and Dr. Keith Hnilica turn the tables and interview her about major life changes. Together, they reflect on significant transitions in life—from parenthood and changing careers to the handoff of the podcast itself.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.
Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
Karen is joined by future Itchy and Bitchy hosts Stephen Miller, an acute care nurse practitioner specializing in cardiovascular disease, and Dr. Keith Hnilica, a veterinary dermatologist, for a wide-ranging conversation about estradiol and hormone replacement therapy. They discuss the recent removal of the FDA black box warning from most menopausal hormone therapy products and the long shadow of the Women’s Health Initiative study.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.
Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
Family nurse practitioner Karen Nickell introduces future Itchy and Bitchy host Dr. Keith Hnilica, a veterinary dermatologist, for a lively conversation about pet food and what animals can teach us about wellness. They dig into GLP-1 drugs for pet obesity, the links between processed kibble, gut inflammation, and skin issues, why fresh or Mediterranean-style diets may be better for dogs.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.
Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
Karen kicks off a new chapter for Itchy and Bitchy by introducing future host Stephen Miller, a cardiology nurse practitioner, for a conversation on Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, or “broken heart syndrome.” Together they explain what this stress-triggered heart condition is, why it so often affects postmenopausal women, and what recovery can look like.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.
Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
Karen answers a listener's question about vaginal biofilms. What are they and why do they make recurrent BV and yeast infections so hard to treat? She explains how these bacterial or fungal communities form protective layers that resist standard treatment, reviews options that may help break the cycle and looks at at-home microbiome testing.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.
Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
Karen shares a collection of grounding techniques to help listeners manage stress, anxiety, and negative emotions. From holding ice, savoring food, and taking mindful walks to laughter, music, anchoring exercises, the 5-4-3-2-1 method, and even the calming power of pets, Karen offers tools to help listeners return to the present moment, ease stress, and reconnect with a sense of safety and calm.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.
Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
Karen explains how AI is already being used in healthcare, from helping find polyps during colonoscopies to speeding documentation. She also covers the biggest concerns, including the possibility of errors, bias, privacy risks, and over-reliance.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.
Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
Karen unpacks the fast-growing world of digital health, from Apple Watch and smartphone apps to telehealth and new hospital tech that can improve care and streamline recovery at home. She also addresses the downsides, raising concerns around the security of these technologies.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.
Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
Karen shares a deeply personal episode on the human-animal bond after the loss of her family’s lovebird, Saki, exploring why pet grief can feel so profound and practical ways to heal. She offers suggestions, from letting yourself feel what you feel to creating memorial rituals, revisiting joyful memories, and caring for your body while you mourn, plus when to seek professional support.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.
Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
Karen Nickell revisits menopausal mammal, this time with brand new context: new research from Uganda’s Ngogo chimpanzees shows some chimps experience menopause too. She explains what makes humans evolutionary outliers, unpacks the grandmother hypothesis, and explores why certain toothed whales (like orcas) stop reproducing yet continue to live for decades.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.
Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
Karen takes a look at GLP-1 receptor agonists, best known for weight loss and diabetes. She explores the rapidly expanding list of conditions these medications may help treat. From emerging and sometimes conflicting research on Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease to FDA-approved benefits for cardiovascular health, kidney disease, and fatty liver disease, Karen breaks down what the science currently shows and where caution is still needed.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
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Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
Karen counts down her top 10 Itchy & Bitchy moments of 2025, from smarter New Year’s resolutions and promising UTI vaccines on the horizon to updated insights on HRT.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
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Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
Karen shares her personal journey with osteoporosis. What distinguishes it from osteopenia? How are DEXA T-scores interpreted? Why does early screening matter? She covers lifestyle and nutrition, hormone considerations, and medication options.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
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Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system.
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too. For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER No BS
Karen breaks down red light therapy (photobiomodulation) and where it actually helps: smoothing signs of aging, supporting hair regrowth, calming acne (especially paired with blue light), easing chronic pain and inflammation, and even emerging research for cognition in dementia.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Family nurse practitioner Karen re-airs a timely episode on “holiday heart syndrome,” the spike in alcohol-triggered arrhythmias (often AFib) that can strike otherwise healthy people during festive gatherings. She explains what binge drinking looks like, key symptoms to watch for (from palpitations and chest pressure to shortness of breath), why it raises stroke risk, and simple prevention steps.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
After listening to an episode of Itchy and Bitchy, a woman pushed for further testing and caught grade 1A ovarian cancer early—requiring only surgery. Karen revisits why self-advocacy saves lives, translating expert definitions into everyday guidance and offering practical steps: build a true partnership with your provider, keep detailed symptom and medication notes, ask clear questions about tests, risks, and costs, use reliable resources (not “Dr. Google”), consult your pharmacist, and keep your advance care planning up to date.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen tackles a common menopause question: oral vs. topical estradiol. She explains first-pass metabolism and why transdermal options can lower clot, gallstone, and side-effect risks for many, then compares real-world choices.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen tackles a listener question about low-dose lithium. She reviews micro- vs. low-dose ranges, discusses forms like lithium orotate/aspartate and third-party-tested supplement options, and flags safety essentials such as toxicity symptoms, thyroid/kidney considerations, and when to loop in your clinician.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
In this update to the August 2024 episode, Karen explains the surge of direct-to-consumer “whole-body” MRI/CT screenings and how to decide with your provider whether they’re a good fit. In the re-aired episode, Karen explores the Galleri test, a multi-cancer early detection (MCED) blood test that can identify over 50 types of cancer. She explains how the test works, its potential benefits, and the risks associated with its use. She also shares personal stories from individuals who benefited from the test, while discussing ongoing research to determine its effectiveness in improving cancer outcomes.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen takes a look at BPC-157, the buzzy peptide touted for faster healing and joint relief, explaining what animal studies actually show, the lack of human clinical trials, and its regulatory reality.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen demystifies the popular skincare treatment known as microneedling. She explores how this minimally invasive procedure stimulates collagen and elastin production to improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, and help with scars and stretch marks. She compares professional treatments with at-home devices, explains the pros and cons of each, and provides detailed guidance on safe at-home use.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen tackles the puffy eye predicament that's turning well-rested people into walking advertisements for concealer. From the cruel reality of aging to your body's dramatic reaction to that late-night pizza binge, Karen breaks down the reasons your under-eyes are staging their own little rebellion.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen tackles the surprising link between GLP-1 medication (like Ozempic and Wegovy) and hair loss. As more people turn to these drugs for diabetes and weight management, some are left wondering: is the price of shedding pounds also shedding your hair? Karen explores possible causes behind this side effect, including rapid weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, and hormonal changes, and shares science-backed strategies to help prevent or reduce hair thinning while on these medications.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen shares potentially life-saving advice for staying safe in extreme heat as record-breaking temperatures sweep across the country. She explains how heat exhaustion and heat stroke develop, how to recognize early warning signs, and what to do if you or someone else is affected.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen unpacks the hype surrounding methylene blue, a vivid cobalt dye that's gained popularity as a trendy wellness supplement. From its historical use as a textile dye and medical treatment to modern claims about boosting brain power, energy, and longevity, Karen breaks down what the science actually says—and what it doesn’t. With potential risks ranging from drug interactions to serotonin toxicity, she urges listeners to think twice before adding this unregulated supplement to their daily routine.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen breaks down the growing trend of face taping as a non-invasive approach to reducing wrinkles and lifting sagging skin. She explains the difference between aesthetic taping for red carpet-ready lift and overnight wrinkle patches like Frownies that aim to retrain facial muscles. Karen walks listeners through product options, techniques, and safety tips—while sharing her own experiences (and her mom’s timeless advice) about fighting the dreaded “11s.”
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Karen breaks down the benefits of precursor hormones—specifically pregnenolone and DHEA—for those who struggle with traditional hormone replacement therapy. She explains how these naturally occurring compounds support the production of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, and how they may offer relief from symptoms like brain fog, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and low libido.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen addresses the troubling rise in early-onset cancers among adults under 50, particularly women. Drawing on the latest research, she discusses contributing factors—from delayed screenings and family history to gut health, environmental exposures, and systemic inflammation. Karen also highlights how current healthcare gaps, lifestyle factors, and even prenatal influences may be playing a role in this growing health crisis.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen welcomes Donna White, a leading expert in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) with over 30 years of experience. They discuss the myths and truths about hormone therapy, the critical role of proper testing and individualized treatment plans, and how BHRT can drastically improve quality of life for women in menopause and beyond. Donna shares her personal journey with hormonal imbalance, her mission to train providers across the country, and practical advice for finding a knowledgeable, well-trained BHRT provider.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen unpacks the surprising connection between hormones and the human voice—especially for singers. Drawing from her dual background in opera and medicine, she explains how hormonal shifts throughout the menstrual cycle can impact vocal quality, flexibility, and range.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen shares how a friend's breast cancer diagnosis became a powerful example of self-advocacy in action. From discovering she didn’t need chemotherapy after requesting additional testing, to researching scalp cooling treatments and skin protection during radiation, this story highlights how knowledge and persistence can lead to better care.
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Karen shares a powerful listener story about self-advocacy in healthcare and how trusting your instincts can be lifesaving. After experiencing persistent symptoms that were initially dismissed by a doctor, this listener took charge of her health, sought a second opinion, and ultimately discovered a serious diagnosis.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen continues her discussion on HPV, focusing on the types of cancers it can cause and the best prevention methods. She breaks down the staggering statistics on HPV-related cancers, explains why the virus can remain dormant for decades, and highlights the importance of screening and early detection.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen unpacks the risks of HPV for women in their perimenopausal and menopausal years. She explains how the virus spreads, why it can re-emerge decades after initial exposure, and how hormonal and immune system changes impact its persistence.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen explores the importance of iodine and how its deficiency can impact overall health. She discusses the essential role iodine plays in thyroid function, metabolism, and cognitive development, particularly in pregnant women. Karen explains why iodine deficiency is on the rise, how to test for it, and the best ways to ensure adequate intake through diet and supplements.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen explores the potential of UTI vaccines as an alternative to antibiotics for treating recurrent urinary tract infections. She explains how UTIs develop, why traditional antibiotic treatments often fail, and how vaccines work to boost the body's immune response.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen examines the use of kava supplements, exploring their potential benefits for anxiety and their serious risks, including liver toxicity. She highlights key studies on kava's effectiveness, explains its traditional use, and warns of its interactions with medications. She also shares a list of alternative supplements that have been shown to help with anxiety and depression without the significant risks associated with kava.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen kicks off 2025 by examining the science behind New Year's resolutions. She explores why we make them, who is most likely to set goals for the new year, and the reasons resolutions often fail. She also shares practical tips for improving success rates, such as setting small, meaningful goals, using habit trackers, and practicing self-compassion after setbacks.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen settles the great debate: should you sleep with or without underwear? She explores the health benefits and potential drawbacks of both choices. From reducing the risk of infections to promoting vaginal health, she provides research-backed insights to help you make the best decision for your body.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen discusses the dangers of cold-related illnesses and how to stay safe during the winter months. She explains the causes, symptoms, and prevention strategies for conditions such as hypothermia, frostbite, chillblains, and trench foot. Learn practical tips for dressing warmly, avoiding prolonged exposure to cold, and recognizing early warning signs of these conditions to prevent severe complications.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen addresses bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common vaginal infection that affects many women. She explains its symptoms, causes, and risk factors, while offering practical solutions for both treatment and prevention. From prescription antibiotics to boric acid suppositories and probiotics, Karen shares a comprehensive approach to managing recurrent BV.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen shares a collection of grounding techniques to help listeners manage stress, anxiety, and negative emotions.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen sheds light on iron deficiency anemia, covering its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. She explains the stages of anemia development, common risk factors, and how to recognize signs like fatigue, pale skin, and brittle nails.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen discusses hormone pellet therapy, one form of bioidentical hormone replacement that is designed to produce consistent, long-term hormone levels. She outlines how these tiny pellets are inserted under the skin and can be used to minimize the symptoms of menopause and hormone imbalance—exploring the benefits, possible side effects, and risks associated with them. She also gives tips on what to expect with the treatment and suggestions for finding a trusted provider.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen takes on the topic of inositol supplements, particularly their benefits for managing metabolic and mood disorders. She explores the science behind inositol, a substance naturally found in the body, and how it can support insulin regulation and neurotransmitter balance.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen answers the question: "What type of magnesium should I take if I decide to take a supplement?" She explains magnesium's essential role in health, touching on its benefits for brain, heart, and muscle function, and highlights the widespread issue of magnesium deficiency, often due to processed food diets.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen covers the topic of estrogen loss during perimenopause and its effects on skin health, particularly facial skin. She explores how declining estrogen levels lead to reduced skin elasticity, collagen loss, and increased dryness, and discusses the benefits of using topical estrogen creams to counteract these effects. She also reviews the history of estrogen in skincare, recent studies on its effectiveness, and shares her own experience with adding estrogen cream to her facial care regimen.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen explores the Galleri test, a multi-cancer early detection (MCED) blood test that can identify over 50 types of cancer. She explains how the test works, its potential benefits, and the risks associated with its use. She also shares personal stories from individuals who benefited from the test, while discussing ongoing research to determine its effectiveness in improving cancer outcomes.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
You have a limited offer you can use now, that gets you up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code ITCHY20 at checkout. You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/itchy
Karen explores the topic of improving focus and concentration, sharing research-backed methods to help listeners sharpen their mental clarity. From brain training games like Sudoku and crossword puzzles to the benefits of regular exercise and proper sleep, Karen provides practical tips for enhancing cognitive function.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen addresses the rise of medical misinformation on TikTok. She highlights the dangers of following non-factual advice from non-medical influencers, explaining the importance of consulting reliable sources and medical professionals for health advice. She also provides tips on how to identify and avoid false health claims on social media. Learn how to navigate the murky waters of TikTok health trends and protect your well-being.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
This week, Karen revisits the critical topic of heat exhaustion and heat stroke in light of record-breaking temperatures across the United States. She explains the body's cooling mechanisms, the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and practical measures to prevent and treat these conditions.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
In part two of our series on those pesky mosquitos, Karen dives into practical measures to prevent mosquito bites and protect against mosquito-borne diseases. She explores effective repellents, proper application methods, and household tips to minimize mosquito presence. Tune in to find out how Victoria's Secret could play a role in preventing bug bites this summer.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
As we head into summer, Karen buzzes into the world of mosquitoes and the serious health threats they pose. After explaining her own personal vendetta against these insects, she discusses the diseases mosquitoes can transmit, such as Dengue fever, West Nile virus, and malaria. Don't let mosquitoes bug you this summer – listen in for an informative and timely discussion on staying safe from these tiny terrors.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen explores the concept of grounding, also known as earthing, and its potential health benefits. She explains how grounding connects the body to the earth's natural electrical energy, which may help reduce inflammation, improve sleep, and boost overall wellness. Karen discusses various ways to practice grounding, both outdoors and indoors, using techniques and specialized tools.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen delves into the often-overlooked MTHFR genetic variant and its significant impact on health. She explains the crucial differences between folate and folic acids. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the MTHFR gene mutation, which affects the body's ability to utilize essential B vitamins, and offers practical advice on supplements like L-methylfolate and methyl B12.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen discusses the importance of at-home testing and goes on a rant about providers who dismiss them (and their patients) out-of-hand.
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Karen discusses recent research on the benefits of apple cider vinegar for weight loss. The study found that consuming up to one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar daily for 12 weeks led to an average weight loss of 15 pounds. Listen on for more!
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen discusses practical strategies for overcoming stubborn weight loss challenges, particularly during perimenopause. She delves into the nuances of balancing diet and exercise, explains the importance of mixing cardio with weight resistance, and addresses common dietary misconceptions.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen answers the question: "What type of magnesium should I take if I decide to take a supplement?" She explains magnesium's essential role in health, touching on its benefits for brain, heart, and muscle function, and highlights the widespread issue of magnesium deficiency, often due to processed food diets.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen discusses sacropenia (loss of muscle and strength) and ways to combat it.
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Karen discusses heavy metal exposure and its link to earlier menopause in middle-aged women.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen shares some tips for keeping your thyroid healthy.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen takes on another TikTok trend. Does naval oiling help with anyting besides giving you a soft belly button?
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Karen takes on the TikTok trend of using rice water to promote hair growth and provides a suggestion for a more effective alternative: rice bran oil.
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Karen discusses the misery of reflux and PPI treatment alternatives.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
As we enter the holiday season, Karen discusses a condition that can be more likely to occur this time of year: holiday heart syndrome.
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Karen discusses how to prevent and treat dark facial spots called Melasma.
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Can you believe it's been five years? Karen takes us through two of our first episodes, back when we were Sweaty and Pissed with Leanne Morgan.
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Feeling like your stomach is tied in knots? Karen discusses the foods, supplements, and activities that can help to reduce anxiety.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Ever wondered which other animals experience menopause? Karen discusses scientific findings about the five other species of mammal we have observed entering menopause.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen discusses retinal migraines, an eye condition that can cause momentary blindness or visual problems like flashing lights.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
Karen discusses histamine intolerance: yet another reason not to eat spoiled food!
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
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Learn how to recognize and how to avoid heat exhaustion or heat stroke.
Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.
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Karen reviews the newly FDA-approved med specifically for treating Postpartum Depression (PPD).
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Karen and David will reveal the answer to this unusual question.
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Could it be possible that there is a single supplement that can help battle high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high blood sugar, diabetes, PCOS, inflammation, depression, and possibly even cancer? Karen discusses berberine and the many uses for which it has been studied.
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Ever feel like no matter how much you sleep, you’re still tired? For people with a certain disorder, that fatigue can last for months at a time. Karen discusses myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome(ME/CFS) and seven of its major symptoms.
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Do you struggle to keep your nails from chipping and tearing? Karen discusses several methods for helping to keep your nails hard and healthy.
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Karen discusses hair loss: it's many potential causes, strategies for preventing it, and ways to start promoting more growth.
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Karen discusses a new option for treating hot flashes in people for whom HRT is not an option – Veozah.
Karen discusses the tiniest cellural organism known to humans – a type of bacteria called Ureaplasma that can cause bacterial vaginosis (BV).
Journalist David Alan joins Karen in a discussion to determine why the wait times for medical specialist appointments are increasing.
This is a rerun of an episode of Sweaty and Pissed that originally aired December 14, 2019.
Karen and Forrest got food poisoning but they also got to see some otters, so it all evened out in the end. Leanne Morgan loves an otter but is skeptical of cruises.
Karen talks with Dr. Angela DeRosa (drhotflash.com) about her experience treating perimenopausal women. Topics discussed include kisspeptin, the benefits of pellets over oral and topical HRT, and new research in hormone replacement therapy.
Karen discusses some of the main lifestyle choices that can accelerate skin aging and how you can help prevent it.
How do you end up with a prediabetes diagnosis and what do you do to make sure it doesn't become diabetes?
Karen discusses the importance of gut health and the many ways to make sure you're supporting it.
To schedule an appointment to chat with Karen about your experience with peri-menopause, click here and select a time that would work for you: https://bit.ly/itchyandbitchy
Karen discusses ways in which women can prevent falls and orthopedic injuries after age 40.
To schedule an appointment to chat with Karen about your experience with peri-menopause, click here and select a time that would work for you: https://bit.ly/itchyandbitchy
If you have ever wondered if you should keep your expired meds, Karen will help with that!
To schedule an appointment to chat with Karen about your experience with peri-menopause, click here and select a time that would work for you: https://bit.ly/itchyandbitchy
Karen reviews the benefits of switching to plant-based milk and the differences between the various options.
Karen talks about bacterial vaginosis (BV), a condition which most often occurs in those who douche, don't use condoms while having sex, or have new or multiple sex partners. She also discusses the research being done on the groundbreaking treatment that is being developed: vaginal microbiome transplants.
Karen discusses a new study on the benefits of eating resistant starch and gives examples of some foods that are high in resistant starch.
This is a re-broadcast of an episode from October 6, 2018.
Leanne and Karen talk about everything from soup to nuts, or more accurately, from bladders to pinto beans, in this episode that informs our listeners what to do about vaginal dryness.
Karen continues her discussion of metabolism and the imbalances that cause it to slow down to a crawl. This episode includes discussion of peptide therapy as well as the conclusion to the patient story she began in the first part (see "Is Your Metabolism Creeping and Crawling?").
Have you made all of the lifestyle changes your doctors recommend, but you still can't seem to lose weight? Karen discusses one of the possible causes of a slow metabolism.
Karen provides some background for the anti-inflammatory diet she has been recommending by discussing the 1905 study that was a breakthrough in the way we think about factory-processed foods and their effect on our health.
Karen discuss chronic inflammation, an extremely common condition with a wide array of symptoms which can include fatigue, body pain, depression or anxiety, gastrointestinal complication, weight gain, weight loss, persistent infections, migraines and more.
Karen brings her attention to the question of hooded eyelids and how to fix them non-surgically.
Karen discusses fatty liver disease, a condition that – while most never know they have it – has the potential to cause serious complications.
Karen discusses the woes of constipation — because when you can't poop, you feel like poop.
Karen talks about the root causes of endometriosis, a painful disorder experienced by many women.
Stream Forrest's new album on the platform of your choice here: ffm.to/anawfullot
Has your hair stopped growing, but your jowls haven't? Karen has some help for you!
Stream Forrest's new album on the platform of your choice here: ffm.to/anawfullot
Karen talks about the difference between synthetic and compounded hormones, and answers a question about itchy genitalia — a topic that seems to keep coming up on the show.
Karen discusses MTHFR, a genetic variant that increases your risk for anxiety, depression and ADD.
Karen answers questions about using hormone replacement therapy in women who have had cardiovascular or cerebrovascular events.
Karen discusses pandemic-induced insomnia. What causes insomnia and what can we do to make it go away?
Why are women more likely than men to get Alzheimer's? Karen discusses Alzheimer's and its connection to estrogen.
Ever walk in to a room and wonder, "why did I come into this room?" Karen discusses several strategies for improving memory and general brain health.
Karen discusses postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), an under diagnosed condition that causes a slew of issues when standing up.
Karen and Alexandra Perrignon talk about the importance of self-care and learning to say, "no."
Karen thinks about discussing red, white and blue symptoms to celebrate Independence Day, but thinks better of it when the results are rather icky. Instead, she does a deep dive into HRT pellets and the different ways they can be used.
Did you know women can take Viagra, too? Karen answers several questions submitted by a listener, including one about loss of libido.
Karen discusses yeast overgrowth, an often overlooked issue that can have serious health consequences.
Karen discusses tinnitus and has a surprising potential solution to that high-pitched ear ringing.
Karen breaks down the strange effects of adrenal fatigue and common ways to deal with it.
For the inaugural episode of Itchy and Bitchy, Karen discusses the most common cause of hypothyroidism in the United States: Hashimoto's thyroiditis, a condition known to cause hives and a host of other nasty symptoms.
Kirk Bass, MD and Mandy Baker, RN share with Karen the services that Shea Aesthetic Clinic offers Emsculpt, microneedling and more.
Karen visits with Dr. Kirk Bass and Mandy Baker from the Shea Aesthetic Clinic about a new, easy and highly effective treatment for urinary incontinence.
Karen and producer Forrest answer questions from listeners on a range of hormone-related topics.
Karen answers several questions about our previous estrogen dominance episode and Leanne makes an important announcement.
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Karen, Leanne and Leanne's baby child Tess answer some questions about makeup from our listeners.
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Karen and Leanne discuss Thanksgiving foods and the effects they have on our health.
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Karen tackles one of the questions she gets more than any other: "How do I lose this belly fat?"
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Karen and Leanne discuss low dose naltrexone and the amazing variety of ailments it helps with.
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Karen and Leanne discuss the risks and benefits of caffeine usage, and Karen answers a question about mushroom supplements.
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In the final installment of our makeup series, Leanne Morgan's baby child Tess Morgan (Instagram: @poutbytesslucille), a professional makeup artist, gives tips on makeup for eyebrows, eyes, and lips. If you haven't already, check out the first three parts!
Part 3: https://apple.co/34FRUoW
Part 2: https://apple.co/3mAUa6Y
Part 1: https://apple.co/35Nc0Nj
For more information, including step by step instructions from Tess, visit our website at sweatyandpissed.com
Sponsor:
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Karen discusses options for allergy treatments and Leanne regrets wearing her see-through gown.
Also, visit functionofbeauty.com/sweaty for 20% off your first order of custom hair care products! Just like Karen recommends, all of their products are free of mineral oils, sulfates, parabens, phthalates, and gluten.
Karen and Leanne catch up about Leanne's travels and address some questions that were submitted on Facebook.
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Bronzer and blush tips from Leanne's baby child, Tess Morgan (Instagram: @poutbytesslucille), a professional makeup artist. For more information, including step by step instructions from Tess, check out our website sweatyandpissed.com
Also, visit functionofbeauty.com/sweaty for 20% off your first order of custom hair care products! Just like Karen recommends, all of their products are free of mineral oils, sulfates, parabens, phthalates, and gluten.
Foundation and concealer tips from Leanne's baby child, Tess Morgan (Instagram: @poutbytesslucille) a professional makeup artist. For more information, including step by step instructions from Tess, check out our website sweatyandpissed.com
Don't miss the other three parts of our makeup series:
Part 4: https://apple.co/3oGKNVd
Part 3: https://apple.co/34FRUoW
Part 1: https://apple.co/35Nc0Nj
Skin prep with Leanne's baby child, Tess Morgan (Instagram: @poutbytesslucille), a professional makeup artist. For more information, including step by step instructions from Tess, check out our website sweatyandpissed.com
Don't miss the other three parts of our makeup series:
Part 4: https://apple.co/3oGKNVd
Part 3: https://apple.co/34FRUoW
Part 2: https://apple.co/3mAUa6Y
Karen discusses all things menstrual cups: how to use them, what are the benefits, and what are the potential drawbacks.
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Nevertheless, Leanne and Karen review immune support options during the pandemic.
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Karen speaks about methods of supporting your immune system to help fight off infectious diseases such as COVID-19.
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Karen and Leanne discuss anxiety, mood swings and life milestones during perimenopause.
Karen answers questions from our listeners about urinary tract infections and herpes outbreaks.
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Karen and Leanne discuss leaky gut and the importance of keeping a healthy gut, and catch up on Leanne's preparation for the birth of her grandbaby.
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Karen answers listener questions about gut problems, what you can do to heal your gut and keep it healthy.
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Karen and Leanne discuss a variety of sleep solutions. Leanne discloses her deep fascination with buffalo.
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Karen answers a listener's question about hypothyroidism.
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Karen explains bacterial vaginosis and Leanne worries that she has it. Leanne loved a crop top but now adores a big t-shirt to match her big panties.
Now you can get a big t-shirt with our faces on it! Check out our merch: bit.ly/sweatymerch
Leanne and Karen discuss osteoporosis treatment, including lifestyle changes.
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Karen answers questions from our listeners about the use of hormone replacement therapy after having a heart attack or stroke.
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Leanne is starstruck when the hilarious comedian and actor Jon Reep comes to visit and, as always, Karen has the lowdown on low testosterone in men.
Check out Jon Reep's special GINGER BEARD MAN on Amazon Prime and subscribe to his podcast COUNTRY-ISH wherever you listen to podcasts!
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Karen answers several questions about ways to alleviate breast pain and breast cysts.
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Karen discusses hormone replacement therapy and how long it should last and Leanne reminisces about the good ole days of having 20-year-old legs in a swimsuit.
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Karen answers listener questions about the relationship between exercise and hormone balance, and also delves into estrogen dominance.
Leanne and Stephen Brown discuss the benefits and woes of Karen's recommendations for reducing inflammation.
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A conversation with the artist Stephen Brown of Glitterville, the master of making a magical world.
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Karen answers several listener questions submitted on our Facebook page at facebook.com/sweatyandpissed. She suggests supplements to help with various menopause symptoms and explains why progesterone can still be helpful after a hysterectomy.
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Leanne and Karen muse about their wishes and their reality during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Karen discusses the purpose of testosterone in women and the barriers you might face to being prescribed replacement hormones.
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Leanne and Karen talk about things to do and ways to improve yourself while under quarantine.
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See how Leanne can connect them!
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Note: This was recorded before stay-at-home orders were in place for most of the U.S.
Timecodes:
0:00-1:00 — Introduction
1:00-5:00 — Stories from the Big Panty Tour
5:00-12:30 — Menorrhagia and endometrial ablation
12:30-14:00 — What counts as heavy bleeding?
14:00-15:00 — What is the operation like?
15:00-22:00 — TV talk (Scandal, Ozark, Shtisel, This Is Us, The Handmaid’s Tale, The West Wing)
22:00-25:30 — Final thoughts about endometrial ablation
25:30-28:30 — Leanne checks on her thyroid
28:30-29:30 — Credits and goodbye
Leanne and Karen talk about lichen sclerosus and Leanne checks on the status of her doin's.
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0:00-1:00 — Introduction
1:00-4:00 — What is lichen sclerosus?
4:00-7:30 — What causes this?
7:30-12:30 — Treatments for lichen sclerosus?
12:30-15:20 — Tell-tale signs of lichen sclerosus
Leanne and Karen talk about the spread, symptoms, treatment, and prevention of coronavirus (COVID-19).
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Leanne and Karen talk about colonoscopy prep. It's not fun, but Karen has some tips to help make it tolerable.
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Leanne and Karen explain why you need vitamin D in your life and how to make sure you're getting enough without getting too much sun.
Leanne and Karen talk about Leanne's ongoing tour and discuss some tips for getting pregnant that you might want to try before going to see a fertility specialist.
Karen and Leanne talk about the effect of birth control pills on perimenopause. Leanne remembers the good ole days of having an IUD and learning to let it go.
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Karen and Forrest got food poisoning but they also got to see some otters, so it all evened out in the end. Leanne Morgan loves an otter but is skeptical of cruises.
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Even though white flour and sugar are Leanne's favorite food groups, Leanne and Karen discuss intermittent fasting.
Karen and Leanne discuss Breast Cancer Awareness Month and try to figure out what to do about Leanne's implants.
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Karen provides some book suggestions. Leanne climbs Mt. LeConte and didn’t have to do it in a bunk bed.
Leanne and Karen discuss male hormone imbalance. Leanne votes not to help. Karen has to because of that pesky Hippocratic oath.
Leanne and Karen discuss the effects of menopausal migraines and new methods of treatment.
Leanne and Karen taken on some great questions from listeners about menopause and more!
Leanne and Karen are finally back from a long hiatus. They discuss where they’ve been and ways to cope with the summer heat.
Karen gets expert advice on postpartum depression from Alexander Perrignon, Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner.
Karen visits with Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner, Alexandra Perrignon, about symptoms and treatment.
Karen welcomes psychiatric nurse practitioner Alexandra to talk about ways to treat anxiety during menopause.
Karen discusses surgical menopause in young women and Leanne provides some insight into the pursuit of passion.
What happens in menopause and how to help. Also, Karen tackles another question from Facebook.
Karen answers a question sent in by a listener, and Leanne knows a man in Atlanta who puts pellets in your butt.
Leanne gives interesting advice and Karen gives sound advice about how to have better sleep.
Leanne and Karen talk about everything from soup to nuts, or more accurately, from bladders to pinto beans, in this episode that informs our listeners what to do about vaginal dryness.
Karen and Leanne discuss options for reducing brain fog and helping with relationship troubles common during perimenopause and menopause.
Leanne and Karen discuss the effects of hormonal imbalances during perimenopause, including foggy thinking and a whole host of problems for your love life.
Do you feel like an alien has taken over your body? It's not sci-fi, it's menopause. Leanne and Karen discuss the hormones that affect your body during menopause.
Leanne and Karen discuss perimenopause, bioidentical hormones, postpartum depression and answer some important questions like, "Is Gwyneth Paltrow allowed to eat eggs anymore?"
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Leanne and Karen introduce themselves and begin their discussion of menopause. Topics include adrenal fatigue, gluten intolerance and big panties on a clothes line.
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Get ready for Sweaty and Pissed, where Leanne Morgan, a comedian, and Karen Nickell, a nurse practitioner, talk about menopause and more.
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