Your Best Life: Recent Episodes
MercyOne
Join Laura Bowshier, MD, at MercyOne Waukee Family Medicine as she discusses all things insect bites and first aid. We'll delve into signs of an allergic reactions from bee stings, wasp stings and other insect bites, along with effective treatments. Discover the common symptoms of an allergic reaction and when to seek immediate medical attention. Find out about home remedies and first aid measures for relieving pain, itching and swelling caused by insect bites.
Additionally, learn about Lyme disease, tick season's impact, preventive measures and other potential health risks associated with tick bites. Tune in for essential first aid guidelines for bug bites and how to recognize when medical help is necessary.
Join Adnan Qalbani, MD, from MercyOne Dakota Dunes Breast Care Center, as he explores the intricacies of breast pain. With insights and possible causes, Dr. Qalbani discusses:
- Range of breast pain symptoms.
- Relation to menstrual cycles and hormone levels.
- When to seek medical attention.
Discover practical tips for managing breast pain, including lifestyle adjustments and self-exams. Gain a deeper understanding of this common symptom and empower yourself with knowledge for better breast health.
Tune in to this informative episode for valuable insights on understanding and addressing breast pain.
Join Tiffany Torstenson, DO, breast surgeon at MercyOne West Des Moines Medical Center, as she explores the intricacies surrounding BRCA gene mutations and the valuable insights testing can provide.
Get an overview of the two BRCA genes, its prevalence and its impact on people's lives. Dr. T dives deep into the relation of BRCA gene mutations to breast cancer risk. Also, learn how Lindsey Behrends took control of her health after discovering she was a BRCA1 carrier.
Tune in to gain valuable insights about BRCA and how it can impact your health!
Join Noor Subah, MD, cardiology fellow at MercyOne North Iowa Heart Center, as she explores the topic of heart failure, a condition that affects millions of Americans.
Get an overview of heart failure, its prevalence and its impact on people's lives. Dr. Subah dives deep into the symptoms of heart failure and the key differences between systolic and diastolic heart failure. We also debunk some common misconceptions about this condition.
We also cover:
- Congestive heart failure.
- Testing for heart failure.
- Treatment and medications.
- Reversing heart failure.
- Impact of heart failure on day-to-day life.
- Lowering your risk of heart failure.
Tune in to gain valuable insights into how to manage and prevent heart failure!
Join Craig Mahoney, MD, orthopedic surgeon at Iowa Ortho and MercyOne Central Iowa Orthopedic Physician Lead, as he shares his expertise to understanding knee and hip pain. From common causes and symptoms of joint pain to the importance of exercise in maintaining healthy joints, Dr. Mahoney provides a comprehensive guide to managing and treating joint pain.
We also cover:
- How sciatic nerve relates to knee pain.
- When to know your joint pain is serious.
- Nonsurgical treatments to joint pain.
- Benefits of total joint replacement.
Tune in for valuable insight and tips for maintaining healthy joints!
In this episode, we're discussing preeclampsia and its risk factors. Preeclampsia impacts 1 in 25 pregnancies in the U.S. according to the CDC. We’re joined by Roberto Velez, MD, at MercyOne North Iowa Obstetrics and Gynecology to explore the various factors that can increase your risk of developing preeclampsia during pregnancy, including:
- Pregnancies with more than one baby.
- Kidney concerns.
- Diabetes.
- Pre-existing conditions.
- Obesity.
Dr. Velez provides insights into a serious form of preeclampsia called HELLP syndrome. We'll also discuss what health care looks like after labor and delivery while managing risk factors to reduce the likelihood of preeclampsia and other complications in future pregnancies.
Join us as we explore this important topic and provide valuable insights for pregnant people, their families and health care providers.
With only a 12% survival rate, widow maker heart attacks can be terrifying. Time is crucial, and ensuring you get medical attention immediately can be lifesaving. Brian Loc, DO, cardiologist for Medical Associates Clinic at MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center and Ali Albaghdadi, MD, cardiologist at MercyOne Clinton Medical Center shares the role a bystander plays in the response rate and how early heart attack care saves lives.
In this episode:
-What is a widow maker heart attack?
-Symptoms of a heart attack
-Early heart attack care (EHAC)
-Bystander's role
-Steps to prevent heart attacks
Discover more health and wellness tips at MercyOne.org
Nearly 10% of people over 65 will develop a heart rhythm disorder, also known as atrial fibrillation (AFib). Troy Hounshell, MercyOne Iowa Heart Center electrophysiologist, explains the connection of AFib to your risk of stroke and why a WATCHMAN device could be your best treatment option.
Heart disease and stroke claim the life of one woman every 80 seconds, but less than half of women recognize heart disease as their leading cause of death.
Traditional risk factors impact both men and women, but women also face a unique set of risks. Dr. Denisa Hagua, cardiologist at MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center, discusses why heart health is different in women, what you can do to be proactive and why caring for yourself improves your family’s health.
“We always have time for someone else. We take care of our dog, child, spouse, colleagues, in-laws, I could go on and on,” she says. “But we forget ourselves. We need to change that mindset.”
The heart is the energy source of our entire body. It pumps blood rich in oxygen and nutrients to the rest of our body – to our brains, our hands and to all the vital organs. But if something happens to the heart, the rest of the body suffers. And when the heart breaks, it can be fatal. Gary Chan, DO, PhD, cardiologist at MercyOne Siouxland Heart and Vascular Center, helps explain symptoms of a broken heart and why time is critical.
Slips and falls can occur all year round, but you can be more prone to injury in the winter. Tulsi Sharma, MD, from MercyOne Waterloo Endocrinology Care shares her tips to keeping yourself and family upright and safe during the winter months.
When we think of lung cancer, we often think of people who smoke. But in the United States, about 10% to 20% of lung cancers, or 20,000 to 40,000 lung cancers each year, happen in people who never smoked or smoked fewer than 100 cigarettes in their lifetime, according to the CDC.
In this episode, we're joined by Julie Paup, who despite never having smoked in her life, was diagnosed with Stage 4 lung cancer in 2015. "My outlook was bleak." It's now been six years since the diagnosis and Julie is cancer free.
Julie shares her story and why it's important to not ignore symptoms - it may save your life.
You can help lower your risk of lung cancer by staying away from secondhand smoke, diesel exhaust, and other air pollution. You should get your home tested for radon and take steps to lower the radon level if it is high.
Today, Julie is a volunteer services manager at MercyOne. We also chat about the important roles volunteers serve within our hospitals.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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Caring for your mental health is just as important as your physical health!
Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic many people have had the opportunity to work remotely from the comfort of their home. This change offered a new insight to mental health awareness within the workforce and an opportunity to put mental health needs first. Employers have found the benefit that mental health days offer their employees like the chance to reset from a stressful week and return energetic and productive.
In this episode, we're joined by Rebecca Peterson, Director of House of Mercy, who says to make mental health a priority, you need self-awareness to communicate with your employer what you need.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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After losing their daughter and nearly losing their son to viral illnesses, parents Eric and Holly Sitzmann are working to help prevent other families from having to live the same nightmare.
In this episode we're joined by Holly, who shares her family's experience and the importance of setting boundaries when you welcome a newborn into the world.
Learn more about Holly and Eric's mission at www.dktb.org
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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We know our smallest humans are also some of the most vulnerable, so there's some extra protection needed when it comes to illnesses that may be contagious to babies. In this episode, Dr. Haley Newbrough joins us to talk about some common illnesses she sees, and when they are the most prevalent. As a pediatric hospitalist at MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center, Dr. Newbrough takes care of infants who are hospitalized. When we add to our family, we want to love and be close to the new addition but need to remember to be safe and sometimes that's keeping people away! Dr Newbrough has tips for big brothers and big sisters and how to interact when their new sibling in a safe manner that won't spread illnesses such as: * Bronchiolitis * Enterovirus * Herpes simplex virus * Influenza * Parechovirus * RSV
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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We're celebrating 100 episodes of our MercyOne podcast! You can find all of our episodes at www.MercyOne.org/podcast or just search for "MercyOne" on your favorite podcast app.
Living your best life means something different to everyone. That’s because we all have different interests, different experiences, and different needs -- especially when it comes to health care. In this episode, we catch up with a number of different people across the state of Iowa to hear what living "your best life" means to them!
Do you have a story to share? We'd love to hear it -- it’s easy and convenient, and you can win great prizes!
- Snap a picture and share a story of living your best life on social media using the hashtag #MercyOneLYBL and tag MercyOne. Make sure your privacy post settings are set to public so we can see your picture!
- Social media not your thing? No worries - upload your story and photo at MercyOne.org/bestlife
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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In this episode, we are once again joined by infectious disease specialist Dr. Ravi Vemuri to discuss monkeypox. We'll learn about its history, what it looks like, how it spreads and how to protect yourself.
If you are interested to learn more about monkeypox and its current trends in the U.S., please follow the links below:
- About Monkeypox
- How it spreads
- Prevention
- Vaccines
- If you are sick
- Treatment
- U.S. Map and Case Counts
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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In this episode we're joined by registered dietitian Haley Strait to talk about meal prepping and nutrition. We discuss:
- healthy weight loss
- body mass index (BMI)
- meal planning
- dietary supplements
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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COVID-19 vaccinations to protect children from six months through the age of 5 are now available. Experts say it is best to get your child vaccinated as soon as it’s available.
In this episode, we're joined by MercyOne pediatrician Dr. Mustafa Eldadah who says, “Every day a child is unvaccinated there is risk of them getting a COVID-19 infection. The vaccine is safe and getting it now can help put an end to the COVID-19 pandemic. Children can be fully protected by the time school starts.”
Vaccination will: • Help prevent the risk of serious illness like Multisystem Inflammatory Syndrome in Children (MIS-C) • Keep your child from missing sporting events or extracurricular activities after exposure • Reduce the need to quarantine if your child is exposed to COVID-19 at school or elsewhere • Help prevent long-term effects of COVID-19 • Reduce the risk of passing COVID-19 infection to family members and others at high-risk for severe illness from COVID-19
Scheduling a vaccination appointment for your child may vary depending on where you live. When ready, contact your pediatric or family medicine physician.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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At MercyOne, your best life is our one purpose - whether it's time with family and friends, your favorite hobby, a day on the golf course... or a combination of all three! With that in mind, we welcome a special guest Steve Husome of Adaptive Golf Iowa.
Steve and friends were enjoying the nice weather on motorcycles when a semi pulled in front of him, forever changing the trajectory of his life’s path. Battling multiple injuries, the worst damage to both of his legs, Steve had to make the difficult decision to amputate his right leg below the knee. Leading a very active lifestyle, Steve worried how this decision would affect his abilities and lifestyle.
After nine surgeries, hundreds of hours of physical therapy, two different prosthetic legs and learning how to walk all over again - fast forward to now as Steve leads Adaptive Golf Iowa, bringing the healing power of golf to make sure every can live your best life.
Adaptive Golf Iowa is the only golf clinic in Iowa whose mission is to spread joy through the game of golf to individuals living with disabilities. Adaptive Golf Iowa will offer instruction, organized events, and adaptive equipment to help make the game enjoyable for everyone.
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MercyOne is here for you and proud of the care we provide to get you living your best life, whatever milestone that may be, big or small. If MercyOne is a part of your journey – whether you’re working hard to maintain good health and well-being, have recently overcome a health crisis or just started a family, we want to share the joy of your story. Head to MercyOne.org/bestlife to learn more about how you can share your experiences to win prizes for "best life" experiences.
* * * * * * Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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When it comes to health care, men tend to willfully endure their symptoms and pain. In a recent national survey, 65% of the male participants said they wait as long as possible before they see a doctor.
“There are some illnesses and diseases that if you come in too late or when you finally are experiencing symptoms the treatment becomes very difficult,” says Dr. David Ensz, of MercyOne South Sioux City Family Medicine.
Men – it’s time to lead by example. In this episode, we're joined by to talk about some common health habits to fix. We'll cover:
- Reasons to develop a releationship with a primary care provider
- How erectile dysfunction can be an indicator for heart health
- Diabetes care
- Excessive drinking of alcohol
- Behavioral health
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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When you look at the etymology of the word midwife it literally means “with woman.”
In this episode, we're joined by Whitney Suckstorf, MSN, ARNP, CNM to learn that midwives go far beyond just maternity care. They are with women through all stages in their lives: whether it’s helping a young adolescent with period problems, a woman’s yearly pap smear, postpartum or through the transition of menopause.
"The unique role of a midwife is to be a chameleon for our patients," says Whitney.
Whether you are going through puberty, pregnancy, perimenopause or menopause, a woman’s health has complex needs that a midwife can help navigate and manage.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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If you've ever been pregnant or had an annual well-woman exam, you're probably familiar with visiting an OB/GYN provider for certain care needs. However, your OB/GYN can do much more.
In this episode, Dr. Ryan Beardsley joins us to talk about how this type of doctor can be your partner in women's health throughout every stage of life.
- What is an OB/GYN?
- Treating adolescents and young adults
- Prenatal care
- Transition to menopause
Dr. Beardsley cares for patients at MercyOne Waterloo OB/GYN.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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Learning your child is diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder can be an overwhelming time for families. When you are looking after a child with autism, there’s some important information you need to know right off the bat.
In this episode we're joined by Dr. Sasha Khosravi for a breakdown of everything to help your family thrive after an autism diagnosis.
Dr. Khosravi is the Chief Medical Officer at MercyOne Clive Behavioral Health and Program Director at MercyOne Psychiatry Residency program.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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In this episode we meet Mary Van Heukelom, program director of the nonprofit organization Above + Beyond Cancer. As part of this work, Mary helps cancer survivors find and achieve a quality of life well beyond their cancer diagnosis.
She considered herself to have a top bill of health when a colonoscopy screening showed a mass in her colon. Because it was detected early, surgery was able to remove her cancer and she has not needed radiation treatments or chemo therapy.
She shares her story with us and why it's important to make time for preventative screenings.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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In this episode, Dr. Nicole Stoecken returns to the podcast to talk about special needs parenting and the importance of being inclusive.
Dr. Stoecken is a pediatrician at MercyOne Grimes Pediatric Care, and is an advocate and guide for children with a diagnosis of Down syndrome. Her daughter Josie was born with Down syndrome in December 2019. "I have been especially fortunate in that I have been able to take many of the tools I have learned to support my own child’s development back to my daily practice to support the development of each of my patients. One of the greatest gifts I have been given is that of empathy," she says.
In society, Dr. Stoecken says there are important things each of us can recognize and strive to improve:
- Encourage person first language
- Encourage inclusion
- Recognize ableism and prejudices and stereotypes we each may carry
Be sure to check out our other episode with Dr. Stoecken, where we learn more about Down syndrome and her daughter Josie.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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Many people "spring forward" this week and turn our clocks ahead one hour to begin daylight saving time. Some of us need a couple days to adjust when it seems the alarm clock goes off a little earlier than usual!
In this episode, sleep expert Dr. Stephen Grant joins us to talk about the importance of maintaining a regular sleep schedule, and the numerous ways your sleep impacts your health, such as:
- Mood, behavioral health
- Diet and weight loss
- Cognitive function
- Heart health
- Diabetes
You can find Dr. Grant at MercyOne Clive Sleep Center.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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Colon cancer is the third most common diagnosed cancer in both men and women, according to the American Cancer Society. Colonoscopy screenings are the best preventive action you can take to protect yourself from colon cancer, but the myths surrounding colonoscopies can make you feel uncomfortable with screening.
In this episode we're joined by Dr. Mayin Lin at MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center to help debunk the myths!!
- Myth: I don't have symptoms, so I don't need a screening
- Myth: I'm a woman and less likely to get cancer
- Myth: I don't have family history so I'm not at risk
- Myth: The prep is horrible!
- Myth: A colonoscopy is painful
- Myth: Colonoscopies are dangerous
- Myth: It's too embarrassing and uncomfortable
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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In this episode we're talking about heart health with Dr. Ramanujam Ramabadran, a cardiologist with Medical Associates Clinic in Dubuque.
In addition to some overall heart healthy tips, we learn about transcatheric aortic valve replacement, also called TAVR.
TAVR is a less-invasive approach to aortic valve replacement than open heart surgery. With the TAVR procedure, the physician will make a small incision, usually in your groin.
TAVR is typically associated with a faster recovery and shorter hospital stay than open heart surgery.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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Information regarding the COVID-19 pandemic moves at a rapid pace and Dr. Ravi Vemuri joins the podcast once again to help keep us up to speed.
In this episode:
- What have we learned from the Omicron variant?
- Why is getting a vaccine booster shot important?
- Studying what's known as "long covid"
- When will we get back to normal?
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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A week before Christmas in 2019, life-long health care practitioner Maria Steele was introduced to the presence of radon in Iowa.
Radon is a naturally occurring radioactive gas that is tasteless, odorless and colorless. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and national health organizations rank radon as the number one cause of lung cancer for non-smokers. More than 71% of Iowa homes are above EPA exposure guidelines, according to the Iowa Radon Survey.
Maria had no family history of cancer in her family and never smoked. However, a heavy feeling in her chest had her concerned. After heart disease was ruled out, chest imaging detected a mass in her lung later confirmed as lung cancer.
Maria is also sharing her journey on her blog.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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Este episodio está grabado en español para nuestros amigos de la comunidad Latinx, para hablar sobre la importancia de la atención médica de rutina y su bienestar físico.
Nuestro invitado es el Dr. Carlos Alarcon-Schroder de MercyOne Urbandale Family Medicine. Discutimos:
- Por qué es importante realizar chequeos anuales.
- ¿Qué es un médico de cabecera y por qué alguien debería establecer una relación con uno.
- ¿Existe algún problema de salud que afecte a los miembros de la comunidad Latinx?
- La pandemia del coronavirus y la importancia de estar vacunado.
Envíenos sus comentarios enviando un correo electrónico a podcast@mercyhealth.com, o complete el formulario de envío en MercyOne.org/podcast.
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We're off into another new year! You’re ready to live your best life and you’ve made the first step – recognizing your health needs. So what comes next? We caught up with Dr. David Ensz from MercyOne South Sioux City Family Medicine for some expert tips to make sure you're setting attainable goals.
- Focus on your mental health
- Make sleep a priority
- Exercise regularly and eat healthy
- Build your relationship with your primary care provider
Want to hear more? Check out our past episode "New Year New You" for even more tips from the pros on living Your Best Life!
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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We commonly associate PTSD with military veterans. But who else can be affected by post-traumatic stress disorder? What are the signs and symptoms? What are the options for help?
Thomas Ottavi, PhD, has spent 23 years a licensed psychologist doing youth and adult work consulting with schools and agencies where trauma effects and PTSD were significant and common issues.
Dr. Ottavi cares for patients in Dubuque at Medical Associates Clinic and is also a behavioral health officer in the Iowa Army National Guard. He is certified in Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy, which is an integrative psychotherapy approach that has been extensively researched and proven effective for the treatment of trauma, including PTSD.
We're happy to partner with Iowa's Healthiest State Initiative and the Make It OK campaign to bring you this content! It's OK to have a mental illness - many people do. It's OK to talk about mental illness - talking makes people feel less alone. It's OK to seek help with mental illness - life can get better.
Resources mentioned in this podcast include:
- National Institute of Mental Health
- Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs)
- The Body Keeps the Score by Bessel Van Der Kolk, MD
- PTSD Coach
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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In this episode we're joined by Dr. Daniel DiMeo to tell us all about EndoFLIP. MercyOne Children's Hospital is the first hospital in the state of Iowa to use this unique technology.
When patients have trouble swallowing, there are problems getting food and liquids from your mouth to the stomach. When kids have this condition, EndoFLIP can make it much easier to diagnose disorders! Learn more about EndoFLIP in this blog post and on our website.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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We're headed into influenza season, and are still navigating our way through the COVID-19 pandemic. Infectious disease expert Dr. Ravi Vemuri returns to the podcast to explain what we should expect:
- What's the outlook for influenza?
- Can you get a flu shot and COVID shot at the same time?
- Third doses of coronavirus vaccine for immunocompromised individuals and booster shots for others
- Young and healthy age groups and whether to get the COVID-19 vaccine (yes)
- What factors go into determine hospital capacity?
- Requirements to attend events in the community
- Using monoclonal antibodies to treat COVID+ patients
- What's the deal with ivermectin?
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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No one knows your body better than you. Your body is constantly giving you feedback on your daily activities. Sometimes that feedback gets your attention in the form of pain.
In this episode we're joined by Dr. Daniel Moyse to talk through the treatment available fo individuals you live with chronic pain. If you've been experiencing chronic or unmanageable pain, find a pain care specialist and get back to living your best life.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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In this episode, meet breast cancer survivor Deann Cook. Her yearly mammogram caught a breast tumor very early, and very treatable!
But as she started sharing the news of her diagnosis she learned many women had been skipping their annual screening due to the pandemic.
So she took it upon herself to hold others accountable to schedule that important checkup. In her case, she says it saved her life.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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In this episode Kimberly Ellington, LMHC joins us to talk about suicide prevention. Kimberly is a licensed mental health counselor at MercyOne.
Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States, but it is preventable! What are signs that someone is in crisis? What resources are available if you or someone you know are at risk?
The National Suicide Hotline is 1-800-273-8255 (TALK)
We're happy to partner with Iowa's Healthiest State Initiative and the Make It OK campaign to bring you this content! It's OK to have a mental illness - many people do. It's OK to talk about mental illness - talking makes people feel less alone. It's OK to seek help with mental illness - life can get better.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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In August 2021 the CDC strengthened its recommendation for women to receive COVID-19 during pregnancy.
In this episode we're joined by Sarah Massey, DO and Neil Mandsager, MD to discuss making the best vaccine decision for you and your family.
Dr. Massey is a physician at MercyOne West Des Moines OBGYN Associates. Dr. Mandsager primarily works to provide personalized care to expecting mothers with high-risk pregnancy at MercyOne Perinatal Center.
Read more - MercyOne maternity experts support COVID-19 vaccinations during pregnancy
According to a new study pregnant women with a COVID-19 infection are:
- 22 times more likely to have a premature birth
- 14 times more likely to require intubation
- 15 times more likely to die in hospital
The study involved 869, 079 adult women, including 18,715 women with COVID-19, who underwent childbirth at 499 US medical centers between March 1, 2020- Feb. 28, 2021
Find a MercyOne vaccine location by visiting MercyOne.org/covid19vaccine
What questions do you have about the COVID-19 vaccine? Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Eric Reynolds to talk about concussions.
As we head into fall sports, most people think of football - but concussions don't just happen in contact sports. They can also happen in activities like cheerleading or even gym class.
Dr. Reynolds specializes in pediatrics at MercyOne Des Moines Pediatrics Urgent Care in Des Moines. You can also find him at MercyOne Clive Sports Medicine.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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MercyOne encourages everyone who is eligible and able to receive a vaccination to protect yourself from COVID-19.
Unvaccinated people are more susceptible to the virus and its variants, and people who are not vaccinated make up most COVID-19 hospitalizations today. Many individuals could avoid the hospital entirely if they had been vaccinated.
Still, there are many eligible individuals who have not been vaccinated, citing a number of reasons or concerns. In this episode, we bring those concerns to infectious disease expert Aneesa Afroze, MD, to provide additional context and even dispel some myths.
- Claim: The vaccine is experimental and not safe.
- Fact: The vaccine has Emergency Use Authorization and with more than 350 million doses administered in the U.S. the vaccine has received the most intense safety monitoring of any vaccine in history. Note: The Pfizer vaccine received FDA approval on August 23, 2021.
- Claim: The vaccine may cause infertility or impact pregnancy.
- Fact: There is nothing to indicate the vaccines impact the ability to conceive a child. There were no significant safety concerns observed during clinical trials. The vaccine when given in the third trimester of pregnancy will allow your baby to obtain some protection through antibodies, and antibodies can be passed through breastmilk. Read more: MercyOne maternity experts support COVID-19 vaccination during pregnancy
- Claim: Young and healthy people don't need to worry about COVID-19.
- Fact: While it's true that most people experience mild symptoms and recover, the virus can cause severe health risks and some people still have symptoms for months after they are infected. Individuals requiring hospitalizations today include increasing numbers of individuals ages 40 and up. Nationally, COVID-19 deaths have included people from all age groups.
Read more COVID-19 vaccine facts here.
Crowded hospitals can strain available resources and impact other people who need care, unrelated to COVID-19. This is why it is important to protect yourself and do your part so everyone can receive the care they need.
Find a MercyOne vaccine location by visiting MercyOne.org/covid19vaccine
What questions do you have about the COVID-19 vaccine? Do you have questions about the variants of the virus? Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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Many of us experience feelings of worry, fear or anxiety. But when is it time to seek professional help?
Dr. Tyler Van Milligen returns to the podcast to break down the differences between common anxiety disorders and how to determine if your anxiety is interfering with your daily life. Dr. Tyler cares for patients in the MercyOne Psychiatric Residency Program in Des Moines, Iowa.
We're happy to partner with Iowa's Healthiest State Initiative and the Make It OK campaign to bring you this content! It's OK to have a mental illness - many people do. It's OK to talk about mental illness - talking makes people feel less alone. It's OK to seek help with mental illness - life can get better.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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In this episode we are joined by Andrea Haynes, Lab Director at MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center to talk about what happens when you donate blood. Nationally, there is a severe shortage of blood due to the pandemic’s effect on donations. We will learn:
- How are blood cells, platelets and plasma used in a hospital?
- What types of procedures need the most blood on hand?
- How does donating blood directly help your local community?
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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We are a week away from RAGBRAI and we have another bike-themed podcast for you. Dr. Richard Deming has been a guest on the podcast before - and in this episode you'll hear a story that only he can tell: his journey after a training ride ended with a severe crash, sending him to intensive care.
Dr. Deming first told this story on stage at the Des Moines Storytellers Project's "What Happens Next: Filling in the blanks after a story ends." The Des Moines Storytellers Project is a series of storytelling events in which community members work with Des Moines Register journalists to tell true, first-person stories live on stage. Read his story and watch a video of his speech here. (Republished here with permission.)
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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We welcome the return of RAGBRAI! Bicyclists will spend hours at a time in the July heat. Health experts from MercyOne have a few tips for your best ride, or if you find yourself spending a lot of time outdoors during the summer:
- Water, water, water
This is your number one choice to get and stay hydrated. Beverages with caffeine or alcohol are dehydrating. You can consume water through your food too! Eat foods like watermelon, strawberries, cucumbers or celery.
- Alcohol
Alcohol increases excretion of water and salt from your body and increases internal body temperature. If you’re planning to consume alcohol, try to switch between water and your beverage of choice every other drink.
- Food for fuel
When you’ve got an 80-mile bike ride ahead of you, it’s important to eat foods to give you the energy you need to make it to the finish. If you’re aiming for high performance, eat easy-to-digest carbohydrates like a banana or a bagel before you hit the road. Once you’ve finished, add in foods that have protein and fat, like chocolate milk or pizza.
4.Sunscreen
You’re going to be in the sun for many hours each day. Use sunscreen of at least SPF 30 and make sure you hit your ears, the tip of your nose, your forehead, and hairline. Reapply every two to three hours.
- Hygiene
Germs are everywhere! Washing with soap and water isalwaysbestif available. Hand sanitizers can quickly reduce germs on hands, but they don’teliminate alltypes of germs, so it’s still important to wash your hands with soap and water as soon as you’re able.
- Heat exhaustion vs. heat stroke
Two common heat-illnesses are heat exhaustion and heat stroke. While heat exhaustion leads to heat stroke, they need tobe treated very differently.Learn the symptoms and what to do if your friends or family are experiencing a heat-related illness.
Accidents do happen and if you experience a minor injury, MercyOne Urgent Care locations provide walk-in care for any bumps, bruises, burns, sprains and stitches. Enjoy RAGBRAI XLVIII and everything Iowa has to offer along the route!
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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This episode is all about protecting your skin and Stephanie Walker, PA-C joins us with expert information why this is important.
Practicing sun safety daily helps protect your skin from damage.
Why do I need to wear sunscreen?
The sun emits a wide spectrum of light including ultraviolet-A (UV-A) and ultraviolet-B (UV-B). These are the two most common types of UV rays that contribute to skin cancer. They damage the skin on a DNA level that can eventually lead to skin cancer. Studies have shown that sunburns, especially blistering sunburns during childhood, can dramatically increase the risk of skin cancer later in life. It’s important that everyone in your family wears sunscreen to block out these harmful rays and reduce the risk of skin cancer.
What type of sunscreen do I need?
While The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends using a sunscreen with SPF of 15 or higher for everyday use, we advise sunscreen with SPF of 30 or higher to provide stronger protection. Remember, both UV-A and UV-B can cause skin cancer, so choose sunscreen that protects against both. This will be labeled as protecting against a “broad spectrum” of rays.
What should I look for during a self-examination of my skin?
There are three things to look for when examining your moles and skin: symmetry, borders and color. If you notice any changing moles that appear asymmetrical, have irregular borders or multiple colors, please contact a health care professional to evaluate the lesion. Any sore that hasn’t healed or is a painful lesion should be evaluated as well.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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Summertime means warmer days, sunshine and spending time outdoors. With more activities and more time out and about there are an increased risk of injury and emergency.
In this episode, we're joined by Dr. Steven Warrington to explain why summer is known as trauma season. Burns, dehydration and heat illnesses are just a few common conditions needing emergency care.
Serious injuries or severe illness that may require hospitalization should be directed to your local emergency room.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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Men are more likely to delay or skip health appointments - often waiting until the last minute, or trying to just tough it out. But men need regular checkups to screen for potential health risks and stay on track for a healthy future.
MercyOne urologist Christopher Adams, MD joins us to talk about the importance for men to keep track of their health, and some of the regular screenings you will need.
Some of the top risks for men include:
- heart health
- respiratory disease
- alcohol
- diabetes
- behavioral health
- accidents and injuries
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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This episode centers around innovative ideas used to revolutionize health care and connecting patients with the help they need in a manner that is convenient!
We have three guests:
- Matt Dietz is Division Director of Digital and Virtual Care Strategy at MercyOne
- Stephen Nielson is Manager of Digital Health at MercyOne
- Dr. Joel Ward is Chief Medical Informatics Officer for MercyOne Central Iowa Medical Group
We talk about telehealth, online scheduling, virtual care and implementing other innovative ideas in the future.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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On the heels of Mother's Day, we're going to focus on Maternal Mental Health. What are the differences between the "baby blues" and postpartum depression and perinatal anxiety? How can you spot the signs if something serious is happening to you or your loved ones?
In this episode we are joined by Dr. Tyler Van Milligen, who cares for patients in the MercyOne Psychiatric Residency Program in Des Moines, Iowa.
We're happy to partner with Iowa's Healthiest State Initiative and the Make It OK campaign to bring you this content! It's OK to have a mental illness - many people do. It's OK to talk about mental illness - talking makes people feel less alone. It's OK to seek help with mental illness - life can get better. Dr. Tyler also was featured on the Make It OK podcast to speak about postpartum depression.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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If you're a regular listener, you know we've partnered with Iowa's Healthiest State Program and its Make It OK program.
Well, Iowa's Healthiest State Initiative has launched its own podcast! All episodes are available now and each episode features a MercyOne expert.
Listen to the trailer here, then go find all the episodes wherever you listen to your podcasts.
We'll be back with our own new episodes coming soon!
In this episode we're joined by Emily Flahive, CNM, DNP, ARNP and Jessica Gengler, MSPT to talk about endometriosis.
Endometriosis is a disorder where tissue like what is normally found inside the uterus- the endometrium- grows outside of the uterus. Endometriosis most commonly involves the ovaries, fallopian tubes and tissues lining the pelvis. It is possible, however, for endometrial tissue to spread beyond pelvic organs.
This disorder affects 1 in 10 women (about 200 million women worldwide) according to the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services.
Common symptoms of endometriosis include:
- Painful periods- including pain before and after a menstrual period.
- Lower back and abdominal pain
- Pain during intercourse
- Painful bowel movements or urination- especially during a menstrual period
- Heavy menstrual bleeding or bleeding between periods
- Infertility
- Fatigue
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Bloating or nausea
Read more about endometriosis
Send us your feedback or just say "hello" by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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With COVID-19 vaccine eligibility opening up across the country, MercyOne infectious disease expert Dr. Ravi Vemuri returns to the podcast to encourage everyone to get their shot when they have the chance.
The three vaccines approved for use in the United States at this time include the Moderna, Pfizer, and Johnson & Johnson vaccines. All three vaccines are very effective at preventing serious illness, even against the COVID-19 variants now circulating.
Dr. Vemuri also lets us know about some promising new studies that came out in the past week.
A reminder -- after you have been vaccinated, it is still important to wear a mask, wash your hands and socially distance.
Send us your feedback or just say "hello" by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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At the turn of the last century, physicians were looking for the cause of hay fever, summer colds, or rose fever. They soon discovered billions of invisible pollens trigger allergy symptoms. Using technology and microscopy, they visualized plant pollens from tree, grass and weeds and concluded these were the culprits!
Hay fever can affect your quality of life. Initial symptoms include itching nose, mouth and eyes leading to sneezing, nasal congestion, and tearing of the eyes. It can lead to sinus infections, make asthma worse, disrupt your sleep and affect your ability to learn at school or be productive at work. Although we suspect you may have this condition, allergists can help pinpoint the actual cause and diagnosis with skin testing.
In this episode, Dr. Dan Dalan from MercyOne Waterloo Allergy Care joins us to talk about how people can get relief, and how to pinpoint exactly what is ailing you.
If you experience allergies or have symptoms contact your provider or find one near you to make an appointment.
Send us your feedback or just say "hello" by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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If you're one of the 40 million people in the U.S. with varicose veins you may think it's just a cosmetic problem and haven't sought treatment. But those unsightly veins are a symptom of underlying venous reflux disease.
Hear from MercyOne Clinton surgeon Dr. Ricky Maddox and cardiologist Dr. Saadi Albaghdadi about minimally invasive, outpatient varicose vein treatments that improve blood flow to your legs and help you love the way they look!
Send us your feedback or just say "hello" by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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In this episode we explore the differences between a therapist, psychologist and psychiatrist. Who does what? Which one should you seek for mental and behavioral health care?
We welcome three experts to explain:
- Natasha Keller tLMHC, PLMHP, NCC works with children at the MercyOne Siouxland Child Advocacy Center in Sioux City, Iowa.
- Dan Ekstrom, PsyS is a licensed psychologist at MercyOne Waterloo Behavioral Health Care in Waterloo, Iowa.
- Dr. Tyler Van Milligen cares for patients in the MercyOne Psychiatric Residency Program in Des Moines, Iowa.
We're happy to partner with Iowa's Healthiest State Initiative and the Make It OK campaign to bring you this content! It's OK to have a mental illness - many people do. It's OK to talk about mental illness - talking makes people feel less alone. It's OK to seek help with mental illness - life can get better.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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In this episode, we learn all about robotic surgery with Dr. Scott Hinze. Dr. Hinze is a surgeon at MercyOne Waterloo General Surgery.
Minimally invasive procedures with robotic surgery provide several benefits including smaller incisions, an earlier discharge from the hospital, faster recovery time, and less medication required to cope with pain.
Watch and see the da Vinci Xi in this YouTube video.
Send us your feedback or just say "hello" by filling out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast or send an email to podcast@mercyhealth.com
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Palliative Care may be one of the most misunderstood terms in health care. Many people might believe palliative care is the same as hospice care or end of life care. In this episode, Dr. Charles Goldman, a palliative care physician at MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center explains how it is different than hospice and can be very helpful to patients and their families.
Send us your feedback or just say "hello" by filling out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast or send an email to podcast@mercyhealth.com
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Down syndrome is a genetic condition where a child is born with an extra copy of the 21st chromosome. Although genetic testing is available to provide detection during birth, for many moms, like Dr. Nicole Stoecken from MercyOne Grimes Pediatric Care, a surprise diagnosis at birth is also possible.
Since Dr. Stoecken gave birth to her fourth child, Josie, who was born with Down syndrome in Dec. 2019, she has become an advocate and guide for children with a diagnosis of Down syndrome. As a pediatric physician, Dr. Stoecken works with new moms daily. In this episode she provides some frequently asked questions she’s received from new parents of children with Down syndrome.
Send us your feedback or just say "hello" by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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According to the CDC, heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. In fact, 1 in every 4 deaths in the United States is caused by heart disease. To help keep you and your family healthy, all you need to do is remember your ABCS:
- Aspirin when appropriate
- Blood pressure control
- Cholesterol management
- Smoking cessation
Learn more about the ABCS for a healthy heart on our website.
This episode's featured medical expert is Curtis Hoogendoorn, ARNP from MercyOne Siouxland Heart and Vascular Center.
Send us your feedback or just say "hello" by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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It's easy to think about negative things that happened in 2020, but it is better to focus on the good things that happened. In this episode, we are joined by Paul Wehrman, LMHC. Paul is a licensed mental health counselor at MercyOne Waterloo Behavioral Health Care.
- What are some bad habits we picked up last year that we should drop?
- Are there any grudges we should let go?
- What do you want to accomplish this year?
We're happy to partner with Iowa's Healthiest State Initiative and the Make It OK campaign to bring you this content! It's OK to have a mental illness - many people do. It's OK to talk about mental illness - talking makes people feel less alone. It's OK to seek help with mental illness - life can get better.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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The first shipments of the vaccine to help contain COVID-19 has arrived at hospitals across the country. In this episode, infectious disease expert Dr. Ravi Vemuri returns to the podcast to answer some common questions many people have about the vaccine.
- How does the COVID-19 vaccine work?
- If someone has already had the virus, should they get the vaccine?
- How long does immunity from the vaccination last?
- Can I stop wearing a mask and social distancing once I've been vaccinated?
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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Wow, this is episode number 50! We're joined by Brandi Cox, PT, DPT and Linda Crisman, PTA to talk all about physical therapy. We'll discuss a few conditions physical therapy can treat and the benefits physical therapy can provide over some other methods of treatment. Motion is lotion!
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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Along with football season, holiday season and flu season… urgent care season is upon us. Not familiar with that? Well, the need for "outside of regular hours," last-minute, early-morning and late-night medical advice seems to increase this time of year as we navigate illnesses that usually see an uptick in the fall and winter.
In this episode, some advice right from one of our Urgent Care providers Ruth Ann Uhl, ARNP about how to get the most of your Urgent Care visit, and when you should skip the clinic and head right to the ER.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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October is Depression Awareness Month and in this episode we have a panel discussion with five experts across the MercyOne system of care:
- Debra Georgia, LMFT, LMSW works with the MercyOne North Iowa Behavioral Services Center in Mason City
- Natasha Keller tLMHC, PLMHP, NCC works with children at MercyOne Siouxland Child Advocacy Center
- Michael Peroski, DO is a psychiatrist at MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center
- John Upshaw, LISW is from MercyOne Cedar Falls Behavioral Health Care
- Breanna Young LMHC is supervisor at MercyOne Psychiatry Residency Clinic in Des Moines
In this 45 minute discussion, we cover when to know when you're just having "the blues" or if you need professional help, some different methods of treating severe depression and medication-resistant depression, such as TMS Therapy and SPRAVATO, and the successes our experts have seen by using Telehealth.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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In this episode we're joined by Dr. Moiz Dawood and Jenna Niccolls, PA-C to learn all about weight loss surgery, also known as bariatric surgery. Weight loss surgery provides a unique opportunity to help treat and manage chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure and diabetes, and in some cases can even cure those diseases altogether.
We also set the record straight on one big misconception many people have about why this procedure works.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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Endocrinology is the study of hormones and diseases related to the glands in your body. This episode, we're joined by Losty Torres Potter, MD, who recently joined MercyOne following her stay as Chief Fellow of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism at the University of South Florida in Tampa.
Dr. Torres Potter has done extensive research on Graves disease, Recurrent Adrenal Crisis, Hashimoto Encephalopathy and several other endocrine case reports.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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This week's episode is about keeping connected. Most of us have had to stay away from friends, family and loved ones these past few months to keep our commuities as healthy and safe as possible.
Staying away can be especially difficult when family members need care in the hospital. We'll hear a few innovative ways to keep loved ones as close as possible... and it's not just through technology!
Have have you stayed connected? Send us your story by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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In this episode we are joined by infection preventionist Gail Gates. This year's flu season will be like nothing we have ever seen. It is more important than ever to get your flu shot! Please do your part so health care systems across the country aren't fighting a battle on two fronts - influenza AND COVID-19.
What's the difference between influenza and "the flu"? Can you have influenza and COVID at the same time? Can you get your flu shot if you are COVID positive? Which arm is best to receive an influenza vaccination?
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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We've officially been doing the Your Best Life podcast for one year! Today we round up the crew from our first episode to talk about some of our favorite episodes, and we look to the future. We'll also hear from a few of our contributors. Join us for a fun conversation!
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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There's no doubt about it, things are much different this school year. Changes can be scary, frustrating and difficult for both students and their parents. In this episode, we're joined by Anthony Michael, LMHC, RPT for some different suggestions on how to cope throughout the year. Mr. Michael is a behavioral health counselor who primarily works with children.
We'll cover how to effectively communicate while wearing masks, managing screen time while not limiting social interaction among children, and appreciating some of the things we've learned to take for granted.
Read more tips from Anthony in this supporting article.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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Returning to school while maintaining safety is at the top of mind for many families across the country as classes resume. This week we're joined by Jeff Frost from the Waterloo Community School District to discuss the collaborative efforts among educators to make sure education can continue.
Hear about the many plans in place to protect children, faculty and staff, and families from coronavirus.
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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In this episode we continue with the second part of our discussion with Dr. Valerie Stratton.
When can women expect when going through menopause? One of the biggest complaints is hot flashes and night sweats. If you are not a candidate for hormone therapy, what else can be done to help? Are there any major health concerns during menopause?
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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Menopause will affect every female in their lifetime! This week we begin our two-part discussion with Dr. Valerie Stratton. We'll discuss the typical symptoms women can expect, and the benefits and drawbacks of hormone therapy. We'll discuss non-hormonal treatment in our next episode!
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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Fad diets quickly come and go, but there's good reason why the Mediterranean Diet has continued to be a popular and effective way of eating for decades. In fact, the Mediterranean Diet consistently comes out on top in the U.S. News and World Report's annual ranking of best diets.
Many studies have repeatedly confirmed the foundation of a Mediterranean-style diet lowers risk of cardiovascular diseases and other conditions such as cancer, Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease.
So, just what is the foundation of this diet which is so strongly linked to healthy benefits? Mary Hampton, RD, LD, a dietitian at MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center joins us to explain!
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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Dr. Ravi Vemuri returns to the podcast to give us an update on our fight against COVID-19. Dr. Vemuri is an Infectious Disease expert and is the medical director of Infection Prevention and Health Care Epidemiology at MercyOne Des Moines. He first appeared on our podcast just as things were heating up in March. What do we know now that we didn't know then?
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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A child who has seizures, developmental concerns, muscle weakness, unusual headaches or abnormal movements should see a pediatric neurologist. This week, we're joined by Dr. Surabhi Kaul from MercyOne North Iowa Medical Center to learn about pediatric neurology and the things parents should watch for!
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at MercyOne.org/podcast
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This week we're joined by Dave Tatman, executive director of the MercyOne Dubuque Cancer Center. Early detection is a key to fighting and beating cancer. A delay in screening can result in a delay in your care! What is a screening and what does screening involve? What are different methods of screening? What signs are experts looking for?
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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On this episode, we're joined by Dr. Mark Schultz to discuss maintaining medical appointments through Virtual Visits.
A Virtual Visit allows patients to meet with their local health care provider through video chat without ever leaving the comfort and security of their home.
Providers can continue routine appointments, prescribe medications as usual, coordinate additional treatment options, and assess whether further care is needed. An in-person follow-up visit can be determined for specialty care, or if other assessments are needed. As technology advances in the areas of wearables and other applications consumers can download, it will open the door for providers to do more virtually.
Dr. Schultz even gives us a couple examples of individuals who have done Virtual Visits while working to plant their field!
Learn more about MercyOne Virtual Visits.
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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Summertime is checkup time! It’s time to schedule your kids’ annual checkups and immunizations. Nationally, more than a million kids have already missed appointments due to COVID-19.
In this episode, we hear from pediatrician J. Michael Metts, DO to highlight the importance of these annual checkups, immunizations, and the things his office is doing to keep patients safe during the pandemic.
- What do health care providers review during checkups
- Immunizations and boosters
- COVID precautions
- Do kids need to wear masks?
- How effective are flu shots and when is the best time to get them?
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
We had a few episodes recorded and ready to release, and then the pandemic arrived. We've been waiting to share some of these episodes with you, and are happy we can do that today!
Our wellness friend and podcast contributor Debbie Olson recently injured her foot. For many, an injury can really sidetrack anyone's exercise and workout regimen. How do you continue? How much time should you take away from your workout routine to recover? Are there things you can do to keep moving toward our exercise goals while being injured? This week, Sheri, Merriam and Debbie are joined by physical therapist Dan O'Malley for a fun conversation, and Dan offers some expert advise that can be useful to everyone! We'll also ask Dan some other exercise and therapy-related questions.
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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This week we're joined by Dr. Stilianos Efstratiadis, an expert in cardiovascular procedures with an extensive experience of more than 10,000 procedures and has participated as presenter and moderator in multiple national and international meetings as a key opinion leader in the field of interventional cardiology.
Concern is growing among medical providers that patients are delaying essential care for heart attack or stroke symptoms. MercyOne is asking individuals to continue to seek care for immediate medical conditions such as chest pain, shortness of breath, numbness or weakness. Heart attacks and strokes do not stop during a pandemic. Please always call 911 if you think you are having a heart attack or stroke.
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, MercyOne has continued to perform essential surgeries and procedures for patients for whom a delay could cause harm. After a thorough evaluation, we're now moving forward to resume other select surgeries, procedures, clinic visits and other services. Now is the time to get your health back on track, and we are committed to providing the safest health care environment possible so you can seek the care you need from us in confidence. This week, hear a list of ten things MercyOne is doing to keep you safe. We'll also catch up on some episode feedback we have received over the past few weeks.
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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The coronavirus pandemic has brought a lot of change to our way of life -- we've had to stay inside, we've had to keep away from family and friends and we've had to change our normal routines.
This week we have a discussion with behavioral health experts Breanna Young, LMHC, supervisor of MercyOne South Des Moines Behavioral Health Clinic and Rebecca Peterson, LMHC, director of House of Mercy. Who is most at risk for behavioral health needs during the pandemic? What resources are available to help? What are some warning signs that it's time to seek help?
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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When individuals are forced to live outside the norm, it can be easy to lose track of their routine, including what to eat. Stress, inactivity and a stockpile of high-calorie foods are pushing many individuals to gain what people are calling "The COVID 15."
This week we're joined by diabetes educator Mary Steffensmeier for some tips to keep those extra pounds off the scale and get you back into holding yourself accountable.
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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A lot in health care has changed in recent months and if you have had to postpone important visits, surgeries, screenings, or exams, now’s the time for you to get your health back on track! Be assured we’re taking extra safety precautions to provide the critical care you need. This week, Dr. Nicholas Edwards joins us to give us an example of the initiatives they are taking at his hospital in Dubuque.
Here are just a few of the ways we’re protecting your family’s health and safety:
• We’ve designated COVID-19 free zones to minimize risk of infection. • We’re requiring temperature screenings of all patients, personnel and visitors. • We provide and require masks to be worn throughout our facilities. • We are also following the CDC’s standards for cleaning with extra sanitation measures including increased cleaning of frequently touched surfaces like doorknobs and flat surfaces. • We are continuing our visitor restrictions to keep everyone safe. • And, of course, we’re continuing safe social distancing measures wherever possible.
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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We’re back! We look forward to our journey of recovery, and that includes publishing new podcast episodes!
Recently, Iowa joined states reporting at least one case of a new pediatric multisystem inflammatory syndrome (PMIS). This rare condition is also known as multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). Today we are joined by Dr. Sara Schutte-Schenk from MercyOne Children's Hospital. Knowledgeable pediatric and family medicine physicians at MercyOne are prepared to provide safe, quality care and answer questions from parents!
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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We're in the middle of an unprecedented effort to contain the COVID-19 pandemic around the globe and within the United States. Today we're joined by Dr. Ravi Vemuri to help make sense of it all. Dr. Vemuri is an Infectious Disease expert and is the medical director of Infection Prevention and Health Care Epidemiology at MercyOne Des Moines.
- How is COVID-19 different from other coronaviruses?
- Why is it necessary to cancel and postpone large events?
- Why we need to take this disease seriously
- Advice for travelers
Be sure to visit our resource page: COVID-19 (Coronavirus) - What You Need to Know
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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This week we take a deeper dive into colorectal cancer with Shankar Raman, MD and Jodi Wilson, ARNP. Excluding skin cancers, colorectal cancer is 3rd most common cancer in the United States. 1 in 23 men and 1 in 25 women will get colon or rectal cancer.
Dr. Raman and Jodi are part of the only National Accredited Program for Rectal Cancer (NAPRC) in the state of Iowa and only one of a dozen NAPRC programs across the country!
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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This week we're joined by Angie Schmitz, ARNP to talk about the importance of gut health! March is National Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, and regular screening beginning at age 50 is the key to preventing colorectal cancer. We'll talk through what to expect when getting a colonoscopy, why screening is important to find polyps or colorectal cancer, and we'll break down some of the common fears people have when getting screened.
We'll also cover how to maintain a healthy digestive system and some signs that you may need to visit a specialist.
Angie Schmitz, ARNP, is a nurse practitioner at MercyOne Waterloo Gastroenterology Care.
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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We close out Heart Month with an interesting discussion with Fran Johnson, MD from MercyOne Iowa Heart Center. Learn about heart failure and how advances in technology have allowed patients to live a fairly normal life. Mechanical devices like a Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVADs) can help the heart pump blood. Telehealth technology makes it easier to bring heart experts to individuals who may have difficulty seeing a specialist in person. We learned a lot during this episode and we hope you do too!
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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This week we explore women's heart health with Denisa Hagau, MD. According to the America Heart Association, more than one in three women is living with some form of cardiovascular disease. For women, heart disease is deadlier than most cancers combined! Heart disease and stroke cause one in three deaths among women each year. Dr. Hagau takes us through the risk factors. Know the symptoms of heart disease, understand the warning signs and find out how to reduce your chance of developing a heart related problem.
We'll also read some feedback we've received from our listeners! Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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Atrial fibrillation (also called AFib) is an irregular heartbeat that can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications. Electrophysiologist Victor Abrich, MD, joins us to explain the condition and the different treatments available.
Click here for more information about atrial fibrillation from the American Heart Association.
February is American Heart Month, and this is one of several episodes that we explore heart health.
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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This week we're joined by Cheryl Neill, who shares her story of experiencing a heart attack seven years ago. Cheryl says she didn't "fit the profile" for someone who should be at risk of a heart attack, and explains that's exactly why it's important for you to pay attention to possible warning signs. Cardiac nurse Anne Ferris also joins our conversation to dig deeper into the signs & symptoms of a heart attack, heart disease, and why cardiac rehabilitation is an important part of recovering back to your full potential.
February is American Heart Month, and this is the first of several episodes that we'll be exploring heart health during the next few weeks.
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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This week we continue our discussion with Katie Stedman, RN, from MercyOne Waterloo OB/GYN to answer all your questions about the pregnancy journey. In part two, we cover care for momma and baby after delivery, postpartum health, breastfeeding and more.
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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This episode is for anyone planning to have a baby soon! We're joined by Katie Stedman, RN, from MercyOne Waterloo OB/GYN to answer all your questions about the pregnancy journey. In part one of our discussion, we cover what you'll experience each trimester, what to expect on delivery day, and managing pain during delivery.
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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How many of you made exercise goals for the year ahead? This week, a roundtable discussion about your many options for how to exercise! We'll cover how many times you should break a sweat each week, and how long each of your workouts should be. Strength training, cardio, interval training, and modifying exercises as you get older. We'll also break down some terms you may have heard and explain what they mean.
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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Everyone has goals for the new year - perhaps exercising, being more successful at your job, becoming a better cook, or spending more time with family. We explore how to make those goals happen, and the difficulties of sticking to your goals. We also discuss the top habits of successful people - do you agree?
What are your goals for this year? How are you going achieve those goals? Send us your tips, ideas and other feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast Your Best Life – powered by MercyOne
Your Best Life - powered by MercyOne
This week we learn all about therapy dogs! Charlotte Feckers joins us with Rose, a yellow lab serving our rehabilitation patients. Find out how these dogs become certified therapy animals, and how they help both patients and our colleagues. MercyOne uses therapy animals all across the state of Iowa - Sidney, Baxter, Gracie, Bubba, Zuzu and Leo in Des Moines, Cooper and Mac in Dubuque, and Jimi in Siouxland!
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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The holidays are here, and this week we're joined by Tim Horrigan, MD to discuss things to consider when buying gifts for children and teenagers. We'll cover age recommendations, electronics, screen time, headphones, board games and getting outside! Dr. Horrigan let us know about a great website for activities called NFL Play 60.
What was your favorite toy growing up? What are some things you have learned about gifts in the past? We'd love to hear your feedback! Email us at podcast@mercyhealth.com or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast Your Best Life – powered by MercyOne
This week we discuss winter heart health with Youssef Nasr, MD, a cardiologist from MercyOne North Iowa Heart Center. Learn why the winter season brings an elevated risk to heart attack, and what some individuals should keep in mind when they head outside to shovel snow. We also cover the signs you may be experiencing a heart attack.
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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This week we are joined by Dr. Richard Deming from MercyOne Des Moines Cancer Center to discuss the dangers of e-cigarettes and vaping, and the outbreak of severe lung disease associated with vaping. Dr. Deming is also the founder of Above and Beyond Cancer, a public charity with a mission to elevate the lives of those touched by cancer, to create a healthier world. The group's journeys have led participants to places like Mount Everest Base Camp and the top of Mount Kilimanjaro. November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month, and every year the American Cancer Society promotes the "Great American Smokeout" on November 21. To learn about resources to help you quit smoking, click here. Check out Iowa Department of Public Health overview of vaping, e-cigarettes and electronic smoking devices.
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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This week we take a deeper dive into techniques for managing stress. Colby and Sheri talk about some proven methods to bring a little bit of peace to your life, and explain why stress isn’t always a bad thing!
Do you have any stress management tips to share? Send us your feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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We "gained" an hour with the end of Daylight Saving, but here come shorter days, longer nights and colder weather! We're joined by psychologist Dan Ekstrom and Chris Latta, director of Behavioral Health and Emergency Care at MercyOne Northeast Iowa, to discuss the impact these colder, shorter days can have on our well-being. We'll cover seasonal affective disorder (SAD), different stresses the holidays can bring - such as financial stress or family stress - as well as general discussion around behavioral health and living your best life!
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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It's flu season! In this episode, we're joined by pediatrician Dr. Daniel Wright to talk about influenza. We discuss why it's important for most people to get a flu shot, why there are sometimes shortages in vaccine, what influenza is, and why it's different than the "stomach flu." We all learned something in this discussion and bet you will too!
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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It's October, and that means this episode is all about breast health! We're joined by Dr. Meghna Krishnan, a radiologist fellowship-trained in breast imaging; and Kelly Flaucher, supervisor of breast care at MercyOne Waterloo Breast Center.
Learn about risk factors for breast cancer, why it's important to know your breast density, breast screening tips and much more.
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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October brings colder weather, Halloween candy, and we’re looking ahead to holiday gatherings and big holiday meals! We’re joined by Registered Dietitian Virginia Brown for some expert advise about holiday eating, and general guidelines to follow when it comes to our daily diet.
Should you skip meals to make room for a big holiday meal? Do trending diets work? We cover a wide range of topics to help you keep the weight off over winter.
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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In this episode, Sheri and Merriam are joined by Physical Therapist Bryndee Nichols for some "real talk" about an issue that many women (and some men) have to deal with: incontinence. Why does it happen? How can it be treated? We sort out some fact vs. fiction, and what people can do to provide them some relief.
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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Do you know your numbers? Cholesterol, blood pressure, weight, body fat, body mass index (BMI)... What does it all mean?!? Why should anyone care? Sheri, Colby, Merriam and Deb explain the number games.
Send us your feedback and questions by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com
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We're tackling fall sports and concussions in this episode! We're joined by Adrian Rains, PA-C, ATC, a family medicine provider who spent several years as an athletic trainer; and Colby shares his experiences as a long-time high school football coach.
What are signs of a concussion? How many concussions can an athlete have before it's not safe? What needs to happen before an athlete can return to their sport? It's not all about football, we cover women's sports too!
Send us your questions or feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com, or fill out the submission form at www.MercyOne.org/podcast
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Don't be a dumbbell, start using them instead! On this episode, Sheri, Colby & Merriam discuss the importance of strength training! It's not all about bulking up, it's a key to life and living!
Send us your feedback by emailing podcast@mercyhealth.com
Your Best Life - powered by MercyOne
Welcome to Your Best Life - powered by MercyOne! In our debut podcast, Sheri & Colby discuss: What is "wellness?" How well are you? When was the last time you did something for yourself to be more well? How long did you stick to it? What are the struggles of being well? How do you conquer them to start a more healthy and well life?
Email your feedback to podcast@mercyhealth.com