The Danger of Symptom Searching on the Internet (2021)
One of the most popular searches on Google is for symptoms and what they mean. It’s created a much more well informed patient population, but one that may panic at the least pain or discomfort.
Marfan Syndrome
Marfan syndrome produces obvious physical symptoms such as extreme height, but its hidden symptoms, especially in the heart and eyes, can be much more serious. Experts discuss its diagnosis and treatment.
Undiagnosed Mystery Diseases
Hundreds of patients nationally have diseases that have confounded doctors and yielded no diagnosis and no reliable treatment. Today the Undiagnosed Diseases Network helps these patients, but its funding is uncertain beyond 2022. Patients and a physician leader of the UDN discuss the lonely plight of these patients and hopes for the future.
Medical Notes: Week of June 6, 2021
Scientists have come up with a test that can tell in less than an hour whether you’re sick with a virus or bacteria. Then a study finds that there are changes in the blood that can predict a pregnant woman's due date more accurately than today's obstetricians. Then, more evidence that Covid symptoms can drag on and on for months. And finally, the impact of …
The Changing Face of Colon Cancer
Colon cancer is striking much younger people than it used to, leading experts to lower the age on screening recommendations. A noted colon surgeon discusses screening and treatment options, and the way Covid-19 has changed patients’ approach to getting screened.
Medical Notes: Week of May 9, 2021
The injection of nanoparticles deep into the brain can produce relief for those with chronic pain and depression. Then, diagnoses for the four most common cancers take a big jump when people hit age 65. And finally, a new study shows that narcissistic people pump themselves up only because deep down inside, they don’t believe they’re any good.
Medical Notes: Week of November 29, 2020
Two Covid vaccines showing a better than 90-percent effectiveness rate now have the data to seek emergency approval from the FDA. Then, a study shows that signs of concussion can be detected in a person's saliva. And finally, a new study finds that deflating soccer balls just a little could cut concussion injuries in the sport.
Medical Notes: Weeks of November 22, 2020
Scientists say they’ve come up with a simple skin test that can accurately diagnose Parkinson’s. Then, a new Covid-19 test could be coming that requires you to simply gargle with a sterile saltwater solution. Then, a study shows that a single dose of sub-anesthetic ketamine can treat lazy eye. And finally… a study that shows how smog generates plastic trash.
Searing Pain in the Face: Trigeminal Neuralgia (2020)
A searing, stabbing pain on one side of the face can be so severe it's sometimes called "the suicide disease," and may evade diagnosis. Trigeminal neuralgia is often caused by a throbbing artery in contact with nerves at the base of the brain. Treatment can be difficult though often ultimately successful. Two experts discuss.
Misunderstanding Stuttering (2020)
Stuttering is an extremely misunderstood disability. Many stutterers go to great lengths to avoid the words or phrases that trip them up, and are often successful in keeping their disability hidden. Yet then it may be mistaken for other problems. Experts explain, using former Vice President Joe Biden as an example.
Medical Notes: Week of May 3, 2020
By now, most of us are familiar with the main symptoms of a Covid-19 infection—fever, cough, and respiratory distress. But doctors are learning that the virus may also attack the heart and brain. And finally, last year we told you about a “smart toilet seat” that could diagnose congestive heart failure. Now scientists at Stanford University have put …
Medical Notes: Week of April 19, 2020
If you’ve been taking the drug Ranitidine for reflux or ulcer prevention, the FDA says stop. Then, a new study shows that parents are yelling at their children more since most of us have been ordered to stay home. And finally, with Covid-19 testing in such short supply… why not let a dog do it?