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In this episode, Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest dive headfirst into the labyrinthine world of medical mysteries, sharing stories of patients that leave them scratching their heads in amazement.

The Docs sink their teeth into a case of porphyria, a rare genetic disorder that can make you feel like you're auditioning for a vampire movie. They recount the tale of a man who, under the light of the full moon, would experience excruciating abdominal pain and a skin sensitivity that made him hiss at the mere thought of sunlight. The Docs emphasise the importance of recognising such rare conditions, lest you mistake your patient for a creature of the night.

Why do some patients think they can outsmart their doctors? The conversation takes a hilarious turn when they discuss a patient who attempted to score drugs by pretending to have every ailment in the medical textbook. Doctor Guest recounts the saga of a man who complained of back pain, headaches, and a vague condition that magically responded only to the strongest painkillers. Coincidence?  The doctors laugh about how the patient’s Oscar-worthy performance fell apart when he couldn’t remember which leg he was supposed to be limping on. They highlight the importance of a thorough medical history and a keen eye for inconsistencies, proving that sometimes, being a doctor is a bit like being Sherlock Holmes.

What’s the wildest psychiatric case you’ve ever encountered? Doctor Guest then regales listeners with some of his most memorable psychiatric cases. He talks about a patient with myxoedema
 madness, a condition that was successfully diagnosed thanks to Guest’s watching history. But the pièce de résistance was the woman who was convinced she was a poached egg. Doctor Guest describes how she wouldn't sit on a chair unless it was a piece of toast on it! The doctors discuss the complexities of such diagnoses and the importance of empathy and creativity in treatment. 

Why is treating chronic conditions like schizophrenia so challenging? The episode takes a more serious tone as The Docs delve into the challenges of treating chronic conditions like schizophrenia. They discuss the case of a man who ended up believing that ‘Prince Philip was in a helicopter wielding a mind-extracting ray gun’ - just a royal misunderstanding. The doctors explain how such conditions require a comprehensive approach, combining medication, therapy, and sometimes a bit of humour to build trust with patients.

This episode is a rollercoaster of emotions, blending humour with the sobering realities of medical practice. It underscores the need for a holistic approach, continuous education, and a dash of creativity in the ever-evolving field of medicine. Let’s all do our part to break the stigma and help 'prescribe' a better future!
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DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on Join the Docs are those of Dr. Nigel Guest, Jonathan Sackier and other people on our show. Be aware that Join the Docs is not intended to be medical advice, it is for information and entertainment purposes only - please, always take any health concerns to your doctor or other healthcare provider. 
We respect the privacy of patients and never identify individuals unless they have consented. We may change details, dates, place names and so on to protect privacy. Listening to Join the Docs, interacting on our social media, emailing or writing to us does not establish a doctor patient relationship.
To Contact Us: 

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In this infectious episode, Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest discuss all things syphilis. From ancient origins to its current resurgence, our docs get down and dirty, providing our audience with the knowledge necessary to keep you free from this stigmatised disease.

Where does syphilis come from? The Docs make a deep dive into its origins, tracing the disease back to its earliest days via mentions in history. They unravel the tangled web of stigma that has surrounded it for centuries. With a blend of humour and historical anecdotes, they reveal how syphilis has found ways  to make a surprising comeback in recent years.

Curious about how syphilis spreads and develops as time wears on? The dynamic duo breaks down the disease's transmission and guide listeners through the primary, secondary, and tertiary phases of syphilis, using colourful metaphors  to emphasise the critical importance of early detection and treatment. 

Ever thought about syphilis's impact on art and culture? Prof. Sackier and Dr. Guest take a detour into the historical context, painting a vivid picture of syphilis's dramatic entrance into Europe. They explore its representation in art, from haunting paintings to scandalous literature. The Docs don't shy away from the darker side, either, delving into the neurological and physical effects of syphilis. They even touch on its potential link to dementia. A segment you surely won’t forget.
Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest manage to turn a serious subject into an educating experience, reminding listeners to think twice before making rash decisions. So, if you're ready for a rollercoaster ride through the fascinating world of syphilis, this episode is a must-listen.
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DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on Join the Docs are those of Dr. Nigel Guest, Jonathan Sackier and other people on our show. Be aware that Join the Docs is not intended to be medical advice, it is for information and entertainment purposes only - please, always take any health concerns to your doctor or other healthcare provider. 
We respect the privacy of patients and never identify individuals unless they have consented. We may change details, dates, place names and so on to protect privacy. Listening to Join the Docs, interacting on our social media, emailing or writing to us does not establish a doctor patient relationship.
To Contact Us: 

For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.com

Follow us on youtube.com/JoinTheDocs 

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Have you ever wondered what would happen if James Bond had to visit a real doctor? In this podcast episode, Prof. Jonathan Sackier, a surgeon with a penchant for dry martini humour, and Dr. Nigel Guest, a family practitioner who can pull out a quip with the same panache as 007 whipping out his PPK , dive headfirst into the health consequences of James Bond's high-octane lifestyle. They don't just scratch the surface; they explore the nitty-gritty details of how Bond's smoking, drinking, and penchant for getting into physical altercations would wreak havoc on his body.

What happens when you mix martinis, shaken or stirred (after all, “who gives a damn?”), with a barrage of bullets and high-speed chases? Prof. Sackier and Dr. Guest paint a vivid picture of the interconnectedness of symptoms in medicine, using a hilariously over-the-top case study to show how seemingly disparate symptoms can point to a single underlying condition. 

“I’ve been expecting you, Mr Bond”. Picture this: Bond walks into Dr.No-it-all's office with a limp, a cough, a black, not gold finger, a  limp appendage and no thunderball, as well as a mysterious rash. By the end of the consultation,  it's clear that Bond's lifestyle isn't just dangerous; it's a medical nightmare waiting to happen. The Docs makes you wonder how Bond manages to get out of bed in the morning, let alone get into it for some fun and games or to save the world.

Ever thought about the real-life consequences of being an international man of mystery? The Docs humorously deconstruct Bond's unrealistic portrayal in media, emphasising the serious health issues he would likely face. They don't hold back, discussing everything from erectile dysfunction to kidney failure and even hearing impairment. I said HEARING IMPAIRMENT. Imagine Bond trying to seduce a femme fatale while dealing with the side effects of chronic alcohol abuse—it's not a pretty picture! The conversation is peppered with jokes and light-hearted jabs, making it clear that while Bond might be invincible on screen, in real life, he'd be more likely to become a spectre.
Want Moore? Prof. Sackier and Dr. Guest navigate the fine line between humour and medical accuracy. By the end of the episode, you'll have a newfound appreciation for the resilience of fictional characters and a better understanding of the real-life consequences of living like Bond. So, next time you watch a Bond film, remember: real life is not a 007 film. Take care of yourself because while diamonds are forever, none of us gets to decide to Die Another Day.—--
DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on Join the Docs are those of Dr. Nigel Guest, Jonathan Sackier and other people on our show. Be aware that Join the Docs is not intended to be medical advice, it is for information and entertainment purposes only - please, always take any health concerns to your doctor or other healthcare provider. 
We respect the privacy of patients and never identify individuals unless they have consented. We may change details, dates, place names and so on to protect privacy. Listening to Join the Docs, interacting on our social media, emailing or writing to us does not establish a doctor patient relationship.
To Contact Us: 

For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.com

Follow us on youtube.com/JoinTheDocs 

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What happens when you mix a surgeon, a family practitioner, and a cheese wheel? In this podcast episode, Dr. Nigel Guest and Professor Jonathan Sackier   set their sights on the peculiar topic of fromage-related injuries, a subject that might seem cheesy at first but proves to be a goldmine of gouda laughs and unexpected giggles. 

They kick things off with a deep dive into the annual cheese rolling event at Cooper's Hill in Gloucestershire, a tradition that’s as dangerous as it is delicious. With a wheel of Double Gloucester cheese hurtling down a steep hill, chased by a crowd of comestible-keen-cheesy crackheads, it's no surprise that injuries are as common as the cheese itself. Brie prepared, from sprained ankles to broken bones, The Docs share side-splitting anecdotes about the brave (or perhaps foolhardy) participants who risk life and limb for the “grater” glory of cheese. 

Ever wondered how a 1960s TV chef could spice up a medical podcast? The hosts certainly did! The Docs take a delightful detour into the history of Fanny Craddock, the flamboyant TV chef known for her extravagant cooking shows, and liberally applied lipstick  and her jolly husband Johnny. Professor Sackier and Dr. Guest recount some of Fanny's most outrageous recipes, drawing hilarious parallels between the chaos of her cooking shows and the unpredictable nature of medical emergencies. Whether it's a soufflé gone wrong or a patient with a cheese-related injury, the hosts find humour in the unexpected and the absurd.

How do two medical professionals keep their audience in stitches while discussing serious topics? Through their infectious chemistry and cheddar sharp wit, of course! The Docs provide entertaining insights and their humorous take on the quirks of the medical world make for an enjoyable and informative listening experience that’s sure to leave listeners grinning from ear to ear.

This episode is a reminder that cheese can be more than an afternoon snack. The Docs inspire us to believe that you can find fun in anything, but above all be careful, stay healthy and remember in queso emergency, always contact a professional.
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DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on Join the Docs are those of Dr. Nigel Guest, Jonathan Sackier and other people on our show. Be aware that Join the Docs is not intended to be medical advice, it is for information and entertainment purposes only - please, always take any health concerns to your doctor or other healthcare provider. 
We respect the privacy of patients and never identify individuals unless they have consented. We may change details, dates, place names and so on to protect privacy. Listening to Join the Docs, interacting on our social media, emailing or writing to us does not establish a doctor patient relationship.
To Contact Us: 

For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.com

Follow us on youtube.com/JoinTheDocs 

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Have you ever wondered what it would be like if a virus could talk? Well, wonder no more! Welcome to the latest episode of Join the Docs, where Professor Jonathan Sackier and Doctor Nigel Guest dive deep into the world of measles, discussing everything from its sneaky cause to its easy-to-spot symptoms and tricky diagnosis because there are no specific treatments, one needs sound prevention strategies.

But wait, there's more! The Docs are joined by the one and only Ruby, who isn't just any guest—she's the personification of the measles virus itself! Ruby Ola spills the beans on ‘her’ mischievous behaviour and the havoc she mischievously  visits on unsuspecting hosts.

Ever thought about the history of measles and how it has evolved over time? The conversation takes a trip down memory lane, highlighting the ancient origins of this pesky virus and the rollercoaster ride of outbreaks and epidemics. Ruby emphasises how misinformation is her best friend and how it keeps her in the spotlight. She reminds everyone that evidence-based medicine is her arch-nemesis and the key to keeping her at bay.

Why is vaccination so crucial in the fight against measles? The Docs stress the critical role of those tiny but mighty vaccines in preventing the resurgence of this highly contagious, very nasty and potentially fatal disease. Having explained how the whole “vaccine hesitancy” mythology evolved, they emphasise the importance of getting vaccinated. Ruby admits that she hates Mr. Vaccine because he ruins all her fun… what a prick!

Throughout the episode, Professor Sackier and Dr. Guest wince atRuby's gleeful tales of her "adventures" inside the human body. They shake their heads in disbelief at her joy causing rashes and fevers, and how she boasts about evading the immune system's defences. Ruby's playful banter and over-the-top villain persona provide a creepy black comic relief, making the serious topic of measles education, yet strangely entertaining!. 

The episode wraps up with a strong message: don't let measles crash your party—get vaccinated and keep her out of your life for good! 
Give it a shot, it might just save your life.
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DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on Join the Docs are those of Dr. Nigel Guest, Jonathan Sackier and other people on our show. Be aware that Join the Docs is not intended to be medical advice, it is for information and entertainment purposes only - please, always take any health concerns to your doctor or other healthcare provider. 
We respect the privacy of patients and never identify individuals unless they have consented. We may change details, dates, place names and so on to protect privacy. Listening to Join the Docs, interacting on our social media, emailing or writing to us does not establish a doctor patient relationship.
To Contact Us: 

For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.com

Follow us on youtube.com/JoinTheDocs 

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Welcome to the latest gut-busting episode of Join The Docs where the hilariously erudite Doctor Nigel Guest and the ever-witty surgeon Professor Jonathan Sackier tackle the subject of vitamins,where the humour cuts deeper than a surgeon's knife, and the topics are as enriching as a nutrition-packed smoothie! 

Prepare to be operated on with laughter as they dissect the bewildering world of vitamins with the precision of a laser-guided scalpel. Professor Sackier, endeavouring  to be erudite in the face of Doctor Guest’s snipes, kicks things off by unravelling the A, B, Cs (and Ds, Es, and Ks) of vitamins, while Dr. Guest chimes in with anecdotes about patients 

Orange you glad you took the right vitamins today? As they delve deeper, The Docs tackle the heavyweight question of the century: Can you really overdose on vitamins? Dr. Guest recounts the A-mazing tale of a man who turned orange after consuming carrot juice. They both agree that while vitamins are essential, turning into a human carrot is not advisable. And while polar bears might be yummy, you might want to avoid their liver…with or without onions!

Why should you chat with your doc? The dynamic duo doesn't stop there; they serve up a generous helping of advice on why you should chat with your doc before popping pills like candy. They share a chuckle over the image of a patient consulting Dr. Google, only to end up on a diet of nothing but kale and sunshine - not a bright idea.

Speaking of sunshine, how important is it for your body to whip up that sweet, sweet vitamin D? Professor Sackier quips about his own sunbathing adventures, which involve more sunscreen than a beach party for vampires. That’s one way to feel D-light.

Do you follow  the hype surrounding dietary supplements? Before stitching up this episode, they address the elephant in the room: the myths surrounding dietary supplements. The Docs reference studies that suggest you might not live forever just because you eat vitamins like they're popcorn, despite what that infomercial with the shouting man might say.

As the laughter subsides, they wrap up with a heartfelt plea for listeners to join the conversation, share their own funny vitamin stories, or ask questions that have been nagging them like a persistent mother-in-law.
So, if you're ready for a dose of education with a side of chuckles, tune in to Join The Docs – the only podcast where you can improve your health knowledge without a prescription!
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DISCLAIMER: The views and opinions expressed on Join the Docs are those of Dr. Nigel Guest, Jonathan Sackier and other people on our show. Be aware that Join the Docs is not intended to be medical advice, it is for information and entertainment purposes only - please, always take any health concerns to your doctor or other healthcare provider. 
We respect the privacy of patients and never identify individuals unless they have consented. We may change details, dates, place names and so on to protect privacy. Listening to Join the Docs, interacting on our social media, emailing or writing to us does not establish a doctor patient relationship.
To Contact Us: 

For a deeper dive on this episode’s issue, merchandise and exclusive content, head to www.jointhedocs.com

Follow us on youtube.com/JoinTheDocs 

Follow us on instgram.com/JoinTheDocs

Follow us on tiktok.com/JoinTheDocs

Follow us on: facebok.com/JoinTheDocs
Follow us on: x.com/JoinTheDocs