PodcastDX

PodcastDX
PodcastDX Podcast

PodcastDX is an interview based weekly series. Guests share experience based medical insight for our global audience.  We have found that many people are looking for a platform, a way to share their voice and the story that their health journey has created. Each one is unique since even with the same diagnosis, symptoms and the way each person will react to a diagnosis, is different. Sharing what they have experienced and overcome is a powerful way our guests can teach others with similar ailments. Many of our guests are engaging in self-advocacy while navigating a health condition, many are complex and without a road-map to guide them along their journey they have developed their own. Sharing stories may help others avoid delays in diagnosis or treatment or just give hope to others that are listening. Sharing is empowering and has a healing quality of its own. Our podcast provides tips, hints, and support for common healthcare conditions. Our guests and our listeners are just like you- navigating the complex medical world. We hope to ease some tension we all face when confronted with a new diagnosis. We encourage anyone wanting to share their story with our listeners to email us at info@PodcastDX.com ​

  1. 6 DAYS AGO

    The Microbiome

    Your gut microbiome is like a microscopic ecosystem within your body, housing trillions of microorganisms that interact with each other and their environment in various ways. These microbes also have a significant impact on your overall health, influencing both your digestive system and other bodily functions. ​ A biome is a distinct ecosystem defined by its environment and inhabitants. Your gut, specifically within your intestines, is a miniature biome teeming with trillions of microscopic organisms. This diverse community includes over a thousand species of bacteria, along with viruses, fungi, and parasites. ​ Your gut microbiome is uniquely yours. Initially, infants acquire their first gut microbes through vaginal delivery or breastfeeding (chestfeeding). As you grow, your diet and other environmental factors introduce new microbes to your biome, though some exposures may also harm and reduce your gut microbiota. ​ Most of the microorganisms in your gut have a symbiotic relationship with you, meaning you both benefit from the interaction. You provide them with food and shelter, while they offer essential services for your body, including keeping potentially harmful microbes in check. ​Think of your gut microbiome as a thriving, diverse garden that you rely on for nutrients and natural medicine. When this garden is healthy and flourishing, so are you. But if the soil becomes depleted, polluted, or overrun by pests or weeds, your entire ecosystem can become unbalanced. ​Your gut microbiome interacts with many of your body systems, playing such an active role that some healthcare providers consider it almost like an organ. While some of these interactions are well understood, others are still being explored. ​Digestive System Bacteria in your gut help break down complex carbohydrates and dietary fibers that your body can't digest on its own. They produce short-chain fatty acids as byproducts, which are essential nutrients that help maintain a healthy gut environment. These bacteria also synthesize important vitamins like B1, B9, B12, and K, which are vital for your overall health. ​Gut bacteria also assist in metabolizing bile in your intestines. After your liver sends bile to your small intestine to help digest fats, bacteria break it down so that bile acids can be reabsorbed and recycled by your liver. This process, known as enterohepatic circulation, is crucial for efficient digestion and cholesterol management.   Immune System Beneficial gut microbes help train your immune system to distinguish between helpful and harmful microorganisms. Your gut, which contains up to 80% of your body's immune cells, plays a key role in clearing out pathogens that pass through daily. Helpful gut bacteria also compete with harmful types for space and nutrients, preventing infections like C. difficile and H. pylori that can result from a weakened gut microbiome. Short-chain fatty acids produced by gut bacteria are beneficial for your immune system, helping maintain the gut barrier and preventing harmful bacteria and toxins from entering your bloodstream. They also possess anti-inflammatory properties, which are crucial for preventing chronic inflammation and related conditions like autoimmune diseases and cancer. ​Nervous System Gut microbes influence your nervous system through the gut-brain axis—a network of nerves, neurons, and neurotransmitters that connects your gut and brain. Certain bacteria produce or stimulate the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which send chemical signals to your brain. Researchers are studying how these interactions might impact neurological, behavioral, pain, and mood disorders. Endocrine System Gut microbes also interact with endocrine cells in your gut lining, making your gut the largest endocrine system organ in your body. These cells secrete hormones that regulate metabolism, including blood sugar, hunger, and satiety. Researchers are investigating the ro

    20 min
  2. AUG 27

    Struge Weber Syndrome

    This week we will discuss Sturge-Weber syndrome with a wonderful woman we had the pleasure of meeting previously in Season 8 E 20. Chelsey Peat was born with Sturge-Weber syndrome, a rare condition that led to multiple surgeries, including a life-saving brain surgery as an infant. Despite doctors predicting significant limitations, Chelsey has defied these expectations throughout her life. She graduated from high school and college, and she is currently pursuing a degree in sociology alongside a certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. With nearly 40 years of personal experience living with a facial difference, Chelsey has faced and overcome numerous challenges, including discrimination and stigmatization. Her deep understanding of these issues is reflected in her work with various organizations where she educates and advocates for individuals with facial disfigurements, differences, and disabilities. ​Chelsey's debut publication, "Two Sides of a Face," offers an inspirational narrative of her life. This memoir details her journey from childhood, marked by curiosity and challenges due to her condition, to her current achievements and advocacy work within the facial differences community. The book explores themes of self-acceptance, self-love, and resilience, highlighting pivotal moments that shaped her identity and empowered her to embrace her imperfections. Through personal anecdotes and her role as a mentor and public speaker, Chelsey's story in "Two Sides of a Face" is not just about overcoming a facial difference, but about transforming adversity into advocacy. Her journey serves as a beacon of hope, encouraging deeper understanding and acceptance for all who feel marginalized due to their physical appearance. Chelsey Peat  Sturge Weber Syndrome Advocate | Author | Mentor

    26 min
  3. AUG 13

    Common Variable Immunodeficiency

    Today, we have the honor of speaking once again with Sheila Ames, a registered nurse in Northern California who has been diagnosed with a rare type of a primary immunodeficiency known as common variable immunodeficiency or CVID for short. How did she fare during the recent Pandemic?  Tune in now to find out! At the time of her diagnosis she was working as an ICU nurse and her first doctors order was: no more exposure to infectious patients.  This diagnosis not only changed her career dramatically, it led her to following her life's purpose in opening her own health & wellness online coaching business to help others continue to find and work towards their life's purpose despite the hurdles that life gives us. ​Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is a primary immune deficiency disease characterized by low levels of protective antibodies and an increased risk of infections. Although the disease usually is diagnosed in adults, it also can occur in children. CVID also is known as hypogammaglobulinemia, adult-onset agammaglobulinemia, late-onset hypogammaglobulinemia, and acquired agammaglobulinemia. NIAID supports research to determine genetic causes of CVID that may lead to therapeutic approaches to address the disease. Researchers also are exploring how antibody-based drugs may lessen the severity of the condition. ​Causes CVID is caused by a variety of different genetic abnormalities that result in a defect in the capability of immune cells to produce normal amounts of all types of antibodies. Only a few of these defects have been identified, and the cause of most cases of CVID is unknown. Many people with CVID carry a DNA variation called a polymorphism in a gene known as TACI. However, while this genetic abnormality confers increased risk of developing CVID, it alone is not capable of causing CVID. CVID is also linked to IgA deficiency, a related condition in which only the level of the antibody immunoglobulin A (IgA) is low, while levels of other antibody types are usually normal or near normal. IgA deficiency typically occurs alone, but in some cases it may precede the development of CVID or occur in family members of CVID patients. ​Symptoms & Diagnosis People with CVID may experience frequent bacterial and viral infections of the upper airway, sinuses, and lungs. Acute lung infections can cause pneumonia, and long-term lung infections may cause a chronic form of bronchitis known as bronchiectasis, which is characterized by thickened airway walls colonized by bacteria.   People with CVID also may have diarrhea, problems absorbing food nutrients, reduced liver function, and impaired blood flow to the liver. Autoimmune problems that cause reduced levels of blood cells or platelets also may occur. People with CVID may develop an enlarged spleen and swollen glands or lymph nodes, as well as painful swollen joints in the knee, ankle, elbow, or wrist. In addition, people with CVID may have an increased risk of developing some cancers. Doctors can diagnose CVID by weighing factors including infection history, digestive symptoms, lab tests showing very low immunoglobulin levels, and low antibody responses to immunization. ​Treatment CVID is treated with intravenous immunoglobulin infusions or subcutaneous (under the skin) immunoglobulin injection to partially restore immunoglobulin levels. The immunoglobulin given by either method provides antibodies from the blood of healthy donors. The frequent bacterial infections experienced by people with CVID are treated with antibiotics. Other problems caused by CVID may require additional, tailored treatments. To learn more about CVID, visit the National Library of Medicine, Genetics Home Reference CVID site  (Credits to NIH) ​ If you would like to reach out to our guest: Sheila Ames BSN, RN, PHN Holistic Health Coach Business FB page:  https://www.facebook.com/JourneyIntoWellness1 ​PID (primary immunodeficiency) group:  https://www.facebook.com/

    36 min
  4. JUL 30

    Ehlers Danlos Syndrome in the age of COVID

    Squeeze a world of passion, goal driven problem solver and an adventurous triathlete into 5 feet of fun and you get Faith Louise Cooper. Faith Louise grew up in a family of 5 with 2 younger sisters.  At the 12 she was diagnosed with Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, now known as Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis.  In 2017 she was diagnosed with hypermobility syndrome and was recently changed to Hypermobility Ehlers Danlos Syndrome abbreviated as hEDS.  Her younger sister also battles with hEDS on a daily basis.   Faith Louise joined the swim team in middle school to help manage the arthritis.  She lives an enriching life and despite what the medical research says she has gone from being in excreting pain when standing for 15 mins to completing a half Ironman a few years back.  Faith Louise has great joy and strength in life because of challenges she has faced. Faith Louise, wanting to have all the tools in her tool box to live an enriching life has decided to study nutrition and is completing her certified holistic nutrition.  She has passion for equipping, educating and inspiring other families going through the same thing as well as raising awareness. ​​In this episode she discusses the difficulties during COVID with hEDS.​ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cooperfa/. Faith Louise Cooper Instrgram: https://www.instagram.com/speakingoftri/. Speakingoftri LinkIn:  www.linkedin.com/in/faith-cooper Faith Louise Cooper

    35 min
  5. JUL 16

    Heavy Metal Poisoning

    Heavy metal poisoning (toxicity) is the result of exposure to heavy metals like lead, mercury and arsenic. Heavy metals bind to parts of your cells that prevent your organs from doing their job. Symptoms of heavy metal poisoning can be life threatening and they can cause irreversible damage. ​Heavy metal poisoning occurs when microscopic molecules of metals accumulate within your body after exposure. Heavy metals attach to your cells and prevent them from performing their functions, which causes symptoms that could be life threatening without treatment. ​ What metals cause heavy metal poisoning (toxicity)? Several metals can be toxic to your body. The most common toxic metals are: Lead. Contaminated water from lead pipes, batteries, paint, gasoline, construction materials. Mercury. Liquid in thermometers, lightbulbs, dental amalgam (“silver”) fillings, batteries, seafood, topical antiseptics. Arsenic. Topical creams, herbicides, insecticides, pesticides, fungicides, paints, enamels, glass, contaminated water, seafood, algae. Cadmium. Cigarette smoke, metal plating, batteries. Thallium. Rodenticides, pesticides, fireworks. ​ How does someone get heavy metal poisoning? You can get heavy metal poisoning by exposing yourself to heavy metals. Heavy metals form naturally within the Earth’s crust. We interact with small amounts of heavy metals every day, like when you check the temperature of your thermometer, which uses mercury. Heavy metal poisoning occurs when metals get into your body. This can happen if you’re exposed to a large amount of metal including: Eating a lot of food that contains metals (fish). Drinking water from older water supply systems. Working with metals on the job. Taking medications or supplements with high amounts of metallic elements. Handling metals or products made with a large amount of metal (like paint or pesticides) without using personal protective equipment. Most metals that cause poisoning are in a microscopic (molecular) form when they enter your body. They are so small, you won’t be able to see them. Heavy metals can enter your body by: Absorbing into your skin. Breathing in or inhaling tiny metal molecules. Eating or drinking (ingesting) the metal from food or water. ​ Who does heavy metal poisoning affect? Heavy metal poisoning can affect anyone who has exposure to heavy metals. This most often affects people who: Drink water from pipes made of older metals (lead). Work with metals. Take more than the prescribed dosage of medicine or supplements that contain metal. Live in an environment with high air or water pollution. Eat a lot of foods that contain metal. Consume a non-edible product made with metal (paint). Children are at a higher risk of heavy metal poisoning because their bodies are still developing and they are more sensitive to the harmful effects of heavy metals. ​ How common is heavy metal poisoning? The exact rate of occurrence is unknown, but in the United States, heavy metal poisoning is rare since it only affects people who have exposure to heavy metals. The number of people diagnosed with heavy metal poisoning decreased significantly over the last 20 years because of awareness and preventative measures to remove heavy metals from homes. ​ What does heavy metal poisoning do to my body? Exposure to heavy metals can be dangerous to your health. While we use and interact with metals every day, certain heavy metals are toxic because the molecules that make up the metal damage or negatively interact with the cells in your body that are essential to keep your organs functioning. Your body has small amounts of metals in it already, like iron, copper and zinc. These metals are important to keep your organs functioning. If you have too much metal accumulated within your body, it can damage your vital organs like your brain and liver. (credits: Cleveland Clinic)

    14 min
4.9
out of 5
35 Ratings

About

PodcastDX is an interview based weekly series. Guests share experience based medical insight for our global audience.  We have found that many people are looking for a platform, a way to share their voice and the story that their health journey has created. Each one is unique since even with the same diagnosis, symptoms and the way each person will react to a diagnosis, is different. Sharing what they have experienced and overcome is a powerful way our guests can teach others with similar ailments. Many of our guests are engaging in self-advocacy while navigating a health condition, many are complex and without a road-map to guide them along their journey they have developed their own. Sharing stories may help others avoid delays in diagnosis or treatment or just give hope to others that are listening. Sharing is empowering and has a healing quality of its own. Our podcast provides tips, hints, and support for common healthcare conditions. Our guests and our listeners are just like you- navigating the complex medical world. We hope to ease some tension we all face when confronted with a new diagnosis. We encourage anyone wanting to share their story with our listeners to email us at info@PodcastDX.com ​

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.

Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada