609 - Whitlow, We Hardly Knew Ye
Weird Medicine: The Podcast
Deep Dive
What are common causes of vaginal infections?
Vaginal infections can be caused by bacteria, fungi, parasites, or viruses. Risk factors include being sexually active, using vaginal hygiene products like douches or soaps, taking antibiotics, certain contraceptives, and health conditions affecting the immune system.
How can bacterial vaginosis be treated or managed?
Bacterial vaginosis can be treated with antibiotics, but some people use home remedies like plain yogurt with live cultures to repopulate the vagina with good bacteria. Antibiotics can sometimes kill beneficial bacteria, so yogurt can help restore balance.
Why is douching not recommended for vaginal health?
Douching can disrupt the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina and may actually worsen symptoms or lead to infections. It is not effective and can be harmful.
What is the pH scale, and why is it important in the human body?
The pH scale measures acidity, with 7 being neutral. The human body maintains a slightly basic pH of 7.4. Stomach acid, for example, has a pH of around 3-4, which helps kill bacteria, but higher pH levels can lead to acid reflux and SIBO (small intestine bacterial overgrowth).
What happened during the recent hurricane in East Tennessee?
The hurricane caused unprecedented flooding and damage, with multiple towns completely wiped out. A hospital was inundated, and patients had to be rescued by helicopter. The recovery efforts are ongoing, and many areas are still struggling with the aftermath.
Can you get herpes from touching someone with genital herpes?
Yes, you can contract herpes on your fingers, a condition called herpetic Whitlow. Even if the person is not showing symptoms, they can still shed the virus. Using gloves or antiviral medication can reduce the risk.
How does pantoprazole affect levothyroxine absorption?
Pantoprazole, a proton pump inhibitor, can interfere with the absorption of levothyroxine, reducing its effectiveness. Taking the thyroid medication separately from pantoprazole can help prevent this interaction.
What is the best way to treat a testicular implant infection?
If a testicular implant becomes infected, it must be removed to fully eradicate the infection. Once the infection is resolved and healed, the patient can discuss with a urologist the possibility of getting a new implant after a year or two.
What is the relationship between yogurt and vaginal health?
Yogurt contains lactobacillus, the same bacteria that naturally inhabit a healthy vagina. Applying plain yogurt with live cultures can help repopulate the vagina with good bacteria, which may help treat or prevent bacterial vaginosis.
- Vaginal infections can be caused by bacteria, fungi, parasites, or viruses.
- Antibiotics, antifungal treatments, and probiotics are common treatments.
- Repopulating the vagina with good bacteria post-treatment is beneficial.
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