610 - A Tool for Your Tool from a Tool
Weird Medicine: The Podcast
Deep Dive
What causes the 'summer penis' effect?
The 'summer penis' effect is believed to be due to the cremaster reflex, where warmer temperatures cause the muscle to relax, increasing blood flow and making the penis appear larger and more relaxed.
Is dementia a normal part of aging?
No, dementia is not a normal part of aging. While some memory loss can occur with age, dementia is a distinct condition caused by specific underlying pathologies.
What are the risk factors for dementia?
Risk factors for dementia include less education, hypertension, hearing impairment, smoking, obesity, depression, physical inactivity, diabetes, low social contact, lack of sleep, alcohol use, traumatic brain injury, and air pollution.
Can vitamins and supplements prevent dementia?
No, vitamins and supplements cannot prevent dementia. While some supplements like nootropics may improve executive function, there is no strong evidence that they prevent dementia.
What is the average penis size?
The average penis size is about 9 centimeters (3.5 inches) when flaccid and 13 centimeters (5.1 inches) when erect.
Can your penis shrink over time?
Yes, the penis can shrink due to factors like high blood pressure, peripheral vascular disease, low testosterone levels, aging, and Peyronie's disease. Treatments for prostate cancer, such as hormone therapy, can also reduce penis size.
What is the 'summer penile syndrome'?
Summer penile syndrome is a condition caused by tiny mites, poison ivy, or other irritants, leading to a swollen penis and an itchy rash around the genitals, often affecting boys and men during warm weather months.
What is the role of the mushroom-shaped ridge on the penis?
The mushroom-shaped ridge on the penis is thought to help displace sperm left behind by a previous partner, aiding in semen displacement and competition between potential fathers.
How can you manage withdrawal symptoms from quitting marijuana?
Withdrawal symptoms from quitting marijuana can be managed with short-term medications like Unisom, melatonin, magnesium, or CBD oil. Lifestyle changes, such as exercise and good nutrition, can also help. In some cases, synthetic THC (dronabinol) may be used to wean off marijuana.
What is the calcium score and what does it indicate?
The calcium score is a CT scan that measures coronary calcium, indicating the amount of plaque in the arteries. A score of 171 is considered moderate, indicating a moderate to high risk of heart attack.
Shownotes Transcript