Long School of Medicine

Respiratory Viruses Update

Welcome to this episode of Pediatrics Now, hosted by UT Health's Holly Wayment, where we explore the challenges and solutions during the peak of respiratory virus season. Joining Holly is Dr. Tess Barton, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at the University of Texas at San Antonio who sheds light on the wave respiratory illnesses.

With a deep dive into the seasonal trends, Dr. Barton explains the implications of RSV, flu, and COVID-19, providing parents with crucial information on identification and prevention.

Dr. Barton shares her expertise on the use of antivirals for influenza and COVID, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and vaccination to prevent severity and spread. The conversation also emphasizes the critical role of identifying symptoms to avoid unnecessary antibiotics use, especially in distinguishing between viral and bacterial infections.

Addressing common misconceptions, the discussion sheds light on natural bodily responses like mucus production and fever, urging listeners to allow the body to heal naturally when possible. The episode concludes with valuable advice on how to navigate illness in daily life and the importance of staying home when sick, promoting general health practices like hand washing to curb virus transmission.

Meet your host:

Holly Wayment
Holly Wayment,
Host and Executive Producer, Pediatrics NOW

Ear Infection Insights

Join host and executive producer Holly Wayment and Dr. Marisa Earley, head of pediatric ENT at UT Health San Antonio and University Health, as they delve into the pediatric ear infections, eustachian tube dysfunction, and respiratory health, with a focus on the prevention.  Also, does your child really need that antibiotic 

The discussion also covers practical tips for parents on managing common conditions like eustachian tube dysfunction usingMarisa Earley, MD and her Labrador dogs home remedies such as saline nasal rinses and when to opt for medical interventions. Learn why proper management of ear health is crucial for children,  and the natural course of many pediatric ear conditions. 

Dr. Earley provides expert advice on the use of saline nasal rinses in infants and children, with safety precautions to ensure effectiveness. The episode highlights the importance of empowering parents with knowledge and techniques to effectively manage their children's ear and respiratory health.

Meet your host:

Holly Wayment
Holly Wayment,
Host and Executive Producer, Pediatrics NOW

What You Need to Know About Atypical Pneumonia

Health Information for the busy parent.

Host Holly Wayment, Physician Relations Specialist Sr., talks to leading pediatric experts in the field.

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The Latest Health News from Pediatrics Now  in Small Bites for Parents. Welcome to Pediatrics Now for Parents, the go-to podcast for health news in small bites for busy parents with Holly Wayment, brought to you by the Department of Pediatrics and University Health's New Women's and Children's Hospital ! In this episode of Pediatrics Now, host Holly Wayment is joined by Dr. Tess Barton, an infectious disease expert at the University of Texas Health Science Center and University Health. They delve into the topic of atypical pneumonia, commonly known as walking pneumonia, and discuss the recent surge in mycoplasma pneumonia cases both locally and nationally.

Dr. Barton explains the clinical presentation of atypical pneumonia, including symptoms such as fever, cough, and wheezing, and differentiates it from other respiratory illnesses like COVID-19 and RSV. She highlights the importance of increased awareness among pediatricians and parents, and the role of diagnostic testing in identifying mycoplasma infections.

The conversation also covers the contagious nature of walking pneumonia, recommendations for managing symptoms, and the crucial role of antibiotics in reducing contagion. Dr. Barton emphasizes the significance of vaccination in preventing other respiratory illnesses, such as influenza and RSV, and addresses common concerns about vaccines, including their effectiveness and safety.

Throughout the episode, Dr. Barton provides valuable insights for parents and pediatric practitioners on recognizing warning signs of severe illness, the benefits of fever as a natural defense mechanism, and the importance of teaching children proper hygiene practices to prevent the spread of infections.

Holly Wayment
Holly Wayment,
Physician Relations Specialist Sr. 

Understanding the Teenage Brain: Insights and Strategies for Parents

Health Information for the busy parent.

Host Holly Wayment, Physician Relations Specialist Sr., talks to leading pediatric experts in the field.

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The Latest Health News from Pediatrics Now  in Small Bites for Parents. Welcome to Pediatrics Now for Parents, the go-to podcast for health news in small bites for busy parents with Holly Wayment, brought to you by the Department of Pediatrics and University Health's New Women's and Children's Hospital ! In this episode of "Pediatrics Now for Parents," host Holly Wayment dives into the complexities of the teenage brain with expert Dr. David Yeager, a professor at UT Austin. Known for his extensive research and his book, "10 to 25, The Science of Motivating Young People," Dr. Yeager shares transformative insights that can help parents navigate the challenges of raising teenagers.

Join the discussion as Dr. Yeager explores the similarities in motivation drivers across ages 10 to 25 and offers practical advice for addressing common teenage habits, such as excessive phone use and social media engagement. Discover how understanding the social needs of teenagers can lead to better communication and collaboration between parents and their children.

Additionally, Dr. Yeager discusses the impact of social media on teenage mental health and offers strategies for promoting healthy habits, including nutrition and exercise. Learn how reframing the narrative around food choices and physical activity can empower teenagers to make healthier decisions.

Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on tracking your child's location and managing expressions of frustration, such as "I hate my life." This episode provides essential tools for parents striving to support their teenagers through a critical phase of development.

The Secret to Talking to Teens

Holly WaymentHealth Information for the busy parent.

Host Holly Wayment, Physician Relations Specialist Sr., talks to leading pediatric experts in the field.

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The Latest Health News from Pediatrics Now  in Small Bites for Parents. Welcome to Pediatrics Now for Parents, the go-to podcast for health news in small bites for busy parents with Holly Wayment, brought to you by the Department of Pediatrics and University Health's New Women's and Children's Hospital ! Join Holly Wayment on Pediatrics Now as she interviews Dr. David Yeager, a professor at the University of Texas at Austin and author of the book 10 to 25, The Science of Motivating Young People. In this insightful episode, they delve into the rising anxiety levels among young people, exploring its roots in economic and social changes since the Great Recession.

Dr. Yeager challenges common assumptions about technology's role in youth anxiety and emphasizes the importance of understanding young people's social motivations. He shares practical strategies for parents and educators, highlighting the mentor mindset—a balance of high standards and support—to effectively communicate and motivate adolescents.

Discover how transparency, respect, and empowering young people can transform their decision-making, particularly around critical issues like substance use and social media. This episode offers valuable perspectives for anyone involved in guiding the next generation.

Barbie Convention, COVID, Flu and Bird Flu Insights, and Vaccination Updates

Holly WaymentHealth Information for the busy parent.

Host Holly Wayment, Physician Relations Specialist Sr., talks to leading pediatric experts in the field.

Follow us wherever you get your podcasts!

The Latest Health News from Pediatrics Now  in Small Bites for Parents. Welcome to Pediatrics Now for Parents, the go-to podcast for health news in small bites for busy parents with Holly Wayment, brought to you by the Department of Pediatrics and University Health's New Women's and Children's Hospital ! Join host Holly Wayment in this insightful episode of Pediatrics Now, where Dr. Tess Barton shares her recent experiences at the annual Barbie convention and the bout with COVID that followed. 

This episode features a conversation with Dr. Barton, an expert in infectious diseases from the University of Texas Health Science Center and University Health. Dr. Barton discusses the importance of staying vigilant with COVID precautions, including the updated guidelines and the importance of vaccines. She shares her personal experiences and professional insights on managing COVID and flu risks, emphasizing the need for early vaccinations as respiratory virus season approaches.

Dr. Barton also provides clarity on common misconceptions regarding COVID vaccines, especially in children, and highlights the safety and efficacy of getting vaccinated. With the flu season looming, she gives advice on the expected strains and the importance of getting the flu shot. This episode is packed with valuable information and expert advice to help navigate the ongoing pandemic and flu season. Dr. Barton also talks about how to protect you and your family from the bird flu.

Don't miss this engaging discussion as Holly and Dr. Barton provide the latest updates on pediatric care and infectious disease management. Tune in to stay informed and prepared.

Understanding and Managing School Refusal in Children

Holly WaymentHealth Information for the busy parent.

Host Holly Wayment, Physician Relations Specialist Sr., talks to leading pediatric experts in the field.

Follow us wherever you get your podcasts!

The Latest Health News from Pediatrics Now  in Small Bites for Parents. Welcome to Pediatrics Now for Parents, the go-to podcast for health news in small bites for busy parents with Holly Wayment, brought to you by the Department of Pediatrics and University Health's New Women's and Children's Hospital ! Welcome to Pediatrics Now, your go-to podcast for cases, updates, and discussions for busy pediatric practitioners. In this episode, hosted by Holly Wayman from UT Health San Antonio's Department of Pediatrics, we delve into the complex issue of school refusal in children.

Our expert speaker, Dr. Thomas Matthews, a seasoned pediatric psychiatrist and the medical director of Clarity Outpatient Psychiatry, shares his insights on school refusal. Dr. Matthews discusses the different learning styles of children, the impact of social interaction on anxiety, and the role of emotional and behavioral well-being in school refusal.

Drawing from real-life examples and clinical experiences, Dr. Matthews explains the various factors contributing to school refusal, including bullying, transitions, and family dynamics. He emphasizes the importance of identifying the underlying causes and offers practical strategies for addressing them, such as gradual re-entry to school and the role of therapy.

This episode provides valuable information for pediatric practitioners seeking to understand and manage school refusal in their patients. Don't miss this insightful discussion on a critical topic affecting many children today.

We hope you enjoy this episode of Pediatrics Now. Join us next time for more expert insights and practical advice.

Ear Infection Insights

Holly WaymentHealth Information for the busy parent.

Host Holly Wayment, Physician Relations Specialist Sr., talks to leading pediatric experts in the field.

Follow us wherever you get your podcasts!

The Latest Health News from Pediatrics Now  in Small Bites for Parents. Welcome to Pediatrics Now for Parents, the go-to podcast for health news in small bites for busy parents with Holly Wayment, brought to you by the Department of Pediatrics and University Health's New Women's and Children's Hospital ! In this episode, we delve into the world of ear infections with expert insights from Drs. Erica Sher and Nadine Haykel Pediatric Ear, Nose, and Throat Doctors at University Health and the University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio.

For this episode, keep in mind that Otitis Media means middle ear infection in medical terms.

Our guests share their passion for working with children and the kindness they encountered in their training that drew them to pediatric ENT.

Join us for this informative and engaging conversation to better understand ear infections and how to manage them effectively. For more resources and to stay updated, visit our website at pediatricsnowforparents.com.  Talk to your pediatrician if you have any questions.

Helmets and Sunscreen: 'Battles Worth Fighting,' Advice From a Pediatric ER Doc

boy riding a skateboard at sunset

Health news and small bites for the busy parent, brought to you by the Department of Pediatrics at UT Health San Antonio.

Host Holly Wayment, Physician Relations Specialist Sr., talks to leading pediatric experts in the field.

Follow us wherever you get your podcasts!

Welcome to Pediatrics Now, brought to you by the Department of Pediatrics at UT Health San Antonio. I'm your host, Holly Wayment, and today we have a special guest, Dr. Priyanka Kandhal, an emergency medicine doctor at the University Hospital's level one trauma centers, specializing in both pediatrics and adult care.

In this episode, she shares invaluable insights on the importance of wearing helmets for children engaged in biking, scootering, and skateboarding. Dr. Kandhal highlights how these protective measures can mean the difference between life and death or prevent debilitating injuries.

We also discuss the often-overlooked necessity of sun protection for kids. 

Join us for an informative conversation with practical advice from this doctor on the front lines to keep your children safe and healthy. Don't forget to visit pediatricsnowforparents.com and subscribe to Pediatrics Now wherever you get your podcasts.

The Future of Vaccines: An Interview with the Doctor Who Created Mice with Fully Human Immune Systems

Holly WaymentHealth Information for the busy parent.

Host Holly Wayment, Physician Relations Specialist Sr., talks to leading pediatric experts in the field.

Follow us wherever you get your podcasts!

The Latest Health News from Pediatrics Now  in Small Bites for Parents. Welcome to Pediatrics Now for Parents, the go-to podcast for health news in small bites for busy parents. Join us in this fascinating episode of Pediatrics Now as we sit down with Dr. Paolo Casali, University of Texas Asheville Smith Professor and Distinguished Research Professor in Microbiology, Immunology, and Molecular Genetics. Dr. Casali and his team have made groundbreaking strides in creating the first fully humanized immune system in mice.

Discover the meticulous process behind this scientific breakthrough, from grafting human hematopoietic stem cells to the hormonal conditioning that ensures a fully functional human immune system in mice. Dr. Casali shares insights into the potential this innovation holds for vaccine development, cancer research, and reducing reliance on non-human primates for testing.

Dr. Casali's journey from basic molecular research to this pioneering work is a testament to the impact of dedication and experience in the field of immunology. Tune in to learn how this advancement could revolutionize medical science and pave the way for more effective therapies and vaccines.

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