Pediatrics Now for Parents

COVID, Flu, Bird Flu, and Vaccine Updates

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.

Oh No! My Child Doesn't Want to Go to School!😩

Welcome to Pediatrics Now, hosted by Holly Wayment from UT Health San Antonio's Department of Pediatrics. In this episode, we delve into the topic of school refusal with Dr. Thomas Matthews, a seasoned pediatric psychiatrist and medical director of Clarity Outpatient Psychiatry. Dr. Matthews shares valuable insights into the different learning styles of children, the impact of social interaction on anxiety, and the importance of emotional and behavioral wellbeing. He emphasizes the significance of identifying the underlying causes of school refusal, ranging from bullying and anxiety to family dynamics and media stressors. Through real-life examples, Dr. Matthews illustrates how personalized strategies can help children overcome their anxiety about school. He also discusses the importance of therapy, family involvement, and maintaining consistent house rules to address school refusal effectively. Tune in to learn about the multifaceted approach to managing school refusal and helping children thrive in their educational journey.

😢My Child's Ear Hurts: What Now?

Welcome to Pediatrics Now 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 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

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 level 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 filled with practical advice to keep your children safe and healthy from this doctor on the front lines. 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

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.

Pediatric Surgery Update from a Surgeon Dad

Join Holly Wayment in this episode of Pediatrics Now for Parents, as she interviews Dr. Ian Mitchell, Pediatric Surgeon-in-Chief at University Hospital. Dr. Mitchell shares exciting news about the new pediatric surgery center in partnership with Morgan's Wonderland, specifically designed to cater to children and adults with special needs.
Discover how this state-of-the-art facility, equipped with five surgical suites, aims to serve patients with neurodevelopmental issues, autism, and other behavioral or anxiety problems. Dr. Mitchell also discusses common pediatric surgeries, such as hernia repairs and treatments for pilonidal disease, providing invaluable insights for parents.
Learn about the importance of honesty and connection in pediatric care, and how being a father has influenced Dr. Mitchell's approach to surgery. Tune in for a heartwarming and informative conversation that highlights the resilience of children and the transformative power of compassionate medical care.

A 24-Minute-Listen that Could Help Save Your Child's Life

Join us on this episode of Pediatrics Now as we delve into essential choking, water and heat safety tips as host Holly Wayment interviews a doctor on the front lines of emergency medicine, Priyanka Kandhal,  a pediatric emergency medicine doctor.  Dr. Kandhal shares her personal experiences as a new parent and provides invaluable advice.  From the dangers of choking hazards to the critical importance of water safety, she covers it all. Learn why you should avoid arm floaties for your kids, the significance of wearing bright-colored swimsuits, and the necessity of having multiple layers of protection around pools.
We also discuss heat-related illnesses, the importance of hydration, and the life-saving practice of rapid cooling in cases of heat stroke. Plus, get tips on how to ensure your child's safety in hot cars and the importance of staying up-to-date with vaccinations.
Tune in for practical advice that can help keep your children safe.

The Headache Diet: Part Two

Welcome to Pediatrics Now for Parents, the go-to podcast for health news in small bites for busy parents. In this episode, host Holly Wayment sits down with Dr. Sheldon Gross, a seasoned pediatric neurologist with 41 years of experience, to discuss a common issue: children's headaches.
Dr. Gross shares practical advice for parents on managing their child's headaches, including dietary changes and lifestyle adjustments that can be made even before consulting a doctor. He emphasizes the importance of eliminating certain foods and additives known to trigger migraines, such as chocolate, caffeine, and nitrites, and highlights the benefits of consistent meals, hydration, and proper sleep.
While most headaches are not serious, Dr. Gross advises parents to seek medical attention if headaches persist or worsen. He also discusses the process of reintroducing foods to identify specific triggers and stresses the importance of not ignoring frequent headaches.
Tune in to learn valuable tips and gain insights into effective, safe treatments for managing children's headaches. Don't miss this empowering episode of Pediatrics Now for Parents!

The Headache Diet: A Pediatric Neurologist's Approach to Migraine Prevention

The Headache Diet: A Pediatric Neurologist's Approach to Migraine Prevention
Welcome to Pediatrics Now for Parents, your go-to podcast for the latest health news, delivered in small bites for the busy parent. Hosted by Holly Wayment, a former health journalist now working at the Department of Pediatrics at UT Health San Antonio, this episode dives into a topic many parents will find invaluable: the headache diet.
In this enlightening episode, Holly sits down with Dr. Sheldon Gross, a seasoned pediatric neurologist with 41 years of experience. Dr. Gross shares his journey from aspiring psychiatrist to passionate pediatric neurologist, inspired by a life-changing book that emphasized seeing patients as people rather than just cases.
The main focus of the episode is the headache diet, a non-pharmaceutical approach to preventing migraines in children. Dr. Gross outlines seven food groups to avoid, including chocolate, caffeine, deli meats with nitrites, aged cheeses, peanuts, artificial sweeteners, and foods containing MSG. He also discusses the importance of taking vitamin B2 and magnesium supplements, and maintaining regular meal and sleep schedules to prevent headaches.
Tune in to learn more about how these simple dietary changes can make a significant difference in managing your child's headaches. Don't forget to share this episode with other parents who might benefit from this valuable information.
Thank you for listening to Pediatrics Now for Parents. Stay tuned for more health tips and expert advice!

What Types of Cancer Are Becoming More Common in Teens?

Join us in this insightful episode of Pediatrics Now, where we discuss the journey of pediatric cancer survivors with Dr. Shafqat Shah from the University of Texas Health Science Center and University Hospital.
Dr. Shah, with over 30 years of experience in pediatric oncology, shares her expertise on the long-term health challenges faced by childhood cancer survivors, including the accelerated aging process and increased risk of secondary cancers.
We also delve into the importance of continuous medical support, the role of pediatricians in guiding  survivors, and the significance of vaccinations in this vulnerable group. Dr. Shah provides insight into what cancers appear to be happening more often in teenagers.