Merck Manuals Medical Myths

Whether you’re skiing in Colorado, trekking in Nepal, or visiting a city like Denver, you’ve probably heard warnings about altitude sickness — but how much of it is true? On this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, our host talks with Dr. Andrew Luks, professor of pulmonary and critical care medicine at the University of Washington, to separate fact from fiction about altitude illness. Learn what actually causes altitude sickness, how to recognize early warning signs, and what really works for prevention. 

To learn more about altitude illness MerckManuals.com 

Intended...

Coronary artery disease involves impairment of blood flow through the coronary arteries, it is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. In this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, we provide deeper insight into coronary artery disease with Dr. Ranya N. Sweis, MD, MS a Professor of Cardiology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine.  
 
Dr. Sweis clarifies what coronary heart disease is and how it differs from terms like heart disease and cardiovascular disease. Additionally, she breaks down the facts and myths about coronary heart disease, its causes, and how technology including stents ca...

On this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, infectious disease expert Dr. Larry Bush—Affiliate Professor of Medicine at the Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine at Florida Atlantic University and Affiliate Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine—joins the show to explore foodborne illnesses, their causes, and strategies for prevention.
 
 Dr. Bush clarifies the distinctions between foodborne illnesses and common misconceptions, such as "stomach bugs." He highlights the primary sources of contamination, including meats, poultry, seafood, and raw vegetables, and addresses specific risks like Listeria, which poses signif...

In this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, we explore preeclampsia with Dr. Antonette Dulay, a maternal-fetal medicine division chief of the department of OBGYN at Main Line Health System, as well as a senior physician at Axia Women’s Health. She is board-certified in both maternal-fetal medicine and general obstetrics and gynecology. She was recognized as a Top Doc by Philadelphia Magazine in 2024.
 
 Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy condition characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine. Dr. Dulay clarifies the differences between general hypertension and preeclampsia, discussing the risks associated with both...

This episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths Podcast debunks common misconceptions related to colic and why babies cry so much. Dr. Alicia R. Pekarsky, MD, FAAP, ABP Certified in Child Abuse & General Pediatrics and Associate Professor of Pediatrics at SUNY Upstate Medical University, discusses the reasons why babies cry and how parents can manage it. Dr. Pekarsky explains that crying can be due to hunger, discomfort, overstimulation, or an immature nervous system. 
 
 She also delves into colic, characterized by prolonged crying in otherwise healthy infants, and offers strategies for soothing a crying baby, such as swaddling, usi...

In this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths Podcast, Dr. Richard Schwab, chief of the Division of Sleep Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania Pearlman School of Medicine continues to debunk sleep myths.  
 
The focus shifts from insomnia to snoring and sleep apnea. Dr. Schwab explains that snoring is caused by the vibration of the uvula or soft palate due to a narrow airway, often exacerbated by factors like alcohol and obesity. Dr. Schwab explains that while snoring is common, it is not normal and can be a sign of sleep apnea. In this condition, the ai...

In this episode of The Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, we delve into common misconceptions about insomnia and sleep apnea with Dr. Richard Schwab, a sleep medicine expert from the University of Pennsylvania. Dr. Schwab explains how insomnia is a perception of inadequate sleep, which can vary greatly among individuals. He emphasizes that everyone needs sleep, debunking the myth that some people can function without it. 
 
The episode covers the role of exercise and diet in promoting better sleep and advises against using electronic devices before bedtime. Dr. Schwab recommends cognitive behavioral therapy for chronic insomnia and ca...

 In this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, we take a break from debunking myths to get to know more about Dr. Laurie Hess, a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and the new Editor-in-Chief of the Merck Veterinary Manual. Dr. Hess shares her incredible journey in avian and exotic animal medicine, her passion for veterinary care, and her thoughts on being one of the few board-certified avian specialists in the world. She also recounts an early career experience involving a distressed monkey and an injury caused by a cat. Later in the episode, Dr. Hess emphasizes the importance o...

In this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, our guest, Dr. Laurie Hess, discusses Bird Flu, its background, symptoms, and treatment. Dr. Hess, the new Editor-in-Chief of The Merck Veterinary Manual, shares critical strategies for preventing and managing bird flu, particularly focusing on the H5N1 strain. The episode highlights the importance of rigorous biosecurity measures, such as isolating new birds, monitoring visitors, and keeping pet birds indoors to reduce exposure to wild birds and potential diseases. Dr. Hess provides expert insights on avian flu while emphasizing the value of annual veterinary checkups to safeguard your birds...

On this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, we focus on Multiple sclerosis or “MS”. MS is characterized by disseminated patches of demyelination in the brain and spinal cord.  Dr. Michael C. Levin joins us for this episode and is a Professor of Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, Canada, where he is the inaugural Saskatchewan Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Research Chair.  
 
 During the episode, Dr. Levin provides insights into MS and dispels the myth that MS is untreatable or a death sentence. Additionally, Dr. Levin explores the impact of MS on your everyday lifestyl...

This episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast dives deep into the world of rosacea and dandruff. Dr. Jonette Keri, Professor of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery at the University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine is here to help dispel the myths and misconceptions of this skin condition. She is also Chief, Dermatology Service at Miami VA Hospital. Dr. Keri is a familiar face on the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast and joined us back in Season 3 to talk about anti-aging and skincare myths.
 
This episode begins with an introduction to rosacea overall.  Then Dr, Keri an...

In this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, Dr. Bradley Kesser, MD, a specialist in congenital ear disease, ventures into the intricate world of ear health, exploring various types of ear infections and their treatments, Dr Kesser dissects symptoms, delves into the necessity of antibiotics, and uncovers why some children are more prone to ear infections than others. The episode also tackles common myths about ear cleaning methods, from Q-tips to ear candling. Join the conversation as they address crucial questions surrounding ear health, offering valuable information to empower listeners. Medical knowledge is power – pass it on. 

Dr. Leila M. Khazaeni, Associate Professor of Ophthalmology at Loma Linda University School of Medicine, lends her expertise to demystify strabismus and dispel prevalent myths surrounding the condition. Delve into the different types of strabismus and understand key distinctions from amblyopia. Dr. Khazaeni addresses common misconceptions, such as the influence of screen time on strabismus and the belief that it will resolve on its own. Gain insights into screening, treatment, and the significance of early intervention. Medical knowledge is power – pass it on. 

Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada. For those outside the U.S...

Discover the progressive metabolic bone disease that affects bone mineral density and structure, leading to fragility fractures. Explore common myths surrounding osteoporosis and gain valuable insights into prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. Dr. Bolster, a Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School, separates fact from fiction, provides expert answers to key questions and leaves listeners empowered with the knowledge to take charge of their bone health. Don't miss this informative discussion on osteoporosis. Medical knowledge is power – pass it on.

Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MS...

In the latest episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, Dr. Brenda Tesini from the University of Rochester Medical Center sheds light on the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). As hospitals grapple with an unprecedented surge in respiratory illnesses, Dr. Tesini, with a focus on infectious diseases in children, explores the symptoms of RSV and distinguishes it from COVID-19, flu, and other respiratory illnesses. Uncover the truths behind RSV myths, including its impact on premature babies, parental susceptibility, and the misconception of letting it run its course like a common cold. Gain valuable insights into prevention, risk factors, and...

In this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, Dr. Bernard J. Hennessy, DDS, from Texas A&M University, School of Dentistry, unveils the truth about halitosis, commonly known as bad breath. The discussion dives into the basics of halitosis, its prevalence, and the myths surrounding its causes and cures. Dr. Hennessy dispels common misconceptions about mouthwashes, breath mints, and the effectiveness of brushing teeth in curing bad breath. Explore the impact of diets on halitosis, debunked myths, and discover natural remedies like parsley, probiotics, and peppermint oil. Gain insights into recognizing and preventing halitosis, understanding its potential...

In this informative episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, Dr. Ranya N. Sweis, an Associate Professor of Cardiology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, joins to unravel the distinctions between heart attack and cardiac arrest. With over a decade of experience, Dr. Sweis clarifies the causes, symptoms, and treatments for each condition, debunking common myths that could hinder prompt action during emergencies. Delve into risk factors, warning signs, and immediate treatments, gaining practical advice for maintaining a healthy heart. Medical knowledge is power – pass it on for heart health awareness. 

Intended for listeners in the...

Mental health affects every aspect of our lives: how we feel about ourselves and the world; solve problems, cope with stress, and overcome challenges.
 
 Mental health challenges can be difficult to define and address. Dr. Michael B. First joins this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast. Dr. First is a Professor of Clinical Psychiatry at Columbia University and is the editor and co-chair of the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition, text revision, known as DSM-5-TR.

He joins the podcast to examine the misconceptions surrounding ment...

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, we lose about 50 to 100 strands of hair from our head every day. But some people will experience even more significant hair loss in their lifetimes, which can be a source of anxiety and in some cases, an indicator of more serious medical issues.

On this episode of the Merck Manuals, Wendy S. Levinbook, MD, Hartford Dermatology Associates, breaks down the most common misconceptions about hair loss – along with the facts people should know.

Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada. For those outside the U.S. an...

Kidney stones are becoming more common in recent decades. Today, one in 10 Americans will suffer from one at some point in their lives. Kidney stones are hard masses that form in the urinary tract and may cause pain, bleeding, infection, or block of the flow of urine. Given the extreme pain that often accompanies kidney stones, many people are worried about getting them. That’s led to a lot of myths and misconceptions around kidney stones, what causes them, and how best to prevent them.

Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada. For those ou...

In this bonus episode, Dr. Richard Schwab, chief of the Division of Sleep Medicine and professor of Medicine at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania discusses dreams. Dr. Schwab explains the nature of dreams as well as other sleep-related phenomena such as nightmares, sleep paralysis, sleepwalking, and lucid dreaming.

Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for more information.

In this episode of Merck Manuals Medical Myths, Dr. Richard Schwab, the chief of the Division of Sleep Medicine and professor of Medicine at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania discusses the importance of sleep health. Dr. Schwab shares insights on the numerous factors that can affect sleep patterns and tips for getting a good night's rest.

Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for more information.

As we approach hot summer days, we are excited to welcome Dr. Diane Birnbaumer, Emeritus Professor of medicine at David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, to discuss some myths about heat strokes and staying healthy in extreme temperatures.  
 
Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for more information.

Now that many COVID-19 travel restrictions are loosening and people are beginning to travel once again, we're thrilled to welcome back Dr. Christopher Sanford, author of “Staying Healthy Abroad: A Global Travel’s Guide”, to talk about some more myths about staying safe and healthy while traveling abroad.

Click here to learn more about health and travel.

Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for more information.

Many of us want to look younger and have beautiful skin, but what kind of myths are we believing on how to achieve that? Do anti-aging creams actually work? Are the more expensive or luxury skincare products more effective than cheaper alternatives? Is sleeping in your makeup bad for your skin?

On this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, we welcome back Dr. Jonette Keri, Associate Professor of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery at the University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine. She is also Chief, Dermatology Service at Miami VA Hospital.

This is...

Most people (hopefully) know the dangers involved with smoking. But is vaping just as bad for your health as smoking? Is actually worse for you as some say? Is vaping more harmful for younger people than it is older people? Is there an effective way to quit? What’s the best way to kick this habit and talk to teens about why it’s dangerous?

On this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, we welcome Dr. Judith Prochaska, Professor in the Department of Medicine at Stanford University with the Stanford Prevention Research Center and a memb...

In Part 2 of our discussion on children's mental health, the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast welcomes back Dr. Josephine Elia, psychiatrist with a specialty in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at Nemours, A.I. duPont Hospital for Children in Delaware.

On this episode, Dr. Elia discusses some ways parents can manage and address some of the mental health difficulties that children face, with practical tips anyone can use. 

Click here to learn more about mental health disorders in children.

Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada. For those outside the U.S. a...

In a brief break from the traditional look into medical myths, this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast will delve into the difficult and sometimes taboo topic of children's mental health. Especially during 2020 and into 2021, children were forced to confront challenges and disruptions that no one could've imagined. And while adults have their own way of dealing with trauma, stress and mental health in general, children can be much different.

To help us unpack some of the challenges children face, we welcome Dr. Josephine Elia, psychiatrist with a specialty in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at...

As the summer season approaches and many of us head outside to bask in the sun, what sorts of myths have we been telling ourselves about the best ways to protect our skin from the sun? Is 100 SPF really necessary? How long can you be outside before the sun starts to damage your skin? Do you only need sunscreen in the summer? How much is enough sunscreen to put on your skin?

On this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, we welcome back Dr. Jonette Keri, Associate Professor of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery at the...

This podcast has covered a handful of travel health myths before, but the way people travel has changed drastically in the COVID-19 world. While the world is beginning to work its way back to normal thanks to increasing vaccinations, that only means there are more questions as people look to resume their travels once again. What is the safest way to travel? Are airplanes really cleaning out air better than we think? Are masks enough on public transit? DO we need to wear masks inside our own cars?

On this episode, we welcome back Dr. Christopher Sanford...

Acne is a skin condition so many of us encounter during our lives. But the severity of the condition can differ greatly from person to person, and it's led to a number of myths surrounding what causes it? Is chocolate the culprit? Is fatty and unhealthy foods the issue? Is acne only something that pubescent teens have to deal with? 

On this episode of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths podcast, we talk all things acne with Dr. Jonette Keri, Associate Professor of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery at the University of Miami, Miller School of Medicine. She is a...

Coming soon: the Merck Manuals, one of the world’s most widely used medical resources since 1899, will be releasing the 3rd season of the Merck Manuals Medical Myths Podcast!

All new episodes coming the week of May 10, 2021!

Season 3 once again dispels common medical myths and misconceptions through revealing conversations with nationally recognized physicians. These new episodes encompass just the first half of Season three and address a number of topics that are top of mind for today’s medical consumers:

Spending a fun night out has no regrets until it's met with that dreaded familiar feeling the next morning. Can coffee cure hangovers? What about the old “hair of the dog” trick? Is the saying “beer before liquor never been sicker” really true? Dr. Rika O’Malley, physician at Albert Einstein Medical Center joins us to debunk some of these myths and tells us how to deal with (or prevent) a hangover after drinking alcohol.

Click here to learn more about alcohol and its affects on drinkers.

Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada. Fo...

From questions about how to get the whitest teeth to what the proper brushing and flossing techniques are, there are a number of questions out there surrounding dental care. Is flossing good or unnecessary? Does charcoal toothpaste clean your teeth or do the opposite? Is it really necessary to remove our wisdom teeth? And why do they call them that anyway?

On this episode, we welcome Dr. David F. Murchison, a practicing dentist for more than 40 years and a professor at the Texas A&M College of Dentistry. He'll explain to us some of the best ways...

The entire world is grappling with how to deal with COVID-19, from what precautions we should take to how it affects each of us differently. But children are different. From the way COVID-19 affects childrens' bodies to how parents should approach the virus in kids, there are a lot of myths out there. On this episode, we talk to Dr. Catherine Soprano, MD, Clinical Assistant Professor of Pediatrics, about what parents should think about when it comes to Coronavirus and their children. 

Click here to learn more about COVID-19.

Intended for listeners in the U.S...

Eyesight is extremely valuable, and we are constantly being told what is bad and what is good for our eyes. Dr. Sunir Garg, retina physician and surgeon, provides us with some much-needed clarity on the subject.

Click here to learn more about the biology of our eyes, vision and proper eye health.

Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for more information.

Stomachs can be very sensitive. Factors such as what you eat and how fast you eat can cause issues from indigestion to ulcers and more. Dr. Jonathan Gotfried joins us to share his insights and help us digest some of the biggest myths around gastrointestinal problems, while also sharing tips for how to keep a healthy gut.

Click here to learn more about gastrointestinal disorders, gut health, digestion and more.

Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada.  For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for more information.

High blood pressure can often be associated with aging or with being a hot head, but there are a number of other causes of high blood pressure that should not be overlooked. Dr. George Bakris joins us to share some insights and breaks down the biggest myths around high blood pressure, cholesterol and hypertension.

Click here to learn more about hypertension.

Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada.  For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for more information.

You’ve heard of “Vertigo” the movie, and it’s likely that everyone has experienced the sensation before. But do you know what it is and why we feel it? Dr. David Kaylie discusses the differences in dizziness and vertigo, hearing loss and treatments that can help and the myths associated with Vertigo. 

Click here to learn more about vertigo.

Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada. For those outside the U.S. and Canada, visit MSDManuals.com for more information.

Cracking your joints can often bring a feeling of relief or satisfaction, but are you doing damage to your joints? And while the term arthritis is typically used as a catch-all for joint issues, rheumatoid arthritis and osteo arthritis are not interchangeable, and in fact, they’re quite different. Dr. Brian Mandell explains these differences as well as addressing the many myths that surround joint pain and stiffness.

Click here to learn more about arthritis and other joint disorders.

Intended for listeners in the U.S. and Canada. For those outside the U.S. and Ca...