The Harley Street Doctor

In this episode of the Harley Street Doctor podcast, host Alya Shakir, CEO of Harley Street Health Centre, sits down with Michael Imonirhua, CEO of KeySteps Wellbeing, for an open and important conversation about a quietly growing issue: prescription medication dependence.They explore how sleeping pills, opioids and benzodiazepines, often prescribed legitimately for pain, insomnia or stress, can unexpectedly lead to dependency, sometimes without the patient even realising it. Michael shares insights from his work at KeySteps, including the subtle warning signs families might miss, why shame and secrecy often delay help-seeking, and what a truly compassionate, medically sound detox and recovery pathway looks like.The discussion also highlights how integrated, team-based care, spanning GPs, psychiatrists, nurses and therapists, can make all the difference. Drawing on Harley Street Health Centre's own model of continuity, rapid access and coordinated diagnostics, the episode shows how clear pathways and honest conversations help patients avoid unnecessary escalation while getting the right support at the right time.Whether you're a busy professional, a concerned family member, or someone quietly struggling with prescribed medication, this episode offers practical insight, reassurance and a reminder that evidence-led, non-judgemental help is available.Key topics covered:How prescribed medication can become a hidden dependencyWhy opioid and sleeping tablet withdrawal is so challengingThe role of specialist addiction psychiatry and modern treatments like buprenorphineCreating safe, non-clinical environments for recoveryHow trusted primary care and mental health services work together for better outcomesAbout the Harley Street Health CentreCombines same‑day GP access, rapid on‑site diagnostics, and genuine continuity of care. We specialise in evidence‑led health checks, discreet sexual health support, visa and travel medicals, with clear, upfront pricing. Our role is clearly defined for rapid assessment, essential labs, preventive screening, and coordinated referrals to trusted NHS or hospital partners when needed. For busy professionals, expats, and families who want thorough, no‑surprise private care without unnecessary tests or uncontrolled costs.About KeySteps WellbeingProvides private, one-to-one support for addiction, anxiety, burnout and mental health challenges. Outpatient clinic on Harley Street, plus a truly unique inpatient alternative in private apartments with a dedicated wraparound team of nurses, therapists and a psychiatrist, just for clients. No wards, no strangers. Just evidence-led treatment, relapse prevention and genuine recovery, on patients terms.Listen now to understand the signs, reduce the shame, and learn what truly joined-up, sensible private healthcare looks like in practice.The Harley Street Doctor - Produced by the Harley Street Health Centre

Why do so many people struggle to lose weight, even when they know what they “should” be doing?In this episode of the Harley Street Doctor Podcast, Alya Shakir, CEO of Harley Street Health Centre, explores the psychological and emotional factors that often sit behind weight gain, emotional eating, and repeated cycles of yo-yo dieting.The discussion looks beyond calories and exercise plans to examine the underlying emotional patterns that can sabotage weight-loss journeys, including stress, self-criticism, subconscious beliefs, comfort eating, and the relationship between self-worth and body image.Alya explains why many people start weight loss journeys from a place of shame or self-punishment, why this often leads to failure, and how chronic stress and cortisol can physically affect the body’s ability to lose weight.The episode also explores:Emotional eating and subconscious habitsWhy motivation alone is often not enoughThe connection between stress and fat storageWhy does losing weight not automatically create happinessThe importance of self-awareness and emotional well-beingHow to identify a meaningful and sustainable “why” behind weight loss goalsThe psychological impact of unrealistic expectations and social pressureThis episode offers a more compassionate and realistic conversation about weight management, focusing not only on physical health but also on mindset, emotional well-being, and long-term, sustainable change.The Harley Street Doctor - Produced by the Harley Street Health Centre

In this enlightening episode of the Harley Street Doctor Podcast, host Alya Shakir sits down with Dr Jane Benjamin and Mr. Simon Brittz to explore critical aspects of mental health in the workplace. The discussion centers around identifying mental health issues early, the importance of training for managers, and the creation of support systems within organizations to enhance mental well-being.Key Discussion PointsIntegrated Mental Health Services: The episode begins with an overview of how the Harley Street Health Center's integrated model supports patients dealing with both occupational and mental health issues.Importance of Early Referrals: Emphasis on the significance of recognizing mental health issues early to reduce the length of treatment and improve outcomes.Signs of Mental Health Struggles: Identifying cues such as recurrent absences, performance changes, and social withdrawal that may indicate mental health challenges.Manager and HR Involvement: The vital role managers and HR personnel play in recognizing signs of mental distress and facilitating early referrals for intervention.Mental Health Stigma and Generational Differences: Addressing the stigma surrounding mental health, especially in younger generations, and the importance of creating an open dialog within the workplace.Support Structures for Graduates and Employees: Discussing resilience training for new employees, the role of mental health first aiders, and top-down approaches from senior leadership to foster a supportive organizational culture.Chronic Stress Awareness: Exploring the implications of chronic stress on both physical and mental health and promoting awareness among employees and employers.Guest BiosDr. Jane Benjamin: A seasoned psychologist with expertise in addressing occupational mental health issues, focusing on creating therapeutic strategies that facilitate quick recovery and a return to work.Mr. Simon Brittz: A key member of the HCA team, bringing insights into managing corporate mental health through training and tailored wellbeing strategies.The Harley Street Doctor - Produced by the Harley Street Health Centre

In this episode, host Alya Shakir converses with Dr. Sunil Patel, a consultant respiratory physician at the Harley Street Clinic. They delve into various aspects of respiratory health, including persistent coughs, potential triggers, and preventative measures to optimize lung function. Dr. Patel offers valuable insights on common respiratory issues and shares expert advice to help listeners maintain their respiratory health.Key Discussion PointsIntroduction to Respiratory HealthOverview of respiratory medicine and its interdisciplinary nature.Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on respiratory health practices.Understanding Persistent CoughDefinitions of acute and chronic coughs.Common causes and when to seek medical attention.Importance of primary care and recognizing significant symptoms.Red Flags and Risk FactorsRed flags include coughing blood, unexplained weight loss, and persistent cough in smokers.Significance of a smoking history in respiratory assessments.Role of Viruses in Respiratory HealthDiscussion on post-viral asthma and viral impacts on non-asthmatic individuals.Necessary steps in diagnosing asthma versus viral-induced symptoms.Optimizing Lung FunctionTips for enhancing respiratory health, including smoking cessation and regular exercise.Discussion on the reversibility of lung damage due to smoking.Early Signs of Lung CancerOverlap between red flags for respiratory issues and possible indicators of lung cancer.Importance of rapid referral pathways for potential cancer cases.Guest BioDr. Sunil Patel is a renowned consultant respiratory physician at Harley Street Clinic, specializing in various respiratory conditions and diseases. His work extends into acute, general, and specialty medicine, with particular interest and expertise in the interface between respiratory medicine and related specialties.The Harley Street Doctor - Produced by the Harley Street Health Centre

In this insightful episode of The Harley Street Doctor Podcast, CEO Alya Shakir sits down with Mr. Marco Bolgeri, a consultant urologist at the Princess Grace Hospital and the Harley Street Clinic, to delve into the complexities of kidney stones and urology. They discuss the various aspects of urology, focusing on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of kidney stones and the lifestyle changes that can mitigate risks.Key Discussion PointsIntroduction to Urology: Mr. Marco Bolgeri explains what consultant urologists do, focusing on the urinary and reproductive systems, specialising in kidney stones and endourology.The Pain of Kidney Stones: Comparing the pain from kidney stones to other conditions, anecdotal accounts describe it as worse than childbirth.Prevention and Recurrence: Discussion on preventing kidney stones through lifestyle changes, the impact of genetics, and the high recurrence rate.Causes and Prevention: Exploration of the main causes of kidney stones, including genetic predispositions and lifestyle factors.Hydration and Diet: Guidelines for water intake and the role of diet, particularly the effects of salt, sugar, and uric acid on stone formation.Treatment Options: Overview of various treatments for kidney stones, ranging from shockwave therapy to surgical interventions.Non-Symptomatic Stones: The approach to incidental findings of stones and treatment considerations.Guest BioMr. Marco Bolgeri is a renowned consultant urologist specialising in treating and managing kidney stones. With a career centered around minimally invasive procedures, Mr. Bolgeri is committed to improving patient outcomes through cutting-edge technology and personalized care.The Harley Street Doctor - Produced by the Harley Street Health Centre

Welcome to the The Harley Street Doctor podcast! Join host Alya Shakir, CEO of Harley Street Health Center, as she dives into a critical health issue with guest Dr Enam Abood (head doctor and company director). They are discussing the causes and implications of blood in urine, a condition that could range from infections to possible cancers.🤔 Key Topics Discussed:The difference between microscopic and visible blood in urine.Why it's crucial to address blood in urine immediately.How infections, polyps, stones, or even cancers could be underlying causes.Tips for maintaining good urinary health and the importance of hydration.Solutions for managing urinary incontinence in older men.💡 Key Takeaway: Never ignore blood in urine! It is a vital sign that shouldn't be overlooked.If you notice blood in your urine, see your doctor right away! For more health insights and expert advice, subscribe to our podcast and follow us for the latest episodes.Join the conversation! Leave your questions and comments below. Let's prioritize our health together. 🌟The Harley Street Doctor - Produced by the Harley Street Health Centre

Welcome to another enlightening episode of The Harley Street Doctor. Together with Founder and CEO of Harley Health Centre Alya Shakir, who is also a psychologist, we will explore the fascinating correlation between our gut and mental health in the wonderful world of psychobiology. Be prepared for a deep dive into how the balanced biodiversity of our gut microbiota plays critical roles in determining not only our physical health, but also our mental well-being.In this episode, we will uncover how the gut-brain axis acts as a two-way communication network that impacts various aspects of our health. Providing an in-depth understanding of how serotonin, the 'happy hormone', is produced within our gut, we address how the gut microbiota influences our emotional responses, cognitive functions, nutrient absorption and immune system functioning. Join us to decode this intricate gut-brain connection and learn how to take proactive steps towards enhancing your mental through improved gut health.The Harley Street Doctor - Produced by the Harley Street Health Centre

Welcome back to The Harley Street Doctor as we return with another insightful episode. Today, Dr Enam Abood delves into the rather 'touchy' topic of bloating. This seemingly trivial discomfort is, in fact, an indicator that something is running amiss in our digestive tract.In this episode, Dr Abood establishes the connection between our diet and bloating. She discusses some usual suspects in our meals that cause bloating, such as certain intolerable foods, high-fat content, and even the simple act of eating too hastily. Plus, the whistle-blowers in this digestive mystery, carbonated drinks and gas-inducing vegetables. From understanding these causes to making conscious diet adjustments, take control of bloating and reclaim your comfort.The Harley Street Doctor - Produced by the Harley Street Health Centre

Welcome to another enlightening episode of The Harley Street Doctor. We were privileged to be joined by the esteemed Dr. Mohammad Mohseyni, who shares invaluable insights into one of our body's most crucial but often overlooked organs: the kidneys. Far from being simple filters, the kidneys play an instrumental role in a plethora of bodily functions, such as regulating blood pressure, contributing to the production of red blood cells, and maintaining fluid balance. In this episode, we uncovered the multifaceted roles of the kidneys, delving into the essentials of kidney health and how our lifestyle choices impact this crucial organ system.Our discussion also shed light on common warning signs of kidney trouble and the importance of early detection through regular health check-ups. It was also made clear how critical proper hydration and a balanced diet are in supporting kidney health. With the right advice, a proactive approach, and regular monitoring, it's entirely possible to maintain and even improve kidney health. Ignoring these crucial aspects could potentially lead to serious health issues, implying that promoting our kidney health must form a critical part of our holistic health strategy.The Harley Street Doctor - Produced by the Harley Street Health Centre

 In this episode, Dr. Enam Abood delves deep into the global benchmarks for typical blood pressure ranges and variations observed in different countries. Investigate the significant factors that contribute to these differences and the impact of age and overall health on assessing blood pressure levels.For comprehensive health information and guidelines, visit: https://www.harleyhealthcentre.com/The Harley Street Doctor - Produced by the Harley Street Health Centre

In this episode, Dr. Enam Abood delves deep into understanding colon cancer - an unfolding health concern in our society marked by increasing life expectancy for all ages and steady medical advancements. In particular, the prevalence of colon cancer in younger generations is an alarming trend supported by undeniable statistical data that requires our crucial attention.The discussion centers on the reasons for this spike in incidence among younger populations, which hinge on two key factors: genetics and lifestyle choices. They illuminate how unhealthy lifestyle habits, such as consuming processed foods, overindulgence in alcohol, and smoking, accelerate the likelihood of colon cancer. Listen in as she sheds light on how making informed lifestyle choices and opting for regular health screenings can be a significant strategy in circumventing the advances of this unsettling disease.The Harley Street Doctor - Produced by the Harley Street Health Centre

Welcome to this episode of "The Harley Street Doctor"! In conversation with our speakers  Dr. Enam Abood & Alya Shakir, today's discussion dives into a critical exploratory journey decoding a condition that challenges numerous women worldwide known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). The occurrence of this condition is much higher than understood to be, impacting nearly one in ten women. PCOS is not a disorder, but it's considered a plinth of the natural structure in some women. This segment aims to provide an exhaustive understanding of PCOS right from the rationale behind its name to the medical peculiarities associated with it.In the detailed explanation of "What is PCOS?" we touch upon the expected and actual appearances of ovaries, giving you a clear perspective about PCOS and why it matters. The narrative unearths the potential complications such as fertility issues, persistent weight, and elevated testosterone levels which could induce excessive facial and body hair. Reiterating the fact, PCOS does not escalate into life-threatening situations or ovarian cancer.The Harley Street Doctor - Produced by the Harley Street Health Centre

Stress has become an increasingly common aspect of our lives, impacting individuals from all walks of life. Alya Shakir, as a manager director at Harley Street Health Centre and with her extensive experience in healthcare and well-being, shares her expertise on the signs and symptoms of stress, helping us understand how it manifests emotionally, mentally, and physically. From the subtle hints to the more pronounced indicators, we uncover the red flags that signal the presence of stress in our daily lives. But it doesn't stop there. Alya goes beyond merely identifying stress; she provides practical strategies and techniques to effectively deal with and reduce its impact. Drawing on her wealth of knowledge, she introduces innovative approaches to combat stress, exploring mindfulness techniques, relaxation exercises, and other evidence-based practices that have proven effective in promoting well-being. The Harley Street Doctor - Produced by the Harley Street Health Centre

In this episode, Alya and Dr. Abood have a conversation amidst the peaceful ambience of their garden outside the clinic, with occasional sounds of central London nature and construction in the background. They shed light on two pivotal chapters in women's health: the postpartum period and menopause. They discuss the lack of healthcare support that women often encounter during these stages and aim to bring attention to these important topics.The hosts explore the reasons why women may experience extreme fatigue after giving birth, going beyond the common explanation of sleep deprivation. Dr. Abood explains the various physiological changes that occur during pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, highlighting factors such as hormonal fluctuations, physical trauma, and the increased demand for nutrients. They emphasize the significance of addressing nutrient deficiencies, including iron and vitamin D, to prevent long-term complications like anaemia.Furthermore, Alya and Dr. Abood touch upon the prevalence of undiagnosed gestational diabetes and the importance of proper monitoring during pregnancy. They also discuss the potential impact of hormonal changes, such as fluctuations in progesterone and estrogen levels, on a woman's emotional well-being.The conversation concludes with a discussion on essential check-ups and tests recommended for new mothers. They emphasize the importance of monitoring temperature and blood pressure and conducting blood tests to assess haemoglobin levels, inflammatory factors, iron, vitamin D, vitamin B12, folic acid, diabetes, and thyroid function.Don't miss out on this insightful and informative podcast episode that addresses vital health considerations for women during their postpartum journey and menopause. Stay tuned for more episodes.The Harley Street Doctor - Produced by the Harley Street Health Centre

Fatigue can be a persistent challenge for many, but fear not! Tune in to our latest podcast episode featuring Dr. Enam Abood, where he delves into the lifestyle-related causes of fatigue. and also uncovers the impact of sleep patterns, exercise routines, diet choices, and food intolerances on our energy levels, empowering listeners to make positive changes for a more energized life.  𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗼𝗻 𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘁𝘆𝗹𝗲 𝗳𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘀 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗰𝗮𝗻 𝗰𝗮𝘂𝘀𝗲 𝗳𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗴𝘂𝗲 𝗶𝗻𝗰𝗹𝘂𝗱𝗲:⚕️ Lack of sleep or too much sleep ⚕️ Lack of regular exercise & sedentary behaviour⚕️ Poor diet⚕️ Food intoleranceThe Harley Street Doctor - Produced by the Harley Street Health Centre

In our first episode Dr. Mohammad Mohseyni discusses the significance of health screenings for men in this informative podcast episode. He explains the importance of monitoring prostate health through the Prostate Specific Antigen Test, as well as conducting regular heart health checks to assess the risk of heart disease. The liver function test is also essential for identifying any underlying liver diseases. The Harley Street Doctor - Produced by the Harley Street Health Centre