The Scope

Can chemotherapy be used to prevent cancer? The short answer is no. Theresa Werner, MD, Deputy Director of the Huntsman Cancer Institute, debunks the notion of "preventative" chemotherapy in healthy individuals and explains the real preventive measures that can reduce cancer risk.

Not all burns are treated the same. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, breaks down the differences between chemical, electrical, and thermal burns in kids, including the three degrees of thermal burns and how home care differs from an emergency room visit. Learn why first-degree burns can be managed at home while third-degree burns should always be treated as a medical emergency.

After sitting for a long time, you notice one leg is swollen and your calf is painful. Should you go to the ER? Emergency physician Jeffrey Druck, MD, says the risk of a blood clot in your leg from sitting too long is reason to visit the ER. Find out why sitting for a long time during a car drive or plane flight can be dangerous, who can be at risk, and what you can do to prevent it.

Difficulty sleeping affects many people, especially during periods of stress. But borrowing a friend’s sleeping pill is not a safe solution. Kirtly Jones, MD, explains why prescription medications should never be shared, how over-the-counter sleep aids work, and why sleeping pills may cause problems such as sleepwalking, impaired driving, or next-day grogginess. She also discusses safer approaches to insomnia.

At-home sperm tests are everywhere, from drugstore shelves to online ads. But how reliable are they? John Smith, DO, explains what these tests actually measure and why they are generally 95–98% accurate. He also highlights what they cannot catch that only a clinical evaluation can reveal.

A broken bone in the wilderness can quickly shift from a painful inconvenience to a serious emergency. Scott Youngquist, MD, from University of Utah Health's Emergency Department, explains how to manage fractures when definitive care is out of reach. Learn how to splint for comfort, minimize further injury, and make the right call when deciding whether to move or wait for help.

Dry mouth is more than an annoying feeling that makes you reach for a water bottle. It can affect your ability to eat, taste food, and protect your teeth. Kirtly Jones, MD, talks to Lea Erickson, DDS, about why dry mouth becomes more common with age, how medications and conditions such as Sjögren’s syndrome can contribute, and why saliva plays such an important role in oral health. Learn when medications may help, and why talking with both your physician and dentist is important if dry mouth becomes a persistent problem.

For people with treatment-resistant obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or major depressive disorder (MDD), standard treatments such as medication and psychotherapy may not provide enough relief. Neurosurgeon Ben Shofty, MD, explains how psychiatric neurosurgery offers options for some patients who have exhausted other treatments. Learn how the procedures work, what recovery and results can look like, and why these treatments may help patients respond to therapies that were not effective before.

Playgrounds equal fun, but also falls, scrapes, and the occasional broken bone. Pediatrician Cindy Gellner, MD, covers common playground injuries, from simple cuts to forearm fractures and head bumps, and explains which ones need a Band-Aid versus a trip to urgent care or the pediatric emergency room.

It starts as an awkward moment at the dinner table. Then suddenly, you can not swallow, and panic sets in. Is it just uncomfortable, or a true medical emergency? Emergency physician Jeffrey Druck, MD, breaks down when food stuck in your throat requires an ER visit and when a simple remedy like soda might do the trick. Learn the warning signs that should never be ignored and what to expect if that snack will not budge.

From drain cleaners to dishwasher pods, many household products can cause devastating harm if swallowed. So what should you do if your child, or anyone, drinks something they should not? Michael Moss, MD, from Utah Poison Control Center, explains why this is always a 911 situation, how poison control can help on the way to the ER, and what not to do in the moment.

Bone loss becomes a serious health concern as we age, especially for women after menopause. Nearly half of women over 60 will experience a fracture of the hip, wrist, or spine during their lifetime. Women's health specialist Kirtly Jones, MD, explains why the foundation for lifelong bone health is built by our 30s and what we can do at every age to protect our bones. Learn how to build stronger bones, recognize your risk factors, and know when it is time to check your bone density.

If you and your partner have been struggling to get pregnant, it may be time to consider speaking with your doctor about fertility treatments. It is important to realize the conception strategies and medical options available to you rely on the age of the woman trying to have a child. Women's health specialist Kirtly Parker Jones, MD, speaks with fertility expert Erica Johnstone, MD, about helping young women under 35 become pregnant. This episode is part of a three-part series on fertility treatments. For help getting pregnant between the ages of 35-40 or after 40, please refer to the other episodes in the series.

Most diets fail not because people lack willpower, but because restriction often leads to frustration and burnout. Registered dietitian Julie Metos, PhD, explains why your relationship with food changes when you change your mindset. Instead of focusing on what you should not eat, she encourages building sustainable habits that help you feel healthier, more energetic, and more in control. Whether you are trying to eat better, lose weight, or simply improve your relationship with food, learn how to create lasting habits that support long-term health.

Sudden confusion in an older adult who is hospitalized is not just "part of aging." It is often delirium, a preventable medical emergency. Roxanne Weiss, MD, is a hospitalist, geriatrician, and medical director of the Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP) at University of Utah Health. She explains the difference between delirium and dementia, why families are often the first to notice it, and what simple steps can help prevent it.

It is Sunday morning, your molar is throbbing, and your dentist is nowhere to be found. Do you ride it out, head to urgent care, or make a beeline for the ER? Emergency physician Jeffrey Druck, MD, lays out when a toothache is just a painful inconvenience—and when it signals something more serious, like a spreading infection. Learn the red flags to watch for, and why the ER is not always your best bet for dental drama.

Medications control most acid reflux, but for some patients, the volume of reflux keeps growing. Eric Volckmann, MD, a bariatric surgeon, explains how minimally invasive laparoscopic anti-reflux surgery (GERD) works and what recovery actually looks like. He also describes how a patient's weight can affect which procedure makes the most sense.

Yes, delusional disorder is a real, diagnosable condition. Distinct from schizophrenia, delusional disorder occurs when a person holds one or more fixed false beliefs while otherwise functioning normally. Tyler Durns, MD, a forensic psychiatrist at Huntsman Mental Health Institute, explains the causes and different types of the disorder, along with ways that families can stay connected without reinforcing the delusion.

You take a softball straight to the forehead. It hurts, you are rattled, and now you are wondering: Is this just a bruise, or something more serious? Emergency physician Jeffrey Druck, MD, explains how to spot the signs of a concussion, when head injuries need an immediate ER visit, and what symptoms are safe to monitor from the sidelines.

Extreme cravings, headaches, fatigue, low energy, brain fog, gas, and bloating. Have you ever experienced a situation where you start eating healthier and instead of feeling better, you feel worse? Registered dietitian Staci McIntosh talks about the adjustment period and some of the symptoms you might be experiencing when first changing to a new diet. She also offers words of advice on how to keep up with a new diet, even if the results may be making you feel not so great at the beginning.

Although the terms are used interchangeably online, Botox and fillers are different substances with different uses that work in completely different ways. Sarah Akkina, MD, a facial plastic surgeon, explains how Botox relaxes muscles while filler adds volume, debunks the myth that fillers can "lift," and walks through safety questions to ask before getting any injectable.

When it is dangerously hot outside and someone starts acting strangely or passes out, it could be more than just dehydration. Emergency physician Graham Brant-Zawadzki, MD, explains why heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency—and how to spot the red flags before it is too late. Learn cooling strategies, when to call 911, and how to protect the most vulnerable in your community.

Half of the children who drown do so within 25 yards of their parents. Drowning is often silent, quick, and far less dramatic than most people expect. Emergency physician Scott Youngquist, MD, explains the subtle signs of drowning and the risk factors that make drowning more likely. Knowing what drowning really looks like could help you recognize an emergency and act before it is too late.

A severe hand injury does not always mean permanent disability or amputation. Advances in reconstructive microsurgery now allow surgeons to restore remarkable levels of movement, strength, and sensation. Hand surgeon Laura Wong, MD, PhD, explains what modern hand reconstruction can accomplish, how treatment decisions are tailored to each patient’s goals and lifestyle, why time is critical after an injury, and the essential role of rehabilitation in helping patients regain independence and return to the activities they love.

For young athletes, injuries happen—from sprained joints in sports like soccer or track, to dislocated shoulders on the football field. Orthopedic specialist Julia Rawlings, MD, talks about three of the most common injuries she sees in young athletes and why some of these injuries should be seen by a doctor sooner rather than later.

When the room starts to spin and you feel disoriented and unsteady, it is natural to wonder if a trip to the ER is necessary. Emergency room physician Jeffrey Druck, MD, weighs the crucial risk factors that should be taken into account when evaluating whether to seek immediate medical assistance when you feel dizzy.

Feeling wiped out by summer heat at the start of the season—but just fine by August? That is not your imagination. Emergency physician Scott Youngquist, MD, explains how your body adapts to heat over time and what happens beneath the surface to improve tolerance. Learn the science behind heat conditioning, the risks of pushing too far, and what it takes to build heat resilience safely and effectively.

Your first prenatal visit does more than confirm the pregnancy, and it is where your care gets personalized. Abigail Rizk, CNM/MSN, Clinical Practice Director at BirthCare HealthCare and Division Chief of the Division of Midwifery at University of Utah Health, walks through what to expect: the bedside ultrasound, the panel of prenatal labs, genetic testing options, and how to come prepared with your family health history. She also explains how the midwifery team connects you to specialists in behavioral health, maternal-fetal medicine, and more, so your care fits your specific situation from day one.

Frequent urination is often associated with diabetes, but many people do not realize the disease can also damage the nerves that control the bladder over time. Poorly controlled blood sugar may cause urinary urgency and frequent trips to the bathroom early on, while long-term diabetes can leave the bladder unable to empty properly. Kirtly Jones, MD, talks to urologist Sara Lenherr, MD, about how diabetes affects bladder function, the tests used to diagnose diabetic bladder dysfunction, and the treatment options available.

It is a classic scenario: you step on a rusty nail, panic sets in, and you start wondering if you are one tetanus shot away from disaster. Emergency physician Jeffrey Druck, MD, explains why most minor punctures do not require an ER visit, when to consider urgent care instead, and how your vaccination status plays a key role.

Nearly one in four strokes occurs in someone who has already had a stroke, making prevention a critical part of recovery. Steven Edgley, MD, Director of Stroke Rehabilitation at University of Utah Health, explains the three major “buckets” of stroke prevention. He discusses why stroke survivors often face unique challenges with exercise and mobility, how inactivity can lead to a downward spiral of declining health, and the importance of rehabilitation in helping patients stay on an upward path. Learn the practical steps that can help reduce your risk of a second stroke and support long-term health and independence.

Migraine treatment is not a single pill; it is a toolbox. Karly Pippitt, MD, a family physician and headache specialist at the University of Utah Health headache clinic, walks through rescue medications like triptans and CGRP antagonists, prevention options ranging from blood pressure drugs to Botox, and why setting realistic expectations matters more than chasing a cure.

Severe abdominal pain that leaves you unable to stand up straight should never be ignored. Emergency physician Scott Youngquist, MD, explains why sudden, intense abdominal pain often warrants an emergency evaluation. Learn about potentially serious causes, how symptoms can progress, and why waiting too long can lead to dangerous complications.

Abdominal cancers can affect many organs, including the colon, stomach, pancreas, liver, kidneys, ovaries, and uterus. While some cancers can be prevented through routine screenings and vaccinations, many abdominal cancers are difficult to detect because their symptoms often resemble common digestive complaints. Theresa Warner, MD, Deputy Director of Huntsman Cancer Institute, explains the different types of abdominal cancers, the importance of preventive care, and the warning signs that should never be ignored.

Is a pulled hamstring—also called a strained hamstring—something you can treat on your own, or should you see a doctor? Athletic trainer Travis Nolan shares how to determine when you should seek help, why it is essential to do the proper stretching and physical therapy, and how long it takes for hamstring strains to heal.

Sexual health is about far more than sexual performance or preventing sexually transmitted infections. Men's health specialist John Smith, DO, discusses the physical, emotional, and relationship factors that influence men’s sexual wellness throughout life. Learn how cardiovascular health, weight management, hormone levels, stress, mental health, and partner communication all play important roles in sexual function and satisfaction.

Thinking about weight loss surgery but unsure where to start, especially with GLP-1 medications everywhere? Ellen H. Morrow, MD, MS, FACS, a surgeon with the bariatric surgery program at University of Utah Health, breaks down who qualifies, how safe it is, what life looks like afterward, and how to weigh surgery against GLP-1s when deciding which path fits your goals.

Caffeine is one of the most widely consumed substances in the world, found in everything from coffee and tea to sodas, energy drinks, and even chocolate. But is it good for you, bad for you, or somewhere in between? Kirtly Jones, MD, talks about caffeine consumption, potential health benefits, recommendations, and concerns. Learn how much caffeine is considered safe, why pregnancy requires extra caution, and why experts advise limiting caffeine in younger populations.

When you start sneezing and your nose starts running, is it allergies or a sinus infection? Tom Miller, MD, talks to otolaryngologist Jeremiah Alt, MD, about how to distinguish allergies from the common cold and sinus infections. Learn which symptoms point toward allergic rhinitis, when facial pressure and discolored mucus may signal a sinus problem, and how over-the-counter and prescription treatments can help.

A fall may seem like a simple accident, but in older adults, it can be an important warning sign of declining health, balance, vision, or mobility. Geriatric specialist Natalie Sanders, DO, explains why every fall deserves attention, how health care providers identify underlying risk factors, and when physical therapy, specialist care, or rehabilitation may be needed. Learn what recovery can look like after a serious injury, what questions to ask your care team, and the practical steps that can help prevent future falls and preserve independence.

Many women expect the baby weight to come off after delivery, but for some, the opposite happens. Kirtly Parker Jones, MD, explains why postpartum weight gain is so common, from sleep deprivation and stress to thyroid changes and lifestyle habits. She also shares practical strategies that can help new moms lose weight safely, improve their long-term health, and model healthy habits for their growing families. Learn what may be driving postpartum weight gain and what you can do about it.

Not every groin injury is actually a pulled muscle. While true groin strains can happen, athletes with recurring groin pain may be dealing with femoroacetabular impingement (FAI), a hip condition caused by abnormal contact between the ball and socket of the hip joint. Tom Miller, MD, talks to orthopedic surgeon Travis Maak, MD, about how to recognize the warning signs, why certain sports may increase risk, and when persistent symptoms should prompt further evaluation. Learn how physical therapy, activity modifications, and modern surgical techniques can help athletes return to the activities they love without ongoing pain.

Trying to conceive after a miscarriage can be emotionally exhausting, especially when pregnancy does not happen as quickly as expected. Kirtly Jones, MD, explains that for many healthy couples who conceived easily before, most will become pregnant again within a year. Learn when delays may be normal, when age or fertility factors may matter, and when it is time to talk with a specialist.

Back pain is a very common health issue that can significantly impact your life. When that condition becomes chronic, there is no simple answer to treatment. Graham Wagner, MD, explains the many treatment strategies available for back pain, why each patient's pain treatment may be different, and when surgery may be a viable path for relief.

Managing diabetes every day is exhausting, and over time, that weight can lead to something called diabetes burnout. Michelle Litchman, PhD, medical director of the Intensive Diabetes Education and Support Program at University of Utah Health, explains how burnout differs from everyday stress, the warning signs that it is setting in, and four concrete approaches to get back on track. Learn what resources are available and how to access them through your care team.

Shoulders can be injured in many ways, including trauma, a torn tendon, or simply overuse. Fortunately, an injured shoulder does not always require surgery. Tom Miller, MD, speaks with orthopedic surgeon Robert Tashjian, MD, about how injured shoulders can commonly be diagnosed and treated without surgery.

Fertility conversations tend to focus on women, but men contribute 50% of the equation. John Smith, DO, explains how a man's diet, stress, weight, and health habits directly shape sperm quality during the roughly 90-day production cycle. Learn how emerging research on epigenetics is changing what we know about a father's role in a healthy pregnancy.

Thinking about a hip or knee replacement, but unsure if it is the right next step? Joint replacement specialist Chris Pelt, MD, explains what these procedures are designed to treat and who may benefit most. Learn the health factors that affect candidacy, the role of imaging and conservative care, and the three major signs that pain may be interfering enough to justify a serious conversation about joint replacement.

Should you eat three large meals a day or several smaller ones? Theresa Dvorak, registered dietitian at University of Utah Health, clears up the confusion about meal frequency. Learn how meal timing affects hunger, why long gaps between meals can lead to overeating, and how to build a schedule that works with your body and lifestyle.

As the kids leave home, parents often anticipate newfound freedom and excitement. However, the reality can sometimes be quite different. Family physician Kyle Bradford Jones, MD, delves into the phenomenon of empty nest syndrome. He discusses the emotional challenges, the return of the "boomerang generation," and navigating the evolving dynamics of caregiving roles within the family.