The Vital Sign Podcast

After uncovering the mysteries of gout in the previous episode, this episode explores the essential strategies patients can use to manage gout attacks and flares, both in the short and long term. For starters, finding the right medication for pain relief is a critical step in addressing flare-ups. And equally important is making long-term lifestyle adjustments—whether through therapy, education, or raising awareness—to better manage the condition and improve quality of life.Tune in now to discover strategies and equip yourself with the tools to triumph over this joint-jerking adversary!

We've all heard about someone with gout. But do we actually know what it is? In this episode, Dr Tan takes us on a journey through the evolution of gout. From Ancient Egypt to present times, gout continues to be prevalent due to a whole host of factors - some of which, may surprise you. Listen in as we unravel the mysteries of high uric acid, acutely painful gout episodes, and the things that make us prone to developing gout! Episode Overview:The long history of gout Nature or nurture? Various causes of goutHow gout develops in the body, including the significance of hyperuricemia  Spotting the signs: What gout episodes look and feel likeThe persistence of gout and its relationship to other long-term diseasesCredits The Vital Sign podcast is a production of Renegade Radio with support from Abbott Laboratories in Malaysia. It was produced by Senior Producer Kelvin Tay and Producer Raghinie Ravi, hosted by Afiq Kamarudin, written by Alyssa Pong Le Ann and Arnaldan Bryan Henry, and edited by Dickson Cheah. The content was fact-checked by the Abbott Medical Affairs Team.

This episode focuses on the resilience of the human immune system and how understanding it is key to staying ahead of health threats. Whether it's COVID-19, influenza, or other challenges, building immunity is essential for long-term wellness. The conversation emphasizes how preparation, much like having a fire extinguisher ready, is crucial in safeguarding our health.Episode Overview:Post-2024 pandemic world: The new normal and societal shifts.Traffic woes and the benefits of remote work.The immune system: How it works and why preparation matters.Differences in immunity strength and recovery times.Vaccines as a preventive tool.Practical tips for boosting immunity.Fun discussion on common health myths like sleeping with wet hair and the use of Vicks.Credits The Vital Sign podcast is a production of Renegade Radio with support from Abbott Laboratories in Malaysia. It was produced by Senior Producer Kelvin Tay and Producer Raghinie Ravi, hosted by Afiq Kamarudin, written by Alyssa Pong Le Ann and Arnaldan Bryan Henry, and edited by Dickson Cheah. The content was fact-checked by the Abbott Medical Affairs Team.

In this episode, listeners discover the fascinating and complex workings of the immune system as it combats infections and pathogens.The episode takes a deeper look into how vaccines — specifically the flu shot — help strengthen our immune defenses, not just for children and the elderly, but for everyone. It emphasizes the critical role vaccines play in preventing severe illness and high healthcare costs.Episode Overview:The immune system’s response to pathogens: macrophages, neutrophils, and dendritic cells.How Helper T cells and B cells defend the body and create long-lasting immunity.Flu vaccines: How they work, who needs them, and why they’re crucial for public health.Debunking myths around the flu vaccine and explaining its safety for children, the elderly, and pregnant women.Financial implications of flu treatment vs. preventive vaccination.Credits The Vital Sign podcast is a production of Renegade Radio with support from Abbott Laboratories in Malaysia. It was produced by Senior Producer Kelvin Tay and Producer Raghinie Ravi, hosted by Afiq Kamarudin, written by Alyssa Pong Le Ann and Arnaldan Bryan Henry, and edited by Dickson Cheah. The content was fact-checked by the Abbott Medical Affairs Team.

In this episode, we draw chilling parallels between the COVID-19 pandemic and the 1918 influenza outbreak in Malaya, reminding us that history often repeats itself.The core message is clear: despite the challenges of today, those in the past faced unimaginable trials with fewer resources and limited knowledge. It’s a sobering reflection on resilience and survival in times of global crises.Episode Overview:Introduction to pandemic parallels (COVID-19 vs. 1918 influenza)Historical overview of the 1918 flu in MalayaKey statistics and comparisons with modern pandemicsThe societal impact of pandemics on daily lifeReflections on how far we've come in medical knowledgeClosing thoughts on resilience and health crisesCredits The Vital Sign podcast is a production of Renegade Radio with support from Abbott Laboratories in Malaysia. It was produced by Senior Producer Kelvin Tay and Producer Raghinie Ravi, hosted by Afiq Kamarudin, written by Alyssa Pong Le Ann and Arnaldan Bryan Henry, and edited by Dickson Cheah. The content was fact-checked by the Abbott Medical Affairs Team.

This episode dives deep into the misunderstood world of vertigo. Join us, as ENT specialist Dr. Gagan Mann helps explore what happens inside the body when you experience dizziness, from minor imbalance to more serious conditions like vertigo.Episode OverviewThe importance of identifying the root causes of vertigo.Dr. Gagan distinguishes the different types of dizziness.How the body’s inner ear, brain, and eyes work together to maintain balance.Common misconceptions about vertigo get debunked.Tips on when to seek medical attention if you experience dizziness or vertigo.Credits The Vital Sign podcast is a production of Renegade Radio with support from Abbott Laboratories in Malaysia. It was produced by Senior Producer Kelvin Tay and Producer Raghinie Ravi, hosted by Afiq Kamarudin, written by Alyssa Pong Le Ann and Arnaldan Bryan Henry, and edited by Dickson Cheah. The content was fact-checked by the Abbott Medical Affairs Team.

This is the second episode in our Vertigo Series, we highly recommend that you tune into the first episode before jumping into this one. Vertigo can be more than just a dizzy spell—it’s a condition that, when left untreated, can lead to significant disruptions in daily life. In this episode, ears, nose, and throat specialist, Dr. Gagan returns to share his expertise on how to best manage and treat vertigo to empower those living with this condition to regain control.Listeners will also hear real-life stories from patients who have successfully managed vertigo, and Dr. Gagan offers critical advice on when to seek medical help, including red flags you should never ignore.Episode OverviewRecap of what vertigo is and the different types discussed in the last episode.Dr. Gagan breaks down treatment options, from physical maneuvers to medications.Advice on recognizing serious symptoms and when to seek immediate medical attention.Practical tips for managing vertigo in daily life.Rapid fire round on the efficacy of home remedies.Credits The Vital Sign podcast is a production of Renegade Radio with support from Abbott Laboratories in Malaysia. It was produced by Senior Producer Kelvin Tay and Producer Raghinie Ravi, hosted by Afiq Kamarudin, written by Alyssa Pong Le Ann and Arnaldan Bryan Henry, and edited by Dickson Cheah. The content was fact-checked by the Abbott Medical Affairs Team.