Respiratory Viruses Update

In this insightful episode of Pediatrics Now for Parents, host Holly Wayment is joined by Dr. Ginnie Abarbanell, the head of the pediatric cardiology at UT Health SA and University Health, to discuss crucial aspects of children's heart health. Dr. Abarbanell emphasizes the significance of February as Heart Month and the often-overlooked importance of monitoring children's heart health alongside adults'. Listeners will gain valuable insights into how early food choices and physical activities can influence lifelong habits. Dr. Abarbanell shares practical tips for encouraging children to enjoy fruits and vegetables, become physically active, and develop lasting healthy routines. The episode also covers the subtle signs parents should watch for indicating potential heart issues in children during physical activities. Dr. Abarbanell's personal anecdotes reveal her experiences as both a cardiologist and a mother, offering a relatable and informative perspective on raising heart-healthy kids.

Join us in this episode of Pediatrics Now as we dive into the impactful world of pediatric plastic surgery with Dr. Richard Thomson, an esteemed surgeon from UT Health San Antonio. Dr. Thomson shares insights into the profound effects of plastic surgery on children's lives, highlighting transformative procedures for prominent ears and cleft palates that greatly enhance a child's quality of life. Discover Dr. Thomson's remarkable journey from the UK to Texas, and his passion for building a child-led approach in his practice. Alongside anecdotes from his personal and professional life, including his experiences with outdoor swimming and dedication to patient-centered care, this episode offers a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs in pediatric healthcare.

In this episode of Pediatrics Now, host Holly Wayment is joined by Dr. J.B. Cantey from University Health and UT San Antonio to discuss the challenges of this year's aggressive flu season. Dr. Cantey, the first double-boarded doctor in neonatology and infectious disease, provides insights into the circulation of two strains of influenza A and the potential risks posed by H5N1, the bird flu. The discussion covers the importance of flu vaccinations, the efficacy of Tamiflu, and key symptoms to monitor in children and vulnerable populations. Dr. Cantey emphasizes the need for preventive measures such as handwashing and offers advice for ensuring community and family safety.

This episode of Pediatrics Now features Dr. Marisa Earley from University Health and UT Health San Antonio. Join host Holly Wayment as they delve into kid ear health and the challenges children face. Dr. Earley explains how the structural immaturity of the eustachian tube in children can lead to frequent ear infections and shares practical advice for parents on how to manage and recognize symptoms. Listeners will discover useful tools such as affordable phone otoscopes that help parents monitor their kids' ear health effectively. The conversation also covers the importance of proper ear hygiene, the pros and cons of certain ear-related products, and essential advice.  

Host Holly Wayment explores the challenges and solutions during the peak of respiratory virus season. Joining Holly is Dr. Tess Barton, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at the University of Texas at San Antonio who sheds light on the wave respiratory illnesses. With a deep dive into the seasonal trends, Dr. Barton explains the implications of RSV, flu, and COVID-19, providing parents with crucial information on identification and prevention. Dr. Barton shares her expertise on the use of antivirals for influenza and COVID, highlighting the importance of early diagnosis and vaccination to prevent severity and spread. The conversation also emphasizes the critical role of identifying symptoms to avoid unnecessary antibiotics use.

Join host and executive producer Holly Wayment and Dr. Marisa Earley, head of pediatric ENT at UT Health San Antonio and University Health, as they delve into the pediatric ear infections, eustachian tube dysfunction, and respiratory health, with a focus on the prevention.  Also, does your child really need that antibiotic?   The discussion also covers practical tips for parents on managing common conditions like eustachian tube dysfunction using home remedies such as saline nasal rinses and when to opt for medical interventions. Learn why proper management of ear health is crucial for children,  and the natural course of many pediatric ear conditions. Dr. Earley provides expert advice on the use of saline nasal rinses in infants and children, with safety precautions to ensure effectiveness. The episode highlights the importance of empowering parents with knowledge and techniques to effectively manage their children's ear and respiratory health.

In this episode of Pediatrics Now, Host and Executive Producer Holly Wayment talks to Dr. Jessica Sandoval, child psychiatrist at UT Health San Antonio.  They explore the challenging topic of depression in youth. Dr. Sandoval shares invaluable insights into recognizing depressive episodes, understanding their symptoms, and the importance of listening as a crucial intervention. Dr. Sandoval emphasizes the need for safety plans, outlining coping skills, and ensuring that affected youths have a reliable support network. She sheds light on common misconceptions about depression, especially in minors, and highlights how various factors, including social isolation and structural issues, contribute to the development of depressive disorders.  Dr. Sandoval also shares her personal journey into child psychiatry, driven by a genuine passion to bridge cultural understanding and mental health awareness.

In this episode of Pediatrics Now, host Holly Wayment is joined by Dr. Tess Barton, an infectious disease expert at the University of Texas Health Science Center and University Health. They delve into the topic of atypical pneumonia, commonly known as walking pneumonia, and discuss the recent surge in mycoplasma pneumonia cases both locally and nationally. Dr. Barton explains the clinical presentation of atypical pneumonia, including symptoms such as fever, cough, and wheezing, and differentiates it from other respiratory illnesses like COVID-19 and RSV. She highlights the importance of increased awareness among pediatricians and parents, and the role of diagnostic testing in identifying mycoplasma infections. The conversation also covers the contagious nature of walking pneumonia, recommendations for managing symptoms, and the crucial role of antibiotics in reducing contagion. Dr. Barton emphasizes the significance of vaccination in preventing other respiratory illnesses, such as influenza and RSV, and addresses common concerns about vaccines, including their effectiveness and safety. Throughout the episode, Dr. Barton provides valuable insights for parents and pediatric practitioners on recognizing warning signs of severe illness, the benefits of fever as a natural defense mechanism, and the importance of teaching children proper hygiene practices to prevent the spread of infections.

In this episode of "Pediatrics Now for Parents," host Holly Wayment dives into the complexities of the teenage brain with expert Dr. David Yeager, a professor at UT Austin. Known for his extensive research and his book, "10 to 25, The Science of Motivating Young People," Dr. Yeager shares transformative insights that can help parents navigate the challenges of raising teenagers. Join the discussion as Dr. Yeager explores the similarities in motivation drivers across ages 10 to 25 and offers practical advice for addressing common teenage habits, such as excessive phone use and social media engagement. Discover how understanding the social needs of teenagers can lead to better communication and collaboration between parents and their children. Additionally, Dr. Yeager discusses the impact of social media on teenage mental health and offers strategies for promoting healthy habits, including nutrition and exercise. Learn how reframing the narrative around food choices and physical activity can empower teenagers to make healthier decisions. Tune in to gain valuable perspectives on tracking your child's location and managing expressions of frustration, such as "I hate my life." This episode provides essential tools for parents striving to support their teenagers through a critical phase of development.

Join Holly Wayment on Pediatrics Now as she interviews Dr. David Yeager, a professor at the University of Texas at Austin and author of the book 10 to 25, The Science of Motivating Young People. In this insightful episode, they delve into the rising anxiety levels among young people, exploring its roots in economic and social changes since the Great Recession. Dr. Yeager challenges common assumptions about technology's role in youth anxiety and emphasizes the importance of understanding young people's social motivations. He shares practical strategies for parents and educators, highlighting the mentor mindset—a balance of high standards and support—to effectively communicate and motivate adolescents. Discover how transparency, respect, and empowering young people can transform their decision-making, particularly around critical issues like substance use and social media. This episode offers valuable perspectives for anyone involved in guiding the next generation.