Explore every episode of the podcast Itchy and Bitchy Podcast

(00:00:00) 234: Denied: How Your Insurance Company Gets Rich Watching You Suffer
(00:00:11) Welcome to Itchy and Bitchy
(00:00:42) Doc Itchy Medical Pet Supplements
(00:01:06) Insurance Frustrations and System Failures
(00:02:27) The Broken Lens and Broken System
(00:04:31) Insurance Woes and Personal Experiences
(00:08:19) Pre-Approvals and Administrative Burdens
(00:15:31) The High Cost of a Broken System
(00:20:04) Concierge Care: A Growing Alternative
(00:28:17) The State of Healthcare in the US
(00:31:50) Medical Debt and Systemic Issues

Welcome to American healthcare, where a college dropout in a call center overrides your doctor and an algorithm denies your chemo before lunch. This episode rips the curtain off the profit machine: prior authorizations, surprise bills, and "peer" reviewers who couldn't spell the disease they're denying. The receipts are ugly — physicians now grind through ~40 prior auths a week, burning 13 hours; 94% say it fuels burnout; and 1 in 4 doctors reports a denial caused a serious patient harm, up to and including death. Claim denials jumped 25% while AI quietly batch-rejects thousands at a time.

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Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

(00:00:00) 233: Docs Answer Listener Questions: Global Edition III
(00:00:11) Welcome to Itchy and Bitchy
(00:00:42) Doc Itchy Medical Pet Supplements
(00:01:05) Global Reach of Itchy and Bitchy
(00:03:14) Addressing Listener Questions
(00:06:26) Cyclospora and Food Safety
(00:09:51) Tick-Borne Illnesses and Prevention
(00:12:35) Break Announcement
(00:12:53) Creatine Supplements: Benefits and Risks
(00:15:51) Raw Diets and Food Safety for Pets
(00:17:57) Break Announcement

Listeners from around the globe send in questions for the Docs to give their best answers: most common countries for listenership, dog skin cancer, lumps and bumps, cardiac questions, diets and food science, cyclospora, toxins, vital monitoring and wearables, and more ....

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

(00:00:00) 232: Bald & Bougie: Why Your Hairline Is Ghosting You. HAIR-LOSS TRUTHS AND TREATMENTS
(00:00:06) Welcome to Itchy and Bitchy
(00:00:28) Hair Loss Statistics: A Growing Concern
(00:05:34) Medical Treatments: Hormone Manipulation
(00:14:40) Blood Flow Therapies: Minoxidil and Beyond
(00:18:46) Surgical Solutions: Hair Transplants and More
(00:21:57) Platelet-Rich Plasma: A Natural Approach
(00:26:28) Over-the-Counter Options: Microneedling and More
(00:36:52) The Bullshit Bin: Unproven Hair Growth Claims
(00:38:30) Doc Itchy Pet Supplements

Your part is widening, your ponytail is now a pony-tail, and TikTok swears rosemary oil and a $200 derma roller will fix it. Spoiler: they won't. This episode drags age-related hair loss into the light — androgenetic alopecia, DHT, menopause shedding, postpartum thinning, "cortisol hair," and the receding hairline you've been hiding under a hat since 2019. We separate legit from bullshit: what minoxidil and finasteride actually do.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

(00:00:00) 231b: "I am Allergic to EVERYTHING: Really?" Docs Discuss Allergy Immunology
(00:00:11) Welcome to Itchy and Bitchy
(00:00:42) Doc Itchy Medical Pet Supplements
(00:01:06) The Allergy Enigma
(00:03:03) Genetic Predisposition to Allergies
(00:05:49) The Complexities of Allergic Reactions
(00:08:41) Immunological Mechanisms of Allergies
(00:18:40) The Allergy Epidemic
(00:23:48) Treatment Options for Allergies
(00:31:12) Monoclonal Antibodies: A Breakthrough in Allergy Treatment
(00:34:45) The Final Frontier: Steroids and Other Powerful Medications

Your immune system is a bouncer with a hair trigger. This episode breaks down the actual allergy cascade, T helper cells barking orders, mast cells detonating, histamine flooding the scene — and why your dog's itchy, oozy ears run on the exact same wiring. Then we get to the good stuff: monoclonal antibodies (Mabs), the designer proteins quietly rewriting allergy medicine. Cytopoint muzzles IL-31 so your dog stops shredding the couch; Dupixent blocks IL-4 and IL-13 so humans stop shredding their own skin. Same playbook, different species. Finally, the patient who's "allergic to literally everything", every antibiotic, every dye, every vitamin. Spoiler: the research points less to true allergy and more to anxiety, somatization, and the nocebo effect. Legit reaction or brain doing a bit? We referee.
Get the receipts and the reading list at itchyandbitchy.com.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

(00:00:00) 230: Medical Mayhem: Sh*t They Don't Tell You! Impactions; Necrosis; GLP1A; Testosterone-Fat; & more
(00:00:11) Welcome to Itchy and Bitchy
(00:00:42) Doc Itchy Medical Pets Supplements
(00:01:02) Introducing Medical Mayhem
(00:03:50) GLP-1 Agonists and Testosterone
(00:08:26) Impactions and Constipation in Older Adults
(00:13:57) Perineal Necrosis: A Serious Complication
(00:19:01) Coronary Calcium Score: A New Heart Health Indicator
(00:24:59) IV Drips and Health Risks
(00:27:35) Sex Education and the Horny Health Index
(00:33:13) Closing Thoughts and New Listeners

Docs are trying out a new segment that will explore and explain weird and crazy medical problems that everyone wants to hush about because they are weird or embarrasing: Concrete Poops, Corinary Calcium Scores, IV Needles, Hormonal-Fat, Penis and Vaginal Necrosis, Sex-Drive, Erectile Dysfunction, Orgasm Education, and much more....

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

(00:00:00) 229: Doctor W.H.O. on Lubes - A World Health Issue!
(00:00:11) Welcome to Itchy and Bitchy
(00:01:32) The Surprising Variety of Sex Lubricants
(00:04:51) What Makes a Good Lubricant
(00:09:51) Personal Preferences in Lubricant Selection
(00:15:25) Types of Lubricants Explained
(00:21:20) The Importance of Provider-Patient Communication
(00:22:32) Legit or Bullshit: Sexual Health Quirks
(00:28:19) Closing Remarks and Call to Action

The Art of the Perfect Lube: Because Your Vagina Deserves a Craft Cocktail
Nobody talks about personal lubricants the way they talk about a perfectly balanced Old Fashioned, and honestly that's a crime. Both require the right ingredients, the wrong ones will absolutely ruin the experience, and yet most people are just grabbing whatever's cheapest off the shelf with zero regard for the recipe. Turns out formulation matters enormously; pH balance, osmolality, silicone versus water base, parabens, glycerin - these are your bitters, your base spirit, your garnish.
Get the ratio wrong and you're looking at irritation, infection, and a night that ends far earlier than planned. Just like a great bartender wouldn't dump corn syrup into a Negroni, your body deserves better than petroleum-based mystery ingredients.
We're breaking down exactly what's in your bottle and why the right cocktail recipe changes everything.
Visit itchyandbitchy.com
Itchy & Bitchy is the podcast for anyone who has ever felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 



Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

(00:00:00) 228: Foods That Can Kill You; and What You Can't Do About IT!
(00:00:11) Welcome to the Itchy and Bitchy Podcast
(00:00:42) Doc Itchy Medical Pets Supplements
(00:01:02) The Dirty Dozen: Pesticide Contaminated Produce
(00:07:07) The Pathogen Problem: Foodborne Illnesses on the Rise
(00:15:28) The Controversy: What to Do About Contaminated Food
(00:25:56) Practical Steps to Reduce Food Contamination Risk
(00:31:32) Closing Remarks and Future Episode Preview
(00:31:39) Doc Itchy Medical Pets Supplements (Repeat)

Cyclospora and Cyclosporosis is infection tens of thousands of AMERICANS causing some deaths. More and More food pathogens are affecting us through contaminated food items and they are making us sick.
Add to that the unavoidable contamination of our food with chemicals and pesticides and we are experience a food crisis.
Even if you try to eat "Healthy" food items, these may be inthe "dirty Doozen" most contaminated foods available in stores.
The Docs discuss the problem, the pathogens, and the pesticides and how we came to find ourselves in this crappy toxic and dangerous time. The Docs will also discuss - argue over what you can or can't do the avoid or prevent your exposure to the pathogens and poisons on and in your foods.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

(00:00:00) 227: The Spreading Years with More of Me to Love: Geriatric Weight-Gain
(00:00:11) Welcome to the Itchy and Bitchy Podcast
(00:00:42) Doc Itchy Medical Pets Supplements
(00:01:02) The Complexities of Midlife Weight Gain
(00:04:18) The Four Key Factors Contributing to Weight Gain After 40
(00:09:12) Hormonal Changes and Their Impact on Weight
(00:14:13) The Importance of Sleep and Behavioral Factors
(00:18:11) Sarcopenia, Body Composition, and Inflammation
(00:22:51) Legit or Bullshit: Muscle-Skin Communication and Fecal Microbiota Transplant
(00:28:17) Closing Remarks and Call to Action

Thanks Hormones, Very Cool: Why Your Body Decided Middle Age Was the Perfect Time to Expand
Congratulations, you survived your twenties, powered through your thirties, and your reward is a metabolism that has apparently gone into witness protection. Nobody told you that simply existing after forty would require a completely different operating manual, and yet here we are, buying pants with "comfort waistbands" and calling it self-care.
The science is as delightful as you'd expect: declining estrogen, tanking testosterone, and a thyroid that's essentially on vacation are conspiring in real time to redistribute your body in directions you never requested. Your muscle mass is ghosting you, your cortisol is throwing a party, and your fat cells got the memo to settle permanently around your midsection.

Itchy & Bitchy is the podcast for anyone who has ever felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health and hormone health to autoimmune disease and chronic pain, we investigate what science actually says. We examine functional medicine, holistic health, and alternative medicine with the same skeptical If it’s pseudoscience, we’ll call it. If it’s medical gaslighting, patient advocacy failure, or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.
For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers, and wellness skeptics WE OFFER  No filters. No BS. Just the truth your doctor didn’t have time to tell you.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

(00:00:00) 226: Itchy & Bitchy ClinicCrawl: Plastic in Your Penis and Herpes Contagion
(00:00:11) Welcome to Itchy and BITCHI
(00:00:42) Doc Itchy Medical Pets Supplements
(00:01:02) Microplastics in the Human Body
(00:04:38) Shingles and Canine Quarantine
(00:08:00) Closing Remarks and Contact Information
(00:08:23) Follow and Contact Information

Scientists have confirmed microplastics are now showing up in human penile tissue, with four out of five samples from men with erectile dysfunction containing seven different types of microplastics. Microplastics have also been detected in human brain, placenta, and testes .... because apparently your body is now a landfill.
Meanwhile, everyone's favorite lurking virus is back for revenge: shingles itself isn't contagious, but the varicella-zoster virus absolutely can spread to ONLY people who NEVER had chickenpox or the Vaccine. 
Visit itchyandbitchy.com
From gut health and hormone health to autoimmune disease and chronic pain, we investigate what science actually says. We examine functional medicine, holistic health, and alternative medicine with the same skeptical If it’s pseudoscience, we’ll call it. If it’s medical gaslighting, patient advocacy failure, or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.
For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers, and wellness skeptics WE OFFER  No filters. No BS. Just the truth your doctor didn’t have time to tell you.



Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

GLP-1 was completely under estimated by the medical community and has turned out to be ALMOST a MIRACLE therapy for ALMOST everything.
We review how we got this SO wrong and missed the potential of this therapy and ALL of the NEW and POTENTIAAL benefits.
We also review the down side and potential Adverse Effects - Mild to Deadly ....

From gut health and hormone health to autoimmune disease and chronic pain, we investigate what science actually says. We examine functional medicine, holistic health, and alternative medicine with the same skeptical If it’s pseudoscience, we’ll call it. If it’s medical gaslighting, patient advocacy failure, or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.
For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers, and wellness skeptics WE OFFER  No filters. No BS. Just the truth your doctor didn’t have time to tell you.



Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

(00:00:00) 224: DOCs Itchy&Bitchy Answer YOUR Questions - Global Edition!
(00:00:11) Welcome to Itchy and Bitchy
(00:00:42) Doc Itchy Medical Pets Supplements
(00:02:32) Hormone Replacement and GLP-1: Navigating Medical Decisions
(00:08:06) Brain Fog and Alzheimer's: When to Worry
(00:11:11) Menopause in Dogs: A Misunderstanding
(00:16:48) The Truth About Alcohol Consumption
(00:22:10) GLP-1 and Addiction: A Complex Discussion
(00:27:41) Probiotics: The Unknown Frontier
(00:32:05) Closing Thoughts on Supplements and Health

Ask Docs Itchy&Bitchy:
Your Questions on Weight, Hormones, and the GLP-1 additction ...
You're writing in from everywhere, and your questions don't hold back, so neither will we. Why is your dog carrying extra weight even though nothing about mealtime has changed? On the human side: does Ozempic actually rewire your brain's reward system, not just your appetite? Emerging research says GLP-1 drugs quiet the same dopamine pathway that drives cravings for food, alcohol, and drugs which raises a wild question we're tackling this season: could a diabetes drug end up treating addiction? We're also digging into whether "Ozempic personality changes" are real, why weight-loss drugs hit women differently at midlife, and what nobody's telling you about pet supplements.
Got a question? Send it — nothing's off limits.
Visit itchyandbitchy.com

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

(00:00:00) 223: Menopause Explained so Even a Husband can Understand
(00:00:12) Welcome to the Itchy and Bitchy Podcast
(00:00:43) Doc Itchy Medical Pets Supplements
(00:01:03) Explaining Menopause in Simple Terms
(00:03:39) The Pituitary-Hormone Axis: A Toilet Analogy
(00:07:12) Menopause as a Hormone "Dumpster Fire"
(00:08:22) Break Announcement
(00:08:35) Four Hormone-Chaos Events in Life
(00:13:22) Break Announcement
(00:14:04) Sleep Disorders and Aging
(00:24:10) Break Announcement

Here's the deal.
Think of your hormonal system like a toilet. Your ovaries are the water tank. When they're full of estrogen, the pituitary gland, your body's master control panel,  sees a full tank and relaxes. Everything flushes smoothly.
We break down this hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis in plain English, no medical degree required. You'll finally understand why your body is doing what it's doing, and what you can actually do about it.Because you deserve to understand your own plumbing.
Itchy & Bitchy is the podcast for anyone who has ever felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health and hormone health to autoimmune disease and chronic pain, we investigate what science actually says. We examine functional medicine, holistic health, and alternative medicine with the same skeptical If it’s pseudoscience, we’ll call it. If it’s medical gaslighting, patient advocacy failure, or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.
For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers, and wellness skeptics WE OFFER  No filters. No BS. Just the truth your doctor didn’t have time to tell you.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

(00:00:00) 222: A Tick Just Stole Your Steak. Here's How to Get Revenge
(00:00:11) Welcome to the Itchy and Bitchy Podcast
(00:00:42) Doc Itchy Medical Pet Supplements
(00:01:13) Introducing Alpha-Gal Syndrome
(00:04:51) The Tick's Deadly Spit
(00:06:32) Symptoms and Diagnosis of Alpha-Gal
(00:07:47) Dietary Avoidance and Prevention
(00:12:56) Tick-Borne Diseases: The Scary Truth
(00:15:09) Accurate Diagnosis and Treatment Challenges
(00:21:39) Tick Prevention and Safety Tips
(00:23:33) Isoxazolines: A New Era in Tick Prevention

Ticked Off,The Tiny Bug That Could End Your BBQ ForeverTopic: Alpha-Gal Syndrome (AGS) | Tick-Borne Food Allergy | Red Meat AllergyHost:
What Is Alpha-Gal Syndrome?Alpha-gal syndrome is an IgE-mediated food allergy triggered by lone star tick bites. 
Symptoms  including hives, abdominal pain, and potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis, typically occur three to eight hours after eating meat, making the connection easy to miss.
The Diagnosis ProblemAs of 2022, 42% of U.S. healthcare practitioners had never heard of alpha-gal syndrome, meaning patients often suffer for years without answers. 
What You Can Do
Management focuses on avoiding mammalian meat and products containing alpha-gal, preventing future tick bites, and referral to an allergist for severe reactions. The good news: the syndrome tends to wane over time with strict avoidance. 

Itchy & Bitchy is the podcast for anyone who has ever felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health and hormone health to autoimmune disease and chronic pain, we investigate what science actually says. We examine functional medicine, holistic health, and alternative medicine with the same skeptical If it’s pseudoscience, we’ll call it. If it’s medical gaslighting, patient advocacy failure, or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.
For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers, and wellness skeptics WE OFFER  No filters. No BS. Just the truth your doctor didn’t have time to tell you.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

(00:00:00) 221: Itchy & Bitchy ClinicCrawl: Your Dog Brought a Killer Into Your House; Skipping Your Meds could Kill You
(00:00:11) Welcome to the Itchy and Bitchy Podcast
(00:00:42) Doc Itchy Medical Pets Supplements
(00:01:34) Hypertension and Medication Compliance
(00:03:52) The Importance of Taking Medications as Prescribed
(00:07:40) Ticks and Tick Prevention
(00:11:34) Closing Remarks and Call to Action

Two Silent Threats: What's Hiding on Your Dog and in Your Medicine Cabinet
Itchy & Bitchy is the podcast for anyone who has ever felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health and hormone health to autoimmune disease and chronic pain, we investigate what science actually says. We examine functional medicine, holistic health, and alternative medicine with the same skeptical If it’s pseudoscience, we’ll call it. If it’s medical gaslighting, patient advocacy failure, or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.
For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers, and wellness skeptics WE OFFER  No filters. No BS. Just the truth your doctor didn’t have time to tell you.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

(00:00:00) 218.2: Itchy & Bitchy ClinicCrawl: CPR and Cats Coughing up LungWorms (remix)
(00:00:11) Welcome to The Itchy and Bitchy Podcast
(00:04:55) The Importance of CPR Training
(00:07:05) Closing Remarks and Next Episode
(00:07:07) Doc Itchy Pet Supplements

Your Cat Isn't Allergic — She Has WORMS in Her Lungs.
Also, Do You Know CPR? Because You Might Need It After Reading This.

Itchy & Bitchy is the podcast for anyone who has ever felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health and hormone health to autoimmune disease and chronic pain, we investigate what science actually says. We examine functional medicine, holistic health, and alternative medicine with the same skeptical If it’s pseudoscience, we’ll call it. If it’s medical gaslighting, patient advocacy failure, or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.
For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers, and wellness skeptics WE OFFER  No filters. No BS. Just the truth your doctor didn’t have time to tell you.



Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

(00:00:00) 220: From TikTok to Doctor's Office: The Truth About 'Cortisol Moon Face'
(00:00:11) Welcome to the Itchy and Bitchy Podcast
(00:00:42) Doc Itchy Medical Pets Supplements
(00:01:05) Revisiting Cortisol Face Controversy
(00:04:21) The Importance of Sleep in Young Adults
(00:09:02) Melatonin's Benefits for Dogs and Humans
(00:12:45) Brief Intermission
(00:13:01) Hormones and Growth During Sleep
(00:19:17) Second Intermission
(00:19:45) Melatonin's Wide-Ranging Benefits
(00:21:52) Melatonin Safety and Dosage

Scroll through TikTok for five minutes and you'll find thousands of teenagers diagnosing themselves with "cortisol face"  puffy cheeks, a rounded jawline, swelling they swear is proof their stress hormones are out of control. It's everywhere. It's viral.
And it's terrifying parents and confusing doctors in equal measure.
We reveal what cortisol actually does to a teenager's face and body, how to tell a real hormone disorder from a viral delusion, and why dismissing every kid who brings this up to their doctor could be a dangerous mistake.Buckle up. This one's controversial.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

(00:00:00) 219: A Perfect Birth… Then a Deadly Heart Attack
(00:00:11) Welcome to the Itchy and Bitchy Podcast
(00:00:42) Doc Itchy Medical Pets Supplements
(00:01:04) A Tragic Case of Postpartum Cardiomyopathy
(00:02:31) Understanding Postpartum Cardiomyopathy
(00:06:43) Risk Factors and Statistics
(00:08:36) Treatment and Recovery for Mothers and Babies
(00:14:39) Quick Break Announcement
(00:15:06) Legit or Bullshit: Trend Analysis
(00:15:53) Cortisol Face: Myth or Reality?
(00:19:04) The Parasite Cleanse Deception

She was only 26.
She had just delivered a healthy baby.
Then, without warning, her heart stopped.
In this episode, we uncover the terrifying reality of postpartum cardiac death—the rare but devastating heart emergencies that can strike young mothers after childbirth. A healthy baby came home, but a young mother never got the chance to raise her child.How does a 26-year-old die of a heart attack after pregnancy? What warning signs are missed? And why are women still being told they are “just tired,” “just anxious,” or “just recovering” when their bodies may be screaming for help?This is the story no new mother, partner, doctor, or family member can afford to ignore.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

(00:00:00) 217: Healthcare Is a Dumpster Fire with Better Branding but the System Still Sucks!
(00:00:03) Welcome to Itchy and Bitchy
(00:00:19) Meet the Doctors
(00:00:42) Doc Itchy Medical Pets Supplements
(00:01:05) DocItchy.com Sponsor
(00:03:40) The System is Broken
(00:06:49) Provider Burnout and Workload
(00:10:34) Break Announcement
(00:10:50) The EMR Dilemma
(00:19:00) Break Announcement
(00:19:20) The Social Media Dilemma
(00:25:02) Insurance think they are the Doctor

In this brutally honest relaunch episode of the Itchy & Bitchy Podcast with 2 new hosts. 
The new hosts say the quiet part out loud: the medical system is broken, abusive, exhausting, wildly expensive, and often designed to make patients and pet owners feel stupid for needing help in the first place.

Doc Itchy and Dr. Stephen Miller, DNP, ACNP rip into the bureaucracy, burnout, corporate medicine, insurance games, rushed appointments, garbage communication, and “follow the protocol and shut up” culture that has turned healthcare into a customer-service nightmare with needles.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen marks a major transition for Itchy and Bitchy as future hosts Stephen Miller and Dr. Keith Hnilica turn the tables and interview her about major life changes. Together, they reflect on significant transitions in life—from parenthood and changing careers to the handoff of the podcast itself.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen is joined by future Itchy and Bitchy hosts Stephen Miller, an acute care nurse practitioner specializing in cardiovascular disease, and Dr. Keith Hnilica, a veterinary dermatologist, for a wide-ranging conversation about estradiol and hormone replacement therapy. They discuss the recent removal of the FDA black box warning from most menopausal hormone therapy products and the long shadow of the Women’s Health Initiative study.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Family nurse practitioner Karen Nickell introduces future Itchy and Bitchy host Dr. Keith Hnilica, a veterinary dermatologist, for a lively conversation about pet food and what animals can teach us about wellness. They dig into GLP-1 drugs for pet obesity, the links between processed kibble, gut inflammation, and skin issues, why fresh or Mediterranean-style diets may be better for dogs.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen kicks off a new chapter for Itchy and Bitchy by introducing future host Stephen Miller, a cardiology nurse practitioner, for a conversation on Takotsubo cardiomyopathy, or “broken heart syndrome.” Together they explain what this stress-triggered heart condition is, why it so often affects postmenopausal women, and what recovery can look like.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen answers a listener's question about vaginal biofilms. What are they and why do they make recurrent BV and yeast infections so hard to treat? She explains how these bacterial or fungal communities form protective layers that resist standard treatment, reviews options that may help break the cycle and looks at at-home microbiome testing.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen shares a collection of grounding techniques to help listeners manage stress, anxiety, and negative emotions. From holding ice, savoring food, and taking mindful walks to laughter, music, anchoring exercises, the 5-4-3-2-1 method, and even the calming power of pets, Karen offers tools to help listeners return to the present moment, ease stress, and reconnect with a sense of safety and calm.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen explains how AI is already being used in healthcare, from helping find polyps during colonoscopies to speeding documentation. She also covers the biggest concerns, including the possibility of errors, bias, privacy risks, and over-reliance.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen unpacks the fast-growing world of digital health, from Apple Watch and smartphone apps to telehealth and new hospital tech that can improve care and streamline recovery at home. She also addresses the downsides, raising concerns around the security of these technologies.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen shares a deeply personal episode on the human-animal bond after the loss of her family’s lovebird, Saki, exploring why pet grief can feel so profound and practical ways to heal. She offers suggestions, from letting yourself feel what you feel to creating memorial rituals, revisiting joyful memories, and caring for your body while you mourn, plus when to seek professional support.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen Nickell revisits menopausal mammal, this time with brand new context: new research from Uganda’s Ngogo chimpanzees shows some chimps experience menopause too. She explains what makes humans evolutionary outliers, unpacks the grandmother hypothesis, and explores why certain toothed whales (like orcas) stop reproducing yet continue to live for decades.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen takes a look at GLP-1 receptor agonists, best known for weight loss and diabetes. She explores the rapidly expanding list of conditions these medications may help treat. From emerging and sometimes conflicting research on Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease to FDA-approved benefits for cardiovascular health, kidney disease, and fatty liver disease, Karen breaks down what the science currently shows and where caution is still needed.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen counts down her top 10 Itchy & Bitchy moments of 2025, from smarter New Year’s resolutions and promising UTI vaccines on the horizon to updated insights on HRT.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen shares her personal journey with osteoporosis. What distinguishes it from osteopenia? How are DEXA T-scores interpreted? Why does early screening matter? She covers lifestyle and nutrition, hormone considerations, and medication options.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen breaks down red light therapy (photobiomodulation) and where it actually helps: smoothing signs of aging, supporting hair regrowth, calming acne (especially paired with blue light), easing chronic pain and inflammation, and even emerging research for cognition in dementia.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Family nurse practitioner Karen re-airs a timely episode on “holiday heart syndrome,” the spike in alcohol-triggered arrhythmias (often AFib) that can strike otherwise healthy people during festive gatherings. She explains what binge drinking looks like, key symptoms to watch for (from palpitations and chest pressure to shortness of breath), why it raises stroke risk, and simple prevention steps.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

After listening to an episode of Itchy and Bitchy, a woman pushed for further testing and caught grade 1A ovarian cancer early—requiring only surgery. Karen revisits why self-advocacy saves lives, translating expert definitions into everyday guidance and offering practical steps: build a true partnership with your provider, keep detailed symptom and medication notes, ask clear questions about tests, risks, and costs, use reliable resources (not “Dr. Google”), consult your pharmacist, and keep your advance care planning up to date.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen tackles a common menopause question: oral vs. topical estradiol. She explains first-pass metabolism and why transdermal options can lower clot, gallstone, and side-effect risks for many, then compares real-world choices.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen tackles a listener question about low-dose lithium. She reviews micro- vs. low-dose ranges, discusses forms like lithium orotate/aspartate and third-party-tested supplement options, and flags safety essentials such as toxicity symptoms, thyroid/kidney considerations, and when to loop in your clinician.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

In this update to the August 2024 episode, Karen explains the surge of direct-to-consumer “whole-body” MRI/CT screenings and how to decide with your provider whether they’re a good fit. In the re-aired episode, Karen explores the Galleri test, a multi-cancer early detection (MCED) blood test that can identify over 50 types of cancer. She explains how the test works, its potential benefits, and the risks associated with its use. She also shares personal stories from individuals who benefited from the test, while discussing ongoing research to determine its effectiveness in improving cancer outcomes.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen takes a look at BPC-157, the buzzy peptide touted for faster healing and joint relief, explaining what animal studies actually show, the lack of human clinical trials, and its regulatory reality.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen demystifies the popular skincare treatment known as microneedling. She explores how this minimally invasive procedure stimulates collagen and elastin production to improve skin texture, reduce wrinkles, and help with scars and stretch marks. She compares professional treatments with at-home devices, explains the pros and cons of each, and provides detailed guidance on safe at-home use.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen tackles the puffy eye predicament that's turning well-rested people into walking advertisements for concealer. From the cruel reality of aging to your body's dramatic reaction to that late-night pizza binge, Karen breaks down the reasons your under-eyes are staging their own little rebellion.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen tackles the surprising link between GLP-1 medication (like Ozempic and Wegovy) and hair loss. As more people turn to these drugs for diabetes and weight management, some are left wondering: is the price of shedding pounds also shedding your hair? Karen explores possible causes behind this side effect, including rapid weight loss, nutritional deficiencies, and hormonal changes, and shares science-backed strategies to help prevent or reduce hair thinning while on these medications.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen shares potentially life-saving advice for staying safe in extreme heat as record-breaking temperatures sweep across the country. She explains how heat exhaustion and heat stroke develop, how to recognize early warning signs, and what to do if you or someone else is affected.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen unpacks the hype surrounding methylene blue, a vivid cobalt dye that's gained popularity as a trendy wellness supplement. From its historical use as a textile dye and medical treatment to modern claims about boosting brain power, energy, and longevity, Karen breaks down what the science actually says—and what it doesn’t. With potential risks ranging from drug interactions to serotonin toxicity, she urges listeners to think twice before adding this unregulated supplement to their daily routine.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen breaks down the growing trend of face taping as a non-invasive approach to reducing wrinkles and lifting sagging skin. She explains the difference between aesthetic taping for red carpet-ready lift and overnight wrinkle patches like Frownies that aim to retrain facial muscles. Karen walks listeners through product options, techniques, and safety tips—while sharing her own experiences (and her mom’s timeless advice) about fighting the dreaded “11s.”

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen breaks down the benefits of precursor hormones—specifically pregnenolone and DHEA—for those who struggle with traditional hormone replacement therapy. She explains how these naturally occurring compounds support the production of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, and how they may offer relief from symptoms like brain fog, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and low libido.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen addresses the troubling rise in early-onset cancers among adults under 50, particularly women. Drawing on the latest research, she discusses contributing factors—from delayed screenings and family history to gut health, environmental exposures, and systemic inflammation. Karen also highlights how current healthcare gaps, lifestyle factors, and even prenatal influences may be playing a role in this growing health crisis.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen welcomes Donna White, a leading expert in bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) with over 30 years of experience. They discuss the myths and truths about hormone therapy, the critical role of proper testing and individualized treatment plans, and how BHRT can drastically improve quality of life for women in menopause and beyond. Donna shares her personal journey with hormonal imbalance, her mission to train providers across the country, and practical advice for finding a knowledgeable, well-trained BHRT provider.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen unpacks the surprising connection between hormones and the human voice—especially for singers. Drawing from her dual background in opera and medicine, she explains how hormonal shifts throughout the menstrual cycle can impact vocal quality, flexibility, and range.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen shares how a friend's breast cancer diagnosis became a powerful example of self-advocacy in action. From discovering she didn’t need chemotherapy after requesting additional testing, to researching scalp cooling treatments and skin protection during radiation, this story highlights how knowledge and persistence can lead to better care. 

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/itchy-and-bitchy-podcast--4303608/support.

Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS 

Karen shares a powerful listener story about self-advocacy in healthcare and how trusting your instincts can be lifesaving. After experiencing persistent symptoms that were initially dismissed by a doctor, this listener took charge of her health, sought a second opinion, and ultimately discovered a serious diagnosis.

Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

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Itchy & Bitchy: Have you felt dismissed, misdiagnosed, or gaslit by a broken medical system. 
From gut health, hormones, autoimmune disease, chronic pain, holistic health, and alternative medicine ... medical gaslighting, patient advocacy , or misdiagnosis we’ll call that too.  For chronic illness warriors, self-advocacy seekers: WE OFFER  No BS