A WonderCare Podcast

Antimicrobial Resistance - What happens when antibiotics won't work? (re-release)REALITY CHECK - This is really important!Imagine a world before antibiotics when a simple cough or cut on your leg could result in death. That's kind of where we are headed if we don't act as a collective in the name of antimicrobial stewardship.In This Episode:What are antibiotics?What do you mean by antimicrobial resistance?How are Ireland doing?How can I help?Is there hope?What role do vaccines play?And more!Prescribing Guidelines:HSE Antibiotic guidelinesGlobal Action Plan for Antimicrobial resistance - WHOSeason 10 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#antibioticresistance #antimicrobialresistance #antibiotics #healthpodcast #irishhealth #antibioticuse #medicinesadvice #healthadvocate Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sheena was asked "Is Salin Plus a gimmick?" on her instagram this week - this is the answer!This episode focuses on the Salin Plus salt therapy device. Sheena addresses potential concerns about bias due to the sponsorship of the season by Salin Plus. As a pharmacist, Sheena revisits scientific evidence supporting halotherapy, which uses dry salt particles to improve respiratory health. Key points include the benefits of halotherapy in managing asthma, improving sleep quality, aiding in skin conditions, and clearing nasal congestion. She highlights the importance of using Salin Plus in a dry room and provides practical tips for its optimal use. She also answers listener questions, emphasizing evidence-based and complementary treatments.In this episode:00:00 Introduction to Salin Plus00:06 Addressing Bias and Sponsorship01:05 Viewer Question on Effectiveness01:52 Scientific Evidence on Halotherapy03:35 Benefits of Salt Therapy13:01 Practical Advice and Usage Tips22:26 Sound Demonstration25:57 Important Usage Warnings29:52 Conclusion and Contact InformationSeason 10 Partnership– Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#salinplus #respiratoryhealth #asthma #preventativehealth #halotherapy #salttherapy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Understanding and Managing Croup in ChildrenIn this episode of the Wonder Care Podcast, Sheena Mitchell, a Pharmacist and mother of three, discusses winter viruses with a focus on croup, a condition affecting the upper airways primarily in children under six. She explains the symptoms, causes, and ways to manage croup, emphasizing the importance of staying calm and offering reassurance to the child. Sheena also provides tips on hydration, rest, and when to seek medical attention. Additionally, she plays audio samples of stridor to help parents identify this characteristic sound.00:00 Introduction to the WonderCare Podcast00:23 Understanding Croup: Symptoms and Causes01:49 Croup in Children: Age and Gender Factors02:04 Recognizing the Croup Cough03:22 Managing Croup at Home06:03 When to Seek Medical Help06:43 Identifying Stridor and Wheezing09:10 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsSeason 10 Partnership– Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#croup #respiratoryhealth #healthpodcast #familyhealth #childrenshealth #health Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Understanding Human Meta Pneumovirus (HMPV): Symptoms, Treatment, and PreventionIn this episode, Sheena discusses Human Meta Pneumovirus (HMPV), a virus similar to RSV that was discovered in 2001 and is prevalent worldwide. Often spread through respiratory droplets, HMPV commonly affects children and can cause both upper and lower respiratory tract infections, including pneumonia and asthma flare-ups.Sheena explains the virus's symptoms, which range from mild flu-like issues in adults to severe complications in children and vulnerable populations. She provides thorough advice on managing symptoms at home and emphasizes the importance of supportive treatment and hydration. Preventative measures, such as handwashing and keeping sick children home, are crucial, especially since there is no vaccine for HMPV.The episode includes practical tips for symptom relief and underscores the higher risks in children with asthma who may suffer more severe effects from the virus.00:00 Introduction to Human Meta Pneumovirus (HMPV)00:38 Discovery and Spread of hMPV01:08 Symptoms and Impact on Different Age Groups02:36 Treatment and Home Care Tips05:02 Comparing hMPV with Other Viruses06:27 Prevention and Final Thoughts07:19 Conclusion and Contact InformationSeason 10 Partnership– Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#HumanMetaPneumovirus #HMPV #childrenshealth #familyhealth #healthireland #pharmacy #pharmacist Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Advocating for Vaccine Access: Navigating RSV Immunization ChallengesIn this special episode, Sheena is joined by Emma, a mother of two, who recounts her harrowing experience with her child's severe RSV infection and her tireless advocacy for broader vaccine availability. The discussion delves into the bureaucratic obstacles and frustrations with the healthcare system, touching on the lack of accountability and the ethical dilemmas surrounding private access to essential vaccines. The episode highlights the emotional and financial toll on families, the inefficiencies in government response, and calls for proactive health leadership to address these inequities. Emma's personal anecdotes underscore the systemic challenges and stresses the urgent need for change to protect vulnerable infants and alleviate healthcare pressures, especially in the wake of COVID-19.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome00:34 Emma's Personal Story: A Mother's Ordeal04:49 The Fight for RSV Immunization06:53 Government Response and Frustrations09:30 Advocacy and Public Campaigns12:33 Systemic Issues and Accountability18:11 Personal Experience with Vaccine Rollout19:23 Impact on Healthcare System20:43 Emotional and Societal Costs21:30 Lack of Empathy in Decision Making24:21 Challenges in Accessing Private Healthcare25:13 Ethical Concerns and Inequity28:29 Call for Stronger Leadership and Proactive Measures29:16 Hopes and Concerns for the Future32:53 Practical Advice for ParentsSeason 10 Partnership– Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Comprehensive Guide to the New RSV Immunisation for ParentsIn this detailed episode, I provide an in-depth exploration of the new RSV immunisation, focusing on its importance, safety, and effectiveness. The discussion covers the basics and risks of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), the introduction and benefits of the Nirsevimab vaccine, and potential side effects. The episode compares Nirsevimab with the older Palivizumab, highlighting its superior efficacy in reducing hospitalisations and ICU admissions. It also addresses eligibility guidelines, the vaccination process, accessibility through government programs, and specific advice for parents, especially those with infants born from September 1st. I reassures parents with real-world success stories, clarify misconceptions, and provide practical tips on preventing RSV through hygiene. The episode aims to equip parents with reliable information to protect their children effectively.00:00 Introduction to RSV Immunisation00:46 Background on RSV and Its Impact02:45 RSV Symptoms and Risks05:16 Parental Guidance for RSV Care07:35 Healthcare System Strain Due to RSV10:34 Introduction to RSV Immunisation11:05 Understanding Monoclonal Antibodies12:16 History and Safety of RSV Antibodies13:19 Nobel Prize-Winning Technology13:30 Challenges with Palivizumab14:11 Introducing Nersivumab15:06 Effectiveness and Safety of Nersivumab17:49 Real-World Data and Results19:22 Eligibility and Administration22:28 Addressing Common Questions26:35 Preventing RSV: Practical TipsSeason 10 Partnership– Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#childrenshealth #familyhealth #healthireland #pharmacy #pharmacist #rsv #nirsevimab #beyfortus Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Empowering Women's Health: The Case for Over-the-Counter Vaginal EstrogenIn this episode, Laura passionately discusses her advocacy for making vaginal estrogen available over the counter, eliminating the need for a prescription. She explains the role of vaginal estrogen, particularly for women experiencing low estrogen levels due to menopause, perimenopause, and other conditions. The conversation covers the challenges of accessibility, the need for greater education, and the potential benefits, including reducing UTIs and improving pelvic floor health. Laura emphasizes the importance of shifting societal attitudes towards women's health, highlighting the broader impact of menopause on families and communities. The episode underscores the urgency for petitions and systemic changes to improve women's health options, contrasting the accessibility and focus placed on male health solutions such as Viagra with the oft-neglected issues of women's health.00:14 Understanding Vaginal Estrogen00:49 Impact of Low Estrogen Levels02:06 Antibiotics vs. Vaginal Estrogen03:00 Pelvic Floor Health and Estrogen03:45 Challenges in Women's Health Awareness08:46 Menopause and Societal Impact11:23 Advocacy for Over-the-Counter Vaginal Estrogen12:42 Licensing and Accessibility Issues19:38 Conclusion and Call to ActionSeason 10 Partnership– Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#perimenopause #menopause #oestrogen #hrt #vaginaloestrogen #womenshealth #healthireland Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I am so excited to dive straight into Season 10 of A WonderCare Podcast!Thank you all so much for staying tuned over the past couple of years - I quite literally could not do this without you.Let's find out what's coming up in Season 10! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The government has announced a new plan to include a two-dose chickenpox vaccine in the childhood immunization schedule for all babies born on or after October 1, 2024. The vaccine will be administered at 12 months and again when the child enters junior infants. There is no catch-up program for those born before this date, who will need to get vaccinated privately. Despite initial concerns about the duration of efficacy, authorities, including HICWA, have determined the benefits outweigh risks. A vaccination uptake of 80% is necessary to achieve herd immunity and protect vulnerable groups. Common side effects are minimal, and the vaccine aims to significantly reduce chickenpox and associated complications in the community. The podcast encourages all eligible people to get vaccinated to ensure broad protection for the population.In this episode:00:00 Government Announces Chickenpox Vaccine for Children00:29 Details of the Vaccine Schedule00:41 Evaluating the Vaccine's Efficacy and Risks01:18 Chickenpox: A Common and Serious Disease02:05 Global Adoption of the Chickenpox Vaccine02:37 Importance of High Vaccination Uptake02:53 Two-Dose Schedule and Its Benefits03:48 Potential Risks and Concerns05:06 Complications and Risks of Chickenpox06:03 Special Considerations for Pregnant Women07:44 Who Should Not Get the Vaccine?08:41 Post-Vaccination Transmission and Side Effects10:18 Summary and Call to Action11:12 Conclusion and Contact InformationSeason 9 Partnership– Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#childrenshealth #familyhealth #healthireland #pharmacy #pharmacist #chickenpoxvaccine #chickenpox Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this weeks episode I discuss the anticipated health challenges for the upcoming winter season. I draws parallels to Australia's recent flu season, highlighting the prevalence of diseases like flu, whooping cough (pertussis), RSV, and COVID-19. I emphasise the importance of vaccinations, especially given the uptick in measles and pertussis cases due to missed vaccinations during the pandemic lockdowns. I also give tips on preventive measures such as hand hygiene, the use of antigen tests, and maintaining a nutritious diet to boost immunity. Listeners are encouraged to stay informed through weekly updates on disease levels and vaccinations on WonderCare Instagram.This weeks chat includes:00:00 Introduction and Winter Health Concerns01:35 Measles: A Growing Concern02:36 Insights from Australia's Flu Season03:36 Pertussis: The Whooping Cough Threat06:25 RSV and Immunization Efforts09:58 COVID-19 Variants and Vaccination13:39 Preventive Measures and Final Thoughts16:42 Antigen Tests and Nutritional Tips18:50 Conclusion and Call to ActionSeason 9 Partnership– Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show!#childrenshealth #familyhealth #healthireland #pharmacy #pharmacist #flumonia #respiratoryhealth #covid #rsv #flu #pneumonia #winterhealth Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Head Lice Prevention and Treatment: Everything You Need to KnowIn this Wonder Care podcast episode, Sheena Mitchell, a pharmacist and mother of three, covers comprehensive information about head lice. She discusses how head lice spread, the best methods for detection, and effective products for treatment and prevention. The episode debunks common misconceptions and provides practical advice on managing and avoiding infestations, including tips on wet and dry combing techniques, product recommendations, and prevention strategies. Listeners will also learn about the importance of treating actual infestations, proper cleaning, and promoting awareness among peers. Lastly, Sheena emphasizes the significance of maintaining scalp health and choosing the right products, especially for children with sensitive skin conditions.00:00 Welcome to Wonder Care Podcast00:55 Understanding Head Lice02:47 How Head Lice Spread03:13 Detecting Head Lice04:44 Treating Head Lice06:58 Head Lice Products Overview12:56 Tips for Preventing Head Lice15:58 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsLink to head lice products discussed!Season 9 Partnership– Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, we are joined by Kim Wyse, a trustee of the Irish Sepsis Foundation, who shares her powerful and personal story of surviving sepsis. Kim talks about her life before sepsis as a busy mother of three and her diagnosis with Crohn's disease in 2015. She recounts the shock of an unexpected pregnancy while dealing with her autoimmune disease, the subsequent health complications, including a severe case of sepsis, and her struggles with mental health post-recovery. Kim also highlights the importance of awareness, support systems, and her current work in advocating for sepsis survivors and their families through the Irish Sepsis Foundation.00:00 Introduction to Kim Wise00:21 Life Before Sepsis01:04 Diagnosis of Crohn's Disease02:38 Unexpected Pregnancy03:45 Struggles During Pregnancy07:28 Hospitalization and Family Challenges16:08 Sepsis Diagnosis and ICU19:50 Medical Interventions and ICU Experience20:49 Critical Condition and Pregnancy Challenges22:13 Hopes and Decisions in ICU25:14 Unexpected Labor and Delivery29:14 Postpartum Struggles and Mental Health34:30 Finding Support and Advocacy37:48 Life After Sepsis and Helping Others41:22 Conclusion and ReflectionsSeason 9 Partnership– Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Understanding Ultra Processed Foods: A Family DiscussionIn this introductory episode, the host, Sheena, discusses the concept of ultra processed foods, aiming to educate parents, children, and anyone interested in healthier eating habits. The episode explores what ultra processed foods are, gives examples, and explains why they can be harmful. Sheena underscores the importance of a balanced diet rich in natural foods for providing essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. She also emphasizes keeping food enjoyable and uncomplicated. The episode features a candid conversation with Sheena's kids about food sources, the distinction between natural, processed, and ultra processed foods, and the impact of marketing on our food choices. Practical advice on reducing ultra processed food intake through better choices and swaps is also provided. Sheena invites listeners to share their experiences and join the ultra processed food challenge to promote healthier living.00:00 Introduction to Ultra Processed Foods00:30 The Importance of Natural Foods03:08 Understanding Food Processing06:30 The Problem with Ultra Processed Foods09:48 Discussing Food with Kids11:06 Making Healthier Choices15:56 The Hidden Dangers of Ultra Processed Foods19:28 The Importance of Vitamins and Minerals19:53 The Problem with Ultra-Processed Foods21:06 Daily Diet and Nutritional Deficiency22:04 Personal Changes and Healthier Choices23:51 Understanding Food Categories27:08 Additives in Ultra-Processed Foods30:49 The Impact of Advertising and Convenience34:57 Making Healthier Food Choices38:38 Family Decisions and Long-Term Health39:35 Conclusion and Call to ActionSeason 9 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  Especially during hay fever season!! This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Settling Back into School - Survival Guide!Now that the kids are back in school, it will become obvious that some children adapt better to the change in routine than others. As parents, we are often faced with significant challenges!In this Episode:00:00 Welcome to Wonder Care Podcast00:47 Understanding Childhood Anxiety01:48 Recognizing Signs of Anxiety03:58 Effective Communication with Your Child06:09 Addressing Behavioral Issues08:37 Managing School-Related Anxiety12:38 Promoting Healthy Habits15:25 Encouraging Open Conversations21:09 Building Resilience in Children23:45 Final Thoughts and EncouragementSeason 9 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  Especially during hay fever season!! This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Mpox is making headlines - Want to know why?In this episode:What is MpoxRisk of Mpox in IrelandWhat do we need to do to stay safeWe need to keep educating ourselves to be proactive about our health. I will continue to try to bring you the most evidence based, practical and reasonable health information I can!Season 9 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus for an entire Season packed with lots of family health information! This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this Podcast Simply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show! I aim to support parents and appreciate every one of you who take the time from your day to learn something new along with me! I explain medical conditions and their treatment as well as chatting with experts about a whole range of medical and parenting challenges. Of course I can’t forget our little voices episodes where I chat with kids and hear things from their point of view! I’m also extremely grateful to everyone who contributes to the living with episodes – I learn so much from these and am privileged to be able to share your story which will help people who find them in a similar situation in life. You can check out all of my previous episodes by clicking right here! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

There is a different form of contraception available for every individual and every life stage!In this episode I chat about all of the pro's and cons of the various forms from pill, to patch, injection, to coil to make sure when you go to the GP you know what you want!The way things currently stand in Ireland you need a GP appointment to have contraception prescribed - I can see that changing inline like global policy shifts. With the current restrictions on the contraceptive scheme and the limitation of access to GP's I believe it is best to be informed before you attend to get the most out of your visit - and ultimately - the best treatment for you!Follow me on Insta to check out my highlight where I will pop infographics on each form of contraceptions this week! Season 9 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This weeks episode tells you all about tick bites and Lyme disease. Lyme disease awareness is a huge part of prevention.What are ticks and do they all cause Lyme disease?How to know if you've been bitten by a tick.What ticks are in Ireland.Signs and symptoms of Lyme diseaseDiagnosis and treatment of Lyme diseaseHow to prevent tick biteswhat animals carry ticks?Product Recommendations:Tick Product recommendation for young kids from 3 months and up! Tick Product recommendation for children 13 years and over and adults.Season 9 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I chat with Conal Harpur all about ADHD. We discuss the merits of diagnosis and its role in supporting both children and adults.With ADHD being so widely recognised on social media and with more and more well known faces disclosing diagnosis I wanted to chat about how that diagnosis is given, where is best to get it, and what benefits it offers.You can find Conal Harpur and his team at CBT Solutions here - https://www.cbtsolutions.ie/Season 9 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  Especially during hay fever season!! This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I'm so excited to be back for Season 9 of A WonderCare podcast!I'll be chatting all things family health once more and keeping you up to date on all of your health news!Follow me on instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/wondercare_irl/?hl=enCheck out my online pharmacy here - https://www.wondercare.ie/Season 9 Partnership – Salin Plus (available here!)I am so thrilled to be partnering with Salin plus  Especially during hay fever season!! This 100% natural salt therapy device is suitable for both adults and children! Tune in to learn more!Support this PodcastSimply following and reviewing this podcast can make a huge difference! If you enjoy this episode I would be so grateful if you could follow or subscribe to the show! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This is a beautiful episode for anyone who is struggling with the balancing 'parenting life'.We are surrounded by images of perfection and often the reality is a very different picture. Are we making life even harder for our children by having such high standards?This episode is a tonic for the soul for every parent out there!Huge thanks to Dr Mary O'Kane for her wisdom and joy! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.