Itchy and Bitchy

Nurse practitioner Karen Nickell discusses the realities of menopause and the female midlife in a way that is both informative and fun.<br /><br />Visit our website <a href="https://itchyandbitchy.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">itchyandbitchy.com</a> to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

Iodine: This Element is Elemental!

Karen explores the importance of iodine and how its deficiency can impact overall health. She discusses the essential role iodine plays in thyroid function, metabolism, and cognitive development, particularly in pregnant women. Karen explains why iodine deficiency is on the rise, how to test for it, and the best ways to ensure adequate intake through diet and supplements.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

02-15
18:50

Not Another UTI! Help on the Horizon

Karen explores the potential of UTI vaccines as an alternative to antibiotics for treating recurrent urinary tract infections. She explains how UTIs develop, why traditional antibiotic treatments often fail, and how vaccines work to boost the body's immune response.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

02-02
12:03

Love Your Liver? Think Twice Before Starting Kava for Anxiety

Karen examines the use of kava supplements, exploring their potential benefits for anxiety and their serious risks, including liver toxicity. She highlights key studies on kava's effectiveness, explains its traditional use, and warns of its interactions with medications. She also shares a list of alternative supplements that have been shown to help with anxiety and depression without the significant risks associated with kava. Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

01-18
21:30

2025 Resolutions: Karen Has One, Do You?

Karen kicks off 2025 by examining the science behind New Year's resolutions. She explores why we make them, who is most likely to set goals for the new year, and the reasons resolutions often fail. She also shares practical tips for improving success rates, such as setting small, meaningful goals, using habit trackers, and practicing self-compassion after setbacks.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

01-04
17:05

The Great Undies Debate

Karen settles the great debate: should you sleep with or without underwear? She explores the health benefits and potential drawbacks of both choices. From reducing the risk of infections to promoting vaginal health, she provides research-backed insights to help you make the best decision for your body.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

12-21
13:09

Baby, It's Cold Outside: What to Know About Cold Related Illness

Karen discusses the dangers of cold-related illnesses and how to stay safe during the winter months. She explains the causes, symptoms, and prevention strategies for conditions such as hypothermia, frostbite, chillblains, and trench foot. Learn practical tips for dressing warmly, avoiding prolonged exposure to cold, and recognizing early warning signs of these conditions to prevent severe complications.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

12-07
27:22

A Vagina Day! Beating Bacterial Vaginosis

Karen addresses bacterial vaginosis (BV), a common vaginal infection that affects many women. She explains its symptoms, causes, and risk factors, while offering practical solutions for both treatment and prevention. From prescription antibiotics to boric acid suppositories and probiotics, Karen shares a comprehensive approach to managing recurrent BV.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

11-23
19:38

How to Reset Distress to Peace and Joy

Karen shares a collection of grounding techniques to help listeners manage stress, anxiety, and negative emotions.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

11-09
19:58

Sore Tongue or Cracked Lips? Might Be Iron Deficiency Anemia

Karen sheds light on iron deficiency anemia, covering its causes, symptoms, and treatment options. She explains the stages of anemia development, common risk factors, and how to recognize signs like fatigue, pale skin, and brittle nails.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

10-26
17:04

HRT Pellets: A Pain in the Butt or a Perfect Fit?

Karen discusses hormone pellet therapy, one form of bioidentical hormone replacement that is designed to produce consistent, long-term hormone levels. She outlines how these tiny pellets are inserted under the skin and can be used to minimize the symptoms of menopause and hormone imbalance—exploring the benefits, possible side effects, and risks associated with them. She also gives tips on what to expect with the treatment and suggestions for finding a trusted provider.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

10-12
22:22

Inositol – It Helps Mood & Metabolic Problems

Karen takes on the topic of inositol supplements, particularly their benefits for managing metabolic and mood disorders. She explores the science behind inositol, a substance naturally found in the body, and how it can support insulin regulation and neurotransmitter balance.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

09-28
21:39

Magnesium Mix-up: So Many Choices! (RERUN)

Karen answers the question: "What type of magnesium should I take if I decide to take a supplement?" She explains magnesium's essential role in health, touching on its benefits for brain, heart, and muscle function, and highlights the widespread issue of magnesium deficiency, often due to processed food diets.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

09-21
25:56

Karen Tells All About How to Improve That Saggy, Wrinkled Face

Karen covers the topic of estrogen loss during perimenopause and its effects on skin health, particularly facial skin. She explores how declining estrogen levels lead to reduced skin elasticity, collagen loss, and increased dryness, and discusses the benefits of using topical estrogen creams to counteract these effects. She also reviews the history of estrogen in skincare, recent studies on its effectiveness, and shares her own experience with adding estrogen cream to her facial care regimen.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

09-14
22:47

Blood Test for Multiple Cancers: Yup, It Exists!

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.

08-24
22:54

There's No Hocus-Pocus to Get Focus

You have a limited offer you can use now, that gets you up to 48% off your first subscription or 20% off one time purchases with code ITCHY20 at checkout. You can claim it at: https://magicmind.com/itchyKaren explores the topic of improving focus and concentration, sharing research-backed methods to help listeners sharpen their mental clarity. From brain training games like Sudoku and crossword puzzles to the benefits of regular exercise and proper sleep, Karen provides practical tips for enhancing cognitive function.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

08-10
21:54

Debunking TikTok Trends: Garlic Cloves Up the Nose?

Karen addresses the rise of medical misinformation on TikTok. She highlights the dangers of following non-factual advice from non-medical influencers, explaining the importance of consulting reliable sources and medical professionals for health advice. She also provides tips on how to identify and avoid false health claims on social media. Learn how to navigate the murky waters of TikTok health trends and protect your well-being.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

07-27
15:30

How to Keep Your Cool as the World Heats Up (RERUN)

This week, Karen revisits the critical topic of heat exhaustion and heat stroke in light of record-breaking temperatures across the United States. She explains the body's cooling mechanisms, the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke, and practical measures to prevent and treat these conditions.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

07-13
27:44

The Bite IS Worse Than the Buzz: Mosquito Borne Diseases Part 2

In part two of our series on those pesky mosquitos, Karen dives into practical measures to prevent mosquito bites and protect against mosquito-borne diseases. She explores effective repellents, proper application methods, and household tips to minimize mosquito presence. Tune in to find out how Victoria's Secret could play a role in preventing bug bites this summer.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

06-29
29:45

The Bite IS Worse Than the Buzz: Mosquito Borne Diseases

As we head into summer, Karen buzzes into the world of mosquitoes and the serious health threats they pose. After explaining her own personal vendetta against these insects, she discusses the diseases mosquitoes can transmit, such as Dengue fever, West Nile virus, and malaria.  Don't let mosquitoes bug you this summer – listen in for an informative and timely discussion on staying safe from these tiny terrors.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

06-15
29:46

Grounding: Not Because You're in Trouble

Karen explores the concept of grounding, also known as earthing, and its potential health benefits. She explains how grounding connects the body to the earth's natural electrical energy, which may help reduce inflammation, improve sleep, and boost overall wellness. Karen discusses various ways to practice grounding, both outdoors and indoors, using techniques and specialized tools.Visit our website itchyandbitchy.com to read blog posts on the many topics we have covered on the show.

06-01
25:26

Becky Green

The Nun Study, housed at the University of Kentucky Sanders-Brown Center on Aging might be helpful.

08-22 Reply

Whitney Ivanoff

This is great! I love their deep Southern accents.

07-12 Reply

Delores Sowders

I'm a new listener to Sweaty and Pissed! Really enjoying it! I hope you're still commenting on your audience's questions. I am trying to find a bioidentical hormone therapist in the Knox/Blount area. I had hoped to get an appointment with Karen but unfortunately cannot. Any suggestions of "good" therapists in this area would be very helpful!

06-19 Reply

Vicki Harris

I love your pods!

06-10 Reply

Becky Green

Leeanne, I feel the exact same way about "This us Us" and Kevin!!

04-05 Reply

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