What is the Air Quality Index? And how can you use it to stay safe?
General Health Staying Safe
Those Nerdy Girls
What is the Air Quality Index? And how can you use it to stay safe? The Index ranges between 0 and 500. 🟩 0-50 – Air quality is satisfactory, and air pollution poses little or no risk. 🟨 51-100 – Air quality is acceptable for most people but for some, particularly those who are unusually Read more…
Does the national suicide prevention line (988) actually prevent suicides?
Mental Health
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
Yes! There is now excellent evidence that the national suicide prevention line, or 988, has been highly effective at preventing suicides. 988 is a nationwide 3-digit suicide prevention and crisis line, which launched in 2022. Since its launch, several studies have found that the introduction of this crisis line option has been associated with significant Read more…
What is an ad hominem attack?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Ad hominem attacks are used to insult a person’s motive or character rather than address the content of a specific idea or argument. This type of mudslinging is an intellectual fallacy that draws attention away from the issue at hand and creates distrust of the individual. Let’s look at how ad hominem attacks can Read more…
I keep hearing about New World Screwworm in the news. Can you tell me more about it?
General Health Infection and Spread
A parasitic fly called the New World Screwworm has recently been found in US animals for the first time in decades. Although the current risk to people in the US is very low, it’s worth knowing the signs, especially if you have pets and live in an affected area. What is New World Screwworm (NWS)? Read more…
What’s going on with this outbreak of diarrhea in the US?
Infection and Spread Infectious Diseases
Sandy Laping, MSc
There is an outbreak of cyclosporiasis happening. It’s a parasite that causes horrible diarrhea. Although we don’t know yet what the source is, there are ways to reduce your risk of getting infected. Although most cases have been reported in Michigan, more than 30 states are affected, so it’s worth knowing the symptoms and how Read more…
What is an asthma action plan?
General Health
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
An asthma action plan is a form that you fill out with a clinician that details asthma medications, triggers, symptoms, and plans for asthma flares. An asthma action plan is a clinician-approved guide that covers medications, triggers, symptoms, and ER guidelines for people with asthma. You fill out the form with your clinician and it’s Read more…
What are heuristics, and why does this matter?
Data and Metrics
Those Nerdy Girls
Heuristics are fast, efficient mental shortcuts that we use all the time to help us make decisions and solve problems. These rule-of-thumb strategies can decrease our cognitive load to make choices without becoming overwhelmed. Heuristics can be both helpful and harmful so it’s important to recognize when a heuristic might not be such a great Read more…
What do I need to know about daraxonrasib, the new treatment for pancreatic cancer?
General Health Treatments
Heather Duncan, MPH, PhD
A new drug called daraxonrasib nearly doubled survival time for patients enrolled in a phase-3 clinical trial. That’s a big deal, because treatment options for pancreatic cancer are limited and survival rates at 5 years are very low. In 2002, my grandmother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Six months later she was admitted to hospice, Read more…
Antidepressants are an important tool.
Mental Health Nerdy Notes
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Another in our series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse You may have heard recent buzz about antidepressants being “overprescribed” or difficult to stop. Antidepressants are not habit-forming, but like other medications, decisions about stopping them are best made in partnership with a clinician who can help guide what’s right for you. Many people Read more…
Can some medications make me more heat sensitive?
General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a Read more…
What are cold sores, and what causes them?
General Health
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Cold sores are caused by a virus called herpes simplex type 1, one of the most common recurring viral infections in the world. Let’s clear up some of the stigma and confusion that still exists. ❓ What are cold sores? Cold sores (also called fever blisters) are small, fluid-filled blisters that usually appear on or Read more…
What is a differential diagnosis?
General Health
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Tl;dr: Differential diagnosis helps clinicians figure out what questions to ask, makes sure they rule out “can’t miss” diagnoses, and helps them determine what testing and follow-up a patient needs. If you’ve ever read the note your doctor, PA, or NP wrote about you on your patient portal for an emergency room visit, hospital stay, Read more…
What is self-care, and why is it Important?
Mental Health
Those Nerdy Girls
TL; DR: Self-care is a set of things people do to support their overall health and wellness (mental and physical). Self-care can support emotional, physical, and/or spiritual well-being among other areas of life. It is not something that you do only if you have time. It is important for your health. (NOTE: This post was Read more…
Today is Juneteenth.
Social and Racial Justice
Why do Those Nerdy Girls post about Juneteenth every year, and where can I find more information? Every year on June 19th, we take time to recognize Juneteenth and to reflect on how the ongoing legacy of American slavery shapes our understanding of health equity and the work still ahead. Here is our post from Read more…
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how.
Social and Racial Justice
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how. Juneteenth is observed by many as the formal end to the American institution of slavery. However, remains of this shameful legacy are still burrowed deeply into our healthcare system, impacting everyone’s ability to live freely in good health. Thus, while Juneteenth is a time of joyful celebration, Read more…
June is Pride Month. Why do Those Nerdy Girls feel it is important to write about Pride?
Social and Racial Justice
It’s Pride Month! Every June, communities across the U.S. and around the world come together to celebrate, honor, and uplift LGBTQ2SIA+ people and their families. Let’s keep building a world where these communities are seen, valued, and understood. Visibility is important because it leads to improvements in safety and health. When we see representation across Read more…
There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
While that’s exciting (especially for sunscreen nerds), it doesn’t change what we already know: sun safety habits over time matter more than having one more product on a shelf. When I joined Those Nerdy Girls two years ago, sun safety was a topic I was excited to cover. A few years earlier, I’d had skin Read more…
What are the 3 most important sun-safe habits your skin will thank you for?
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Sun safety requires a combination of everyday protective measures. These include covering up, using sunscreen, and being sensible about sun exposure. 🌞 🌞 Be sure to look out for our post coming tomorrow: “There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.” (Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the Read more…
Is leucovorin an effective treatment for autism?
Families/Kids General Health Treatments
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
While probably not harmful, there is not enough evidence that leucovorin is an effective treatment for autism. Demand for the drug among parents of children with autism recently skyrocketed after a press conference last fall in which federal health officials claimed, with little evidence, that the drug is a promising treatment for autism. You may Read more…
From early lab research to clinical treatments – science takes time.
Nerdy Notes
Irini Hadjisavva, PhD
Studies in mice can be helpful and important. They can point scientists toward new ideas. But they do not guarantee that the same thing will work in humans. That’s why scientists are careful about big health claims based only on Petri dish or mouse data. And it’s why I want to share a story from Read more…
What is the Air Quality Index? And how can you use it to stay safe? The Index ranges between 0 and 500. 🟩 0-50 – Air quality is satisfactory, and air pollution poses little or no risk. 🟨 51-100 – Air quality is acceptable for most people but for some, particularly those who are unusually Read more…
Does the national suicide prevention line (988) actually prevent suicides?
Mental HealthSara Gorman, PhD, MPH
Yes! There is now excellent evidence that the national suicide prevention line, or 988, has been highly effective at preventing suicides. 988 is a nationwide 3-digit suicide prevention and crisis line, which launched in 2022. Since its launch, several studies have found that the introduction of this crisis line option has been associated with significant Read more…
What is an ad hominem attack?
Uncertainty and Misinformation
Sarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Ad hominem attacks are used to insult a person’s motive or character rather than address the content of a specific idea or argument. This type of mudslinging is an intellectual fallacy that draws attention away from the issue at hand and creates distrust of the individual. Let’s look at how ad hominem attacks can Read more…
I keep hearing about New World Screwworm in the news. Can you tell me more about it?
General Health Infection and Spread
A parasitic fly called the New World Screwworm has recently been found in US animals for the first time in decades. Although the current risk to people in the US is very low, it’s worth knowing the signs, especially if you have pets and live in an affected area. What is New World Screwworm (NWS)? Read more…
What’s going on with this outbreak of diarrhea in the US?
Infection and Spread Infectious Diseases
Sandy Laping, MSc
There is an outbreak of cyclosporiasis happening. It’s a parasite that causes horrible diarrhea. Although we don’t know yet what the source is, there are ways to reduce your risk of getting infected. Although most cases have been reported in Michigan, more than 30 states are affected, so it’s worth knowing the symptoms and how Read more…
What is an asthma action plan?
General Health
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
An asthma action plan is a form that you fill out with a clinician that details asthma medications, triggers, symptoms, and plans for asthma flares. An asthma action plan is a clinician-approved guide that covers medications, triggers, symptoms, and ER guidelines for people with asthma. You fill out the form with your clinician and it’s Read more…
What are heuristics, and why does this matter?
Data and Metrics
Those Nerdy Girls
Heuristics are fast, efficient mental shortcuts that we use all the time to help us make decisions and solve problems. These rule-of-thumb strategies can decrease our cognitive load to make choices without becoming overwhelmed. Heuristics can be both helpful and harmful so it’s important to recognize when a heuristic might not be such a great Read more…
What do I need to know about daraxonrasib, the new treatment for pancreatic cancer?
General Health Treatments
Heather Duncan, MPH, PhD
A new drug called daraxonrasib nearly doubled survival time for patients enrolled in a phase-3 clinical trial. That’s a big deal, because treatment options for pancreatic cancer are limited and survival rates at 5 years are very low. In 2002, my grandmother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Six months later she was admitted to hospice, Read more…
Antidepressants are an important tool.
Mental Health Nerdy Notes
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Another in our series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse You may have heard recent buzz about antidepressants being “overprescribed” or difficult to stop. Antidepressants are not habit-forming, but like other medications, decisions about stopping them are best made in partnership with a clinician who can help guide what’s right for you. Many people Read more…
Can some medications make me more heat sensitive?
General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a Read more…
What are cold sores, and what causes them?
General Health
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Cold sores are caused by a virus called herpes simplex type 1, one of the most common recurring viral infections in the world. Let’s clear up some of the stigma and confusion that still exists. ❓ What are cold sores? Cold sores (also called fever blisters) are small, fluid-filled blisters that usually appear on or Read more…
What is a differential diagnosis?
General Health
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Tl;dr: Differential diagnosis helps clinicians figure out what questions to ask, makes sure they rule out “can’t miss” diagnoses, and helps them determine what testing and follow-up a patient needs. If you’ve ever read the note your doctor, PA, or NP wrote about you on your patient portal for an emergency room visit, hospital stay, Read more…
What is self-care, and why is it Important?
Mental Health
Those Nerdy Girls
TL; DR: Self-care is a set of things people do to support their overall health and wellness (mental and physical). Self-care can support emotional, physical, and/or spiritual well-being among other areas of life. It is not something that you do only if you have time. It is important for your health. (NOTE: This post was Read more…
Today is Juneteenth.
Social and Racial Justice
Why do Those Nerdy Girls post about Juneteenth every year, and where can I find more information? Every year on June 19th, we take time to recognize Juneteenth and to reflect on how the ongoing legacy of American slavery shapes our understanding of health equity and the work still ahead. Here is our post from Read more…
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how.
Social and Racial Justice
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how. Juneteenth is observed by many as the formal end to the American institution of slavery. However, remains of this shameful legacy are still burrowed deeply into our healthcare system, impacting everyone’s ability to live freely in good health. Thus, while Juneteenth is a time of joyful celebration, Read more…
June is Pride Month. Why do Those Nerdy Girls feel it is important to write about Pride?
Social and Racial Justice
It’s Pride Month! Every June, communities across the U.S. and around the world come together to celebrate, honor, and uplift LGBTQ2SIA+ people and their families. Let’s keep building a world where these communities are seen, valued, and understood. Visibility is important because it leads to improvements in safety and health. When we see representation across Read more…
There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
While that’s exciting (especially for sunscreen nerds), it doesn’t change what we already know: sun safety habits over time matter more than having one more product on a shelf. When I joined Those Nerdy Girls two years ago, sun safety was a topic I was excited to cover. A few years earlier, I’d had skin Read more…
What are the 3 most important sun-safe habits your skin will thank you for?
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Sun safety requires a combination of everyday protective measures. These include covering up, using sunscreen, and being sensible about sun exposure. 🌞 🌞 Be sure to look out for our post coming tomorrow: “There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.” (Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the Read more…
Is leucovorin an effective treatment for autism?
Families/Kids General Health Treatments
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
While probably not harmful, there is not enough evidence that leucovorin is an effective treatment for autism. Demand for the drug among parents of children with autism recently skyrocketed after a press conference last fall in which federal health officials claimed, with little evidence, that the drug is a promising treatment for autism. You may Read more…
From early lab research to clinical treatments – science takes time.
Nerdy Notes
Irini Hadjisavva, PhD
Studies in mice can be helpful and important. They can point scientists toward new ideas. But they do not guarantee that the same thing will work in humans. That’s why scientists are careful about big health claims based only on Petri dish or mouse data. And it’s why I want to share a story from Read more…
Yes! There is now excellent evidence that the national suicide prevention line, or 988, has been highly effective at preventing suicides. 988 is a nationwide 3-digit suicide prevention and crisis line, which launched in 2022. Since its launch, several studies have found that the introduction of this crisis line option has been associated with significant Read more…
What is an ad hominem attack?
Uncertainty and MisinformationSarah Whitley Coles, MD
Tl;dr: Ad hominem attacks are used to insult a person’s motive or character rather than address the content of a specific idea or argument. This type of mudslinging is an intellectual fallacy that draws attention away from the issue at hand and creates distrust of the individual. Let’s look at how ad hominem attacks can Read more…
I keep hearing about New World Screwworm in the news. Can you tell me more about it?
General Health Infection and Spread
A parasitic fly called the New World Screwworm has recently been found in US animals for the first time in decades. Although the current risk to people in the US is very low, it’s worth knowing the signs, especially if you have pets and live in an affected area. What is New World Screwworm (NWS)? Read more…
What’s going on with this outbreak of diarrhea in the US?
Infection and Spread Infectious Diseases
Sandy Laping, MSc
There is an outbreak of cyclosporiasis happening. It’s a parasite that causes horrible diarrhea. Although we don’t know yet what the source is, there are ways to reduce your risk of getting infected. Although most cases have been reported in Michigan, more than 30 states are affected, so it’s worth knowing the symptoms and how Read more…
What is an asthma action plan?
General Health
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
An asthma action plan is a form that you fill out with a clinician that details asthma medications, triggers, symptoms, and plans for asthma flares. An asthma action plan is a clinician-approved guide that covers medications, triggers, symptoms, and ER guidelines for people with asthma. You fill out the form with your clinician and it’s Read more…
What are heuristics, and why does this matter?
Data and Metrics
Those Nerdy Girls
Heuristics are fast, efficient mental shortcuts that we use all the time to help us make decisions and solve problems. These rule-of-thumb strategies can decrease our cognitive load to make choices without becoming overwhelmed. Heuristics can be both helpful and harmful so it’s important to recognize when a heuristic might not be such a great Read more…
What do I need to know about daraxonrasib, the new treatment for pancreatic cancer?
General Health Treatments
Heather Duncan, MPH, PhD
A new drug called daraxonrasib nearly doubled survival time for patients enrolled in a phase-3 clinical trial. That’s a big deal, because treatment options for pancreatic cancer are limited and survival rates at 5 years are very low. In 2002, my grandmother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Six months later she was admitted to hospice, Read more…
Antidepressants are an important tool.
Mental Health Nerdy Notes
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Another in our series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse You may have heard recent buzz about antidepressants being “overprescribed” or difficult to stop. Antidepressants are not habit-forming, but like other medications, decisions about stopping them are best made in partnership with a clinician who can help guide what’s right for you. Many people Read more…
Can some medications make me more heat sensitive?
General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a Read more…
What are cold sores, and what causes them?
General Health
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Cold sores are caused by a virus called herpes simplex type 1, one of the most common recurring viral infections in the world. Let’s clear up some of the stigma and confusion that still exists. ❓ What are cold sores? Cold sores (also called fever blisters) are small, fluid-filled blisters that usually appear on or Read more…
What is a differential diagnosis?
General Health
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Tl;dr: Differential diagnosis helps clinicians figure out what questions to ask, makes sure they rule out “can’t miss” diagnoses, and helps them determine what testing and follow-up a patient needs. If you’ve ever read the note your doctor, PA, or NP wrote about you on your patient portal for an emergency room visit, hospital stay, Read more…
What is self-care, and why is it Important?
Mental Health
Those Nerdy Girls
TL; DR: Self-care is a set of things people do to support their overall health and wellness (mental and physical). Self-care can support emotional, physical, and/or spiritual well-being among other areas of life. It is not something that you do only if you have time. It is important for your health. (NOTE: This post was Read more…
Today is Juneteenth.
Social and Racial Justice
Why do Those Nerdy Girls post about Juneteenth every year, and where can I find more information? Every year on June 19th, we take time to recognize Juneteenth and to reflect on how the ongoing legacy of American slavery shapes our understanding of health equity and the work still ahead. Here is our post from Read more…
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how.
Social and Racial Justice
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how. Juneteenth is observed by many as the formal end to the American institution of slavery. However, remains of this shameful legacy are still burrowed deeply into our healthcare system, impacting everyone’s ability to live freely in good health. Thus, while Juneteenth is a time of joyful celebration, Read more…
June is Pride Month. Why do Those Nerdy Girls feel it is important to write about Pride?
Social and Racial Justice
It’s Pride Month! Every June, communities across the U.S. and around the world come together to celebrate, honor, and uplift LGBTQ2SIA+ people and their families. Let’s keep building a world where these communities are seen, valued, and understood. Visibility is important because it leads to improvements in safety and health. When we see representation across Read more…
There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
While that’s exciting (especially for sunscreen nerds), it doesn’t change what we already know: sun safety habits over time matter more than having one more product on a shelf. When I joined Those Nerdy Girls two years ago, sun safety was a topic I was excited to cover. A few years earlier, I’d had skin Read more…
What are the 3 most important sun-safe habits your skin will thank you for?
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Sun safety requires a combination of everyday protective measures. These include covering up, using sunscreen, and being sensible about sun exposure. 🌞 🌞 Be sure to look out for our post coming tomorrow: “There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.” (Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the Read more…
Is leucovorin an effective treatment for autism?
Families/Kids General Health Treatments
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
While probably not harmful, there is not enough evidence that leucovorin is an effective treatment for autism. Demand for the drug among parents of children with autism recently skyrocketed after a press conference last fall in which federal health officials claimed, with little evidence, that the drug is a promising treatment for autism. You may Read more…
From early lab research to clinical treatments – science takes time.
Nerdy Notes
Irini Hadjisavva, PhD
Studies in mice can be helpful and important. They can point scientists toward new ideas. But they do not guarantee that the same thing will work in humans. That’s why scientists are careful about big health claims based only on Petri dish or mouse data. And it’s why I want to share a story from Read more…
Tl;dr: Ad hominem attacks are used to insult a person’s motive or character rather than address the content of a specific idea or argument. This type of mudslinging is an intellectual fallacy that draws attention away from the issue at hand and creates distrust of the individual. Let’s look at how ad hominem attacks can Read more…
I keep hearing about New World Screwworm in the news. Can you tell me more about it?
General Health Infection and SpreadA parasitic fly called the New World Screwworm has recently been found in US animals for the first time in decades. Although the current risk to people in the US is very low, it’s worth knowing the signs, especially if you have pets and live in an affected area. What is New World Screwworm (NWS)? Read more…
What’s going on with this outbreak of diarrhea in the US?
Infection and Spread Infectious DiseasesSandy Laping, MSc
There is an outbreak of cyclosporiasis happening. It’s a parasite that causes horrible diarrhea. Although we don’t know yet what the source is, there are ways to reduce your risk of getting infected. Although most cases have been reported in Michigan, more than 30 states are affected, so it’s worth knowing the symptoms and how Read more…
What is an asthma action plan?
General Health
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
An asthma action plan is a form that you fill out with a clinician that details asthma medications, triggers, symptoms, and plans for asthma flares. An asthma action plan is a clinician-approved guide that covers medications, triggers, symptoms, and ER guidelines for people with asthma. You fill out the form with your clinician and it’s Read more…
What are heuristics, and why does this matter?
Data and Metrics
Those Nerdy Girls
Heuristics are fast, efficient mental shortcuts that we use all the time to help us make decisions and solve problems. These rule-of-thumb strategies can decrease our cognitive load to make choices without becoming overwhelmed. Heuristics can be both helpful and harmful so it’s important to recognize when a heuristic might not be such a great Read more…
What do I need to know about daraxonrasib, the new treatment for pancreatic cancer?
General Health Treatments
Heather Duncan, MPH, PhD
A new drug called daraxonrasib nearly doubled survival time for patients enrolled in a phase-3 clinical trial. That’s a big deal, because treatment options for pancreatic cancer are limited and survival rates at 5 years are very low. In 2002, my grandmother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Six months later she was admitted to hospice, Read more…
Antidepressants are an important tool.
Mental Health Nerdy Notes
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Another in our series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse You may have heard recent buzz about antidepressants being “overprescribed” or difficult to stop. Antidepressants are not habit-forming, but like other medications, decisions about stopping them are best made in partnership with a clinician who can help guide what’s right for you. Many people Read more…
Can some medications make me more heat sensitive?
General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a Read more…
What are cold sores, and what causes them?
General Health
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Cold sores are caused by a virus called herpes simplex type 1, one of the most common recurring viral infections in the world. Let’s clear up some of the stigma and confusion that still exists. ❓ What are cold sores? Cold sores (also called fever blisters) are small, fluid-filled blisters that usually appear on or Read more…
What is a differential diagnosis?
General Health
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Tl;dr: Differential diagnosis helps clinicians figure out what questions to ask, makes sure they rule out “can’t miss” diagnoses, and helps them determine what testing and follow-up a patient needs. If you’ve ever read the note your doctor, PA, or NP wrote about you on your patient portal for an emergency room visit, hospital stay, Read more…
What is self-care, and why is it Important?
Mental Health
Those Nerdy Girls
TL; DR: Self-care is a set of things people do to support their overall health and wellness (mental and physical). Self-care can support emotional, physical, and/or spiritual well-being among other areas of life. It is not something that you do only if you have time. It is important for your health. (NOTE: This post was Read more…
Today is Juneteenth.
Social and Racial Justice
Why do Those Nerdy Girls post about Juneteenth every year, and where can I find more information? Every year on June 19th, we take time to recognize Juneteenth and to reflect on how the ongoing legacy of American slavery shapes our understanding of health equity and the work still ahead. Here is our post from Read more…
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how.
Social and Racial Justice
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how. Juneteenth is observed by many as the formal end to the American institution of slavery. However, remains of this shameful legacy are still burrowed deeply into our healthcare system, impacting everyone’s ability to live freely in good health. Thus, while Juneteenth is a time of joyful celebration, Read more…
June is Pride Month. Why do Those Nerdy Girls feel it is important to write about Pride?
Social and Racial Justice
It’s Pride Month! Every June, communities across the U.S. and around the world come together to celebrate, honor, and uplift LGBTQ2SIA+ people and their families. Let’s keep building a world where these communities are seen, valued, and understood. Visibility is important because it leads to improvements in safety and health. When we see representation across Read more…
There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
While that’s exciting (especially for sunscreen nerds), it doesn’t change what we already know: sun safety habits over time matter more than having one more product on a shelf. When I joined Those Nerdy Girls two years ago, sun safety was a topic I was excited to cover. A few years earlier, I’d had skin Read more…
What are the 3 most important sun-safe habits your skin will thank you for?
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Sun safety requires a combination of everyday protective measures. These include covering up, using sunscreen, and being sensible about sun exposure. 🌞 🌞 Be sure to look out for our post coming tomorrow: “There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.” (Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the Read more…
Is leucovorin an effective treatment for autism?
Families/Kids General Health Treatments
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
While probably not harmful, there is not enough evidence that leucovorin is an effective treatment for autism. Demand for the drug among parents of children with autism recently skyrocketed after a press conference last fall in which federal health officials claimed, with little evidence, that the drug is a promising treatment for autism. You may Read more…
From early lab research to clinical treatments – science takes time.
Nerdy Notes
Irini Hadjisavva, PhD
Studies in mice can be helpful and important. They can point scientists toward new ideas. But they do not guarantee that the same thing will work in humans. That’s why scientists are careful about big health claims based only on Petri dish or mouse data. And it’s why I want to share a story from Read more…
There is an outbreak of cyclosporiasis happening. It’s a parasite that causes horrible diarrhea. Although we don’t know yet what the source is, there are ways to reduce your risk of getting infected. Although most cases have been reported in Michigan, more than 30 states are affected, so it’s worth knowing the symptoms and how Read more…
What is an asthma action plan?
General HealthRebecca Raskin-Wish
An asthma action plan is a form that you fill out with a clinician that details asthma medications, triggers, symptoms, and plans for asthma flares. An asthma action plan is a clinician-approved guide that covers medications, triggers, symptoms, and ER guidelines for people with asthma. You fill out the form with your clinician and it’s Read more…
What are heuristics, and why does this matter?
Data and Metrics
Those Nerdy Girls
Heuristics are fast, efficient mental shortcuts that we use all the time to help us make decisions and solve problems. These rule-of-thumb strategies can decrease our cognitive load to make choices without becoming overwhelmed. Heuristics can be both helpful and harmful so it’s important to recognize when a heuristic might not be such a great Read more…
What do I need to know about daraxonrasib, the new treatment for pancreatic cancer?
General Health Treatments
Heather Duncan, MPH, PhD
A new drug called daraxonrasib nearly doubled survival time for patients enrolled in a phase-3 clinical trial. That’s a big deal, because treatment options for pancreatic cancer are limited and survival rates at 5 years are very low. In 2002, my grandmother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Six months later she was admitted to hospice, Read more…
Antidepressants are an important tool.
Mental Health Nerdy Notes
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Another in our series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse You may have heard recent buzz about antidepressants being “overprescribed” or difficult to stop. Antidepressants are not habit-forming, but like other medications, decisions about stopping them are best made in partnership with a clinician who can help guide what’s right for you. Many people Read more…
Can some medications make me more heat sensitive?
General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a Read more…
What are cold sores, and what causes them?
General Health
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Cold sores are caused by a virus called herpes simplex type 1, one of the most common recurring viral infections in the world. Let’s clear up some of the stigma and confusion that still exists. ❓ What are cold sores? Cold sores (also called fever blisters) are small, fluid-filled blisters that usually appear on or Read more…
What is a differential diagnosis?
General Health
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Tl;dr: Differential diagnosis helps clinicians figure out what questions to ask, makes sure they rule out “can’t miss” diagnoses, and helps them determine what testing and follow-up a patient needs. If you’ve ever read the note your doctor, PA, or NP wrote about you on your patient portal for an emergency room visit, hospital stay, Read more…
What is self-care, and why is it Important?
Mental Health
Those Nerdy Girls
TL; DR: Self-care is a set of things people do to support their overall health and wellness (mental and physical). Self-care can support emotional, physical, and/or spiritual well-being among other areas of life. It is not something that you do only if you have time. It is important for your health. (NOTE: This post was Read more…
Today is Juneteenth.
Social and Racial Justice
Why do Those Nerdy Girls post about Juneteenth every year, and where can I find more information? Every year on June 19th, we take time to recognize Juneteenth and to reflect on how the ongoing legacy of American slavery shapes our understanding of health equity and the work still ahead. Here is our post from Read more…
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how.
Social and Racial Justice
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how. Juneteenth is observed by many as the formal end to the American institution of slavery. However, remains of this shameful legacy are still burrowed deeply into our healthcare system, impacting everyone’s ability to live freely in good health. Thus, while Juneteenth is a time of joyful celebration, Read more…
June is Pride Month. Why do Those Nerdy Girls feel it is important to write about Pride?
Social and Racial Justice
It’s Pride Month! Every June, communities across the U.S. and around the world come together to celebrate, honor, and uplift LGBTQ2SIA+ people and their families. Let’s keep building a world where these communities are seen, valued, and understood. Visibility is important because it leads to improvements in safety and health. When we see representation across Read more…
There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
While that’s exciting (especially for sunscreen nerds), it doesn’t change what we already know: sun safety habits over time matter more than having one more product on a shelf. When I joined Those Nerdy Girls two years ago, sun safety was a topic I was excited to cover. A few years earlier, I’d had skin Read more…
What are the 3 most important sun-safe habits your skin will thank you for?
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Sun safety requires a combination of everyday protective measures. These include covering up, using sunscreen, and being sensible about sun exposure. 🌞 🌞 Be sure to look out for our post coming tomorrow: “There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.” (Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the Read more…
Is leucovorin an effective treatment for autism?
Families/Kids General Health Treatments
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
While probably not harmful, there is not enough evidence that leucovorin is an effective treatment for autism. Demand for the drug among parents of children with autism recently skyrocketed after a press conference last fall in which federal health officials claimed, with little evidence, that the drug is a promising treatment for autism. You may Read more…
From early lab research to clinical treatments – science takes time.
Nerdy Notes
Irini Hadjisavva, PhD
Studies in mice can be helpful and important. They can point scientists toward new ideas. But they do not guarantee that the same thing will work in humans. That’s why scientists are careful about big health claims based only on Petri dish or mouse data. And it’s why I want to share a story from Read more…
An asthma action plan is a form that you fill out with a clinician that details asthma medications, triggers, symptoms, and plans for asthma flares. An asthma action plan is a clinician-approved guide that covers medications, triggers, symptoms, and ER guidelines for people with asthma. You fill out the form with your clinician and it’s Read more…
What are heuristics, and why does this matter?
Data and MetricsThose Nerdy Girls
Heuristics are fast, efficient mental shortcuts that we use all the time to help us make decisions and solve problems. These rule-of-thumb strategies can decrease our cognitive load to make choices without becoming overwhelmed. Heuristics can be both helpful and harmful so it’s important to recognize when a heuristic might not be such a great Read more…
What do I need to know about daraxonrasib, the new treatment for pancreatic cancer?
General Health Treatments
Heather Duncan, MPH, PhD
A new drug called daraxonrasib nearly doubled survival time for patients enrolled in a phase-3 clinical trial. That’s a big deal, because treatment options for pancreatic cancer are limited and survival rates at 5 years are very low. In 2002, my grandmother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Six months later she was admitted to hospice, Read more…
Antidepressants are an important tool.
Mental Health Nerdy Notes
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Another in our series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse You may have heard recent buzz about antidepressants being “overprescribed” or difficult to stop. Antidepressants are not habit-forming, but like other medications, decisions about stopping them are best made in partnership with a clinician who can help guide what’s right for you. Many people Read more…
Can some medications make me more heat sensitive?
General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a Read more…
What are cold sores, and what causes them?
General Health
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Cold sores are caused by a virus called herpes simplex type 1, one of the most common recurring viral infections in the world. Let’s clear up some of the stigma and confusion that still exists. ❓ What are cold sores? Cold sores (also called fever blisters) are small, fluid-filled blisters that usually appear on or Read more…
What is a differential diagnosis?
General Health
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Tl;dr: Differential diagnosis helps clinicians figure out what questions to ask, makes sure they rule out “can’t miss” diagnoses, and helps them determine what testing and follow-up a patient needs. If you’ve ever read the note your doctor, PA, or NP wrote about you on your patient portal for an emergency room visit, hospital stay, Read more…
What is self-care, and why is it Important?
Mental Health
Those Nerdy Girls
TL; DR: Self-care is a set of things people do to support their overall health and wellness (mental and physical). Self-care can support emotional, physical, and/or spiritual well-being among other areas of life. It is not something that you do only if you have time. It is important for your health. (NOTE: This post was Read more…
Today is Juneteenth.
Social and Racial Justice
Why do Those Nerdy Girls post about Juneteenth every year, and where can I find more information? Every year on June 19th, we take time to recognize Juneteenth and to reflect on how the ongoing legacy of American slavery shapes our understanding of health equity and the work still ahead. Here is our post from Read more…
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how.
Social and Racial Justice
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how. Juneteenth is observed by many as the formal end to the American institution of slavery. However, remains of this shameful legacy are still burrowed deeply into our healthcare system, impacting everyone’s ability to live freely in good health. Thus, while Juneteenth is a time of joyful celebration, Read more…
June is Pride Month. Why do Those Nerdy Girls feel it is important to write about Pride?
Social and Racial Justice
It’s Pride Month! Every June, communities across the U.S. and around the world come together to celebrate, honor, and uplift LGBTQ2SIA+ people and their families. Let’s keep building a world where these communities are seen, valued, and understood. Visibility is important because it leads to improvements in safety and health. When we see representation across Read more…
There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
While that’s exciting (especially for sunscreen nerds), it doesn’t change what we already know: sun safety habits over time matter more than having one more product on a shelf. When I joined Those Nerdy Girls two years ago, sun safety was a topic I was excited to cover. A few years earlier, I’d had skin Read more…
What are the 3 most important sun-safe habits your skin will thank you for?
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Sun safety requires a combination of everyday protective measures. These include covering up, using sunscreen, and being sensible about sun exposure. 🌞 🌞 Be sure to look out for our post coming tomorrow: “There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.” (Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the Read more…
Is leucovorin an effective treatment for autism?
Families/Kids General Health Treatments
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
While probably not harmful, there is not enough evidence that leucovorin is an effective treatment for autism. Demand for the drug among parents of children with autism recently skyrocketed after a press conference last fall in which federal health officials claimed, with little evidence, that the drug is a promising treatment for autism. You may Read more…
From early lab research to clinical treatments – science takes time.
Nerdy Notes
Irini Hadjisavva, PhD
Studies in mice can be helpful and important. They can point scientists toward new ideas. But they do not guarantee that the same thing will work in humans. That’s why scientists are careful about big health claims based only on Petri dish or mouse data. And it’s why I want to share a story from Read more…
Heuristics are fast, efficient mental shortcuts that we use all the time to help us make decisions and solve problems. These rule-of-thumb strategies can decrease our cognitive load to make choices without becoming overwhelmed. Heuristics can be both helpful and harmful so it’s important to recognize when a heuristic might not be such a great Read more…
What do I need to know about daraxonrasib, the new treatment for pancreatic cancer?
General Health TreatmentsHeather Duncan, MPH, PhD
A new drug called daraxonrasib nearly doubled survival time for patients enrolled in a phase-3 clinical trial. That’s a big deal, because treatment options for pancreatic cancer are limited and survival rates at 5 years are very low. In 2002, my grandmother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Six months later she was admitted to hospice, Read more…
Antidepressants are an important tool.
Mental Health Nerdy Notes
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Another in our series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse You may have heard recent buzz about antidepressants being “overprescribed” or difficult to stop. Antidepressants are not habit-forming, but like other medications, decisions about stopping them are best made in partnership with a clinician who can help guide what’s right for you. Many people Read more…
Can some medications make me more heat sensitive?
General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a Read more…
What are cold sores, and what causes them?
General Health
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Cold sores are caused by a virus called herpes simplex type 1, one of the most common recurring viral infections in the world. Let’s clear up some of the stigma and confusion that still exists. ❓ What are cold sores? Cold sores (also called fever blisters) are small, fluid-filled blisters that usually appear on or Read more…
What is a differential diagnosis?
General Health
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Tl;dr: Differential diagnosis helps clinicians figure out what questions to ask, makes sure they rule out “can’t miss” diagnoses, and helps them determine what testing and follow-up a patient needs. If you’ve ever read the note your doctor, PA, or NP wrote about you on your patient portal for an emergency room visit, hospital stay, Read more…
What is self-care, and why is it Important?
Mental Health
Those Nerdy Girls
TL; DR: Self-care is a set of things people do to support their overall health and wellness (mental and physical). Self-care can support emotional, physical, and/or spiritual well-being among other areas of life. It is not something that you do only if you have time. It is important for your health. (NOTE: This post was Read more…
Today is Juneteenth.
Social and Racial Justice
Why do Those Nerdy Girls post about Juneteenth every year, and where can I find more information? Every year on June 19th, we take time to recognize Juneteenth and to reflect on how the ongoing legacy of American slavery shapes our understanding of health equity and the work still ahead. Here is our post from Read more…
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how.
Social and Racial Justice
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how. Juneteenth is observed by many as the formal end to the American institution of slavery. However, remains of this shameful legacy are still burrowed deeply into our healthcare system, impacting everyone’s ability to live freely in good health. Thus, while Juneteenth is a time of joyful celebration, Read more…
June is Pride Month. Why do Those Nerdy Girls feel it is important to write about Pride?
Social and Racial Justice
It’s Pride Month! Every June, communities across the U.S. and around the world come together to celebrate, honor, and uplift LGBTQ2SIA+ people and their families. Let’s keep building a world where these communities are seen, valued, and understood. Visibility is important because it leads to improvements in safety and health. When we see representation across Read more…
There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
While that’s exciting (especially for sunscreen nerds), it doesn’t change what we already know: sun safety habits over time matter more than having one more product on a shelf. When I joined Those Nerdy Girls two years ago, sun safety was a topic I was excited to cover. A few years earlier, I’d had skin Read more…
What are the 3 most important sun-safe habits your skin will thank you for?
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Sun safety requires a combination of everyday protective measures. These include covering up, using sunscreen, and being sensible about sun exposure. 🌞 🌞 Be sure to look out for our post coming tomorrow: “There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.” (Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the Read more…
Is leucovorin an effective treatment for autism?
Families/Kids General Health Treatments
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
While probably not harmful, there is not enough evidence that leucovorin is an effective treatment for autism. Demand for the drug among parents of children with autism recently skyrocketed after a press conference last fall in which federal health officials claimed, with little evidence, that the drug is a promising treatment for autism. You may Read more…
From early lab research to clinical treatments – science takes time.
Nerdy Notes
Irini Hadjisavva, PhD
Studies in mice can be helpful and important. They can point scientists toward new ideas. But they do not guarantee that the same thing will work in humans. That’s why scientists are careful about big health claims based only on Petri dish or mouse data. And it’s why I want to share a story from Read more…
A new drug called daraxonrasib nearly doubled survival time for patients enrolled in a phase-3 clinical trial. That’s a big deal, because treatment options for pancreatic cancer are limited and survival rates at 5 years are very low. In 2002, my grandmother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Six months later she was admitted to hospice, Read more…
Antidepressants are an important tool.
Mental Health Nerdy NotesRebecca Raskin-Wish
Another in our series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse You may have heard recent buzz about antidepressants being “overprescribed” or difficult to stop. Antidepressants are not habit-forming, but like other medications, decisions about stopping them are best made in partnership with a clinician who can help guide what’s right for you. Many people Read more…
Can some medications make me more heat sensitive?
General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a Read more…
What are cold sores, and what causes them?
General Health
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Cold sores are caused by a virus called herpes simplex type 1, one of the most common recurring viral infections in the world. Let’s clear up some of the stigma and confusion that still exists. ❓ What are cold sores? Cold sores (also called fever blisters) are small, fluid-filled blisters that usually appear on or Read more…
What is a differential diagnosis?
General Health
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Tl;dr: Differential diagnosis helps clinicians figure out what questions to ask, makes sure they rule out “can’t miss” diagnoses, and helps them determine what testing and follow-up a patient needs. If you’ve ever read the note your doctor, PA, or NP wrote about you on your patient portal for an emergency room visit, hospital stay, Read more…
What is self-care, and why is it Important?
Mental Health
Those Nerdy Girls
TL; DR: Self-care is a set of things people do to support their overall health and wellness (mental and physical). Self-care can support emotional, physical, and/or spiritual well-being among other areas of life. It is not something that you do only if you have time. It is important for your health. (NOTE: This post was Read more…
Today is Juneteenth.
Social and Racial Justice
Why do Those Nerdy Girls post about Juneteenth every year, and where can I find more information? Every year on June 19th, we take time to recognize Juneteenth and to reflect on how the ongoing legacy of American slavery shapes our understanding of health equity and the work still ahead. Here is our post from Read more…
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how.
Social and Racial Justice
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how. Juneteenth is observed by many as the formal end to the American institution of slavery. However, remains of this shameful legacy are still burrowed deeply into our healthcare system, impacting everyone’s ability to live freely in good health. Thus, while Juneteenth is a time of joyful celebration, Read more…
June is Pride Month. Why do Those Nerdy Girls feel it is important to write about Pride?
Social and Racial Justice
It’s Pride Month! Every June, communities across the U.S. and around the world come together to celebrate, honor, and uplift LGBTQ2SIA+ people and their families. Let’s keep building a world where these communities are seen, valued, and understood. Visibility is important because it leads to improvements in safety and health. When we see representation across Read more…
There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
While that’s exciting (especially for sunscreen nerds), it doesn’t change what we already know: sun safety habits over time matter more than having one more product on a shelf. When I joined Those Nerdy Girls two years ago, sun safety was a topic I was excited to cover. A few years earlier, I’d had skin Read more…
What are the 3 most important sun-safe habits your skin will thank you for?
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Sun safety requires a combination of everyday protective measures. These include covering up, using sunscreen, and being sensible about sun exposure. 🌞 🌞 Be sure to look out for our post coming tomorrow: “There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.” (Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the Read more…
Is leucovorin an effective treatment for autism?
Families/Kids General Health Treatments
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
While probably not harmful, there is not enough evidence that leucovorin is an effective treatment for autism. Demand for the drug among parents of children with autism recently skyrocketed after a press conference last fall in which federal health officials claimed, with little evidence, that the drug is a promising treatment for autism. You may Read more…
From early lab research to clinical treatments – science takes time.
Nerdy Notes
Irini Hadjisavva, PhD
Studies in mice can be helpful and important. They can point scientists toward new ideas. But they do not guarantee that the same thing will work in humans. That’s why scientists are careful about big health claims based only on Petri dish or mouse data. And it’s why I want to share a story from Read more…
Another in our series Nerdy Notes: Science in Story & Verse You may have heard recent buzz about antidepressants being “overprescribed” or difficult to stop. Antidepressants are not habit-forming, but like other medications, decisions about stopping them are best made in partnership with a clinician who can help guide what’s right for you. Many people Read more…
Can some medications make me more heat sensitive?
General HealthDaphne Berryhill, RPh
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a Read more…
What are cold sores, and what causes them?
General Health
Ilana Gerjuoy, MPH
Cold sores are caused by a virus called herpes simplex type 1, one of the most common recurring viral infections in the world. Let’s clear up some of the stigma and confusion that still exists. ❓ What are cold sores? Cold sores (also called fever blisters) are small, fluid-filled blisters that usually appear on or Read more…
What is a differential diagnosis?
General Health
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Tl;dr: Differential diagnosis helps clinicians figure out what questions to ask, makes sure they rule out “can’t miss” diagnoses, and helps them determine what testing and follow-up a patient needs. If you’ve ever read the note your doctor, PA, or NP wrote about you on your patient portal for an emergency room visit, hospital stay, Read more…
What is self-care, and why is it Important?
Mental Health
Those Nerdy Girls
TL; DR: Self-care is a set of things people do to support their overall health and wellness (mental and physical). Self-care can support emotional, physical, and/or spiritual well-being among other areas of life. It is not something that you do only if you have time. It is important for your health. (NOTE: This post was Read more…
Today is Juneteenth.
Social and Racial Justice
Why do Those Nerdy Girls post about Juneteenth every year, and where can I find more information? Every year on June 19th, we take time to recognize Juneteenth and to reflect on how the ongoing legacy of American slavery shapes our understanding of health equity and the work still ahead. Here is our post from Read more…
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how.
Social and Racial Justice
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how. Juneteenth is observed by many as the formal end to the American institution of slavery. However, remains of this shameful legacy are still burrowed deeply into our healthcare system, impacting everyone’s ability to live freely in good health. Thus, while Juneteenth is a time of joyful celebration, Read more…
June is Pride Month. Why do Those Nerdy Girls feel it is important to write about Pride?
Social and Racial Justice
It’s Pride Month! Every June, communities across the U.S. and around the world come together to celebrate, honor, and uplift LGBTQ2SIA+ people and their families. Let’s keep building a world where these communities are seen, valued, and understood. Visibility is important because it leads to improvements in safety and health. When we see representation across Read more…
There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
While that’s exciting (especially for sunscreen nerds), it doesn’t change what we already know: sun safety habits over time matter more than having one more product on a shelf. When I joined Those Nerdy Girls two years ago, sun safety was a topic I was excited to cover. A few years earlier, I’d had skin Read more…
What are the 3 most important sun-safe habits your skin will thank you for?
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Sun safety requires a combination of everyday protective measures. These include covering up, using sunscreen, and being sensible about sun exposure. 🌞 🌞 Be sure to look out for our post coming tomorrow: “There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.” (Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the Read more…
Is leucovorin an effective treatment for autism?
Families/Kids General Health Treatments
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
While probably not harmful, there is not enough evidence that leucovorin is an effective treatment for autism. Demand for the drug among parents of children with autism recently skyrocketed after a press conference last fall in which federal health officials claimed, with little evidence, that the drug is a promising treatment for autism. You may Read more…
From early lab research to clinical treatments – science takes time.
Nerdy Notes
Irini Hadjisavva, PhD
Studies in mice can be helpful and important. They can point scientists toward new ideas. But they do not guarantee that the same thing will work in humans. That’s why scientists are careful about big health claims based only on Petri dish or mouse data. And it’s why I want to share a story from Read more…
Yes, certain medications can make you more likely to experience heat-related illness. While we can’t control the weather, we can prepare and help more people stay safe. To understand how medications can affect our bodies when outside temperatures rise, let’s look at the body’s normal cooling process. Our warm-blooded bodies are designed to maintain a Read more…
What are cold sores, and what causes them?
General HealthIlana Gerjuoy, MPH
Cold sores are caused by a virus called herpes simplex type 1, one of the most common recurring viral infections in the world. Let’s clear up some of the stigma and confusion that still exists. ❓ What are cold sores? Cold sores (also called fever blisters) are small, fluid-filled blisters that usually appear on or Read more…
What is a differential diagnosis?
General Health
Rebecca Raskin-Wish
Tl;dr: Differential diagnosis helps clinicians figure out what questions to ask, makes sure they rule out “can’t miss” diagnoses, and helps them determine what testing and follow-up a patient needs. If you’ve ever read the note your doctor, PA, or NP wrote about you on your patient portal for an emergency room visit, hospital stay, Read more…
What is self-care, and why is it Important?
Mental Health
Those Nerdy Girls
TL; DR: Self-care is a set of things people do to support their overall health and wellness (mental and physical). Self-care can support emotional, physical, and/or spiritual well-being among other areas of life. It is not something that you do only if you have time. It is important for your health. (NOTE: This post was Read more…
Today is Juneteenth.
Social and Racial Justice
Why do Those Nerdy Girls post about Juneteenth every year, and where can I find more information? Every year on June 19th, we take time to recognize Juneteenth and to reflect on how the ongoing legacy of American slavery shapes our understanding of health equity and the work still ahead. Here is our post from Read more…
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how.
Social and Racial Justice
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how. Juneteenth is observed by many as the formal end to the American institution of slavery. However, remains of this shameful legacy are still burrowed deeply into our healthcare system, impacting everyone’s ability to live freely in good health. Thus, while Juneteenth is a time of joyful celebration, Read more…
June is Pride Month. Why do Those Nerdy Girls feel it is important to write about Pride?
Social and Racial Justice
It’s Pride Month! Every June, communities across the U.S. and around the world come together to celebrate, honor, and uplift LGBTQ2SIA+ people and their families. Let’s keep building a world where these communities are seen, valued, and understood. Visibility is important because it leads to improvements in safety and health. When we see representation across Read more…
There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
While that’s exciting (especially for sunscreen nerds), it doesn’t change what we already know: sun safety habits over time matter more than having one more product on a shelf. When I joined Those Nerdy Girls two years ago, sun safety was a topic I was excited to cover. A few years earlier, I’d had skin Read more…
What are the 3 most important sun-safe habits your skin will thank you for?
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Sun safety requires a combination of everyday protective measures. These include covering up, using sunscreen, and being sensible about sun exposure. 🌞 🌞 Be sure to look out for our post coming tomorrow: “There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.” (Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the Read more…
Is leucovorin an effective treatment for autism?
Families/Kids General Health Treatments
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
While probably not harmful, there is not enough evidence that leucovorin is an effective treatment for autism. Demand for the drug among parents of children with autism recently skyrocketed after a press conference last fall in which federal health officials claimed, with little evidence, that the drug is a promising treatment for autism. You may Read more…
From early lab research to clinical treatments – science takes time.
Nerdy Notes
Irini Hadjisavva, PhD
Studies in mice can be helpful and important. They can point scientists toward new ideas. But they do not guarantee that the same thing will work in humans. That’s why scientists are careful about big health claims based only on Petri dish or mouse data. And it’s why I want to share a story from Read more…
Cold sores are caused by a virus called herpes simplex type 1, one of the most common recurring viral infections in the world. Let’s clear up some of the stigma and confusion that still exists. ❓ What are cold sores? Cold sores (also called fever blisters) are small, fluid-filled blisters that usually appear on or Read more…
What is a differential diagnosis?
General HealthRebecca Raskin-Wish
Tl;dr: Differential diagnosis helps clinicians figure out what questions to ask, makes sure they rule out “can’t miss” diagnoses, and helps them determine what testing and follow-up a patient needs. If you’ve ever read the note your doctor, PA, or NP wrote about you on your patient portal for an emergency room visit, hospital stay, Read more…
What is self-care, and why is it Important?
Mental Health
Those Nerdy Girls
TL; DR: Self-care is a set of things people do to support their overall health and wellness (mental and physical). Self-care can support emotional, physical, and/or spiritual well-being among other areas of life. It is not something that you do only if you have time. It is important for your health. (NOTE: This post was Read more…
Today is Juneteenth.
Social and Racial Justice
Why do Those Nerdy Girls post about Juneteenth every year, and where can I find more information? Every year on June 19th, we take time to recognize Juneteenth and to reflect on how the ongoing legacy of American slavery shapes our understanding of health equity and the work still ahead. Here is our post from Read more…
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how.
Social and Racial Justice
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how. Juneteenth is observed by many as the formal end to the American institution of slavery. However, remains of this shameful legacy are still burrowed deeply into our healthcare system, impacting everyone’s ability to live freely in good health. Thus, while Juneteenth is a time of joyful celebration, Read more…
June is Pride Month. Why do Those Nerdy Girls feel it is important to write about Pride?
Social and Racial Justice
It’s Pride Month! Every June, communities across the U.S. and around the world come together to celebrate, honor, and uplift LGBTQ2SIA+ people and their families. Let’s keep building a world where these communities are seen, valued, and understood. Visibility is important because it leads to improvements in safety and health. When we see representation across Read more…
There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
While that’s exciting (especially for sunscreen nerds), it doesn’t change what we already know: sun safety habits over time matter more than having one more product on a shelf. When I joined Those Nerdy Girls two years ago, sun safety was a topic I was excited to cover. A few years earlier, I’d had skin Read more…
What are the 3 most important sun-safe habits your skin will thank you for?
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Sun safety requires a combination of everyday protective measures. These include covering up, using sunscreen, and being sensible about sun exposure. 🌞 🌞 Be sure to look out for our post coming tomorrow: “There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.” (Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the Read more…
Is leucovorin an effective treatment for autism?
Families/Kids General Health Treatments
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
While probably not harmful, there is not enough evidence that leucovorin is an effective treatment for autism. Demand for the drug among parents of children with autism recently skyrocketed after a press conference last fall in which federal health officials claimed, with little evidence, that the drug is a promising treatment for autism. You may Read more…
From early lab research to clinical treatments – science takes time.
Nerdy Notes
Irini Hadjisavva, PhD
Studies in mice can be helpful and important. They can point scientists toward new ideas. But they do not guarantee that the same thing will work in humans. That’s why scientists are careful about big health claims based only on Petri dish or mouse data. And it’s why I want to share a story from Read more…
Tl;dr: Differential diagnosis helps clinicians figure out what questions to ask, makes sure they rule out “can’t miss” diagnoses, and helps them determine what testing and follow-up a patient needs. If you’ve ever read the note your doctor, PA, or NP wrote about you on your patient portal for an emergency room visit, hospital stay, Read more…
What is self-care, and why is it Important?
Mental HealthThose Nerdy Girls
TL; DR: Self-care is a set of things people do to support their overall health and wellness (mental and physical). Self-care can support emotional, physical, and/or spiritual well-being among other areas of life. It is not something that you do only if you have time. It is important for your health. (NOTE: This post was Read more…
Today is Juneteenth.
Social and Racial Justice
Why do Those Nerdy Girls post about Juneteenth every year, and where can I find more information? Every year on June 19th, we take time to recognize Juneteenth and to reflect on how the ongoing legacy of American slavery shapes our understanding of health equity and the work still ahead. Here is our post from Read more…
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how.
Social and Racial Justice
MacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how. Juneteenth is observed by many as the formal end to the American institution of slavery. However, remains of this shameful legacy are still burrowed deeply into our healthcare system, impacting everyone’s ability to live freely in good health. Thus, while Juneteenth is a time of joyful celebration, Read more…
June is Pride Month. Why do Those Nerdy Girls feel it is important to write about Pride?
Social and Racial Justice
It’s Pride Month! Every June, communities across the U.S. and around the world come together to celebrate, honor, and uplift LGBTQ2SIA+ people and their families. Let’s keep building a world where these communities are seen, valued, and understood. Visibility is important because it leads to improvements in safety and health. When we see representation across Read more…
There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
While that’s exciting (especially for sunscreen nerds), it doesn’t change what we already know: sun safety habits over time matter more than having one more product on a shelf. When I joined Those Nerdy Girls two years ago, sun safety was a topic I was excited to cover. A few years earlier, I’d had skin Read more…
What are the 3 most important sun-safe habits your skin will thank you for?
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Sun safety requires a combination of everyday protective measures. These include covering up, using sunscreen, and being sensible about sun exposure. 🌞 🌞 Be sure to look out for our post coming tomorrow: “There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.” (Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the Read more…
Is leucovorin an effective treatment for autism?
Families/Kids General Health Treatments
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
While probably not harmful, there is not enough evidence that leucovorin is an effective treatment for autism. Demand for the drug among parents of children with autism recently skyrocketed after a press conference last fall in which federal health officials claimed, with little evidence, that the drug is a promising treatment for autism. You may Read more…
From early lab research to clinical treatments – science takes time.
Nerdy Notes
Irini Hadjisavva, PhD
Studies in mice can be helpful and important. They can point scientists toward new ideas. But they do not guarantee that the same thing will work in humans. That’s why scientists are careful about big health claims based only on Petri dish or mouse data. And it’s why I want to share a story from Read more…
TL; DR: Self-care is a set of things people do to support their overall health and wellness (mental and physical). Self-care can support emotional, physical, and/or spiritual well-being among other areas of life. It is not something that you do only if you have time. It is important for your health. (NOTE: This post was Read more…
Today is Juneteenth.
Social and Racial JusticeWhy do Those Nerdy Girls post about Juneteenth every year, and where can I find more information? Every year on June 19th, we take time to recognize Juneteenth and to reflect on how the ongoing legacy of American slavery shapes our understanding of health equity and the work still ahead. Here is our post from Read more…
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how.
Social and Racial JusticeMacKenzie (Kenzie) Isaac, MA
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how. Juneteenth is observed by many as the formal end to the American institution of slavery. However, remains of this shameful legacy are still burrowed deeply into our healthcare system, impacting everyone’s ability to live freely in good health. Thus, while Juneteenth is a time of joyful celebration, Read more…
June is Pride Month. Why do Those Nerdy Girls feel it is important to write about Pride?
Social and Racial Justice
It’s Pride Month! Every June, communities across the U.S. and around the world come together to celebrate, honor, and uplift LGBTQ2SIA+ people and their families. Let’s keep building a world where these communities are seen, valued, and understood. Visibility is important because it leads to improvements in safety and health. When we see representation across Read more…
There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
While that’s exciting (especially for sunscreen nerds), it doesn’t change what we already know: sun safety habits over time matter more than having one more product on a shelf. When I joined Those Nerdy Girls two years ago, sun safety was a topic I was excited to cover. A few years earlier, I’d had skin Read more…
What are the 3 most important sun-safe habits your skin will thank you for?
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Sun safety requires a combination of everyday protective measures. These include covering up, using sunscreen, and being sensible about sun exposure. 🌞 🌞 Be sure to look out for our post coming tomorrow: “There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.” (Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the Read more…
Is leucovorin an effective treatment for autism?
Families/Kids General Health Treatments
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
While probably not harmful, there is not enough evidence that leucovorin is an effective treatment for autism. Demand for the drug among parents of children with autism recently skyrocketed after a press conference last fall in which federal health officials claimed, with little evidence, that the drug is a promising treatment for autism. You may Read more…
From early lab research to clinical treatments – science takes time.
Nerdy Notes
Irini Hadjisavva, PhD
Studies in mice can be helpful and important. They can point scientists toward new ideas. But they do not guarantee that the same thing will work in humans. That’s why scientists are careful about big health claims based only on Petri dish or mouse data. And it’s why I want to share a story from Read more…
Liberation and health equity go hand-in-hand. Here’s how. Juneteenth is observed by many as the formal end to the American institution of slavery. However, remains of this shameful legacy are still burrowed deeply into our healthcare system, impacting everyone’s ability to live freely in good health. Thus, while Juneteenth is a time of joyful celebration, Read more…
June is Pride Month. Why do Those Nerdy Girls feel it is important to write about Pride?
Social and Racial Justice
It’s Pride Month! Every June, communities across the U.S. and around the world come together to celebrate, honor, and uplift LGBTQ2SIA+ people and their families. Let’s keep building a world where these communities are seen, valued, and understood. Visibility is important because it leads to improvements in safety and health. When we see representation across Read more…
There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.
Families/Kids General HealthDaphne Berryhill, RPh
While that’s exciting (especially for sunscreen nerds), it doesn’t change what we already know: sun safety habits over time matter more than having one more product on a shelf. When I joined Those Nerdy Girls two years ago, sun safety was a topic I was excited to cover. A few years earlier, I’d had skin Read more…
What are the 3 most important sun-safe habits your skin will thank you for?
Families/Kids General Health
Daphne Berryhill, RPh
Sun safety requires a combination of everyday protective measures. These include covering up, using sunscreen, and being sensible about sun exposure. 🌞 🌞 Be sure to look out for our post coming tomorrow: “There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.” (Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the Read more…
Is leucovorin an effective treatment for autism?
Families/Kids General Health Treatments
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
While probably not harmful, there is not enough evidence that leucovorin is an effective treatment for autism. Demand for the drug among parents of children with autism recently skyrocketed after a press conference last fall in which federal health officials claimed, with little evidence, that the drug is a promising treatment for autism. You may Read more…
From early lab research to clinical treatments – science takes time.
Nerdy Notes
Irini Hadjisavva, PhD
Studies in mice can be helpful and important. They can point scientists toward new ideas. But they do not guarantee that the same thing will work in humans. That’s why scientists are careful about big health claims based only on Petri dish or mouse data. And it’s why I want to share a story from Read more…
While that’s exciting (especially for sunscreen nerds), it doesn’t change what we already know: sun safety habits over time matter more than having one more product on a shelf. When I joined Those Nerdy Girls two years ago, sun safety was a topic I was excited to cover. A few years earlier, I’d had skin Read more…
What are the 3 most important sun-safe habits your skin will thank you for?
Families/Kids General HealthDaphne Berryhill, RPh
Sun safety requires a combination of everyday protective measures. These include covering up, using sunscreen, and being sensible about sun exposure. 🌞 🌞 Be sure to look out for our post coming tomorrow: “There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.” (Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the Read more…
Is leucovorin an effective treatment for autism?
Families/Kids General Health Treatments
Sara Gorman, PhD, MPH
While probably not harmful, there is not enough evidence that leucovorin is an effective treatment for autism. Demand for the drug among parents of children with autism recently skyrocketed after a press conference last fall in which federal health officials claimed, with little evidence, that the drug is a promising treatment for autism. You may Read more…
From early lab research to clinical treatments – science takes time.
Nerdy Notes
Irini Hadjisavva, PhD
Studies in mice can be helpful and important. They can point scientists toward new ideas. But they do not guarantee that the same thing will work in humans. That’s why scientists are careful about big health claims based only on Petri dish or mouse data. And it’s why I want to share a story from Read more…
Sun safety requires a combination of everyday protective measures. These include covering up, using sunscreen, and being sensible about sun exposure. 🌞 🌞 Be sure to look out for our post coming tomorrow: “There’s a new sunscreen on the block: Here’s what to know.” (Note: This post was updated by Those Nerdy Girls from the Read more…
Is leucovorin an effective treatment for autism?
Families/Kids General Health TreatmentsSara Gorman, PhD, MPH
While probably not harmful, there is not enough evidence that leucovorin is an effective treatment for autism. Demand for the drug among parents of children with autism recently skyrocketed after a press conference last fall in which federal health officials claimed, with little evidence, that the drug is a promising treatment for autism. You may Read more…
From early lab research to clinical treatments – science takes time.
Nerdy Notes
Irini Hadjisavva, PhD
Studies in mice can be helpful and important. They can point scientists toward new ideas. But they do not guarantee that the same thing will work in humans. That’s why scientists are careful about big health claims based only on Petri dish or mouse data. And it’s why I want to share a story from Read more…
While probably not harmful, there is not enough evidence that leucovorin is an effective treatment for autism. Demand for the drug among parents of children with autism recently skyrocketed after a press conference last fall in which federal health officials claimed, with little evidence, that the drug is a promising treatment for autism. You may Read more…
From early lab research to clinical treatments – science takes time.
Nerdy NotesIrini Hadjisavva, PhD
Studies in mice can be helpful and important. They can point scientists toward new ideas. But they do not guarantee that the same thing will work in humans. That’s why scientists are careful about big health claims based only on Petri dish or mouse data. And it’s why I want to share a story from Read more…
Studies in mice can be helpful and important. They can point scientists toward new ideas. But they do not guarantee that the same thing will work in humans. That’s why scientists are careful about big health claims based only on Petri dish or mouse data. And it’s why I want to share a story from Read more…
