• Ep. 167 Managing POTS: Insights and Treatments with Dr. Jeffrey Boris Part 2
    Sep 4 2024

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    Managing POTS: Insights and Treatments with Dr. Jeffrey Boris

    In this episode, Dr. Jeffrey Boris, a pediatric cardiologist, delves into treatments for POTS, including specific medications and non-pharmacologic interventions. The discussion covers the roles of Pyridostigmine, IV saline infusions, fluid and salt intake, and stimulant medications like methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine. Dr. Boris emphasizes the importance of personalized care and highlights the complexities of POTS symptoms, noting gender-specific differences and the significance of premenstrual symptom variations. The necessity of education, social support, and nuanced medical approaches is also stressed, offering hope and guidance for patients, caregivers, and healthcare providers.

    00:00 Introduction and Overview
    00:36 Medications for POTS
    02:57 IV Saline Therapy
    07:18 Fluid and Salt Intake
    10:34 Caffeine and Sports Drinks
    11:54 Methylphenidate and dextroamphetamine for Cognitive Dysfunction
    13:58 Long-Term Outcomes Study
    17:11 Sex Differences in POTS
    21:48 Hope and Support for POTS Patients
    24:15 Telemedicine Practice and Services
    29:46 Conclusion and Key Takeaways

    Support the Show.

    A Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, which is a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your own physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses.




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    34 mins
  • Ep 166. Understanding POTS. Insights from Dr. Jeffrey Boris Part 1
    Aug 28 2024

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    In this episode, we delve into POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome). Our special guest, Dr. Jeffrey Boris, a seasoned pediatric cardiologist, shares his expertise on POTS, including its diagnosis, common triggers, symptoms, and multifaceted treatment approaches. The discussion includes Dr. Boris's journey into treating POTS, the challenges in diagnosing it, and the need for more comprehensive research and funding. This conversation also highlights the parallels with fibromyalgia and emphasizes the importance of individualized care for patients.

    00:00 Introduction to Fibromyalgia and Chronic Pain Conditions
    00:35 Meet Dr. Jeffrey Boris: Pediatric Cardiologist
    01:56 Dr. Boris' Journey into POTS
    04:28 Understanding POTS: History and Definition
    09:29 Challenges in Diagnosing POTS
    14:00 Triggers and Symptoms of POTS
    19:07 Managing POTS: Approaches and Treatments
    26:26 Research and Future Directions in POTS
    33:54 Conclusion and Summary

    Support the Show.

    A Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, which is a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your own physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses.




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    38 mins
  • Ep 165 Self-Care for Autistic People with Dr. Megan Neff Part 2
    Aug 21 2024

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    In the second part of the conversation with Dr. Megan Neff, a clinical psychologist specializing in autism, we delve deeper into autistic burnout, exploring triggers such as life transitions, masking, and sensory overwhelm. Megan explains that burnout arises when stressors exceed coping abilities and offers self-help tips for managing an autistic style brain and nervous system. She emphasizes the importance of sensory self-care, recognizing and understanding one's neurodivergence, and proper screening by healthcare providers. The discussion also includes insights from her book, 'Self Care for Autistic People,' and advice for clinicians, loved ones, and individuals living with autism or ADHD.

    00:00 Introduction and Recap
    00:35 Understanding Autistic Burnout
    02:03 Triggers and Vulnerabilities
    05:03 Sensory Self-Care and Regulation
    09:00 Challenges and Misdiagnoses
    14:18 Empowerment Through Diagnosis
    16:59 Self-Care for Autistic Individuals
    24:23 Final Thoughts and Resources

    Support the Show.

    A Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, which is a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your own physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses.




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    37 mins
  • Ep 164. Understanding Autistic Burnout with Dr. Megan Neff - Part 1
    Aug 14 2024

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    In this first part of a two-part interview, we delve into the concept of autistic burnout with Dr. Megan Neff, a clinical psychologist and neurodivergent advocate. Dr. Neff shares her personal journey discovering her autism after her daughter's diagnosis and discusses the signs and misdiagnosis risks associated with autistic burnout. Highlighting the overlaps with other conditions like bipolar disorder, she emphasizes the importance of proper assessment and a balanced approach in diagnostic practices. Stay tuned next week for the continuation of this insightful conversation.

    00:00 Introduction to the Interview Series
    00:23 Listener's Story: A Parent's Struggle
    00:56 Understanding Autism and Interoception
    01:48 Introducing Dr. Megan Neff
    02:27 Dr. Neff's Professional Journey
    03:50 Challenges in Autism Diagnosis
    04:42 The Importance of Proper Assessment
    06:02 Dr. Neff's Background and Insights
    07:54 The Zigzag Path to Autism Awareness
    20:06 Autistic Burnout Explained
    24:25 Misdiagnosis and Functional Assessments
    32:01 Concluding Thoughts and Next Steps

    Support the Show.

    A Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, which is a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your own physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses.




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    32 mins
  • Ep 163 Transforming Health with Lifestyle Medicine
    Aug 7 2024

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    Understanding Lifestyle Medicine and Its Impact on Chronic Conditions

    This episode commemorates the three-year anniversary of the podcast hosted by Dr. Michael Lenz, a pediatrician, internal medicine physician, clinical lipidologist, and author of 'Conquering Your Fibromyalgia.' He explores the concept of lifestyle medicine, emphasizing its principles like whole food plant-based diets, regular physical activity, restorative sleep, stress management, avoidance of risky substances, and positive social connections. He contrasts lifestyle medicine with other medical practices like allopathic, preventive, functional, and integrative medicine. Michael also discusses the chronic health conditions affected by lifestyle choices, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, and autoimmune diseases. The episode highlights significant statistical findings and discusses the importance of patient participation in lifestyle changes to improve overall health and well-being.

    00:00 Welcome and Introduction
    00:26 Understanding Fibromyalgia
    00:59 Introduction to Lifestyle Medicine
    02:40 Comparing Medical Approaches
    06:14 The Six Pillars of Lifestyle Medicine
    07:45 Impact of Lifestyle on Chronic Diseases
    13:18 Case Studies and Real-Life Examples
    19:00 The Role of Social Connections
    21:17 Success Stories and Clinical Evidence
    26:44 Implementing Lifestyle Medicine
    29:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    Support the Show.

    A Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, which is a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your own physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses.




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    34 mins
  • Ep 162 Magnesium and Fibromyalgia. What you need to know.
    Jul 31 2024

    Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions

    Fibromyalgia and Magnesium: Exploring the Evidence and Insights

    In this episode of 'Conquering Your Fibromyalgia,' hosted by Dr. Michael Lenz, we delve into a literature review on magnesium and its potential impact on fibromyalgia. Dr. Lenz addresses a listener's question regarding the relationship between chronic fatigue syndrome and fibromyalgia, suggesting that these conditions may be variations of the same syndrome. The episode includes an in-depth review of studies investigating the correlation between magnesium levels and fibromyalgia, exploring how different forms of magnesium supplementation might affect clinical parameters. Key findings show mixed results, highlighting the complex and inconsistent nature of magnesium's role in fibromyalgia. Dr. Lenz also discusses the challenges of accurately measuring magnesium status and the importance of placebo-controlled trials in understanding the true impact of magnesium on fibromyalgia symptoms.

    00:00 Introduction to the Podcast
    00:35 Listener Question: Chronic Fatigue Syndrome vs. Fibromyalgia
    01:08 Understanding Fibromyalgia and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
    03:51 Magnesium and Fibromyalgia: An Overview
    10:41 Clinical Studies on Magnesium and Fibromyalgia
    19:26 Discussion and Conclusion
    20:16 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

    Support the Show.

    A Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, which is a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your own physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses.




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    28 mins
  • Ep 161 "You Look Perfectly Healthy to Me." Psychologist Laurie Dos Santos Part 2
    Jul 24 2024

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    In this episode, Dr. Michael Lenz, a seasoned pediatrician and internist, resumes his conversation with clinical psychologist Dr. Laurie Dos Santos. They delve into the complexities of supporting individuals with chronic medical conditions such as POTS, Dysautonomia, and fibromyalgia. Dr. Dos Santos discusses her approach to group and individual therapy, the importance of validating patients' experiences, and the impact of these conditions on adolescents and their families. The episode highlights a significant study, "You Look Perfectly Healthy to Me" on the quality of life for youth with POTS, stressing the need for more research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and advocacy. Dis Santos shares her insights on understanding the biopsychosocial framework of symptoms and offers hope and practical advice for those living with chronic illnesses.

    00:00 Welcome Back to the Conversation with Dr. Lori Dosantos
    00:23 Introduction to the Host and the Podcast's Mission
    00:48 Resuming the Conversation: Group Therapy and State Reciprocity
    03:09 Deep Dive into POTS: Understanding Through Research and Patient Stories
    10:14 Collaborative Care: The Power of Interdisciplinary Teams
    13:31 The Genetic and Familial Connections of Chronic Conditions
    24:54 The Role of Therapy in Managing Chronic Illness
    26:24 Closing Thoughts and How to Reach Out for Support

    Support the Show.

    A Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, which is a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your own physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses.




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    30 mins
  • Ep. 160 Understanding and Supporting those with Complex Medical Conditions with Psychologist Laurie Dos Santos
    Jul 17 2024

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    Understanding and Supporting Young Adults with Chronic Health Conditions

    In this episode, Dr. Michael Lenz hosts Dr. Laurie Dos Santos, a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in working with adolescents and young adults. Dr. Dos Santos discusses her journey into psychology, her experience in addressing complex medical and mental health conditions such as postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), and the importance of building strong relationships with clients. She emphasizes the significance of validation and support, and shares insights on managing chronic illness through cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), dialectical behavior therapy (DBT), and acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT). Dr. Dos Santos also highlights the value of support groups and her work with Evolvin Therapy and Consulting, which offers virtual services to clients across 42 states.

    00:00 Meet Dr. Lori Dos Santos: A Beacon of Hope for Young Adults
    01:56 Introducing Your Host: Dr. Michael Lenz
    02:27 Dr. Dos Santos' Journey into Psychology and Specialization
    05:32 Understanding and Empathizing with Patients' Struggles
    07:31 The Power of Support Groups in Healing
    08:25 Navigating the Challenges of Invisible Illnesses
    17:28 Effective Approaches for Managing Invisible Illnesses
    24:47 Expanding Access to Mental Health Care with Evolvin Therapy
    26:44 Wrapping Up and Looking Ahead

    Support the Show.

    A Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, which is a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your own physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses.




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    29 mins