Advertise on podcast: Live Well With UCI Health

Knee pain doesn't automatically mean surgery. In this episode of Live Well with UCI Health, Ryan Manno talks with UCI Health pain specialist Dr. Navid Alem about what causes knee pain, the difference between acute and chronic pain, and how specialists build personalized treatment plans around a patient's goals and quality of life. Learn how physical therapy, lifestyle and weight management, medications, steroid and gel injections, PRP, genicular nerve ablation and peripheral nerve stimulation can fit into knee pain treatment, plus hear about emerging approaches including cartilage regeneration and genicular artery embolization. Dr. Navid Alem also explains why chronic pain often requires a collaborative approach involving pain specialists, physical therapists, surgeons, nutritionists and psychologists, with the patient at the center of the team. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Breast cancer care has changed dramatically over the last few decades, and in this eye-opening conversation, host Gina Grad sits down with breast surgical oncologist Dr. Alexandra Lopez-Aguiar to explain the latest advances in breast cancer treatment, screening, surgery, reconstruction, and recovery. Learn the difference between lumpectomy and mastectomy, how radiation and chemotherapy work, what lymphedema is, why early detection matters, how breast cancer can affect men, and the innovative procedures helping patients achieve better outcomes with fewer complications. Dr. Lopez-Aguiar also discusses robotic surgery, breast reconstruction options, multidisciplinary cancer care, survival rates, and the future of breast cancer treatment. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What causes excessively sweaty hands, and when does it become more than just normal sweating? In this episode of Live Well with UCI Health, host Gina Grad sits down with cardiothoracic surgeon Ali Mahtabifard to discuss hyperhidrosis, a common but often underdiagnosed condition that causes excessive sweating of the hands, feet, and underarms. Learn how hyperhidrosis affects daily life, relationships, school, careers, and confidence, plus the latest treatment options ranging from prescription antiperspirants and iontophoresis to Botox and minimally invasive surgery. Dr. Mahtabifard explains who is a candidate for surgery, how the procedure works, the potential risks, and why it can be transformative for patients suffering from severe palmar hyperhidrosis. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As our loved ones age, navigating memory loss, dementia, Alzheimer's disease, and caregiving responsibilities can feel overwhelming. In this episode of Live Well with UCI Health, board-certified geriatrician Dr. Sonia Sehgal joins Gina Grad to explain the critical differences between dementia and Alzheimer's, how cognitive changes are evaluated, and why early intervention matters. Learn what a geriatrician does, when to seek help for memory concerns, how dementia impacts everyday life, and how Medicare GUIDE Program is transforming dementia care through proactive support, caregiver resources, care coordination, respite services, and monthly wellness check-ins. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Menopause affects far more than just hot flashes, and in this eye-opening conversation, Dr. Rebecca Sauer, board-certified OB-GYN at UCI Health Women's Health Services, joins Gina Grad to break down everything women need to know about perimenopause, menopause symptoms, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), testosterone therapy, weight gain, sleep issues, mood changes, exercise, nutrition, and long-term health. Learn how menopause is diagnosed, why symptoms can vary so widely from person to person, what causes hot flashes and night sweats, how hormones impact metabolism and belly fat, the difference between bioidentical and synthetic hormones, and what treatment options are available today. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What are antibiotics, when do you actually need them, and why are doctors increasingly concerned about antibiotic resistance? In this conversation, Dr. Shruti K. Gohil, Associate Medical Director of Epidemiology and Infection Prevention at UCI Health, joins Ryan Manno to break down how antibiotics work, the difference between bacterial and viral infections, why finishing your prescription matters, and how antibiotic overuse is contributing to drug-resistant bacteria worldwide. You'll also learn about the human microbiome, the risks of broad-spectrum antibiotics, whether probiotics can help, and the latest research aimed at reducing unnecessary antibiotic use while keeping patients safe. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is radiation therapy—and how safe is it for treating cancer? In this episode of Live Well with UCI Health, host Lisa Foxx sits down with leading radiation oncologist Dr. Megan E. Daly to break down everything you need to know. From debunking common myths (like becoming “radioactive”) to explaining how modern technology precisely targets tumors, Dr. Daly shares how radiation therapy has evolved into one of the most effective and advanced cancer treatments available today. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What exactly are stem cells, and how are they used to save lives? In this episode of Live Well with UCI Health, host Ryan Manno sits down with Dr. Stefan O. Ciurea, Director of the Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplant and Cellular Therapy Program at UCI Health, to explore the science behind stem cell transplantation and cutting-edge cellular therapies. Learn how stem cell transplants help patients with leukemia, lymphoma, multiple myeloma, and other serious blood disorders. Dr. Ciurea breaks down the differences between autologous and allogeneic transplants, how donor matching works, the role of chemotherapy, and the exciting future of CAR-T cell therapy and immune-based treatments. The conversation also covers emerging applications of stem cell therapies for autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus, myasthenia gravis, and more. Plus, discover the truth about unproven stem cell treatments often marketed for sports injuries and joint pain. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, healthcare professional, or simply curious about medical breakthroughs, this episode offers an accessible and fascinating look at one of the most promising areas in modern medicine. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if pain isn’t just something you “live with” as you age—but something you can actually manage, reduce, and even prevent? In this episode of Live Well with UCI Health, Ryan Manno sits down with Dr. Shalini Shah—Vice Chair of Anesthesiology and Director of Pain Services at UCI Health—to break down the truth about chronic pain, aging, and what really works to improve your healthspan. You’ll learn: The difference between lifespan vs. healthspan—and why it matters The biggest causes of chronic pain (and how to prevent it) Why muscle mass is critical as you age How mental health impacts pain (more than you think) The truth about opioids and modern pain management New cutting-edge treatments that are changing pain care Simple habits you can start today to stay pain-free longer Whether you're dealing with back pain, joint pain, or just want to stay healthy as you age, this conversation is packed with actionable insights you can start using right now. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pancreatic cancer has long been one of the most difficult cancers to detect and treat—but new breakthrough therapies are changing the outlook. In this powerful conversation, host Gina Grad sits down with board-certified oncologist Dr. Jennifer Valerin from UCI Health to explore why pancreatic cancer is so deadly, how it’s often missed in early stages, and what cutting-edge treatments are offering new hope to patients. Dr. Valerin also shares her deeply personal story of how losing a loved one inspired her career—and how that mission drives innovation today. Whether you’re seeking answers, supporting someone, or just want to stay informed, this conversation delivers clarity, compassion, and hope. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What really happens when someone suffers a serious burn—and how can you stay safe? In this episode of Live Well with UCI Health, host Ryan Manno sits down with Dr. Syed F. Saquib, an acute care surgeon and Burn Medical Director at UCI Health, to break down everything you need to know about burn injuries, emergency care, fireworks accidents, grilling mishaps, and cutting‑edge burn treatments. Dr. Saquib explains: What burn surgeons do day‑to‑day The most common causes of burn injuries in adults and children Fireworks, grilling, and summer safety risks What happens in the first critical minutes after a severe burn When a burn becomes a medical emergency Groundbreaking advances like spray‑on skin cell therapy and laser scar treatment How to treat minor burns at home—and when to go to the ER Whether it’s a kitchen accident, a Fourth of July injury, or a serious trauma, this conversation offers life‑saving information straight from the front lines of burn care. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Planning a vacation, wedding, or big life event and worried about getting sick? In this episode of Live Well with UCI Health, Ryan Manno sits down with infectious disease expert Dr. Susan S. Huang, Medical Director of Epidemiology and Infection Prevention at UCI Health, to break down how to avoid colds, flu, and other viruses—especially while traveling. Dr. Huang shares practical, science‑backed strategies to stay healthy before flights, during airport travel, on airplanes, in hotels, and even on cruise ships. From mask‑smart moments to hand hygiene, high‑touch surfaces, immunity myths, zinc vs. vitamin C, and why antibiotics don’t work for colds—this conversation covers what actually works. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Back pain affects nearly everyone at some point—and for many, it can be life-changing. In this in-depth conversation, spine surgeon Dr. Michael Y. Oh, Director of the Comprehensive Spine Center at UCI Health, joins Ryan Manno from iHeartRadio to break down what you really need to know about spine health. They explore why 9 out of 10 back pain cases don’t require surgery, how early non-invasive treatment can prevent long-term disability, and what red flags should never be ignored. Dr. Oh explains common spine conditions like herniated discs, sciatica, scoliosis, and spondylolisthesis—using language anyone can understand. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What is essential tremor, how common is it, and what can be done when medications no longer work? In this episode of Live Well with UCI Health, radio host Gina Grad sits down with Dr. Ann N. Ly, board‑certified neurologist at UCI Health, to break down one of the most common — and misunderstood — movement disorders. Dr. Ly explains: What essential tremor is (and how it’s different from Parkinson’s) Why tremors affect hands, voice, head, and even handwriting First‑line treatments like medications and occupational therapy Cutting‑edge MRI‑guided focused ultrasound, a non‑invasive treatment that can dramatically reduce tremors in real time How focused ultrasound compares to deep brain stimulation (DBS) Who is (and isn’t) a candidate for advanced therapies How this technology is expanding to Parkinson’s disease, dystonia, Tourette’s, and more You’ll also hear powerful patient stories, including real‑time tremor improvement during treatment, and learn how UCI Health’s multidisciplinary movement disorders team is changing lives. 📌 If you or a loved one struggles with shaking hands, tremors, or movement disorders, this conversation offers clarity, hope, and real options. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What’s the connection between acid reflux (GERD), Barrett’s esophagus, and esophageal cancer — and when should you get checked? In this episode of Live Well with UCI Health, radio host Lisa Foxx sits down with two leading experts from UCI Health. Dr. Jason Samarasena, Interventional Gastroenterologist & Chief of Gastroenterology Dr. Brian Smith, Gastrointestinal Surgeon Together, they break down how chronic heartburn can silently damage the esophagus, why symptoms aren’t always reliable, and how early detection can prevent cancer. You’ll learn: The step‑by‑step progression from GERD → Barrett’s → esophageal cancer Why men over 50 are at higher risk Common and silent symptoms most people miss How endoscopy and new non‑invasive screening tools detect Barrett’s earlier Breakthrough minimally invasive treatments that can reverse damage When surgery is needed — and how UCI Health preserves quality of life This conversation empowers patients with knowledge and hope, showing how modern medicine can stop esophageal cancer before it starts. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.