GPnotebook Podcast

GPnotebook

A bite-sized, regular chat for all healthcare professionals working in primary care. Episodes cover clinical tips and hot topics. New episodes published every Thursday or Friday.

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217 episodes
Updated Thursday

Episodes217

Newest first

Aug 8, 2024 · 22 min
Ep 117 – Improving early diagnosis of type 2 diabetes: addressing the challenge of undiagnosed cases
Undiagnosed type 2 diabetes is an increasing and concerning trend in the UK, particularly among Black and Asian ethnic groups and in areas of high deprivation. Early diagnosis and management are crucial, particularly in younger adults and underserved populations. Therefore, education, screening, and tailored treatment pathways are needed, but reaching these groups can be challenging. In this episode, which was recorded for Chronic Conditions Month 2024, Dr Kashif Ali (GP Partner and Primary Care Lead for Diabetes MCN, Glasgow) and Dr Sarah Davies (GP with a Special Interest in Diabetes, Cardiff) discuss what we can do to improve earlier diagnosis of type 2 diabetes in our undiagnosed population. More information on Chronic Conditions Month can be found here. Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/diabetes-and-endocrinology/ep-117-improving-early-diagnosis-of-type-2-diabetes-addressing-the-challenge-of-undiagnosed-cases. Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
Aug 1, 2024 · 18 min
Ep 116 – Transient loss of consciousness
Transient loss of consciousness (TLoC) affects nearly half the population of the UK at some point in their lives and is not an uncommon presentation in primary care. In this episode, Dr Kate Chesterman discusses the initial assessment of these patients and the factors that will help to differentiate between vasovagal syncope, cardiac syncope and epilepsy. She gives guidance on referral criteria and signposts useful resources that help assess fitness to drive and provide important safety information for patients. Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/general-information/ep-116-transient-loss-of-consciousness. Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
Jul 25, 2024 · 13 min
Ep 115 – Polycystic ovary syndrome
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrinopathy in women of reproductive age, as well as being a major cause of infertility and pregnancy complications. It includes symptoms of hyperandrogenism, the presence of hyperandrogenaemia, oligo-ovulation or anovulation and polycystic ovarian morphology on ultrasound. It is strongly associated with complications that may arise from it, including insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, fatty liver disease and an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The main aims of treatment are directed at reducing hyperandrogenism or inducing fertility. In this episode, Dr Roger Henderson looks at these in more detail as well as what to remember when dealing with patients with PCOS in primary care. Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/diabetes-and-endocrinology/ep-115-polycystic-ovary-syndrome. Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
Jul 18, 2024 · 24 min
Ep 114 – Erectile dysfunction
In this episode, Dr Hannah Rosa discusses erectile dysfunction. Using the latest guidelines, this episode takes you through everything to consider when first reviewing a patient with erectile dysfunction, including key points to cover in the history and examination and which investigations to order. A four-step approach to management is discussed, along with guidance on referral and follow up. Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/urology/ep-114-erectile-dysfunction. Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
Jul 11, 2024 · 23 min
Ep 113 – Vaping: an update
Quitting smoking is the single most important thing a smoker can do to improve their health, and with the right combination of support, medication and determination, individuals can successfully overcome their nicotine addiction and enjoy a smoke-free life. For many, quitting smoking completely can be a challenge due to the addictive nature of nicotine, but various strategies and treatments are available to help support patients who are trying to stop smoking. Benefits are immediate, both in the short- and long-term, and it is never too late to stop smoking. The rise in e-cigarette use has contributed to increased numbers of smokers quitting their tobacco, but e-cigarette use in younger people has caused significant concerns. In this episode, which is an update to episode 51, Dr Roger Henderson provides an overview of vaping, and the pros and cons of e-cigarette use. Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/respiratory-and-chest-medicine/ep-113-vaping-update. Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
Jul 4, 2024 · 27 min
Ep 112 – Acne: getting the management spot on
In this episode, Dr Hannah Rosa discusses a condition that affects 95% of people aged 11–30 to some extent: acne. The 2021 NICE guideline on acne vulgaris is explored in detail, and broken down into four steps: Getting the diagnosis of acne right, including how to grade its severity What constitutes good general skin-care advice Management options The new MHRA guideline on isotretinoin. Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/dermatology/ep-112-acne-getting-the-management-spot-on. Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
Jun 27, 2024 · 14 min
Ep 111 – Testicular torsion
Testicular torsion is a urological emergency that usually affects young men, and a high index of suspicion is vital to ensure prompt diagnosis and management. A history and physical examination consistent with testicular torsion requires immediate surgical assessment for scrotal exploration – and if the initial examination suggests testicular torsion, the surgical approach should take precedence over other diagnostic tests. In this episode, Dr Roger Henderson discusses what to look for when diagnosing this condition, the importance of prompt treatment and the options available in primary care. Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/urology/ep-111-testicular-torsion. Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
Jun 20, 2024 · 26 min
Ep 110 – Sexual violence (part 2)
Disclosing sexual violence is a difficult and emotional prospect for a patient and the way a GP responds can set the course of that person’s journey. It is important we get it right, but it is a complex topic. In this second part of our series on sexual violence, Dr James Waldron is joined again by Hayley Wilson (Consent and Sexual Violence Development Officer at Nottingham Trent University) to explore the consultation in detail. This episode discusses how to respond to a disclosure and the importance of “listen, believe, validate” when supporting a patient. They outline the concept (and myth) of the “perfect victim”, the importance of the language we use and how to help guide someone who has made a disclosure. Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/general-information/ep-110-sexual-violence-part-2. Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
Jun 13, 2024 · 18 min
Ep 109 – Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid gland, is increasingly common as people get older, but it may often be undiagnosed or diagnosed late due to the insidious nature of some of its symptoms. These include fatigue, weight gain, sensitivity to cold, constipation, dry skin, hair loss and depression. Common causes of hypothyroidism include autoimmune diseases, thyroid surgery, radiation therapy, certain medications and iodine deficiency, which is the leading cause globally. Treatment typically involves hormone replacement therapy, and with proper treatment and monitoring most people with hypothyroidism can lead normal, healthy lives. In this episode, Dr Roger Henderson provides an overview of hypothyroidism and considers differential diagnoses, testing, referral criteria, thyroxine replacement principles and prognosis. Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/diabetes-and-endocrinology/ep-109-hypothyroidism. Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
Jun 6, 2024 · 21 min
Ep 108 – Restless leg syndrome
Restless leg syndrome (RLS) is prevalent in around 5–10% of the population and can result in an impact on quality of life that is comparable to conditions such as type 2 diabetes and osteoarthritis. It can result in significant impairments in sleep, energy, daily activities and behaviour and is associated with anxiety and depression in those who experience it. In this episode, Dr Kate Chesterman discusses the diagnosis and investigation of this distressing condition along with three principles that will help to guide its management. Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/neurology/ep-108-restless-leg-syndrome. Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
May 30, 2024 · 19 min
Ep 107 – Benign prostatic hyperplasia
Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is an extremely common condition seen in clinical practice, and one which can cause considerable difficulties in older men. Common symptoms include frequent urination, difficulty starting urination, weak urine stream or the need to urinate during the night – all of which significantly impact on quality of life. Treatment options vary depending on symptom severity and can include no treatment, medication, minimally invasive procedures or surgery. In this episode, Dr Roger Henderson looks at the key things to remember when assessing a patient with BPH and covers the newer treatments now available as well as more traditional conventional options. Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/urology/ep-107-benign-prostatic-hyperplasia. Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
May 23, 2024 · 25 min
Ep 106 – Sexual violence (part 1)
Understanding sexual violence is vitally important in primary care. A GP may be the first (or only) individual spoken to by a person who has experienced sexual violence. But how often does the experience disclosed represent the full scope of the issue? How much sexual violence goes unreported? What has changed about our understanding of sexual violence and its context? In this episode, the first of a series looking at this topic, Dr James Waldron speaks with Hayley Wilson (Consent and Sexual Violence Development Officer at Nottingham Trent University) about the spectrum of problems related to sexual violence and the critical importance of understanding this topic and responding well from the outset. Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/general-information/ep-106-sexual-violence-part-1. Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
May 16, 2024 · 15 min
Ep 105 – Empathy: who cares? Exploring empathy in health care
In this episode, Dr Hannah Rosa discusses a topic which is at the heart of good clinical care: empathy. Research has shown that empathy decreases as medical students progress through medical school and that in society empathy levels have fallen over recent decades. But what does this mean for us working in primary care? What are the benefits that increasing empathy in our clinical practice can bring, and how can we all develop this vital skill? Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/mental-health/ep-105-empathy-who-cares-exploring-empathy-in-health-care. Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
May 9, 2024 · 17 min
Ep 104 – Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints. Causing joint pain, stiffness, swelling and reduced joint motion, its exact cause is still unknown, but is believed to involve a combination of factors. In this episode, Dr Roger Henderson looks at the aetiology of RA, diagnostic testing and the management pathway for patients with the condition. Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/rheumatology/ep-104-rheumatoid-arthritis. Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
May 2, 2024 · 12 min
Ep 103 – Primary prevention of cardiovascular disease: what has changed in QRISK3 and why?
In this episode, which has been recorded for Chronic Conditions Month 2024, Dr Yassir Javaid (GP with a Specialist Interest in Cardiology) examines the role of the QRISK3 calculator in the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease. He considers the development of the tool, the differences between QRISK2 and QRISK3 (including the additional risk factors now included in the updated calculator) and the strengths and limitations of QRISK3 in understanding a person’s cardiovascular risk. More information on Chronic Conditions month can be found here. Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/cardiovascular-medicine/ep-103-primary-prevention-of-cardiovascular-disease-what-has-changed-in-qrisk3-and-why. Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
Apr 25, 2024 · 17 min
Ep 102 – Diverticular disease
Diverticular disease is a condition characterised by the presence of small pouches, called diverticula, in the wall of the colon (large intestine). These pouches can develop when weak spots in the colon's muscular wall give way under pressure. Diverticular disease encompasses two main conditions: diverticulosis and diverticulitis. In this episode, Dr Roger Henderson takes an overview look at the symptoms and management of these as well as their prognosis and prevention. Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/gastroenterology/ep-102-diverticular-disease. Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
Apr 19, 2024 · 15 min
Ep 101 – Coeliac disease
Coeliac disease (CD) is a chronic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the small intestine and is triggered by the consumption of gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, rye and sometimes oats. When individuals with CD ingest gluten, their immune system responds by damaging the lining of the small intestine. This damage impairs the absorption of nutrients from food, leading to various symptoms and potentially serious complications. In this episode, Dr Roger Henderson looks at the diagnosis, testing and management of CD, along with the importance of longer-term follow-up in people with it. Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/gastroenterology/ep-101-coeliac-disease. Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
Apr 11, 2024 · 11 min
Ep 100 – Alcohol and health: a review of the latest research
In this episode, Dr Hannah Rosa takes a look around the world at some of the different strategies that are being used to try to reduce the health complications caused by alcohol. She then looks at the latest research which links alcohol as a primary cause of a variety of cancers, before finishing with a consideration of the economic cost. Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/general-practice/ep-100-a-review-of-the-latest-research-on-alcohol. Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
Apr 4, 2024 · 22 min
Ep 99 – Assessment and management of obesity
Obesity is a medical condition characterised by excessive accumulation of body fat, to the point where it may have adverse effects on health. Its incidence is steadily rising in both young people and adults. It is typically measured using BMI, but this has limitations and may not always accurately represent the level of obesity. While genetics and hormonal factors have a role in obesity, lifestyle choices (such as diet and physical activity level) and environmental factors also significantly contribute to its development. In recent years, the prevalence of obesity has been on the rise globally, leading to serious health concerns such as increased risks of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, certain types of cancer and other health problems. In this episode, Dr Roger Henderson provides an overview of the rise of obesity, the management options we have in general practice and the impact of newer injectable drugs for weight loss that many patients are now requesting. Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/obesity/ep-99-assessment-and-management-of-obesity. Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.
Mar 28, 2024 · 16 min
Ep 98 – Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis
Recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis is reported in 6% of women of reproductive age. It has a significant impact on an individual’s quality of life that is comparable to conditions such as asthma and migraine. Appropriate management of the acute infection and subsequent maintenance treatment can help to reduce the burden of this condition. In this episode, Dr Kate Chesterman discusses the risk factors for recurrence and considers appropriate investigations. She looks at options for management, including lifestyle changes and induction and maintenance regimens. Access episode show notes containing key references and take-home points at: https://gpnotebook.com/en-GB/podcasts/gynaecology/ep-98-recurrent-vulvovaginal-candidiasis. Did you know? With GPnotebook Pro, you can earn CPD credits by tracking the podcast episodes you listen to. Learn more.