What's That Rash?

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Get answers to the health questions everyone's asking. Our experts give you the information you need to feel good and make the best decisions for your brain and body.

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1098 episodes

Restless Legs Syndrome and how it's treated

Restless Legs Syndrome is a common condition with somewhat mysterious underpinnings… While it can be a side effect on an underlying condition, many people suffer for no known reason. Norman and Tegan take us through what we know, what we suspect and some of the treatments for those jittery legs… References: __ __ Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you!

15m
Mar 26, 2024
Kate's cancer announcement: what do we know about her health?

Kate Middleton announced via a video message that she is undergoing treatment for cancer.  The Princess of Wales has been out of the public eye since Christmas. This is the first official announcement about her condition since she revealed she would be undergoing planned abdominal surgery in January.  So what do we know about Kate's cancer diagnosis? What is the likely treatment? And, given she is relatively young, what's the message for people who do have unexpected new symptoms? What is preventative chemotherapy? What could treatment look like? What are some of the side effects of chemotherapy? How long does it take to recover from? We're answering the health questions everyone's asking on What's That Rash?

1s
Mar 23, 2024
Is your (artificial) sweet tooth killing you?

Did you know that we're evolutionarily predisposed to seek out sweet treats? Simple carbs were harder to come by in caveman times than they are today. Now, the consensus is we all need to cut down our sugar intake. One way people are doing that is by replacing their sucrose with non-sugar sweeteners. Norman and Tegan explore whether this is actually a healthy alternative. References: __ __

18m
Mar 19, 2024
Pimples, spots and pleuks: The who, why and what (to do)

Although it’s often thought of as an adolescent affliction, acne can affect people well into adulthood. But some people seem to be immune to pimples. Why? Norman and Tegan investigate why some people are more prone to pimples than others, and what you might be able to do about it. Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you! Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health Report References: __ __

18m
Mar 12, 2024
Why are mosquitoes so attracted to me?

Some people are mosquito magnets. The blood suckers do, in fact, have their favourites.  And this could pose a major health risk. After all, mosquitoes are the deadliest creatures on earth.  Norman and Tegan take us through the science of why some people attract more mozzies than others.  Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you! Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health Report References: __ __

16m
Mar 05, 2024
We're doing a live show! Bring your rash to Brisbane March 22

What's That Rash? is coming to the World Science Festival https://www.worldsciencefestival.com.au/ Brisbane! Bring yourself (and your non-communicable rash) to a live podcast recording with Dr Norman Swan and Tegan Taylor.  We've got two double passes to give away to the Social Science https://www.worldsciencefestival.com.au/event-program/brisbane/social-science-2024 event on March 22 for those who'll be in Brisbane. Send us your questions for a chance to win. AND it's an adults-only event with mature content and coarse language, so go wild —  thatrash@abc.net.au We're not the only ones attending. All in the Mind https://www.worldsciencefestival.com.au/event-program/brisbane/all-in-the-mind-animal-consciousness will also be doing a live show, and Dr Karl https://www.worldsciencefestival.com.au/event-program/brisbane/dr-karl-great-moments-in-science will be there for some Great Moments in Science!

1m
Mar 03, 2024
Are hormones hindering your workout?

Have you ever been told to 'listen to your body' when it comes to fitness? It makes sense. You shouldn't push through injury, or past the point of exhaustion. But how far is too far? There are now dozens of apps and hundreds of advice columns on how best to 'listen to your body'. One strategy that's rising in the ranks is adjusting your workout routine to work alongside your menstrual cycle. Norman and Tegan explore whether this kind of tech is advancing faster than the research. References: __ __

15m
Feb 27, 2024
Why do we have wisdom teeth?

The only time most of us think about wisdom teeth is when they’re causing trouble. Do they have a use beyond causing pain (and leaving you with a hefty dental bill)? Norman and Tegan talk through the history of these meddlesome molars, and what happens when you ignore them. Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you! Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health Report References:  __ __

14m
Feb 20, 2024
Multivitamins: Are they a scam?

Let's say you're a pretty healthy person. You have a balanced diet, exercise regularly and don't have any health issues. A multivitamin can only help, right? Not necessarily. There are lots of multivitamins out there, catering to different circumstances. Norman and Tegan take us through the evidence for (and against) taking these catch-all supplements. Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you! Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health Report References:  __ __

16m
Feb 13, 2024
Are chiropractors charlatans or misunderstood?

Thousands of Australians see a chiropractor for relief from back pain, headaches or stiffness. There has been a level of controversy surrounding the profession since its inception in the 19th century. But looking beyond the field's storied history, where does the evidence stand now on chiropractic? Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you! Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health Report References:  __ __

1s
Feb 06, 2024
Does anti-ageing skincare actually work?

There are so many weird and wonderful skin potions out there, promising to fend off or reverse the signs of ageing. But do they work? And if so, how do they work? Norman and Tegan take us through their skincare routines (and some evidence, of course). Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth https://www.instagram.com/abchealth/ on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you! Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health Report https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/healthreport References:  __ __

15m
Jan 30, 2024
What's the deal with night terrors?

Night terrors are distressing awakenings of intense screaming, thrashing and fear that often happen at the same time each night.  They're more common in children than in adults, but they can hang around or emerge later in life.  Norman takes us through his own childhood night terror, and Tegan weighs in on some of the reasons they happen in the first place.  Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth https://www.instagram.com/abchealth/ on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you! Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health Report https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/healthreport References:  __ __

14m
Jan 23, 2024
Why do we eat cereal for breakfast?

Have you ever been chastised for eating a bowl of cereal for lunch? Or having leftovers for breakfast? There are certain foods designed 'breakfast foods' in the collective imagination: eggs, toast, cornflakes, pancakes.  But the stories of how they came to earn their morning timeslot are far from science-based.  Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth https://www.instagram.com/abchealth/ on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you! Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health Report https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/healthreport References:  __ __

9m
Jan 16, 2024
Working out? Why 'No Pain No Gain' is bull

No pain, no gain — right? Well, if you're looking to build muscle, not necessarily. Chasing discomfort might even slow you down.  Norman and Tegan discuss delayed-onset muscle soreness, and why it's not always indicative of a good workout.  Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth https://www.instagram.com/abchealth/ on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you! Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health Report https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/healthreport References: __ ____ __

15m
Jan 09, 2024
Is there such thing as TOO much sun protection?

Because of the country's high UV levels, Australians hear a lot about the risks of sun exposure. But there are some benefits too.  Sunlight enables us to produce vitamin D for strong bones and immune function. But there are other ways rays can help our health.  Norman and Tegan take a look at how the right dose of sunlight can be beneficial.  Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth https://www.instagram.com/abchealth/ on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you! Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health Report https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/healthreport References: __ ____ ____ __

14m
Jan 02, 2024
Can you adapt to allergies or does the dog have to go?

Pet allergies can range from mild to severe — from a nuisance to, occasionally, anaphylaxis.  When all you've got is some itchiness and a runny nose, are you doomed to a life without a furry friend? Norman and Tegan discuss the possibility of building up a tolerance to allergens.   Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth https://www.instagram.com/abchealth/ on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you! Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health Report https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/healthreport References:  __ ____ __

14m
Dec 26, 2023
Why do you feel so tired after a big meal?

It's holiday season, and family feasts are inevitable. But is the post-feast nap also inevitable? Norman and Tegan explain why you get so tired after a big meal. And no ... it has nothing to do with being around your extended family. Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth https://www.instagram.com/abchealth/ on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you! Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health Report https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/healthreport

13m
Dec 19, 2023
Can listening to music make you smarter?

Binaural beats are a phenomenon that happens in your brain when you listen to two different tones in each ear.  There are lots of claims surrounding them — that they can trigger different brain waves and promote different states of mind.  Norman and Tegan are here to unpack whether there's any evidence this musical illusion can aid with concentration.  Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth https://www.instagram.com/abchealth/ on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you! Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health Report https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/healthreport References: __ __

12m
Dec 12, 2023
Am I addicted to caffeine?

Caffeine is a part of many people's routines, whether it be a shot of coffee or a cup of tea.  If you've ever noticed a headache creeping in when you've missed your morning cup of joe, Norman and Tegan are here to explain why.  Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth https://www.instagram.com/abchealth/ on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you! Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health Report https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/healthreport References: __ __

13m
Dec 05, 2023
What is the perfect nap duration?

Napping can be risky. Will you wake up feeling better or worse? There's no doubt that sometimes an afternoon snooze is an absolute necessity.  Norman and Tegan explore what's going on when you nap, and what you can do to get the most benefit. References: __ __

13m
Nov 28, 2023
Are probiotics worth the money?

If you've ever been told to take a probiotic — after a course of antibiotics, or just for your general health — you may be wondering what they actually do.  Well, Norman and Tegan are here to dig into the research about these over-the-counter supplements, which claim to support digestion, boost immunity and even improve mood.  Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth https://www.instagram.com/abchealth/ on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you! Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health Report https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/healthreport References: __ ____ __

14m
Nov 21, 2023
Does it matter whether I enjoy exercise?

Consistent exercise is good for you, but does it make any difference whether you actually enjoy what you're doing? Norman and Tegan explore how fun might help you establish a work-out habit that benefits your body and your mind. Got a health question? Shoot us a line @ABCHealth on Instagram, or send a voice memo to thatrash@abc.net.au. We'd love to hear from you! Looking for COVID-19 updates? Don't panic, they've moved over to The Health Report

14m
Nov 14, 2023
End of Coronacast, but we're not going away!

As the saying goes: All good things must come to an end. But don't go away, we've got something big coming! Obviously we're not talking about the pandemic — as it certainly isn't good and it certainly isn't over. We're talking about Coronacast: your little pandemic friend that (hopefully!) helped you through the scary times over the last three years. Today is Coronacast's last episode, and we're going out with a bang! What's going on with case numbers (spoiler: rising again)? Are we finally seeing the rise of a new variant? And what do we think we've learned over the last three years? BUT DON'T UNSUBSCRIBE! While Coronacast will be leaving us like OG SARS-CoV-2, Tegan and Norman aren't going anywhere.  They'll be staying right here with a new show that's all about answering the health questions everyone's asking! We know good health information is hard to come by and it's impossible to know who to trust. So send in your your health questions to our new show: What's That Rash? Every week, Norman and Tegan will have a swing at answering them, and give you some useful information and amazing stories to help you live a healthier life. Email us at thatrash@abc.net.au. First episode out 15th November. Also, genuinely, A MASSIVE thank you to every single person whose ever listened to Coronacast and/or sent in a question over the past few years. Without you, we've never have done more than 500 episodes over more than three years. You're the reason we're here and the reason we've loved doing this show. So thankyou!

16m
Nov 07, 2023
End of Coronacast, but we're not going away!

As the saying goes: All good things must come to an end. But don't go away, we've got something big coming! Obviously we're not talking about the pandemic — as it certainly isn't good and it certainly isn't over. We're talking about Coronacast: your little pandemic friend that (hopefully!) helped you through the scary times over the last three years. Today is Coronacast's last episode, and we're going out with a bang! What's going on with case numbers (spoiler: rising again)? Are we finally seeing the rise of a new variant? And what do we think we've learned over the last three years? BUT DON'T UNSUBSCRIBE! While Coronacast will be leaving us like OG SARS-CoV-2, Tegan and Norman aren't going anywhere.  They'll be staying right here with a new show that's all about answering the health questions everyone's asking! We know good health information is hard to come by and it's impossible to know who to trust. So send in your your health questions to our new show: What's That Rash? Every week, Norman and Tegan will have a swing at answering them, and give you some useful information and amazing stories to help you live a healthier life. Email us at thatrash@abc.net.au. First episode out 15th November. Also, genuinely, A MASSIVE thank you to every single person whose ever listened to Coronacast and/or sent in a question over the past few years. Without you, we've never have done more than 500 episodes over more than three years. You're the reason we're here and the reason we've loved doing this show. So thankyou!

16m
Nov 07, 2023
INTRODUCING — Hello AI Overlords (and some Coronacast news!)

Hello Coronacasters - it's been a while! We have a little bit of news to share about what's coming up for Coronacast. Also, Tegan's here to share a very special podcast recommendation! It's a new season of Science Friction https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/sciencefriction! It's called Hello AI Overlords https://www.abc.net.au/listen/programs/sciencefriction/i-for-one-welcome-hello-ai-overlords/103011716 - and it's an entire season diving deep into AI. Where's it come from? Where are we heading? And what happens if it's controlled by only a handful of people. So make sure you check it out right now! Tell all your friends. And why not tell ChatGPT too.

4m
Oct 24, 2023
INTRODUCING — Hello AI Overlords (and some Coronacast news!)

Hello Coronacasters - it's been a while!  We have a little bit of news to share about what's coming up for Coronacast. Also, Tegan's here to share a very special podcast recommendation! It's a new season of Science Friction! It's called Hello AI Overlords - and it's an entire season diving deep into AI. Where's it come from? Where are we heading? And what happens if it's controlled by only a handful of people. So make sure you check it out right now! Tell all your friends. And why not tell ChatGPT too.

4m
Oct 24, 2023
Getting a (strong) grip on Long COVID

There's still so much to learn about COVID, and this week we have two big things about Long COVID and how long we spread the virus. Firstly, a recent study has drawn a link between hand grip strength and post Long COVID symptoms, especially when it comes to who gets it and how badly. And secondly, a study from Hong Kong has tried to nail down what's going on in a person's immune system and how that effects the duration of shedding the virus. That's on this week's Coronacast. (And please note, we're taking the next few weeks off! But we'll be back in October)

11m
Sep 26, 2023
Getting a (strong) grip on Long COVID

There's still so much to learn about COVID, and this week we have two big things about Long COVID and how long we spread the virus. Firstly, a recent study has drawn a link between hand grip strength and post Long COVID symptoms, especially when it comes to who gets it and how badly. And secondly, a study from Hong Kong has tried to nail down what's going on in a person's immune system and how that effects the duration of shedding the virus. That's on this week's Coronacast. (And please note, we're taking the next few weeks off! But we'll be back in October)

11m
Sep 26, 2023
When will we be out of the COVID pandemic phase?

It's a question that we've been asking since the very beginning of the pandemic: when will it really end? It's easy to think that because people are vaccinated and less attention is paid to COVID, it's over.  In reality more than 5000 people have died of COVID this year, and the disease burden rises every time there's a new variant. On today's Coronacast, a chat with Professor Brendan Crabb, an infectious disease expert who heads up the Burnet Institute on how he thinks the past several years have gone, and whether COVID will remain a forever virus.

15m
Sep 19, 2023
When will we be out of the COVID pandemic phase?

It's a question that we've been asking since the very beginning of the pandemic: when will it really end? It's easy to think that because people are vaccinated and less attention is paid to COVID, it's over.  In reality more than 5000 people have died of COVID this year, and the disease burden rises every time there's a new variant. On today's Coronacast, a chat with Professor Brendan Crabb, an infectious disease expert who heads up the Burnet Institute on how he thinks the past several years have gone, and whether COVID will remain a forever virus.

15m
Sep 19, 2023