What is head trauma?
Familiarise yourself with the causes, symptoms, and treatment of head trauma. Discover how to manage mild to severe injuries and when to seek medical care.
How long does the flu vaccine last? Benefits and frequency explained
Discover how long the flu vaccine lasts, its benefits, and how often you need it.
Understanding hypertension
Many people live with hypertension (high blood pressure) without even knowing it. It’s often called the “silent killer” because it typically has no noticeable symptoms but can lead to severe health complications like heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure if left untreated. But the good news is that hypertension is manageable with proper monitoring, treatment, and lifestyle adjustments.
Tonsillectomy aftercare: An essential guide for a smooth recovery
Undergoing a tonsillectomy, or tonsil removal surgery, can bring relief to those suffering from chronic tonsil infections or other throat-related conditions. While the surgery itself is relatively common and generally safe, the recovery process can be challenging without proper aftercare.
The crucial link between chronic diseases and dental health
Oral health is often taken for granted until a toothache strikes or bleeding gums become a daily bother. But what if you were told that caring for your teeth and gums is about more than just a bright smile? It’s about protecting your overall health. Research shows a powerful link between chronic diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and even respiratory conditions and oral health issues.
An overview of obesity – a growing concern
Obesity is a complex, chronic health condition affecting millions of people worldwide, significantly influencing overall health and quality of life. In South Africa, the prevalence of obesity is rising, with one in eight children now classified as obese.
Understanding obesity’s causes, symptoms, and preventive measures is crucial for fostering a healthier future.
A comprehensive overview of cholesterol.
Cholesterol, a vital substance in our bodies, plays a significant role in overall well-being. However, imbalances can lead to serious health issues. This article examines cholesterol, its causes, symptoms, treatment options, potential complications, prevention strategies, and answers frequently asked questions.
Your ultimate guide to colds and flu.
As winter approaches, the sniffles and coughs become more common. With a new strain of the flu currently making its rounds, it’s crucial to understand the differences between the common cold and the flu, how they spread, and how to protect yourself and your loved ones.
This article will explore the causes, symptoms, treatments, and prevention measures for both illnesses and when to consult a doctor.
The importance of including dental check-ups in chronic disease management.
Incorporating regular dental check-ups into chronic disease management is crucial for improving overall health. Learn how dental health and chronic conditions are interconnected and why dental visits matter.
What is Sinusitis?
Let’s be honest—we’ve all had those days where our heads feel like they’re stuffed with cotton, breathing feels like a chore, and we just can’t shake that pressure around our eyes and nose. Sound familiar? You might be dealing with sinusitis. Whether it’s a passing inconvenience or a chronic condition, sinusitis can throw a wrench into your daily routine.
In this article, you will learn about sinusitis, its symptoms, causes, and effective treatment options to find relief and breathe easy again.
Cleft palate and your child’s teeth: A parent’s guide
Parenting comes with all kinds of surprises. If your child has been diagnosed with a cleft palate, you’re likely navigating a mix of emotions and questions. What does this mean for their health? How will it affect their teeth?
How Heart Problems Can Affect Your Daily Life.
We all know that feeling when we’re just trying to get through the day, managing work, home, and everything else life throws at us. But what if something as fundamental as your heart – the organ that keeps everything ticking – starts acting up?
Acquired brain injury
Acquired brain injury (ABI) refers to any damage to the brain that occurs after birth, often due to trauma, stroke, or other medical conditions.
What are “Buck Teeth” and how can you fix Them?
Have you ever felt self-conscious about your smile or noticed that your top teeth stick out a bit more than usual? This is not uncommon. Buck teeth, or an overbite, are incredibly common and can affect people of all ages. But what causes them, and what can you do about it? Let’s break it down in an easy-to-understand way.
Why am I so tired? Unpacking the causes of fatigue
Fatigue is one of the most common complaints people bring to their healthcare providers. Let’s dive into why you might be feeling so drained and what you can do about it.
What is HPV? Let’s talk about it in simple terms!
Human Papillomavirus is one of the most common viral infections out there. Most of us will come into contact with it at some point in our lives, but don’t panic—it’s not all doom and gloom! In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about HPV, from what it is to how to prevent it.
Let’s talk about Colitis: What it is and why it matters
Have you ever had a bad stomach ache that just wouldn’t go away? Or maybe you’ve heard someone mention “colitis” and weren’t sure what they meant? Well, you’re in the right place!
Quick and easy steps to stop a child’s nosebleed
Nosebleeds, also known in medical terms as Epistaxis, can be alarming, especially when it happens to your little one. If you’ve ever had your child come running to you with tears in their eyes, holding their nose, you know the panic that sets in.
Reflux in children
Gastro-oesophageal reflux (GOR) occurs when stomach contents (acid) leaks from the stomach and moves up into the oesophagus (food pipe). This is also known as ‘reflux’ and can happen with or without regurgitation or vomiting.
Fever in children – friend or foe?
From a stomach virus to flu and COVID-19, a fever is a common sign and a reaction of the immune system to fight pathogens. Fever is also one of the most common presenting symptoms in any child and the cause of up to 20% of all consultations in children but the fact is, fevers are usually harmless and often helpful.
Children and coughing: What is causing my child’s cough?
Coughing is one of the most common symptoms that presents to general practitioners. Although coughing is a normal reflex to maintain lung health, coughing is often disturbing to the child and the parents and should never just be dismissed as nothing serious.
Familiarising yourself with the causes, symptoms, and treatments of Pink Eye
Discover everything you need to know about pink eye, including its causes, symptoms, and effective treatments. Learn how to manage and prevent this common eye condition.
What is allergic rhinitis?
If you have ever found yourself sneezing uncontrollably in the spring or feeling stuffy and itchy during certain times of the year, you might be dealing with allergic rhinitis, commonly known as hay fever. This condition is more than just a seasonal annoyance—it can significantly affect your daily life.
Living with eczema: the discomfort and challenges
Imagine dealing with persistent itching, dry patches, and inflamed skin every day. For those with eczema, this isn’t just a fleeting problem; it’s a constant struggle that can impact every aspect of life.
Understanding urinary tract infections (UTI’s)
Urinary tract infections, commonly known as UTIs, are a widespread health concern that can affect anyone, though they are particularly common in women. This infection occurs when bacteria enter the urinary tract, leading to uncomfortable symptoms and, if left untreated, potentially more serious health issues
Understanding temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder
Many people experience discomfort or pain in the jaw area, which can often be attributed to a condition known as TMJ (temporomandibular joint disorder). This condition affects the joint that connects the jaw to the skull, leading to a range of symptoms that can impact daily life.
Identifying ringworm (Tinea Corporis)
Ringworm is a common fungal infection that affects the skin, scalp, feet, or nails. Despite its name, it has nothing to do with worms. The infection gets its name from the ring-shaped rash that often appears on the skin, which is typically red and itchy.
Festive feasts made healthy
The holiday season is often filled with indulgent treats, but it’s possible to enjoy delicious festive foods without compromising your health. Here are a few nutritious yet tasty holiday recipes.
Managing chronic conditions during the holidays
The festive season brings joy, but it can also present challenges for those living with chronic conditions. Here are some valuable tips to keep your chronic condition in check while making the most of the festivities.
Understanding diabetes: Symptoms, causes, and risk factors
Diabetes is a chronic condition affecting approximately 537 million adults globally. It occurs when the body cannot regulate blood sugar (glucose) levels due to insufficient insulin production.
Beyond the Scale: Understanding obesity and its impact.
The conversation around obesity often gets bogged down in numbers and scales.
Toothache: Symptoms, causes and treatments
Experiencing a toothache can be an uncomfortable and worrying situation.
The Surprising Link Between Dental Health and Obesity: Unveiling the Connection
The surprising link between dental health and obesity is gaining attention in health and wellness.
What is epilepsy?
A seizure is a sudden behaviour alteration due to a temporary change in the brain’s electrical functioning.
RSV in children
The only symptoms in very young infants with RSV may be irritability, decreased activity, and breathing difficulties.
What is carpal tunnel syndrome?
The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway (tunnel) of bones and ligaments on the palm side of your wrist.
Understanding menstruation – it could save your relationship.
Menstruation doesn’t only affect the woman experiencing it; it may also impact their partners.
Multiple Sclerosis – Get the facts.
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory, autoimmune disease where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the central nervous system
Atrial Fibrillation – Listen to your heart.
Atrial fibrillation (also known as “AF” or “Afib”) is a common heart rhythm problem that may or may not be noticeable as a racing
What is Vitiligo?
Vitiligo is a long-term condition where pale white patches develop on the skin, caused by the lack of melanin
Understanding menstruation
Talking about personal subjects like periods (menstruation) can make parents and children uncomfortable.
Measles – It isn’t just a little rash.
Approximately one out of three reported measles cases have one or more complications
Strep throat vs sore throat: How can you tell the difference?
Understanding the difference between strep throat and sore throat starts by defining the terms.
Chronic Kidney Disease: Understanding the Basics
The kidneys are an essential part of our body's filtration system, responsible for removing waste and
excess fluid from our blood.
Autism Spectrum Disorder
Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) describes a wide range of neuro-developmental disorders that can cause significant social, behavioural and communication challenges.
Reduce your risk of cancer – small changes for a big difference
Here’s how you can reduce your risk of cancer. Lower your chances of developing cancer, feel better, and improve your quality of life.
Skin cancer
Skin cancer is the most common type of skin cancer. There are three main types of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma (BCC), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and melanoma.
Diabetes affect on your body
Over time, high blood sugar can cause damage to small and large blood vessels in the body.
Prediabetes
Prediabetes is diagnosed when your blood sugar levels are above the specified range but not high enough to be classified as having type 2 diabetes.
Spinal cord injuries and conditions
The signs and symptoms of common spine conditions and injuries often depend on which spinal nerves are affected.
Stroke
A stroke, sometimes called a ‘brain attack’, occurs when blood flow and oxygen to an area of the brain are cut off.
Gingivitis
Gingivitis is a common and mild form of gum disease that causes irritation, redness, and swelling.
Abdominal bloating
Explore the causes of bloating and discover foods that can alleviate this discomfort.
Tuberculosis (TB)
Tuberculosis (TB) is a serious infectious disease caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium Tuberculosis that affects the lungs.
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)?
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), better known as “spastic colon,” is a condition of the large intestine (colon).
Sleep apnea
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is the cessation of airflow during sleep, preventing air from entering the lungs due to an obstruction.
How can eye injuries be prevented?
Injuries to the eyes are surprisingly common. In South Africa, most are caused by violence, motor vehicle accidents, alcoholism, poverty, and other social ills prevalent in many communities.
Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in older adults
Older adults have an increased risk of severe complications from the Respiratory Syncytial Virus, also known as RSV, because immune systems weaken as you grow older.
Osteoporosis
Eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly can help slow or stop the loss of bone mass and help prevent fractures.
Hypertension
High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a common condition in which the long-term force.
Dentophobia
Dentophobia, also called odontophobia, is a fear of visiting the dentist.
Whooping cough
Whooping cough, also known as pertussis or the 100-day cough, is a highly contagious respiratory tract infection caused by the bacterium.
Vasectomy
When it comes to family planning, a couple may consider a vasectomy. Those considering a vasectomy often have already decided that they don’t want any more children.
Food poisoning?
Food poisoning, also called foodborne illness, is caused by eating contaminated food.
Yellow fever
Yellow fever is a viral illness caused by the bite of a mosquito carrying the yellow fever virus.
Everything you need to know about malaria
Learn about malaria symptoms, treatment options, duration without treatment, causes, and essential travel prevention tips. Stay informed and protect yourself.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a painful condition that occurs when tissue similar to the uterus lining (womb) grows outside of the uterus.
Prostate Cancer
Testicular cancer is a disease that occurs when cancerous (malignant) cells develop.
Periodontitis
What is Periodontitis?
It is the most common oral disease affecting up to 50% of the adult population around the globe.
The difference between snoring and sleep apnea
Snoring happens when air cannot move freely through your nose and throat during sleep.
Back pain
Back pain can be a result of injury, activity, and some medical conditions. Acute pain starts suddenly and lasts for up to 6 weeks.
Ear infection
Ear infections mostly affect children, but adults are not immune. Ear infections can be chronic or acute.
Diabetes
2020 is the year in which people realised that good health is something that could be taken away in an instant.
Diabetes and eye problems
People living with diabetes are at greater risk of developing eye problems. Diabetes damages blood vessels all over the body.
Caring for your feet if you have diabetes
Diabetes can be dangerous to your feet—even a small cut can have serious consequences.
Exercise for osteoporosis
One of the best ways to strengthen your bones and prevent osteoporosis is by getting regular exercise. Exercise can help maintain the bone mass you have.
Male breast cancer
Both men and women can get breast cancer, although women have a much higher risk.
Panic attacks
Your heart is racing. The world is spinning. You feel like you might throw up. It’s a normal day, nothing has happened.
Stressed, anxious or ADHD?
Many children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) also have a learning disability, depression or an anxiety disorder.
Restless leg syndrome in children
Restless leg syndrome is probably one of the most undiagnosed diseases in children.
Anxiety
Most of us experience anxiety at some stage in our lives. Here’s some mind-body-spirit practices to deal with anxiety, based on cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
Quick facts about migraine | 3 min read
Migraine pain can take up to 1 to 2 hours to build up. Migraine pain typically starts out as a dull ache.
Headaches: Types, causes and treatments | 4 min read
Headaches are a common complaint. A headache is pain in any region of the head or neck.
Burnout | 5 min read
Feeling depleted of energy? You should recognise the signs of a burnout before it’s too late.
Bad breath (Halitosis) | 3 min read
Bad breath is probably the biggest turn-off in any social setting. How to practice healthy oral hygiene habits, and be comfortable and confident anytime, anywhere.
Cataract | 6 min read
A cataract is a frosting or clouding of the lens inside the eye. The most common cause is ageing but may be accelerated by diabetes or eye trauma.
Colorectal Cancer | 2 min read
The third most common form of cancer in the Western world.
Baby cavities | 1 min read
First appears as white spots on the front teeth. They can then rapidly progress to brown or black cavities on the teeth.
Male Pattern Baldness | 3 min read
A receding hairline or a bald patch’s arrival can dramatically affect a man’s confidence and body image.
Hepatitis | 6 min read
About 500 million people are currently infected with chronic Hepatitis B or C.
Acne | 7 min read
Acne is a skin condition that involves the oil glands at the base of hair follicles.
Baby colic | 2 min read
No other common condition in infants generates as much anxiety, concern, frustration and even anger as colic.
Rheumatology | 3 min read
No, it is not only arthritis…
There are more than 100 rheumatic diseases, some being more common than others.
Gum disease | 5 min read
Gum disease begins when plaque bacteria build-up at and below the gum margin.
Occlusal disease | 2 min read
Occlusal disease is caused by an imbalance between the teeth, the chewing muscles and the jaw.
Baby brain | 3 min read
Mayo Clinic defines baby brain as the cognitive changes, particularly forgetfulness, during pregnancy or shortly after becoming a mother.
ADHD: Separating fact from fiction | 5 min read
Did you know that Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) affects approximately 1 in 20 children globally? Yet despite its prevalence, few medical conditions generate as much debate and discussion as ADHD. From playground conversations to professional settings, everyone seems to have their own theory about what ADHD is – and isn’t.
When your heart skips a beat: Understanding cardiac arrhythmia | 6 min read
Have you ever felt your heart flutter, race, or pause unexpectedly? That sensation of your heart “skipping a beat” isn’t just a poetic expression—it can be a real medical condition.
Understanding the leading causes of blindness: A patient’s guide | 4 min read
Vision is one of our most precious senses, yet millions of people worldwide suffer from visual impairment and blindness. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), at least 2.2 billion people globally have a vision impairment, with at least 1 billion of these cases being preventable or yet to be addressed.
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) – more than just a smoker’s cough. | 5 min read
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common, life-threatening lung disease that restricts airflow and causes breathing difficulties, often resulting from damage to the airways and lungs.
