Medical articles

This is a sample post testing.

  Somatisation Disorder (SYMPTOMS) This is a disorder where patients believe that have physical symptoms present for at least 2 years, despite no physical or organic explanation – The most common symptoms mentioned usually involve the GI tract (abdominal pain) or the skin – Patients don’t accept negative test results and instead feel great distress and worry over their symptoms – It is more common in young women and can lead to multiple operations/investigations despite absence of disease   Hypochondrial Disorder (DISEASE) This is a disorder where patients believe they have a serious underlying disease e.g. cancer, HIV, AIDS –

Torticollis This is known as wry neck and is defined by an abnormal, asymmetrical head position – It is due to excessive contraction of the sternocleidomastoid which pulls the ear to ipsilateral shoulder and the face to the other side.   Causes: Congenital torticollis: – Birth trauma – Also can be due to a sternocleidomastoid tumour   Acquired: – Due to muscle spasm (most common) – Also due to ENT infections, antipsychotics   Symptoms: – Restricted head turning with pain on movement – Tilting of the head to one side Diagnosis: Clinical Diagnosis   Management: – Physical therapy like stretching

This refers to inflammation of the endocardium that lines the surface of heart valves. It can lead to vegetations on the valve surface that can destroy the valve. In addition, it can lead to septic emboli formation leading to other complications. Causes Staphylococcus aureus This is the most common cause of IE which is usually seen in IV drug abusers It is a high virulence organism that destroys valves, most commonly the tricuspid valve Risk factors for this bacterium include skin breaches (dermatitis, IV lines), kidney failure and diabetes   Viridans Streptococci This is a group of low-virulence bacteria that

Table of Contents Introduction Lifestyle Tips for Managing Ankylosing Spondylitis Symptoms Effective Treatment Options for Ankylosing Spondylitis Understanding the Causes and Risk Factors of Ankylosing Spondylitis Conclusion “Unleash your strength, conquer ankylosing spondylitis.” Introduction Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that primarily affects the spine, causing pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. It belongs to a group of conditions known as spondyloarthropathies, which involve inflammation of the joints and ligaments. Ankylosing spondylitis typically starts in early adulthood and progresses over time, potentially leading to fusion of the vertebrae and a stooped posture. While the exact cause is unknown, genetic factors

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Appendicitis is a condition characterized by the inflammation of the appendix, a small pouch located in the lower right abdomen. The main cause is believed to be a blockage, leading to bacterial infection. Symptoms include abdominal pain, nausea, and loss of appetite. Prompt surgical removal of the appendix is the most common treatment.

Table of Contents Introduction Tips for Preventing Hernia Recurrence Lifestyle Changes to Manage Hernia Symptoms Surgical Treatment Options for Hernia Common Causes and Risk Factors of Hernia Types of Hernia and Their Symptoms Conclusion “Relieve the strain, embrace the freedom: Hernia solutions for a pain-free life.” Introduction Hernia is a medical condition characterized by the protrusion of an organ or tissue through a weak spot or opening in the surrounding muscle or connective tissue. It commonly occurs in the abdominal region but can also affect other areas of the body. Hernias can cause discomfort, pain, and other symptoms, and may

What is a radiographer? What is a radiologist? How do radiographers and radiologists differ? Many people are confused by the differences between a radiographer and a radiologist. Radiographers are allied health professionals who take x-rays and other medical images to assist doctors in diagnosing diseases and injuries. They are also known as medical imaging technologists. A radiographer does your scan. Radiographers complete a university bachelor’s degree in medical imaging, medical radiation science or technology which takes 3 or 4 years. Another option is a 2-year master’s degree. Students doing the 3-year bachelor’s degree also need to do a supervised practice program. Radiologists are specialist medical doctors

Why is it important to ask my doctor or pharmacist about the medicines I have been prescribed? Asking questions about your treatment or medicine is important to help you understand your options. You have a right to ask your pharmacist or doctor about the medicines you are prescribed, so don’t feel shy. It also helps you to know what to expect if you take a medicine, stop taking it or don’t take it at all. Here are 8 key questions to ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking a medicine. What are the likely benefits of taking this medicine? Medicines work in different ways.

What is a habit? A habit is something that is routine to you and that you repeat, often without knowing it. Some habits are good, some are bad. Good habits include: healthy diet and exercise healthy sleep habits healthy relationships assertive communication work-life balance time management stress management relaxation and mindfulness How can I create good habits? It’s hard to change everything all at once; it’s easier to set small goals and achieve them. This helps create good habits. For example, it is easier to do a small amount of exercise each day than to decide to run a marathon. It might take you several months

What is altitude sickness? Altitude sickness, also known as mountain sickness, can happen if you travel to a high altitude. Altitude sickness can affect anybody — being young or physically fit does not decrease the risk. Whether or not you get altitude sickness could depend on: your height above sea level the time you took to make the ascent whether or not you have any problems affecting your heart and lungs Altitude sickness can be fatal if not treated. What are the symptoms of altitude sickness? If you have altitude sickness, you are likely to feel dizzy and weak, you might also have a headache and feel

What is abdominal pain? Abdominal pain is pain felt anywhere in the area between the bottom of the ribs and the pelvis. Most Australians will experience abdominal pain at some point in their lives. Abdominal pain can be serious, but most abdominal pain gets better on its own without needing any special treatment. People sometimes refer to abdominal pain as stomach pain, stomach ache, stomach cramps, tummy pain, sore stomach, wind pain or belly ache. Pain or discomfort in the abdomen can be mild or severe. It may come on suddenly (acute); it could be something that you experience from

What is a hysterectomy? A hysterectomy is an operation to remove your uterus (womb). Your cervix (neck of your womb) is usually also removed. Your fallopian tubes and ovaries may need to be removed at the same time. What are the benefits of surgery? There are common reasons for having an abdominal hysterectomy. Heavy or painful periods. Fibroids, where part of the muscle of your womb becomes overgrown. Uterine prolapse, where your womb drops down. The womb and surrounding structures. A hysterectomy may cure or improve your symptoms. You will no longer have periods. Are there any alternatives to an abdominal hysterectomy?

What is an aortic aneurysm? An aneurysm is a bulge or weakness in your blood vessel. When this happens in the aorta (one of the main blood vessels in the body), it’s called an aortic aneurysm. The bulge in the aorta happens when part of your blood vessel wall grows weak. Aneurysms usually start small and then get bigger. They usually grow slowly. Sometimes aneurysms burst and cause bleeding inside your body. Because the aorta is such a large blood vessel, this can be very dangerous and is often fatal (causes death). What are the types of aortic aneurysm? The

What is altitude sickness? Altitude sickness, also known as mountain sickness, can happen if you travel to a high altitude. Altitude sickness can affect anybody — being young or physically fit does not decrease the risk. Whether or not you get altitude sickness could depend on: your height above sea level the time you took to make the ascent whether or not you have any problems affecting your heart and lungs Altitude sickness can be fatal if not treated. What are the symptoms of altitude sickness? If you have altitude sickness, you are likely to feel dizzy and weak, you might also have a headache and feel

What is AATD? Alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, also known as AATD, or as genetic or inherited emphysema, is a common, inherited genetic condition that can cause chronic lung and liver disease. It can be managed to slow down the progress of the disease. Alpha-1 antitrypsin (AAT) is a protein made in the liver and circulated through the blood. It helps protect your lungs and liver from damage. If you have a deficiency of AAT protein, you are more at risk of 2 main sets of problems: In the lungs, AATD can cause emphysema, which may appear earlier than it might otherwise, as well as asthma, chronic

  What are allied health professionals? Allied health practitioners are healthcare professionals who are not nurses, midwives, doctors, or dentists. Allied health professions are regulated (managed) either through: Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) or are self-regulated through the relevant professional organisation Allied health professionals can help you take care of your physical or mental health. They provide services that can include diagnosis, treatment, or rehabilitation. Below is a list of allied health professions. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health workers and practitioners give culturally safe clinical services. They are important to the health and wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait

What is an allergy? An allergy can be triggered if your immune system reacts to substances (called allergens) that are harmless for most people. You can have an allergic reaction to many different substances (known as triggers), including: medicines substances in our environment such as pollens foods such as eggs, seafood or nuts What is an allergic reaction? An allergic reaction usually happens straight after you have been exposed to a trigger and may cause a range of symptoms including: runny nose and watery eyes abdominal pain, nausea or vomiting skin rash Most allergic reactions are mild, but some people experience a severe reaction called anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis may cause breathing difficulties and low blood pressure that

What is an allergy? An allergy is when your immune system reacts to something that is harmless to most people. Substances that cause allergies are called ‘allergens’. Common allergies include: food allergies (including fish and shellfish, nuts, eggs, wheat, dairy, soy) cat and dog allergies grass allergy pollen allergy dust mite allergy mould allergy allergy to some medicines insect and mite bite allergies latex (rubber) allergy What is a hypersensitivity reaction? A hypersensitivity reaction is an overreaction of your immune system to something that would not usually cause an immune response. This leads to allergy symptoms. There are different types of hypersensitivity reactions. Type I

A food allergy occurs when the immune system responds to an allergen (an ingredient that is usually harmless) in food. This triggers an immune reaction, which can range from mild to severe. A severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) is a medical emergency. Call triple zero (000) immediately. Lay the person down. If they have an adrenaline injector and you are able to administer it, do so. The majority of food allergies in children are not severe and usually children will outgrow many allergies with time. Some allergies, particularly nut and seafood allergies, are less likely to decrease with age. A food allergy is different to

What causes cow’s milk allergy? Cow’s milk allergy is often due to an immune system reaction against milk proteins. Exposure to even a trace amount of milk protein can be a problem for someone with milk protein allergy. What are the symptoms of cow’s milk allergy? The symptoms of allergy to cow’s milk can range from mild to severe. Mild to moderate symptoms include: a rash (eczema or hives) swelling of the lips, face and eyes tingling mouth vomiting and diarrhoea Anaphylaxis is the most severe allergic reaction and requires immediate treatment. Symptoms include: noising breathing or wheeze swelling of the tongue swelling or tightness

What is allergen immunotherapy? Allergen immunotherapy is a way to prevent or minimise allergies by switching off the body’s reaction to substances that cause allergic reactions. Allergen immunotherapy can take years to work. Allergen immunotherapy is a way to change the way your body reacts to things you are allergic to (allergens). Unlike other allergy medicines, which reduce symptoms, immunotherapy is the closest thing we have to a ‘cure’ for allergies. An allergic reaction occurs when your body’s immune system responds to something that is normally harmless. Allergen immunotherapy works by regularly introducing tiny doses of the allergen to the

What is alcohol dependence? If you drink a lot of alcohol, you might become dependent on it to make you feel good. Your drinking behaviour could be harmful and a form of substance abuse. What are the signs of harmful alcohol use? You or someone you know might be drinking too much if they: have a strong urge to drink cannot control how much they drink need to drink more over time to get the same good feeling drink while alone, or hide alcohol from members of the household struggle with work, education or relationships lie about how much they drink drink

Why is alcohol a health issue? Many Australians drink some alcohol. Some people drink alcohol in amounts that are harmful to their health. This kind of drinking can cause death, disease, and injury. This is a major factor in ill health and social harm in Australia. One standard drink contains 10 grams of pure alcohol, which is found in (approximately): 285ml full-strength beer or cider 375ml mid-strength beer 425ml light-strength beer 100ml wine 1 nip (30ml) of spirits No level of alcohol consumption can be considered safe. To reduce the risk of harm from alcohol-related disease or injury for healthy adults: drink no

What emotional changes should I expect during my child’s teenage years? Supporting your child through their teenage years can be both challenging and rewarding. Both boys and girls experience physical, hormonal and emotional changes during this time. These changes are part of a process known as puberty. Many girls begin puberty at around 10, while boys often begin this process at around 11. However, it’s important to remember that every person is different and your child will grow and develop at their own pace. During puberty, physical, hormonal and emotional changes may trigger changes in behaviour as well, and your teen may

What are ‘after-hours’ health services? After-hours health services are services for people needing healthcare outside of normal general practice opening hours. However, they are not a hospital emergency department. They can manage problems that don’t need the emergency department, but that can’t wait for a GP to be available. Which services are available? There are many different healthcare services that are available after-hours including GPs, urgent care clinics, pharmacies, dentists and mental health counsellors. A good place to start looking for services near you is the healthdirect Service Finder. You can also call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 to speak to

What is advance care planning? Advance care planning involves planning for your future healthcare. The process of advance care planning helps you outline your values and beliefs and your preferences for your future healthcare. Advance care planning will help guide your loved ones and doctors to make decisions on your behalf that align with your values, in a situation where you aren’t able to do this yourself. What is an advance care directive? Advance care planning involves formally detailing your values and preferences regarding your future healthcare. This document is called an ‘advance care directive’, though it has different names

What is ADHD? Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a developmental disorder that begins in early childhood. ADHD used to be called attention deficit disorder (ADD). ADHD is often misunderstood. It can cause problems: concentrating becoming distracted being hyperactive (sometimes) being impulsive This may cause people with ADHD to have problems with their: schooling friendships work family life Around 1 in every 20 Australians has ADHD. While ADHD is more common in boys — it’s under diagnosed in girls and adults. More than 3 in 4 children diagnosed with ADHD still have symptoms as an adult. What are the symptoms

What are the adenoids? They are fleshy lumps of tissue that are out of sight located at the back of the inside of the nose and at the top of the throat. Together with the tonsils, they trap and destroy germs that enter the child’s mouth and nose. They are part of the immune system and help to fight infections. Everyone is born with adenoids and they are biggest when children are around 3 to 5 years old. They start to shrink when children reach around 5 to 8 years of age. They are usually gone altogether by the time

What is an adenoidectomy? Adenoidectomy is the surgical removal of the adenoids, which are small lumps of soft tissue found at the back of the nose. It is a short and safe procedure, but your child will have a sore throat for a couple of days. Why is an adenoidectomy performed? The adenoids are part of the immune system and help protect the nose and throat from infection. They are often quite large in young children and grow smaller with age. The adenoids may disappear during teenage years. The adenoids can also get infected. If that happens frequently, it can cause

This page will give you information about an adeno-tonsillectomy. If you have any questions, you should ask your GP or other relevant health professional. What are the adenoids and tonsils? The adenoids and tonsils are part of a group of lymphoid tissues (like the glands in the neck) that help to fight off infection. The adenoids and tonsils enlarge naturally in children at around the age of 3 and usually shrink away again by the age of 7. The enlargement happens because children are exposed to a lot of new infections at this age and have many colds. What are the benefits

What is addiction? Addiction, also known as dependence, is when someone finds it hard to stop doing something that makes them feel good. You can have a physical or psychological addiction, or both. Physical dependence means that withdrawal symptoms appear if you stop the addictive substance or behaviour. Psychological addiction occurs when you believe you need the addictive substance or behaviour to function. You might think you need the substance at certain times. For instance, to be social at a party or to unwind after work. Or you might think you need it all the time. What is withdrawal from

What is addiction? Addiction is when you have a strong physical or psychological need or urge to do something or use something. It is a dependence on a substance or activity even if you know that it causes you harm. It can impact your daily life. This article describes the types, causes and signs of addiction, and where to get help. Many people have heard of addiction to: smoking drinking alcohol gambling taking drugs prescription medicines Addiction to drugs can include cannabis, ice and amphetamines. Alcohol and nicotine are also drugs. It’s possible to be addicted to anything, such as: Computers — computer addiction is increasing. You may

Kindness and compassion during recovery Almost everybody feels good when someone is kind to them. This is especially true for those who are vulnerable, like people who are recovering from a mental illness like depression, or who are learning to live with dementia, or who have an addiction. Acts of kindness and compassion can increase wellbeing and help their recovery. It can also help them overcome loneliness and isolation, build healthy relationships and improve their self-esteem. There are many ways to be kind and compassionate to someone who needs help. These can include: being sensitive and sympathetic creating a positive outlook and instilling hope recognising and validating positive changes helping them solve

If you are a person living with disability or caring for someone with disability in the ACT, you may have noticed some changes in the way that disability services are delivered. Services that were delivered through ACT government agencies are now delivered through the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). The NDIS is a Commonwealth Government scheme to support Australians under 65 who have permanent and significant disability. The scheme is run by the National Disability Insurance Agency (NDIA). Services for people aged 65 years and over are delivered through My Aged Care. To find out how to access the NDIS, go to Applying to

What is acne? Acne is a common skin condition that causes spots on the face, neck, back or chest. These spots can be whiteheads, blackheads or inflamed, pus-filled pimples. Adult acne, also called hormonal acne, is acne that continues past the age of around 18 to 20 or starts when someone is in their early twenties. Acne vulgaris generally affects teenagers and continues for 3 to 5 years although it can sometimes carry on for longer. Some people have a mild form of acne, with only occasional spots or outbreaks, while others have more severe acne, with large areas of the

This page will give you information about an ACL reconstruction. If you have any questions, you should ask your GP or other relevant health professional. What is the anterior cruciate ligament? The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) is one of the important ligaments that stabilise your knee. If you have torn (ruptured) this ligament, your knee can collapse or ‘give way’ when making twisting or turning movements. An ACL rupture happens as a result of a twisting injury to your knee. The common causes are contact sports and skiing injuries.You can injure other parts of your knee at the same time

  What are Achilles tendon injuries? The Achilles tendon (often simply called the ‘Achilles’) is the thick cord you can feel at the back of your ankle. It attaches the calf muscle to the back of your heel. The 2 most common injuries of the Achilles tendon are: Acute rupture (break): a complete or partial tear that occurs when the tendon is stretched beyond its natural range. Achilles tendinopathy (previously known as ‘tendinitis’ or ‘tendonitis’): a chronic (long-term) condition that causes weakness and breakdown of the Achilles tendon, due to a series of very small tears (also known as ‘tendinosis’).

What is residential care? An aged care home is for older people who can no longer live at home. This might be because you need help with everyday tasks or health care. Aged care homes are also called: residential aged care facilities (RACFs) nursing homes An aged care home gives you the services you need to have a good quality of life. The government funds aged care homes across Australia. These homes supply services to those who need it. Each aged care home is different. They provide different levels of care. Some provide just basic accommodation while others provide continuous

What is an abscess? An abscess is a collection of pus inside the body, usually from an infection. If near the surface of the body, pus may break through the surface and drain. Abscesses can develop just about anywhere in the body and can be painful. Often treatment is needed to heal an abscess and to stop infection spreading, so see your doctor if you think you might have an abscess. What are the different types of abscesses? There are many different types of abscesses, including: skin abscesses or boils — often affecting the face, throat, armpits or groin dental abscesses —

1. According to Pasteur statements which one of the following is truea. Living organisms discriminate betweenstereoisomersb. Fermentation is a aerobic processc. Living organisms doesn’t discriminate between stereoisomersd. Both a and b 2. “I found floating therin earthly particles, some green streaks, spirally wound serpent-wise, and orderly arranged, the whole circumstance of each of these streaks was abut the thickness of a hair on one’s head”…. These words are ofa. Leeuwenhoek b. A. Jennerc. Pasteur d. Koch 3. The principle light- trapping pigment molecule in plants, Algae, and cyanobacteria isa. Chlorophyll a b. Chlorophyll bc. Porphyrin d. Rhodapsin 4. During Bio

Haemolysis refers to the destruction of red blood cells (RBCs), which is broadly defined as a reduction in the life span below 100 days (normal 110-120 days). Haemolytic anaemia is defined as anaemia secondary to reduced survival of RBCs. They have a varied aetiology, as is the clinical presentation; together they represent approximately 5% of all anaemias. Regardless of the underlying cause, if erythropoiesis within the bone marrow cannot keep pace with the destruction of RBCs anaemia will ensue. Mild haemolysis may be completely asymptomatic whereas severe, acute haemolysis will lead to cardiopulmonary decompensation. Classification Haemolytic anaemia can be classified as inherited or aquired. Inherited

Overview Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency is an X-linked inherited disorder that predisposes to haemolytic anaemia. Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is one of the inherited haemolytic anaemias. It is an X-linked inherited disorder due to a genetic variant (i.e. mutation) in the gene that encodes the protein G6PD located on the long arm of the X chromosome. G6PD is needed for the formation of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) that is used to maintain stores of glutathione in red blood cells that has a crucial role in preventing oxidative damage. The condition is usually asymptomatic but characterised by episodes of anaemia due to haemolysis