Medical Conditions

Introduction Diarrhoea is defined as having three or more liquid stools a day. It is usually caused by an infection, especially when travelling overseas. Dehydration is a main concern for diarrhoea, especially in children. Most fatalities related to diarrhoea are due to the body losing too much and water and salts. Signs & Symptoms Stomach Cramping Flatulence Nausea and vomiting Urgency to pass stools When to Seek Medical Attention Do go for an evaluation if you: Have diarrhoea lasting for more than two days Suspect it is due to a medication you have just started Are running a fever Are […]

Introduction Constipation is an embarrassing, albeit common problem. There is some confusion as to what constitutes constipation. For some people, constipation might mean difficulty in passing stools, or not defecating every day. Medically, it is defined by the Rome III Diagnostic Criteria as having at least 2 of the following criteria in the last 12 weeks: Hard stools for more than a quarter of your bowel movements Feeling like your bowel movement is incomplete for more than a quarter of your bowel movements Straining for more than a quarter of your bowel movements Having fewer than 3 bowel movements per […]

Introduction Did you know that the skin is the biggest organ of the human body? Your skin acts as a barrier between your body and the external environment, keeping out harmful microorganisms, helps you experience different sensations and regulate body temperature. For some people however, dry skin compromises this barrier, causing itching and redness, and leaving them susceptible to external environmental irritants. Signs & Symptoms Itching Seeing scaling, fine lines or cracks Feeling that the skin is tight Dry lips When to Seek Medical Attention Many people suffer from a certain degree of dry skin. However, please see a doctor […]

Introduction It is true that clogged pores and acne are not life-threatening; however, it is all too easy to underestimate the devastating effects it can have on someone’s psyche. Some people are so badly affected by low self-esteem and unkind words from peers that they sink into depression and even consider suicide. Thankfully, there are many treatments available from a pharmacy and your doctor that can help to tackle this problem. The different types of pimples are: White heads and Black heads (Comedones) – Pores can get clogged over time with oil, keratin (a protein) and bacteria. Sometimes, these pores […]

Introduction Teething is a big milestone in an infant’s life where baby teeth emerge from the gums. This phenomenon typically begins in most children between 4-7 months old. However, the age at which this occurs differs among children, so do not be overly alarmed if your child starts teething later.  For most babies, teething does not pose too much of a discomfort. Like adults, however, babies all have different thresholds of pain and discomfort, and some children can become extremely uncomfortable and irritable. Generally, the middle lower teeth of the baby will erupt first, followed by the middle upper teeth […]

Introduction Nappy rash is a skin irritation that occurs in the nappy area, caused by prolonged exposure of the skin to urine and faecal matter. It will occur to most babies at some stage, no matter how well cared-for. Some conditions such as psoriasis, atopic dermatitis (eczema) or diarrhoea can also make nappy rash worse. Children will eventually grow out of it when they do not require diapers anymore. Signs & Symptoms Symptoms can include: Red and inflamed skin around the genital area and anus that sometimes spread to stomach and thigh region Dry and cracked skin Blisters and ulcers […]