Atopic eczema and dermatitis
Eczema and dermatitis are really just different words for the same condition. The main characteristics are of an inflammation of the skin, usually associated with dryness, with skin scales present. The rash is very often itchy, and although it can happen anywhere on the body, common sites include the scalp, behind the knees and the sides of the elbows. It is in the same class of illnesses as asthma and hayfever, and if you or your family members have these conditions, you will be more likely than others to develop eczema.... [More]

Bacterial Vaginosis
Bacterial vaginosis is the most common vaginal infection, typically causing increased discharge which is usually non-irritant but has a characteristic ‘fishy’ smell. The smell may be more obvious after sexual intercourse. It can be a single infection or can co-exist along with other infections such as thrush and with sexually transmitted infections. It can also be completely symptomless. It is not classed as a sexually transmitted infection, as, like thrush (candida) it can occur in women who are not in a sexual relationship at the time. Treatment of partners does not seem to prevent relapse, which can be common, (up to 60% within 3 months of successful treatment)... [More]

Bad breath
Bad breath, or halitosis, arises mainly from the coating of the tongue and the crevices between the teeth and gums. Dental plaque is a substance which settles on the teeth and is made up of dead cells and bacteria. It accumulates rapidly if you don't keep your teeth and gums really clean. The bacteria cause the release of sulphide compounds and it is these compounds are responsible for the smell. If you think you clean your teeth well already, try using some of the plaque demonstrating tablets that they use in schools to show kids where to brush their teeth. You may be in for a shock... [More]

Crabs - Pubic Lice
Pubic lice is most commonly a sexually transmitted infection. It can also be spread by close contact without full sexual intercourse.
The insect (Phthirus pubis) has claws and resembles a crab. It uses the claws to grip onto the pubic hair. The lice can also be found on other any body hair eg the armpits, chest, beard, thighs and even the eyelashes.... [More]

How to use a condom
Tear one corner of the foil wrapper and squeeze the opposite end to remove the condom. Although strong, condoms can be torn by sharp fingernails or jewellery, so take extra care when handling them.... [More]

Meningitis - commonly asked questions
What are the symptoms to watch for, with meningitis? How common is the organism that causes meningitis? What causes some people to become very ill from this organism?... [More]

Migraine
Migraine is an intense headache which is usually one-sided, throbbing, or pulsating in nature and is commonly associated with nausea, vomiting and a dislike of light and sound. It can be preceded by an aura, which usually consists of some visual disturbance. This can include bilateral flashing lights, tunnel vision or black spots throughout the visual fields. There can be other neurological symptoms including numbness of the face, lips, arms and legs, usually one-sided and there can be disturbance of speech and sometimes weakness of one side of the body... [More]

Organ and Blood Donation
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Smelly feet
There are two main causes of smelly feet and both are encouraged by damp, humid environments, ie sweaty feet in trainers and boots!... [More]

Sunshine advice
Sunshine or more specifically ultraviolet (UV) light can, and does cause damage to skin. Apart from sunburn ultraviolet radiation also speeds up the skin’s ageing process and also increases the incidence of skin cancers.... [More]

Sweating
We all sweat. It is an important aspect of the body’s cooling system. However, approximately 1% of the population suffer with excessive sweating hyperhydrosis.
Hyperhidrosis usually occurs on the hands, face, feet and under the arms. It can cause a great deal of embarrassment, particularly if you have a job where you are regularly meeting people and need to shake hands..... [More]

Travel advice for diabetics
The rise in long haul travel poses some difficulty for diabetics. Travelling across time zones means that your insulin requirements may change and you might need to take more care with your diet and fluid intake. The following tips should be of use... [More]