Whelehans Health News

Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to treat cancer, and there are different types available depending on the type and stage of cancer being treated.   The top 5 most common cancers in Ireland are: Breast cancer: Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in Ireland, affecting mainly women but also men. Prostate cancer: Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in Ireland and affects males only. It is also the most survivable of all cancers. Lung cancer: Lung cancer is the third most common cancer in Ireland, predominantly caused by smoking but also affecting non-smokers. Colorectal cancer:...

Knee Pain The most common causes from a physiotherapist perspective   Kevin Darcy, Chartered Physiotherapist at Whelehans Pharmacy describes the most common reasons for knee pain that he experiences working as a physiotherapist:   Ligament sprains or tears: This can happen due to sudden twisting or turning movements, causing the ligaments in the knee to stretch or tear.   Meniscus tears: A tear in the cartilage cushions of the knee can cause pain, swelling and stiffness. This is commonly caused by injury or wear and tear.   Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome (PFPS): This is a condition that causes pain around the...

Achilles Stretches Preventing Achilles injuries from a physiotherapist perspective     Kevin Darcy, Chartered Physiotherapist at Whelehans Pharmacy describes exercises to prevent Achilles injuries in sport and other activities from his experience working as a physiotherapist.   Achilles injuries are a common issue noticed in individuals who do not take proper care while performing physical activities. Stretching exercises can help to prevent such injuries. Here are a few stretches, recommended by physiotherapists, which can help in preventing Achilles injuries:   1) Calf stretch: Stand facing a wall, keep the heel of your affected leg firmly planted on the floor and...

Hamstring Stretches Preventing Hamstring injuries from a physiotherapist perspective   Kevin Darcy, Chartered Physiotherapist at Whelehans Pharmacy describes exercises to prevent hamstring injuries in sport and other activities from his experience working as a physiotherapist.   Hamstring injuries are one of the most common injuries in sports, especially in activities that require sprinting, jumping or sudden changes of direction such as Gaelic football and hurling, soccer, and rugby. Hamstring strains can range from mild to severe and can take weeks or even months to heal. As a chartered physiotherapist who has experience working with athletes at different levels for over...

Atrial fibrillation Treatment Part 1   I discussed causes and symptoms of Atrial Fibrillation (AF) in this column in November 2022; for the next three weeks, I discuss AF treatment.   Aims of AF management are to: Relieve symptoms, such as palpitations, tiredness, dizziness, and breathlessness Prevent serious complications, such as stroke and CHF Regulate heart rate Treat the cause of AF where identifiable   Medication   Medication used to slow the heart rate include: Beta-blockers (atenolol, metoprolol) Digoxin Dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers (CCBs) (e.g.) verapamil, diltiazem Amiodarone (less often used due to risk of side effects)   Beta blockers...