Whelehans Health News

Vitamin D Part 1   Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin. It helps absorb calcium and phosphorus in the intestines so it can be absorbed by the bones, keeping the skeleton strong. Therefore, preventing bone diseases including, osteoporosis and rickets in children. Vitamin D deficiency also causes a mild muscle weakness, thus increasing the risk of falls and hence fractures in older people. Therefore, vitamin D supplementation is often important in this age group. It is also known as the “good mood vitamin” and research shows it helps fight depression. How is Vitamin D Produced?   Vitamin D can be...

Joint pain Part 3 Osteoarthritis: the most common cause of joint pain   Symptoms of osteoarthritis are pain, stiffness and sometimes swelling of the joints. The pain is exacerbated by activity and relieved by rest. The pain of osteoarthritis tends to get worse throughout the day. Joints may not move easily. There may be a crunching feeling in the joints. Joints may make creaking sounds called crepitations. As osteoarthritis progresses, the joints may become misshapen and look knobby, and they may become unstable.   Diagnosis There is no single test that can check for osteoarthritis, so a GP will ask...

Joint pain Part 2 Osteoarthritis: the most common cause of joint pain   Osteoarthritis is by far the most common form of arthritis. It is caused by ageing and long-term wear-and-tear in the joints. After years of use, the cartilage that cushions the joints can break down, until bone rubs against bone.   It most commonly affects the knees, hands, hips, and spine. It causes more mobility disability in people over 65 than any other condition. The condition is the number one reason for joint-replacement surgery. It occurs mostly in men after the age of 50 and in women after...

Joint pain Part 1   Causes Causes include arthritis, injuries, and infections. Other causes include injuries, such as sprains, strains, or fractures, Infections affecting the joints, like septic arthritis, can lead to inflammation and discomfort. Osteoporosis, can contribute to joint pain by affecting bone density.   Symptoms Symptoms include pain, swelling, tenderness, and stiffness in the affected joint. Individuals may experience a reduced range of motion. In some cases, joint pain may be accompanied by redness and warmth around the affected area. Persistent joint pain for more than a few weeks should seek medical advice for treatment options.   Diagnosis...

Infants: Moving from Breast Milk or Formula to Solid Foods   I discussed breast feeding and infant formula over the last few weeks in this health column, this week I give some tips for the changeover to solid foods.   Introducing solid foods to an infant's diet is an important milestone that typically occurs between 4-6 months of age, depending on the individual needs and readiness of the infant. Solid foods provide additional nutrients that are necessary for infant growth and development and help facilitate the transition from a liquid-only diet to a more varied diet that includes different textures...