Whelehans Health News

Chemotherapy Part 3   How does nausea and vomiting compare between chemotherapy and radiation? Chemotherapy is associated with more nausea and vomiting than radiation therapy. This is because chemotherapy drugs target rapidly dividing cells in the body, including those in the digestive system, which can lead to gastrointestinal side effects. Radiation therapy, on the other hand, primarily targets the cancer cells within a specific area of the body. Radiation is less likely to cause severe nausea and vomiting as compared to chemotherapy. However, if radiation treatment is focused on the gastrointestinal region, it may lead to symptoms such as nausea,...

Chemotherapy Part 2 The most common types of chemotherapy used in Ireland   Alkylating agents These drugs work by interfering with the DNA inside cancer cells, preventing them from dividing and multiplying. Examples of alkylating agents include cyclophosphamide, cisplatin, and carboplatin. These drugs are commonly used to treat breast cancer, ovarian cancer, and different types of leukaemia and lymphoma.   Antimetabolites Antimetabolites work by blocking the production of DNA, preventing cancer cells from dividing, and growing. Examples of this type of chemotherapy include methotrexate, 5-fluorouracil, and capecitabine. These drugs are commonly used to treat breast, colorectal, and lung cancer, as...

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...