Whelehans Health Blog

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...

Diabetic foot problems   Prolonged exposure to high glucose levels can impair blood vessels and nerves, a condition known as peripheral neuropathy. The diminished sensation in the feet, coupled with compromised blood flow, makes individuals with diabetes prone to injuries and infections that often go unnoticed. Early detection of complications is pivotal. Regular check-ups to assess sensory perception, vascular health, and skin integrity is important. Identifying warning signs such as changes in skin colour, temperature, or the presence of calluses enables timely intervention and reduces the risk of complications. Peripheral arterial disease (PAD), prevalent in diabetic individuals, necessitates focused interventions...

Diabetes   (Basic Treatment) Today I will discuss basic treatment rather than the causes and types diabetes which I discussed in the past in the Westmeath Topic . I also discussed Ozempic earlier this year Diabetes treatment The aim of diabetes treatment is to do what your body once did automatically, which is to mimic the insulin pattern you had before diabetes and to keep blood sugar under control.   Treatment of Type 1 Diabetes There is no cure for type 1 diabetes but it can be kept under control. Type 1 diabetes is controlled by giving your body insulin. This...

Anti-depressants  Part 4   Suicidal feelings with SSRIs in younger people There is some evidence of increased suicidal thoughts (although not actual suicidal acts) and other side-effects in young people taking antidepressants. However, the National Institute for Clinical excellence in the UK has stated that Fluoxetine, an SSRI antidepressant, can be used in the under-18s. There is no clear evidence of an increased risk of self-harm and suicidal thoughts in adults of 18 years or over. Young adults are more likely to commit suicide than older adults, so a young adult should be particularly closely monitored if he or she...