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Whelehans Health Blog

1st of a new 4 part review of the painful condition - Flat Feet - this week - What causes flat feet?

Posted by Eamonn Brady on

Flat Feet (Part 1)   During childhood, usually between the ages of 3 and 10, we develop a space on the inner side of our feet where the bottom of the foot is off the ground. These are referred to as the "arches" of our foot. The height of this arch varies. People with a low arch or who have no arch are classified as having flat feet.   Causes Flat feet can run in families, and both feet are usually affected. A form of the problem is when the foot tends to roll inwards too much while standing or...

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Final part of our series reviewing Acne and successful treatment

Posted by Eamonn Brady on

Acne Treatment Part 4   Severe Acne Characterised by the condition being widespread on the face and upper body, especially if nodules and cysts occur and scarring occurs. Can be considered if acne is causing severe psychological stress too. Referral to a dermatologist is advised for severe acne.   Treatment options Oral isotretinoin (Roaccutane®) should be trialed on its own, especially if other treatment options such as systemic antibiotics have failed and especially if scarring is occurring and it is having a major psychological on the patient. Oral isotretinoin works like topical retinoids but has a more potent effect.  ...

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Part 2 of 4 reviewing the variety of treatments available for acne.

Posted by Eamonn Brady on

Acne Treatment Part 2   Mild Acne   Acne is classified as mild when it is limited to the face and lesions/ spots are not inflamed.   Treatment options   Topical retinoids Topical retinoids are the next option if no response from benzoyl peroxide. Topical retinoids work by reducing production of sebum while also preventing dead skin cells plugging hair follicles. Adapalene (Differin® 0.1% Gel or Cream) is a topical retinoid available in Ireland.   Topical retinoids can cause mild irritation and stinging of the skin. Starting topical retinoids too quickly/regularly increases risk of skin redness, soreness, and peeling. Topical...

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New 4 part review of Acne Treatment - this week - symptoms and "over the counter" treatments

Posted by Eamonn Brady on

Acne Treatment Part 1   Acne Vulgaris is a disorder of skin glands that produce a natural oil (Sebum). The face, neck, shoulders, upper chest, and back are most frequently affected. It affects more than one in two young adults at some stage, usually beginning at puberty and clearing completely before the mid-twenties.   Symptoms   Definitions and terms used for symptoms of acne Lesion is an overall term that can describe the different bumps caused by acne and include: Papules: raised bumps Pustules: raised bump often known as a pimple and filled with yellowish fluid known as pus; pus...

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In the final part of our UTI review we discuss treatment and offer self help do's and don't's

Posted by Eamonn Brady on

Urinary Tract Infections (UTI’s) (Part 3) Treatment Once a UTI diagnosis is confirmed, in most cases a course of antibiotic treatment is prescribed. It is important to stress that the recommended course is completed even if there is noticeable immediate improvement. The following antibiotic treatment options are according to the HSE’s most recent prescribing recommendations (Sep 2021): - Uncomplicated lower UTI’s Courses of below antibiotics for 3 days for females and for 7 days for males 1st Choice options: Nitrofurantoin Alternative 1st Choice options (if nitrofurantoin unsuitable): Cefalexin or Trimethoprim Additional alternative for females: Fosfomycin 3g Single dose   Acute...

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