Whelehans Health Blog

Swollen Ankles & Fluid Retention Part 1   The feet and ankles are the most common areas for swelling because they are furthest from the heart meaning the heart’s force of “pushing” blood through our blood vessels is weakest and due to forces of gravity. Oedema is the medical term for fluid retention.   Why does fluid retention occur? Swelling can occur in one part of the body such (e.g.) result of an injury, or it can be more general. More general fluid retention tends to be due more serious health conditions such as heart failure or kidney failure.   As well as...

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) Part 4: Surgical options   This is the final of my 4-part series in BPH, a common condition as men get older; last week I discussed medication that control symptoms.   Surgical options If, after lifestyles changes and / or medication treatment symptoms have not worked or indeed, the symptoms have deteriorated over time, the GP will most likely refer the patient to a consultant urologist to review the case and identify next steps in improving the situation.   There are a variety of minimally invasive or surgical procedures available, a short overview of some of...

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) Part 2: Diagnosis   This is the second of my 4-part series in BPH, a common condition as men gets older; last week I discussed causes, signs, and symptoms. To establish a correct diagnosis of BPH, the process largely involves eliminating other conditions that may show similar symptoms, which may include: - Urethral stricture Overactive Bladder Pelvic floor issues Prostate Cancer   Many believe that there is some correlation between an enlarged prostate and prostate cancer. There is no relation in terms of the condition itself, the risk for prostate cancer is the same irrespective of whether BPH...

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) Part 1: Causes, Signs and Symptoms   Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) also known as prostate gland enlargement is a common condition as men age.  An enlarged prostate can cause restriction in the flow of urine from the bladder which, if left untreated, may lead to further complications relating to the urinary tract, bladder, and kidneys. BPH affects 33% of men over 50, rising to 50% over 60 and to 90% by age 85.   Many take the view on early symptoms that is just part of aging and as such, do not take any action until...

Smoking Cessation Part 4 To help give up, there are many treatment options available both on and off prescription. Last week I discussed non-prescription options like Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) and E-cigarettes. This week I discuss prescription options if other options fail.   Prescription Medication There are two options available on prescription, Varenicline (Champix®) and Bupropion (Zyban®)                                                                                                                                                                 Varenicline (Champix®) Varenicline, whose brand name is Champix®. It is available in tablet form. The dose is titrated meaning the person smokes for 8–14 days before quitting. The recommended course of Champix® is generally 12 weeks. It is a partial agonist that...