PATIENT & VISITORS GUIDE
Welcome to Uvongo Beach Private Clinic. We are dedicated to providing you with world-class healthcare services, the very best in medical care.
We promise you this: Each member of Uvongo Beach Clinic is committed to your well-being and will address your every single need and concern with empathy, compassion, and individualized attention as they accompany you on your journey back to wellness.
In everything that we do, we are driven by our fundamental value: complete patient-focused care. This is our highest purpose. Our range of Clinical Departments, Emergency Room, Operating Rooms, Intensive Care Units, and other areas are staffed by highly-skilled, caring, and experienced specialists, doctors, nurses, and technicians, and we believe in equipping them with the latest, most advanced diagnostic equipment to ensure our patients receive the best quality of treatment and care.
We take pride in the fact that every single member of our hospital’s staff is driven by the values of selfless service, understands the true meaning of patient care, and upholds the highest values of integrity and sincerity in discharging their responsibilities as healthcare providers and caregivers.
We are here to answer all your questions on your care program at any time. Please do not hesitate to ask your physician or nurse for any clarification, assistance, support or if you require the services of a Patient Relations Representative. Your complete satisfaction is our goal, and we are continuously working to deliver the best quality of care at all times, so we request you to kindly spend a few minutes to fill out the ‘Patient Satisfaction Survey’, before you leave. Your feedback is extremely valuable in helping us further improve our services.
We sincerely thank you for placing your trust in Uvongo Beach Clinic, and from all of us, we extend our very best wishes for your speedy recovery.
IN-ROOM HEALTH & SAFETY GUIDE FOR PATIENTS:
The health and safety of patients is our primary concern. Our facilities and equipment for patients in the rooms have been designed with your comfort, convenience, and ease of access in mind. Please read the following points that will help you experience the utmost comfort and safety in the room:
BED AND NURSE CALL SYSTEM:
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Your bed can be raised and lowered automatically. Your nurse will demonstrate these functions to help you follow them.
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At bedtime, the bed is placed in the low position with the side rails raised. The rails will not obstruct you from getting in and out of bed but will actually provide a handrail for you to steady yourself.
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There is a Nurse Call system installed in your room, with easy access to your bed. Your nurse will demonstrate how it can be used in case you wish to call for assistance to get out of bed.
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Please do not cover your light by the bed as this can lead to its over-heating.
Kindly note that windows in-patient rooms are not allowed to be opened.
PERSONAL ELECTRICAL APPLIANCES:
Should you wish to use personal electrical appliances in the room not provided by the clinic, please inform your nurse, who will arrange for our engineering staff to check and test the equipment prior to use. Your safety is important to us.
FOOD
Large quantities of food are not allowed in patient rooms or in the unit waiting rooms.
HAND HYGIENE
We request you to wash your hands often, especially after touching objects or surfaces in the hospital, before eating, and after using the restroom. Hand hygiene helps prevent you and your loved ones from getting an infection and spreading germs.
SMOKING
Uvongo Beach Private Clinic is a non-smoking clinic and maintains a smoke-free environment throughout the facility for patients, staff, and visitors, including in patient rooms. We thank you for your cooperation with this policy. Smoking is permitted outside the clinic in the courtyard area.
IN-ROOM FOOD SERVICES AND VISITOR RULES
Patient meal service timings are as follows:
Breakfast 7:00 to 8:00
Lunch 12:30 to 13:30
Dinner 18:30 to 19:30
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Patients are requested to ensure that their menu cards are completed and handed in before 19:00 for the next day’s meals.
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Patients with special dietary requirements may consult our dietitian, who will be happy to assist you with your needs.
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The clinic encourages and strongly recommends that patients and visitors utilize the in-house food services. We have an excellent daily menu of choices. Alternative meals may be provided with adequate notice. Visitors are encouraged to eat in the ground floor cafeteria.
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Externally prepared food is permitted in patient rooms in single meal portions. Visitors who bring food into the clinic are requested to ensure the food remains and utensils are neatly packed away to be taken back with them. Please note that no external cooking equipment, such as open flame burners, gas appliances or other cooking equipment, will be permitted in the clinic.
If you have any comments and suggestions about the food service, please ask your nurse to contact the Food Nutrition Manager.
VISITING HOURS
We kindly request that all children be supervised by adults during visits to both inpatient and outpatient areas at all times.
Note: Special visiting arrangements can be made. Kindly refer to the Head/Charge Nurse on shift. Please also note that with regards to visiting hours, the rights and wishes of other patients should be respected.
General Care Units: 10:00 to 22:00
Pediatric Unit: 10:00 to 22:00
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Maternal Newborn Unit 10.00 to 22.00. Only parents allowed in the newborn nursery
ICU: 10.00 to 22.00
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Restricted to immediate family/close friends and should not exceed 2 visitors per room at any time.
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Some visiting hours are flexible according to the patient’s condition.
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No child under the age of 4 years is permitted to visit the ICU/CICU without prior approval from the Nurse in charge.
Labour & Delivery: 10.00 to 22.00
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Restricted to 2 support persons (no children permitted).
Neonatal ICU: 10:00 to 22:00
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Restricted to parents and grandparents.
GENERAL SAFETY RULES ON CLINIC PREMISES
FIRE SAFETY
For the safety of all patients and visitors, fire testing and fire drills are regularly conducted, and all clinic staff is fully trained in the correct fire response. If you hear a fire alarm, please remain calm and wait for instructions from your nurse. In the event that you notice a fire:
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Notify staff members immediately.
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Do not use elevators; always use the stairways.
Remember the best approach to fire safety is prevention. Please cooperate with the clinic regulations concerning the NO Smoking rule and the use of personal electrical appliances.
LOST AND FOUND
To report any missing or found items, please contact the Nurse or Manager who will, in turn, contact our Security Department.
FLOWERS IN CORRIDORS
No large flower arrangements are allowed to be kept in the corridor outside in-patient rooms as this can block the hallway and may become a fire hazard.
OUR SPECIAL SERVICES FOR PATIENTSPAIN MANAGEMENT
Uvongo Beach Private Clinic provides a pain management service that offers you a wide range of pain treatments. These include post-surgery pain management, chronic pain management, interventional pain management, and cancer pain management. Should you wish to discuss any of these options, please ask to speak to your Anesthesiologist or the Pain Management Nurse.
FALLS REDUCTION PROGRAM
Uvongo Beach Private Clinic has a Falls Reduction Program that is aimed at identifying patients who might be at risk of falling on the clinic's premises as sometimes, a different environment, a different bed, IVs, certain surgical procedures or different medications may make it more difficult for you to get around safely.
Upon admission, as part of your full admission assessment, a nurse will conduct a review of your fall risks. You may see a sign on the outside of some patient rooms or an information sheet inside the room on these risks. This guide will help you as a patient, as well as keep your family members or visitors informed so they can assist you and keep you safe from falls.
GENERAL SERVICES & AMENITIES
We make every effort to ensure that patients, patients’ families, and visitors can avail of all necessary amenities and facilities on the clinic's premises.
GIFT AND FLOWER SHOP
The Gift and Flower Shop is located in the lobby of the Main Building. It is open daily from 8 AM to 9 PM.
Flowers and chocolates can be delivered to patients at Uvongo Beach Private Clinic as also special ‘Get Well’ gifts. The clinic requires authorization for credit card payments.
Gift Shop contact:
Tel 039 940 6945
flowercorner@uvongobeach.co.za
COFFEE SHOP
The Coffee Shop situated in the main lobby of the clinic serves a range of drinks, sandwiches, cakes, and pastries. It is open daily from 7 am to 7 pm.
OUTPATIENT PHARMACY
Open daily from 8 am to 8 pm.
SECURITY
Available 24 hours
LOST & FOUND
Uvongo Beach Clinic Security division is responsible for investigating any report of lost or found property.
WHEELCHAIRS
Available for use in the clinic by both our in-patients and out-patients upon request
PARKING
Ample free parking is available around the Clinic's Emergency building, Outpatient Clinic, and main entrance. Valet parking (paid service) is also available at the clinic's main entrance.
ATM CASH MACHINES
Available at three locations:
1. Outpatient Clinics Building’s entrance.
2. Bed Tower lobby.
3. Emergency waiting area.
DIRECT TELEPHONE LINE
Direct calls are available to all our rooms
PATIENT EXPERIENCE
WE TREAT YOU LIKE FAMILY.
Diagnosing a disease in a proper, timely way is an essential part of any treatment. And we understand each patient’s needs are different; your expectations and goals are vital for us. Our team provides you with unparalleled services and care, helping you attain and sustain a healthy life.
We’re committed to bringing better healthcare for you, providing competent doctors and specialists for treating multiple chronic conditions. We offer well-coordinated care with a specialized team to answer and attend to all your questions, concerns and support you with all your needs.
WE ASSURE TO OFFER YOU EXCEPTIONAL CARE.
We endeavor to deliver top-quality healthcare and consistent service level at all our facilities and care locations, serving you with great compassion and respect. With a patient-centric mindset, adherence to high quality and uncompromising perfection, we promise your entire wellness journey with us will be an outstanding experience.
WE COMMIT TO RAISING THE BAR OF EXCELLENCE IN HEALTHCARE.
We promise to provide you with higher safety.
At our location across KwaZulu-Natal, we promise to put your safety first, protecting your privacy and confidentiality at all levels. Every pathway in our facility - from waiting and exam rooms to cafeterias is maintained spotlessly clean. Our dedicated team has a set dress code and our badge, serving you professionally with proper care to keep you healthy and fit to perform the task to like.
WE WILL LOOK AFTER YOU AS A FAMILY.
As compassionate caregivers, we will give you unrivalled attention and care in your journey towards wellness. You and your family can count on us to receive an outstanding experience. We believe in treating you beyond just diagnosing your condition, and combine care with open communication, fairness, respect, and empathy.
WE ENSURE YOU TO GET A CONVENIENT EXPERIENCE.
You deserve the finest health care for you and your family, even when your life gets hectic. We make world-class health care available to you through easy, convenient ways, giving you access to a board range of specialists to support and treat different health conditions at our hospital or clinics in your neighborhood. Telemedicine eVisit services are also available, providing you connected care and solutions you need, making your experience an easy one. We are incorporating innovative ways to improve our work in our endeavor to serve you better.
WE TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR OUR ACTIONS.
We have an unwavering commitment to delivering high-quality care to you that exceeds all your expectations. We strive to be your trusted companion and a leader in caring for people’s health and safety. We take responsibility for our actions, evaluate our practices regularly, and incorporate changes and improvements, where necessary, to offer advanced care in most the optimal environment.
WE HAVE BUILT A ROBUST WORK CULTURE.
Together as a team of a reputed health care brand in the region, we have set a robust work environment and a sound culture to deliver exceptional care. We listen, collaborate and commit to enriching your experience with best practices, providing quality patient-centred care.
UVONGO BEACH CLINIC BLOG
Enuresis (Bedwetting)
ENURESIS
Enuresis ( AKA bedwetting ) is defined as involuntary urination, especially by children at night.
Enuresis is diagnosed after 5 years of age. There are two types primary and secondary. Primary enuresis is more common in boys than girls. Bedwetting runs in families. The incident is around 10 to 15% of 5 years old children and 6-8% of 8-year-old children and it declines to 1-2 % by 15 years of age as per the South African Paediatric Society ( SAPS) position statement.
It is crucial to note that primary nocturnal enuresis is a variation in the development of standard bladder control.
POTENTIAL CAUSES OF BEDWETTING :
- Your child’s bladder may not be developed enough to hold urine produced during the night.
- Your child has sleep apnea whereas enuresis is a sign.
Your child is constipated, which pushes the bladder, making it even smaller.
Your child does not empty the bladder completely before going to sleep.
Your child has a structural problem in their urinary tract or nervous system.
Your child may suffer from a urinary tract infection.
WHEN DO YOU NEED TO SEE A DOCTOR?
It is important to remember that most children outgrow enuresis by puberty. However, some may need help others may have an underlying condition.
Go to your child’s doctor if :
The child has bedwetting after 5 years of age.
Bedwetting is associated with other symptoms such as excessive drinking and peeing, painful urination, and blood in the pee.
The child was toilet trained for more than 6 months then started to wet the bed.
WHAT CAN YOU DO TO HELP YOUR CHILD ?
Reassure your child that this part of normal development
Avoid caffeine-containing foods before bedtime
Refrain from fluid intake 2 hours before bedtime
Make sure your child pee prior to bedtime.
Preserve the child’s self-esteem
Include the child in morning cleanup in a non-punitive manner
A conditioning alarm system “ Bedwetting alarm “ is the most efficacious therapy. It will be successful in the long term, in less than 50% of children. The bedwetting alarm is attached to the child’s pajamas and connected by a wire to a small moisture sensor, placed inside underwear near the child’s sexual organ. It is inexpensive with prices varying beetween R900 to R8,000. Pharmacological therapy with desmopressin acetate (DDAVP) has its own special situations. Please consult your physician.
Screen Time Consequences In Children
Excessive screen time usage in children can lead to dire consequences when it comes to their physical and mental health. Learn how you can effectively manage your child’s screen time.
Excessive screen time in children can often lead to dire consequences. Recent studies suggest that children who spend more than two hours a day on their smart phones and tablets tend to have lower brain activity and experience thinning of the brain’s cortex as opposed to those with less screen time.
Children who are exposed to more creative outdoor activities and social interactions have higher levels of confidence and self-esteem. Infants and toddlers tend to learn by observation so exposing them to smart phones at a young age will greatly affect their learning ability and interaction with others. Studies have shown that language development happens best when children interact with adults by talking and playing but this may be hindered with excessive exposure to screens.
HARMFUL EFFECTS OF EXCESSIVE SCREEN USAGE IN CHILDREN:
Many specialists recommend parents to not allow any screen time for children under the age of 2 and limit usage for older children. Apart from vision impairment there are several other health issues that a child may experience if they spend too much time on their screens. To list a few:
- Obesity: When a child spends too much time in front of the TV his physical activity is limited. Distraction through electronics may lead children to overeat which can result in obesity. Children may also develop a habit for junk food that is advertised on media.
- Digital Eye Strain: Excessive screen time can lead children to develop itchy eyes, dry eyes, blurred vision and headaches
- Myopia: Children may develop near-sightedness if their screen time usage is not limited
- Behavioural Problems: Children who spend a lot of time on screens, especially video games, are likely to develop emotional and attention issues.
- Violence: If children are exposed to media portraying violence they are more likely to become desensitized to it and learn to accept it.
HOW TO MANAGE SCREEN TIME:
There are many ways that parents can limit their child’s screen time usage. Some suggestions to follow include the following:
- Blinking to moisturise eyes
- Lubricating the eyes with eye drops
- Keeping the screen at arm’s length
- Taking breaks to go outside and engage in outdoor activities
- Consult trusted doctors and Paediatric Ophthalmologists for more information on how to manage screen time usage in children
Here are some other tips that can help reduce screen time:
- Do not keep TVs, computers and tablets in the child’s bedroom
- Do not allow children to eat in front of a screen
- Do not play the TV in the background
- Put time limits on smart phones, tablets or TV usage
BOOK AN APPOINTMENT:
If your child is experiencing any health related issues caused by excessive screen time get in touch with our expert physicians experienced in Paediatric Ophthalmology who can provide you with the best treatment plan for your child. Uvongo Beach Clinic also has some of the best psychologists who can also help children experiencing behavioural issues. When choosing Uvongo Beach Clinic we guarantee that you and your child will be provided with excellent healthcare services.
A New Variant Of COVID-19 Has Been Detected. Here Is What We Should Know!
Omicron has been identified as the new variant of COVID-19.
Initially recognized in South Africa, it is said to be a milder version of the current Alpha and Delta variants.
The cases observed initially have been extremely mild.
The WHO has stated that a few weeks may be needed to understand how the new strain can affect the diagnosis, vaccines, and treatment in the future.
The latest variant of COVID-19 has been detected. Omicron was officially announced on Sunday, 28th November 2021, and has since then been making headlines internationally.
Here is a quick overview of the facts that have been discovered about the virus.
HOW WAS THE VARIANT "OMICRON" DISCOVERED?
A South-African doctor, Angelique Coetzee announced the discovery of a new strain of the COVID-19 virus. She noticed a few anomalies in a 33-year-old male, with symptoms that differed from the previous strains of the virus.
The patient informed medical authorities about fatigue, aches and pains all over the body and a slight headache. He did not experience the tell-tale loss of taste or smell. The patient did feel a slight itch and scratchiness at the back of his throat.
The patient tested positive for COVID-19 along with his family. During the day, Dr Coetzee noticed a high number of cases with similar symptoms. Hence finding it necessary to alert higher authorities about the possible outspread of a new variant.
WHO'S STANCE ON OMICRON:
Thirty mutations for Omicron have been discovered so far, and some of them have been deemed ominous.
Since the discovery of the new strain is still in the initial phase, there is not enough information available for sweeping statements. However, preliminary evidence reveals that Omicron poses a higher risk of reinfection.
It must be noted that the symptoms of COVID-19 have evolved continuously since its emergence in China. The later variants discovered in the United Kingdom and India (Alpha and Delta, respectively) have the most prominent symptoms that range from a sore throat, runny nose, fever, and headaches. Furthermore, the CDC has mentioned that mild to severe symptoms appear over a span of 2 to 14 days.
Geographically speaking, the common symptoms of Alpha and Delta variants highlighted by the CDC include chills, fever, fatigue, difficulty in breathing, sore muscles, congestion, nausea, and diarrhea.
WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE?
As governments rush to announce travel restrictions, the knee-jerk reaction must not be considered as an alert for another season of lockdown. The Omicron variant has been studied within the small demographic group of South African citizens so far, so one cannot make any predictions about it.
Countries with weak immunization infrastructures must prioritize vaccination and arrange booster shots to help their populations.
Booster shots, vaccination, and hygienic practices are the only form of defense mechanisms currently available to contain the Omicron variant. Following these measures independently will ensure the prevention of another round of lockdowns and isolation.
Broken Hand
A broken hand occurs from direct blows or falls, causing a break or crack in one or more of the bones of the hand. Some motor vehicle crashes may cause hand bones to break into many pieces that need surgical repair.
Sports like football or hockey can raise the risk of a broken hand. When people have osteoporosis, bones become thinner and more fragile; they are at a higher risk. Treat a broken hand at the earliest to heal the damage and get back the proper alignment. Otherwise, the injury can impair your ability to do daily activities like writing or buttoning a shirt. Early treatment is crucial to minimize pain and stiffness.
UNDERSTAND THE SYMPTOMS
A broken hand causes signs like swelling, tenderness, bruising, severe pain that worsens when gripping or squeezing or moving the hand, and numbness in the hand or fingers. The other indications are deformities, such as a crooked finger and stiffness or inability to move the fingers or thumb.
CONSULT THE DOCTOR
Talk to the doctor; when you think there is a broken hand, especially signs like numbness, swelling or difficulty in moving the fingers, a delay in diagnosis and treatment may result in poor healing, a decline in the range of motion and grip strength.
KNOW THE CAUSES
A direct blow, a crushing injury or motor vehicle crashes may lead to hand fractures, sometimes serious injuries causing multiple breaks that often require surgical repair.
RECOGNIZE THE RISKS
People playing in sports like football, soccer, rugby, or hockey are at higher risk of a broken hand and those with osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones, also have an increased risk of a fractured hand.
ASSOCIATED COMPLEXITIES
Some rare complications of a broken hand are:
• Ongoing stiffness, aches or disability in the affected area, which usually recovers after the cast is removed or post-surgery. However, in a few cases, it remains as a permanent stiffness or pain. Be patient with your recovery, and get a doctor's advice asking about exercises that help or referral for physical or occupational therapy.
• Fractures may spread into a joint, causing arthritis years later. But when your hand starts to hurt or swell long after a break, consult a doctor for an evaluation.
• Injury to the hand may cause damage to adjacent nerves and blood vessels. Get medical attention when you experience numbness or circulation problems.
MEASURES OF PREVENTION
These tips may provide some protection.
• Build bone strength with a nutritious diet, eat adequate calcium and vitamin D
• Perform plenty of weight-bearing exercises, like brisk walking
• Smokers must quit smoking.
• Preventing falls or hand fractures by protecting yourself from injuries: -
a) Wear sensible shoes, remove things like throw rugs that may cause you to trip over in your home.
b) Light up the living space
c) Have your vision checked and, if needed, corrected
d) Install grab bars in the bathroom and handrails on the stairways
e) Avoid slippery surfaces
Mitral Valve Prolapse
Mitral valve prolapse causes the covers (leaflets) of the heart's mitral valve to bulge (prolapse), similar to a parachute into the heart's left upper chamber (left atrium) as the heart contracts.
This condition may lead to blood leaking backwards into the left atrium, referred to as mitral valve regurgitation. This disease is not life-threatening in most cases and may not require treatment or changes in lifestyle. Only a few cases of mitral valve prolapse need treatment.
UNDERSTAND THE SYMPTOMS
The mitral valve prolapse is a lifelong ailment, but usually, people don't have symptoms and are surprised to know they have this disease.
Some signs may occur because blood is leaking backwards through the valve, and symptoms broadly differ from one individual to another, tend to be mild and develop gradually.
Symptoms include fatigue, dizziness or lightheadedness, a racing or irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), and causing difficulty in breathing and/or shortness of breath, often during physical activity or when lying flat.
CONSULT THE DOCTOR
Talk to the doctor when you experience any symptoms, allowing the doctor to diagnose the exact cause of the signs. When there is chest pain, and you suspect it is a heart attack, seek emergency medical care immediately. When you have already been diagnosed with mitral valve prolapse, consult your doctor quickly if the symptoms begin to worsen.
KNOW THE CAUSES
The mitral valve regulates the function of blood between the upper and lower chambers of the left side of the heart. When the heart functions correctly, the mitral valve closes completely as the heart pumps, preventing the blood from flowing back to the upper left chamber (left atrium).
However, in some cases, one or both of the mitral valve leaflets have extra tissue or stretch beyond usually needed, causing them to bulge like a parachute into the left atrium each time the heart contracts. This bulging keeps the valve from closing tightly, and in a few conditions, the blood leaks backwards through the valve (mitral valve regurgitation).
Some amount of blood leaks back into the left atrium is not a cause of concern, but more severe mitral valve regurgitation may result in symptoms like shortness of breath, fatigue or lightheadedness.
Mitral valve prolapse is referred to as a click-murmur syndrome. The doctor hears a clicking sound as the valve's leaflets billow back, followed by a whooshing sound (murmur) due to blood flowing back to the atrium.
Mitral valve prolapse is also called Barlow's syndrome, Floppy valve syndrome, Billowing mitral valve syndrome and Myxomatous mitral valve disease.
RECOGNIZE THE RISKS
This condition may occur to any person at any age, but serious symptoms usually happen in men over 50 years. Mitral valve prolapse can be hereditary and is associated with several other conditions, like:
• Marfan syndrome
• Ehlers-Danlos syndrome
• Ebstein anomaly
• Muscular dystrophy
• Graves' disease
• Scoliosis
ASSOCIATED COMPLEXITIES
Most people with mitral valve prolapse never face problems, but some complications can occur, such as:
• Mitral valve regurgitation, wherein the valve leaks blood back into the left atrium. Primarily men and those with high blood pressure are prone to this condition. In severe cases of regurgitation, surgery is needed to repair or replace the valve to prevent heart failure.
• Heart rhythm problems (arrhythmias), wherein irregular heart rhythms happen in the heart's upper chambers that are bothersome but not life-threatening. Those facing severe mitral valve regurgitation or severe mitral valve deformity are prone to having rhythm problems that affect blood movement through the heart.
• Heart valve infection (endocarditis) is when the heart's inner lining, called the endocardium, gets infected. An abnormal mitral valve makes you prone to getting endocarditis from bacteria, further damaging the mitral valve.
Immune Thrombocytopenia
Immune thrombocytopenia is a condition causing easy or excessive bruising and bleeding. It happens because of deficient levels of platelets — the cells that help blood clot. Also called idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), the condition leads to purple bruises and tiny reddish-purple dots that seem like a rash.
Kids develop ITP following a viral infection but recover fully without treatment. In adults, the condition may last for a long term. Those who don't have the platelet count too low and don't show signs of bleeding may not need any treatment. When symptoms are critical, treatment is necessary as medications to boost platelet count or surgery to remove the spleen.
UNDERSTAND THE SYMPTOMS
Immune thrombocytopenia usually shows no signs. When they do occur, it includes very heavy menstrual flow, easy or excessive bruising, or superficial bleeding into the skin that looks like reddish-purple spots similar to a rash on the lower legs. Also, there is bleeding from the gums or nose or blood in urine or stools.
CONSULT THE DOCTOR
Get doctors advice when you or your child have warning signs of concern. Bleeding that doesn't stop after first-aid techniques, like applying pressure to the area, should seek immediate help in a medical emergency.
KNOW THE CAUSES
Immune thrombocytopenia occurs when the immune system falsely strikes and destroys platelets that are cell fragments that support blood clots. It can trigger infections like HIV, hepatitis or H. pylori that causes stomach ulcers. For children, ITP disorder follows a viral illness, causing the mumps or the flu.
RECOGNIZE THE RISK
Young women are more prone to ITP, and people with diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus and antiphospholipid syndrome are at greater risk.
ASSOCIATED COMPLEXITIES
A rare but fatal complication of immune thrombocytopenia happens when there is bleeding into the brain. Pregnant women with low platelet count and bleeding are prone to a higher risk of heavy bleeding during delivery. Consult a doctor for treatment advice to keep a stable platelet count, taking into account the outcomes on the baby.
MEASURES OF PREVENTION
Avoid contact sports like boxing, martial arts and football that have a higher risk of head collisions during the game and bleeding. Be cautious before using over-the-counter medications, like nonprescription drugs - aspirin and ibuprofen that impair platelet function.
Throat Cancer
Throat cancer happens in the voice box or throat - a muscular tube that begins behind the nose and ends in the neck. Throat cancer, also called pharyngeal cancer, develops in the flat cells that outline the inside of the throat. The voice box sits below the throat and contains vocal cords that vibrate to create sounds when talking, developing laryngeal cancer.
The type of throat cancer differentiates based on the part where it originates.
• Nasopharyngeal cancer happens in the part of the throat that is behind the nose.
• Oropharyngeal cancer occurs in the throat right behind the mouth that has tonsils.
• Hypopharyngeal cancer occurs in the lower part of the throat, above the esophagus and windpipe.
• Glottic cancer appears in the vocal cords.
• Supraglottic cancer occurs in the upper portion of the voice box.
• Subglottic cancer arises in the lower part of the voice box below the vocal cords.
UNDERSTAND THE SYMPTOMS
Signs of throat cancer are weight loss, cough, sore throat, ear pain, difficulty in swallowing, lump or sore that doesn't heal and changes in the voice, like hoarseness or not speaking clearly.
CONSULT THE DOCTOR
Talk to your doctor when you have some new signs that last for long. The symptoms are usually not specific to cancer; the doctor can diagnose the condition.
KNOW THE CAUSES
Throat cancer happens when cells in the throat develop genetic mutations that cause cells to multiply uncontrollably and continue living even after the healthy cells die. The accumulating cells form a tumor in the throat, though the reason for this condition is not known.
RECOGNIZE THE RISK
The reasons for the rise in the risk of throat cancer are:
• Tobacco use, that is, smoking and chewing tobacco
• Drinking excessive alcohol
• Some viral infections, like human papillomavirus (HPV) and Epstein-Barr virus
• A diet requiring fruits and vegetables
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Exposure to toxic things at work
MEASURES OF PREVENTION
You can limit the risk of throat cancer by:
• Quit smoking and get some help to learn stop-smoking strategies, like medication, nicotine replacement products, and counselling.
• Limit alcohol drinking to moderation, which means only one drink a day for women and two drinks a day for men.
• Choose a healthy diet with various fruits and vegetables as vitamins and antioxidants can reduce the risk of throat cancer.
• Reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infection human papillomavirus (HPV) by limiting your number of sexual partners and use of condoms during sex. Even the
HPV vaccine is helpful to reduce the risk of throat cancer and other HPV-related cancers.
Tendinitis
Tendinitis causes tendon inflammation or irritation that results in pain and tenderness outside a joint. It can happen in any tendons, commonly around the shoulders, elbows, wrists, knees and heels.
There are various tendinitis conditions, including Tennis elbow, Golfer's elbow, Pitcher's shoulder, Swimmer's shoulder and Jumper's knee. Most cases are treated with rest, physical therapy and medications to reduce pain, but a severe
rupture of a tendon may require surgery.
UNDERSTAND THE SYMPTOMS
The signs of tendinitis include mild swelling, tenderness, and a dull ache or pain while moving the affected limb or joint.
CONSULT THE DOCTOR
Self-care measures usually help heal the condition. Get advice from a doctor when symptoms persist and interfere with your daily activities for several days.
KNOW THE CAUSES
Although a sudden injury can cause tendinitis, this condition occurs more when a particular movement is repeated over time. This includes jobs or hobbies that have repetitive motions, which stress the tendons. Here, using a proper technique becomes essential when doing repetitive sports movements or job-related activities. The improper process puts stress on the tendon, as a tennis elbow may lead to tendinitis.
RECOGNIZE THE RISK
Risk factors for developing tendinitis are age, job requirements or playing specific sports.
• Age factors can make the tendons less flexible, making them easier to injuries.
• People with jobs involving repetitive motions, forceful exertion, awkward positions, vibration and frequent overhead reaching.
• Playing certain sports like Bowling, Golf, Running, Swimming and Tennis that involve repetitive motions makes them prone to developing this condition.
ASSOCIATED COMPLEXITIES
Tendinitis may raise the risk of developing tendon break if treatment is not done on time, and more severe cases may require surgery. Tendinosis may develop when the tendon irritation continues over several weeks or months, leading to degenerative modifications in the tendon and abnormal new blood vessel growth.
MEASURES OF PREVENTION
These steps can help reduce the chances of developing tendinitis.
• Limit activities that put extra stress on the tendons for longer periods. So, if there is pain during a particular exercise, stop and rest.
• When some exercise or activity causes persistent pain, mix it with something else. Cross-training helps combine running with lower impact exercise, such as biking or swimming.
• When some technique during an activity or exercise is flawed, it may set problems with your tendons. Take lessons or get professional instructions before starting a new sport or using exercise equipment.
• Maximize the scope of motion of the joints by stretching after exercise, when your muscles are warmed up. It helps to minimize repetitive trauma on tight tissues.
• Your workplace ergonomics should be proper; adjust the chair, keyboard and desktop to the height, arm length and usual tasks. It helps protect all your joints and tendons from excessive stress.
• Prepare your muscles to play, strengthening them better to withstand stress and load.
Tension Headache
Tension-type headaches (TTH) are usually mild to moderate pain that feels like a tight band is worn around the head. Although its causes aren't well understood, treatments to manage such headaches require balance, practising good health habits, combining effective non-drug treatments, and appropriate medications.
UNDERSTAND THE SYMPTOMS
The sign of tension-type headache includes dull, aching head pain, tenderness in the scalp, neck and shoulder muscles, a sensation of tightness or pressure across the forehead or on the sides and back of the head. The tension-type headaches are usually in two categories — episodic and chronic.
Episodic: Occurs from 30 minutes to a week, may happen from less than 15 days a month for at least three months. Frequent occurrences of such headaches may become chronic.
Chronic: May lasts for hours and is continuous and can occur for 15 days or more for at least three months.
TENSION-TYPE HEADACHES VERSUS MIGRAINES
It is challenging to differentiate between tension-type headaches and migraines, and if you have numerous episodic tension-type headaches, you can also have migraines. However, tension-type headaches cannot be associated with visual disturbances, nausea or vomiting. Physical activity usually aggravates migraine pain, but not tension-type headache pain. Increased sensitivity to light or sound can likely occur with a tension-type headache.
CONSULT THE DOCTOR
Talk to your doctor when tension-type headaches start to disrupt your daily life activities or when you take medication for headaches more than twice a week. Get a doctor's advice if you have a history of headaches, but the pattern changes or suddenly feel different. Some headaches can indicate a severe medical condition, like a brain tumor or rupture of a weakened blood vessel (aneurysm).
See the doctor in an emergency when you have an abrupt, severe headache, pain in the head with a fever, stiff neck, mental confusion, seizures, double vision, weakness, numbness or speaking difficulties or after a head injury, when the pain becomes worse.
KNOW THE CAUSES
Although it is considered that tension-type headaches happen from muscle contractions in the face, neck and scalp, usually resulting from heightened emotions, tension or stress, researchers hints that muscle contraction isn't the problem. Increased muscle tenderness happens due to sensitized pain system.
ASSOCIATED COMPLEXITIES
When chronic pain occurs, it usually affects job productivity, overall quality of life, and sometimes the ability to function is impaired.
MEASURES OF PREVENTION
Get some regular exercise, like biofeedback training and relaxation therapy, to aid you to combat your stress.
• Biofeedback training can help manage body responses that support reducing pain with the help of devices that monitor and provide feedback on body functions like muscle tension, heart rate and blood pressure. Learn to reduce muscle tension, slow your heart rate and breathe.
• Cognitive behavioral therapy helps to manage stress and reduce the incidence and severity of headaches.
• Use relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, meditation and progressive muscle relaxation to manage your headaches.
• Medications and stress management techniques help in reducing your tension-type headaches.
• Also, adopt a healthy lifestyle with adequate sleep, quit smoking, exercise regularly, eat balanced meals, plenty of water, and reduce alcohol, caffeine, and sugar intake.
Patellar Tendinitis
Patellar tendinitis or jumper's knee is an injury affecting the ligament between the kneecap and shinbone. The condition commonly affects athletes, especially those involving frequent jumping like basketball and volleyball, but anyone can get patellar tendinitis.
The patellar tendon helps the knee to function, allowing you to kick, run and jump. The treatment usually starts with physical therapy to stretch and strengthen the muscles around the knee.
UNDERSTAND THE SYMPTOMS
Patellar tendinitis causes pain, usually between the kneecap and the tendon that connects with the shinbone. You experience pain in your knee when you begin physical activity or after an intensive workout. It, over time, will worsen and starts to affect daily activities like climbing stairs, rising from a chair and playing sports.
CONSULT THE DOCTOR
The knee pain is relieved with self-care measures like icing the area. Try to lessen or avoid activities that trigger the symptoms. Talk to the doctor if the pain continues or worsens, interferes in performing routine daily activities and is associated with swelling or redness around the joint.
KNOW THE CAUSES
Repeated stress on the patellar tendon causes tiny tears or damage to the muscle, resulting in Patellar tendinitis. Usually, the body tries to repair the damage, but when the tears in the tendon multiply, it causes pain due to swelling and the weakening of the ligament. And when this tendon damage endures for several weeks, it's called tendinopathy.
RECOGNIZE THE RISKS
Several factors are causing patellar tendinitis, such as:
• Physical activity, including running and jumping, is usually associated with patellar tendinitis. The sudden rise in how hard or how frequently you engage in the movement will stress the tendon.
• Tight leg muscles - tight thigh muscles and hamstrings may raise the strain on the patellar tendon.
• Muscular imbalance - when a few muscles in the legs are stronger than others, the stronger muscles may pull harder on the patellar tendon, causing uneven pull resulting in tendinitis.
• Chronic illness may disrupt blood flow to the knee, weakening the tendon, such as kidney failure, autoimmune diseases or rheumatoid arthritis and metabolic diseases like diabetes.
ASSOCIATED COMPLEXITIES
When you ignore your body's warning signs and work through the pain, it may cause increasingly more significant tears in the patellar tendon. Knee pain and reduced function continue when you don't attend to the problem, causing more severe patellar tendinopathy.
MEASURES OF PREVENTION
Follow the below steps that may help in reducing the risk of developing patellar tendinitis:
• Don't stress and play during the pain. When there is exercise-related knee pain, ice the area and rest until the knee is the pain gone. Avoid activities that put stress on the patellar tendon.
• Strengthen the muscles. Strong thigh muscles can manage stresses that cause patellar tendinitis. Eccentric exercises that need one to lower the leg very slowly after extending the knee are beneficial.
• Improve the technique and use the body correctly; consider taking lessons or professional help before beginning a new sport or using exercise equipment.
Bone Cancer
Bone cancer is rare and may occur in any bone in the body but generally affects the pelvis or happens in long bones in the arms and legs. Noncancerous bone tumors are more prevalent than cancerous ones.
Some types of bone cancer are more likely to happen to children, while others mainly affect adults. These cancers may require surgical removal, but chemotherapy and radiation therapy also help recover the condition; treatment is decided subject to the kind of bone cancer.
UNDERSTAND THE SYMPTOMS
The symptoms of bone cancer will include bone pain, swelling and tenderness near the affected area, fatigue, unintended weight loss and weakened bone, leading to fracture.
CONSULT THE DOCTOR
Talk to the doctor when you or your child develops bone pain that comes and goes, gets worse at night, and over-the-counter pain relievers don't help ease the condition.
KNOW THE CAUSES
The bone cancers cause remains unknown; some are linked to hereditary factors, and others are because of previous radiation exposure.
TYPES OF BONE CANCER
There are different kinds of bone cancers based on the type of cell where cancer began. The common ones include:
• Osteosarcoma: This is a tumor condition in which the cancerous cells produce bone. The state most often affects children and young adults, happening in the bones of the leg or arm. In few rare cases, osteosarcomas may spread outside of bones (extraskeletal osteosarcomas).
• Chondrosarcoma: This is a tumor condition in which the cancerous cells produce cartilage. It usually affects the pelvis, legs or arms of middle-aged and older adults.
• Ewing sarcoma: This is a tumor condition that occurs in the pelvis, legs or arms of children and young adults.
RECOGNIZE THE RISKS
The causes of bone cancer remain unknown, but doctors consider certain factors are linked to raising the risk, such as
• Inherited genetic syndromes: Some rare genetic syndromes are inherited through families that raise the risk of bone cancer, such as Li-Fraumeni syndrome and hereditary retinoblastoma.
• Paget's disease of bone: People with Paget's disease of bone, most older adults are more at risk of developing bone cancer.
• Radiation therapy for cancer: Exposure to large doses of radiation during radiation therapy that people receive to treat some tumour raise their risk of developing bone cancer in the future.
Bone Metastasis
Bone metastasis is a state when cancer cells from another area relocate and spread to the bones. Almost all cancer cells can spread, causing the bone to metastasize; the most common are prostate, breast, and lung cancers.
Bone metastasis happens to any bone, generally seen in the spine, pelvis and thigh. Bone metastasis indicates the first sign of cancer or bone metastasis may occur years after cancer treatment.
Bone metastasis causes pain and broken bones. Cancer that develops in the bones isn't curable in most cases; treatments generally helps in reducing pain and other symptoms of bone metastases.
UNDERSTAND THE SYMPTOMS
Sometimes, there are signs, but if it occurs, some experience symptoms such as bone pain, bowel or urinary incontinence, broken bones, weakness in the legs or arms and high levels of calcium in the blood (hypercalcemia) that causes nausea, vomiting, constipation and confusion.
CONSULT THE DOCTOR
Get medical help when you experience persistent signs that cause concern. When you have a history of cancer, got treated for cancer, tell the doctor about it and your concerns about the symptoms.
KNOW THE CAUSES
Bone metastasis happens when cancer cells break away from the part the tumor started, developing in the bones, and multiplying. This condition cause is unknown and why some cancers travel to the bones than other usual sites for metastasis, such as the liver, is still undiscovered.
RECOGNIZE THE RISKS
All kinds of cancer may spread to the bones. People with breast, kidney, lung, lymphoma, prostate, thyroid cancer and multiple myeloma are more prone to developing metastasis in the bone.
UIcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is a condition that develops over time, causing inflammation and ulcers (sores) in the digestive tract. It hits the innermost lining of the large intestine (colon) and rectum; sometimes, it leads to life-threatening complications. Treatment is done to lessen the signs of the disease and bring about long-term relief.
UNDERSTAND THE SYMPTOMS
Signs may differ on the severity of the infection and where it happens with mild to moderate symptoms like diarrhea with blood or pus, rectal pain and bleeding with passing a small amount of blood with stool.
The other signs are abdominal pain and cramping, weight loss, fatigue, fever, the urgency to pass, and inability to defecate despite the need. In children, it leads to failure to grow.
TYPES OF ULCERATIVE COLITIS
• Ulcerative proctitis is inflammation near the anus (rectum), sometimes causing rectal bleeding.
• Proctosigmoiditis is an infection in the rectum and sigmoid colon, causing symptoms like bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramps, pain, and an inability to move the bowels despite the urge to do so (tenesmus).
• Left-sided colitis is inflammation that spreads from the rectum up through the sigmoid and descending colon with signs such as bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramping and pain on the left side, and urgency to defecate.
• Pancolitis modifies the entire colon and induces bouts of bloody diarrhea, abdominal cramps, pain, fatigue, and considerable weight loss.
CONSULT THE DOCTOR
Talk to the doctor when you observe a change in your bowel habits or if symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea that awakens you from sleep, blood in the stool and unexplained fever that occurs over one or two days. And if there is ongoing diarrhea that doesn't recover to over-the-counter medications. The ulcerative colitis disease usually isn't fatal, but it has some life-threatening complications.
KNOW THE CAUSES
The specific cause of ulcerative colitis is unknown, but diet and stress can worsen the condition. An immune system malfunction is considered a reason, as the immune system fights off an invading virus or bacterium.
When there is an abnormal immune response, the immune system attacks the cells in the digestive tract. Heredity factors have a role in that ulcerative colitis, but most people with this disease don't have this family history.
RECOGNIZE THE RISKS
The following factors raise the risk:
• Ulcerative colitis can occur at any age, usually before 30, but some may not get it until after 60.
• Whites are more prone to the disease, but it may happen to any race.
• People with a close relative, such as a parent, sibling or child, with the disease, are at higher risk.
ASSOCIATED COMPLEXITIES
The primary complications of ulcerative colitis are severe bleeding and dehydration, a hole in the colon, osteoporosis, inflammation of the skin, joints and eyes. There is also raised risk of colon cancer, rapid swelling colon and increased risk of blood clots in veins and arteries.
Heart Valve Disease
Heart valve disease is a state when one or more valves in the heart don't work correctly. The heart has four valves that keep the blood flowing in the correct direction. When one or more valves don't open or close properly, the blood flow from the heart to the body is disrupted.
The treatment depends on the heart valve type and the severity of the disease; some cases would require surgery to repair or replace the heart valve.
UNDERSTAND THE SYMPTOMS
Some people's symptoms are not visible for many years. Common signs include chest pain, fatigue, and a whooshing sound (heart murmur) heard with a stethoscope. The other indications include abdominal swelling, shortness of breath, particularly when active or lying down, swelling of the ankles and feet, irregular heartbeat, dizziness and fainting.
CONSULT THE DOCTOR
Talk to the doctor when symptoms indicate heart valve disease, and if you have a heart murmur, the doctor might recommend consulting a cardiologist.
KNOW THE CAUSES
There are four heart valves, namely mitral, tricuspid, pulmonary and aortic valves, that keep blood flowing in the right direction. Every valve has flaps that open and close once per heartbeat; when one or more valves fail to function appropriately (open or close), it disrupts the blood flow through the heart to the body.
Some heart valve conditions are present at birth (congenital) or happen in adults due to many reasons like infections and other heart conditions.
• Regurgitation is a condition when the valve flaps don't close properly, inducing blood to leak backwards in the heart. It happens when the valve flaps bulge back called prolapse.
• Stenosis is when the valve flaps become thick or stiff and possibly fuse, resulting in a narrowed valve opening, letting less blood flow through the valve.
• Atresia is when the valve isn't formed, and a solid sheet of tissue obstructs the blood flow between the heart chambers.
RECOGNIZE THE RISKS
Factors that raise the risk of heart valve disease include old age, history of some infections affecting the heart, certain heart diseases or a heart attack. The reasons are high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes and other heart disease risk factors and some heart conditions present at birth like congenital heart disease.
ASSOCIATED COMPLEXITIES
Heart valve disease may lead to multiple complications such as heart failure, stroke, blood clots, death and heart rhythm abnormalities.
Liver Hemangioma
Liver hemangioma is a noncancerous mass in the liver caused by tangled blood vessels. These are also called hepatic hemangiomas, usually diagnosed during an imaging examination done for some other condition.
People with liver hemangioma may rarely show any symptoms and usually don't require any treatment. And no evidence shows that untreated liver hemangioma could lead to liver cancer.
UNDERSTAND THE SYMPTOMS
Some signs of liver hemangioma are nausea, vomiting, pain and discomfort in the upper right abdomen, and after eating a little food, the person feels full (early satiety). However, these symptoms are nonspecific and may result from other conditions, even when you have a liver hemangioma.
CONSULT THE DOCTOR
Talk to the doctor when some persistent symptoms worry you.
KNOW THE CAUSES
The cause of liver hemangioma is unknown, but doctors consider it is present since birth (congenital). A liver hemangioma happens as an individual abnormal collection of blood vessels smaller than 1.5 inches (about 4 centimeters) wide, and occasionally, it is bigger or in multiples. Large hemangiomas are rare but usually found in young children. Typically, a liver hemangioma does not grow or cause any symptoms, but it extends to cause symptoms and require treatment in a few conditions.
RECOGNIZE THE RISKS
The reasons for liver hemangioma risk are:
• Age, as it is most common to diagnose the condition in people ages 30 to 50.
• Women have an increased risk than are men to develop this condition
• Pregnant women are more prone to this condition as the hormone estrogen that rises during pregnancy play a role in liver hemangioma growth.
• Hormone replacement therapy to relieve menopausal symptoms also raise the risk.
ASSOCIATED COMPLEXITIES
Pregnant women diagnosed with liver hemangiomas face a greater risk of complications. Female hormone estrogen increases during pregnancy, causing some liver hemangiomas to grow larger. However, a growing hemangioma may rarely cause symptoms that require treatment. Women with liver hemangioma must discuss the possible complications with their pregnancy to make informed choices. Medications like birth control pills that affect hormone levels in your body also raise difficulties in this condition. Consult your doctor before using these medications.