Dementia is the term used when a person experiences a gradual loss of brain function due to physical changes in the structure of their brain. It is not a normal part of the ageing process, however, it is more common for people over the age of 65, but can affect people as young as 45. […]
Category: General Practice
Psoriasis is a common inflammatory disease of the skin which affects 2-3% of New Zealanders. Characteristic symptoms are thick, red skin, with flaky, silver-white patches. These patches can be small and may or may not be itchy and sore. More severe cases can cover large areas of the body and have a major impact on […]
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Exercise | Muscle cramps
A muscle cramp is a sudden and involuntary contraction of one or more of your muscles. If you’ve ever been awakened in the night or stopped in your tracks by a sudden charley horse, you know that muscle cramps can cause severe pain. Though generally harmless, muscle cramps can make it temporarily impossible to use […]
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Listeria | What is it?
Listeria is a foodborne bacteria which can make you sick. Infection with listeria bacteria is called listeriosis. Listeria is a common bacterium (bug) widely found in dust, soil, water, plants, sewage and animal droppings. It can be transmitted through infected food. It usually causes few or no symptoms, but can be serious for pregnant women, […]
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Viral skin rashes
A viral rash is one that occurs due to a viral infection. It can itch, sting, burn, or hurt. The appearance of viral skin rashes can vary. They may appear in the form of welts, red blotches, or small bumps, and they might develop only on one part of the body or become widespread. The […]
A cough is a reflex action to clear your airways of mucus and irritants such as dust or smoke. It’s rarely a sign of anything serious. A “dry cough” means it’s tickly and doesn’t produce any phlegm (thick mucus). A “chesty cough” means phlegm is produced to help clear your airways. Most coughs clear up […]