Convalescence
Illness places a huge strain on the body’s resources and energy levels. In the past people naturally allowed time to recover. In today’s fast-paced lifestyle, we often deny ourselves convalescence time. But giving your body time and a little help to return to full health is important, especially if you’ve been ill for a long time or recently discharged from hospital. Read the rest of this entry »
Cystitis And Urethritis
Cystitis is an inflammation of the bladder lining, and is often caused by bacterial infection. Women are more prone than men because the female urethra is shorter and more vulnerable to infection. Symptoms include urgency to urinate, and the frequent passing of small amounts of urine with a burning or stinging pain, and sometimes with blood. Some people also feel feverish and ill. Urethritis is a sexually transmitted disease which may also cause inflammation of the whole urinary tract. It can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease and sterility. For urethritis and severe or recurrent cystitis, it is advisable to consult your doctor. Read the rest of this entry »
Cuts And Scratches
Minor cuts and scratches usually heal on their own. However, any break in the skin should be cleaned in order to prevent infection. Cuts can also benefit from natural remedies, which encourage healing and help to prevent scarring. Deeper wounds may need stitching. If the cut has been caused by a rusty nail or animal bite, or if it has been in contact with the soil, you may need a tetanus jab, so consult your doctor. Read the rest of this entry »
Croup
Croup results from inflammation of the main airways to the lungs. This obstructs the flow of air to the larynx and causes difficult breathing and a painful, barking cough. Croup usually affects young children, who can become restless and anxious.
Most cases are mild, but severe cases can be dangerous. If symptoms persist for more than 3 days, the child’s lips turn blue, or they cannot breathe properly, seek immediate medical treatment.
Affected children should be kept warm, but their environment should not be too hot, dry or stuffy. Offer lots of comfort and reassurance to a frightened child. To prevent the problem recurring, protect the child from cold and damp. Read the rest of this entry »
Cramp
Sudden, painful spasm of the muscle fibers can occur in any large muscle group, but the calf muscles are most common. Cramp often occurs during or after vigorous exercise, but can also be caused by repetitive movements or from being too long in an awkward position. Night cramps may be caused by poor circulation. Cramp can be eased by stretching the affected muscles. Walking on the leg may be enough to relieve the spasm. If not, you need to flex your foot and massage the area. A 15 minute warm up routine helps prevent cramp while exercising. Read the rest of this entry »
Coughs
Coughing is a reflex action that occurs when the airways are irritated or clogged with mucus. When not triggered by irritations such as dust, smoke or other pollutants, coughing is usually a symptom of a cold, infection or a respiratory condition such as asthma or bronchitis. Read the rest of this entry »
Corns And Calluses
Repeated pressure or friction on bones in the hands and feet can cause skin to thicken and form calluses. Corns develop when continued pressure over a callus causes it to form a hard center or nucleus. Some people get corns because of their foot shape, while corns on the bottom of the foot are usually a result of foot structure. Most, however, especially those that form on the toes, are caused by ill-fitting shoes. Once a corn has formed it may need to be cut away, for which you should consult a chiropodist. Using a foot file and applying cream or ointment daily can get rid of calluses. Read the rest of this entry »
