Relief of symptoms is one of the major aims of the palliative care team. As a carer, you can help the person you are caring for by assisting them in recognising and managing their symptoms. Only do ...

The nutrient value of food is almost always altered by the kind of processing it undergoes. The water-soluble vitamins are the most vulnerable to processing and cooking. Careful cooking and storage ...

Most people think of ‘shock’ as emotional distress or sudden fright in response to a traumatic event. But in medical terms, shock is when you do not have enough blood circulating around your body. It ...

Incontinence is any involuntary or accidental leakage of urine (wee) or faeces (poo). Incontinence is a challenging problem for carers, but help is available. Your doctor is a good starting point for ...

Around 70 per cent of breast cancers are sensitive to the female sex hormone oestrogen. The growth of cancer can be minimised by taking drugs that block the production and action of oestrogens in the ...

Sewage overflows can occur at home as a result of damaged or blocked plumbing, backflow from the sewerage system, a damaged septic tank or as a result of flood water containing sewage. Sewage contains ...

A dilatation and curettage (D&C) is primarily a diagnostic procedure to sample the endometrium (lining of the uterus) but may also be used to treat conditions such as incomplete miscarriage. The ...

Physical activity and fitness protect our health and can be fun. Walking, playing sport, swimming, cycling and gardening can all keep you fit. Stay safe and prevent injury during exercise by following ...

Abrasions and incised wounds require different first aid treatment. A deep cut that severs an artery is a medical emergency. Skin heals at different rates, depending on factors such as the person’s ...

Learning basic first aid techniques can help you cope with an emergency. You may be able to keep a person breathing, reduce their pain or minimise the consequences of injury or sudden illness until an ...

You can become fertile again very soon after a surgical or medical abortion, so it's important to start using contraception immediately if you wish to prevent any unwanted pregnancies. Any method of ...

Common cereal foods include bread, breakfast cereals and pasta.