Article Library
Gynaecological procedures in the GP's surgery
An increasing number of women in certain parts of the country have been able to have small gynae procedures – such as hysteroscopy and endometrial ablation - undertaken in the familiar setting of their GP's surgery.
STARR (Stapled TransAnal Rectal Resection) surgery for Obstructed Defecation Syndrome – A patient's story
We speak to a patient about his experience with STARR Prolapse Surgery to treat Obstructed Defecation Syndrome and find out over two years later how successful it was and if he has any regrets.
Europe’s first disease risk reduction claims for Plant Stanol Esters and Plant Sterols
Disease risk reduction claims relating to Plant Stanol and Plant Sterol enriched foods are amongst the first to be authorised by the European Commission confirming their cholesterol lowering properties and that high cholesterol is a major risk factor in the development of Coronary Heart Disease1.
The common childhood illnesses series – Chickenpox
With the traditional Chickenpox Season just around the corner, Sonia Hall of the Practice Nurse Association discusses the varicella-zoster virus, who is most at risk and what complications can occur.
Constipation and Rectocele: which treatment approach is best?
Consultant colorectal surgeon David Jayne BSc MB BCh FRCS MD discusses the recent success of STARR in the treatment of constipation associated with rectocele and internal rectal prolapse, and considers which patients may benefit most from the procedure.
The common childhood illnesses series - Rubella
Sonia Hall of the Practice Nurse Association discusses the viral infection which can be highly dangerous if contracted by pregnant women.
Managing common gynaecological conditions
Gynaecology has been identified as one of the top five specialities accounting for around two thirds of all long waits in the NHS. It is now possible to undertake a number of investigative procedures in the primary care setting.
Combating Obesity - The effect of excess weight on cholesterol levels
Obesity is a growing public health concern and appropriate management and education on the complications that can arise from this health related disease are key to tackling the problem. This article will focus on the link between obesity and high cholesterol levels and how practical steps can be taken to manage these public health issues.
Sucralose for people with diabetes
It has been proposed that sucralose has no effect on blood glucose (BG) or insulin levels and thus can be suitable for people with diabetes as an alternative to sugar in their diets. This abstract of a study looks at the proposal in actual type 2 diabetic patients.
The common childhood illnesses series: Mumps
Having recently been suspected of having mumps as an adult, Sonia Hall, of the Practice Nurse Association, begins a series of articles covering common childhood illnesses by discussing the infection that gives kids the hamster look.
Please read the label: Helping patients to improve their diet
Nutrition-related health problems, such as cardiovascular disease (CVD) and obesity, present a significant challenge to government and healthcare professionals alike. Despite a number of innovative and interesting programmes, obesity rates continue to rise at an alarming pace. This article will explore front of pack food labeling, an initiative designed to help consumers make more informed choices about the foods they’re eating.
GYNECARE THERMACHOICE® - a real alternative to hysterectomy
For years, women suffering from really heavy periods (menorrhagia) have either had to put up with the embarrassment and discomfort of the condition, or undergo either dilation and curettage, or a full hysterectomy. Both are invasive surgical procedures.
Embarrassing illnesses – in the spotlight again
Health professionals are familiar with the raft of diseases and disorders which fall under the heading of 'embarrassing illnesses'. Despite the fact that few patients want to talk about them the public is endlessly fascinated as repeat seasons of 'Embarrassing Illnesses' and 'Embarrassing Bodies' on television have proved.
Weighing up the options
An abstract on the recent American research project, ‘Families On the Move’, which demonstrated that reducing calorie intake by using sucralose sweetened products and increasing physical activity can help maintain a healthier weight.
Stress Urinary Incontinence – there's a better solution
Many women suffer from occasional Stress Urinary Incontinence – generally speaking it's a minor embarrassment. But for a significant number of women, usually those who have had children, it's a real problem which affects quality of life.
Is the recession ruining our health?
As news of property crashes, job losses and recession continue to grab the headlines, fellow health professionals are worried that the current economic downturn could have a dramatic impact on our health.
The efficacy of a high strength patch: The Cease Study
The aim of NRT is to help wean smokers off the habit of smoking by providing them with some of the nicotine they are used to getting from cigarettes.
A spring in their step? Or dragging their feet...?
As the weather improves and the mercury climbs a little higher in the thermometer, so people start to wear less. And, in the case of women in particular, that often means leaving off heavy boots and thick tights - this is the time of year when your patients should be thinking about looking after their feet and legs.
Reduce the risk of diabetes with the help of a teaspoon
With new statistics1 revealing that the rising level of obesity has sent diabetes cases soaring by almost three quarters in just six years, now’s the time to start making steps towards reducing our sugar consumption. - 1. Diabetes UK
Pelvic Organ Prolapse - it's common; it's treatable
Pelvic Organ Prolapse affects as many as one in three women past the age of 45. Now a new minimally invasive surgical technique offers promising long-term results.
Cholesterol - what it is and how to lower it with the new Portfolio Diet
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) and particularly coronary heart disease (CHD - the main form of CVD) is the biggest killer in the UK, causing over 117, 000 deaths a year: approximately 1 in 5 deaths in men and 1 in 6 deaths in women - British Heart Foundation Statistics - Mortality (2008) http://www.heartstats.org.
Depression - recognising the signs
Sonia Hall of the Practice Nurse Association examines why this is such a hot topic.
Published in partnership with the Royal College of Nursing's Practice Nurse Association
