Stomach acid is the strong substance that allows us to digest our food and absorb nutrients. If your body is functioning normally, you probably never give your stomach acid much thought.
However, if the acid makes its way into the oesophagus it can be quite uncomfortable. It may simply manifest itself as a burning sensation and unpleasant taste in your mouth, but acid reflux can also be the sign of something more serious. It could be a warning from your body that you need to transition to a healthier life style.
When learning more about acid reflux, note that the term Gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD) refers to the spectrum of conditions related to acid reflux; from simple heartburn to oesophagitis. The cause, duration, and intensity of your acid reflux will help determine the proper course of treatment. Read in full
Being diagnosed with asthma can be traumatic, in no small part because the diagnosis often follows an episode of shortness of breath. It is also a shock to hear about a chronic condition that could be lifelong.
For some it may feel like life will never be the same, but this is only partially true. For most sufferers, asthma is a condition that can be kept at bay. With proper care and management you can live a normal life; it does not need to become the centre of your existence. Knowing the facts is the first step.
What is asthma?
Asthma is a common chronic respiratory condition that consists of narrowing and inflammation of the airways. This leads to coughing, wheezing and other unpleasant symptoms. Although the exact causes of asthma are not yet fully understood, we do know that people with a family history of asthma and allergies are more likely to suffer from it. Read in full
We all want to trust our contraceptive but how reliable are they really? There are statistics out there but how do we interpret them?
The background level of fertility varies naturally between couples. Many forms of contraception are affected by “user reliability”. Women’s natural fertility declines from the age of 27 and men’s from age 60, so there are lots of factors to consider. Statistics often quote a figure for “consistent and correct” use (often from clinical trials) but these are often very different from “typical” use, which is a more helpful figure to most people. Read in full
Alarming headlines in several UK newspapers and news websites this week (27 January 2015) claiming a US study concluded common hay fever tablets available over the counter raise the risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
While there are significant findings in the study, the news reporting was not entirely accurate according to NHS ‘Behind the headlines’ (page now removed). Much of the reporting failed to highlight the study focus was on prescribed medicine for over 65s only; some brand name drugs contain different ingredients in the US to the UK; and other limitations of the study findings.
Although some of the drugs can be bought over the counter, the study only included prescribed medicines which have an anticholinergic effect, including some antihistamines, antidepressants and drugs for an overactive bladder, and concludes those over 65s taking the highest levels of anticholinergic prescribed medicines were at a higher risk of developing dementia compared with those not taking any.
Some of the medicine brands also contain different ingredients in the UK than the US: Benadryl and Piriteze do not contain ingredients identified in the study as causes of concern. Read in full
An erection occurs when the brain, as a result of physical or psychological stimulation, sends signals to the penis that cause its blood vessels to relax. Blood flow to the penis increases, and blood becomes trapped within the corpora cavernosa, which expands and hardens, producing an erection.
Blood flow is central to achieving and maintaining erections. Erectile dysfunction (ED) is sometimes related to problems with circulation.
There are many reasons men get erectile dysfunction, and circulatory problems, although fairly common, are not the only reason. Read in full
The effects of smoking on physical health are well documented. In fact, they are so widely accepted that they are printed on every packet of cigarettes. However the effects of smoking on mental health are still a bit nebulous. Most people do not realise how tobacco affects their psychological well-being. A recent study published by the British Journal of Medicine revealed that most people believe smoking helps them cope with anxiety and stress. This is of course a myth: in truth smoking could really be contributing to anxiety and other mental health issues.
What is anxiety?
Anxiety is a feeling of fear, tension, unease and nervousness. We all suffer from anxiety from time to time; it is just part of the human condition. But when this feeling becomes disproportionate with the situation causing it, or if it is constant, ever present or begins to interfere with your day to day activities, then it has become a problem.
When it comes to smoking, withdrawal symptoms are a common cause of anxiety. The nagging temptation that comes with wanting a cigarette is actually a form of anxiety. In people who smoke regularly this feeling comes multiple times a day. It is a haunting and disturbing sensation that can obstruct completion of their regular activities. In fact, satisfying this craving in order to stave off anxiety can become part of the smoker’s daily routine.
If you are smoking, there is a good chance you are also not breathing properly. Smokers tend to breathe more quickly and less efficiently, and this can lead to hyperventilation and even a panic attack. Read in full
Quitting smoking is one of the best but most difficult decisions one can make. There are tangible health benefits, your senses will become sharper, your heart will be healthier and your lungs will start repairing themselves. However, as any former smoker can tell you, this process is far from a walk in the park. Nicotine cravings can be intense. They can lead to anxiety, frustration, drowsiness and an increase in appetite. It is a real challenge but there are ways to pass these hurdles and continue on your way to a longer and healthier life. Read in full
Stomach acid is the strong substance that allows us to digest our food and absorb nutrients. If your body is functioning normally, you probably never give your stomach acid much thought.
Being diagnosed with asthma can be traumatic, in no small part because the diagnosis often follows an episode of shortness of breath. It is also a shock to hear about a chronic condition that could be lifelong.
We all want to trust our contraceptive but how reliable are they really? There are statistics out there but how do we interpret them?
An erection occurs when the brain, as a result of physical or psychological stimulation, sends signals to the penis that cause its blood vessels to relax. Blood flow to the penis increases, and blood becomes trapped within the corpora cavernosa, which expands and hardens, producing an erection.
The effects of smoking on physical health are well documented. In fact, they are so widely accepted that they are printed on every packet of cigarettes. However the effects of smoking on mental health are still a bit nebulous. Most people do not realise how tobacco affects their psychological well-being. A recent study published by the 