www.newworld.co.za

/ A / B / C / D / E / F / G / H / I / J / K / L / M / N / O / P / Q / R / S / T / U / V / W / X / Y / Z

South African Medical Directory

(Quick Reference)

Haematologist: A Doctor who specializes in the treatment of diseases of the Blood, Bone Marrow and Lymph Glands

Haematuria: Blood in the Urine, either visible to the naked eye or under a microscope

Haemoglobin: The Oxygen-carrying agent in the Blood.It is present only in the Red Blood Cells, giving the blood its colour

Haemolytic Anaemia: Conditon caused by t excessively rapid destruction of red blood cells

Haemophilia: Haemophiliacs lack a substance called AHG - antihaemophilic globulin, which is essential for the blood to clot.Normally a cut stops bleeding within 10 min unless it is very serious. Haemophilia is an inherited deficiency of blood clotting - factors due to abnormal genes.Even a small cut may bleed for hours or days, and there may be episodes of spontaneous bleeding.The much rarer Christmas disease has similar features and is named after the person in whom the disease was first diagnosed.Both conditions affect only males.In Haemophilia,the deficient protein ins Factor Vlll and in Christmas disease, the protein is Factor lV

Haemorrhoids: Piles.Varicose Veins (swollen veins) inside the rectum and around the anus are known as Haemorrhoids or piles,they are more common during pregnancy and after childbirth,being overwieght and eating a low-fibre diet are risk factors.Haemorrhoids are common problem affecting up to half of all people at some time in their lives.In this disorder veins in the soft tissue around the anus and inside the lower part of the rectum become swollen.Swellings around the anus are called external haemorrhoids - and those within the rectum are called internal haemorrhoids.Internal haemorrhoids that protrude outside the anus are known as prolapsing haemorrhoids and can be especially painful.Haemorrhoids often cause bleeding,itching and discomfort.These symptoms are usually intermittent,and the condition is not in itself serious.However,a single - so called 'sentinal' haemorrhoid may be a sign of colorectal cancer

Causes: Haemorrhoids most commonly occur as a result of constipation,when a person strains to pass a stool.Straining in this way increases the pressure inside the abdomen,which in turn causes blood vessels around the rectum to swell.Being overweight also exerts pressure on blood vessels and increases the risk os haemorrhoids.During pregnancy, the growing fetus has the same effect,frequently causing haemorrhoids

Symptoms: The symptoms of haemorrhoids commonly develop following constipation.They include 1. fresh blood on toilet paper 2. or in the toilet after a bowel movement 3. increasing discomfort on defecation 4. discharge of mucus from the anus 5.sometimes leading to itching 6. visible swellings around the anus 7. feelings that the bowels have not been fully emptied 8.a prolapsing haemorrhoid may protrude through the anus after a bowel movement and may then retract or can be pushed back inside with a finger 9.In some cases, a blood clot (thrombus) may form within a prolapsing haemorrhoid 10.causing severe pain and a 11.visible tender blue,grape-sized swelling

Treatment: If you have bleeding from the anus consult your doctor without delay,especially if you are over 40 - since it may indicate a more serious disorder such as colorectal cancer.Your doctor will probably examine your rectum by insering a gloved finger.If there has been bleeding that suggests a serious underlying disease,your doctor may arrange for colonscopy.Small haemorrhoids due to pregnancy usually disappear soon after the birth.A high-fibre diet helps prevent constipation and laxatives may help ease defecation.Over the counter topical corticosteriods and corticosterioid suppositories can reduce swelling and itching and anaesthetic sprays may relieve pain.If these measures are not effective within a few days, you should consult your doctor,who may consider surgery.Small internal haemorrhoids may be treated by sclerotherapy in which the affected area is injected with a solution that causes the veins to shrink.Alternatively the doctor may place a band around the base of an internal haemorrhoids causing it to shirink and fall off.Persistent,painful bleeding haemorrhoids can be destroyed by electrical,laser or infrared heat treatment.They can also be removed surgically.Haemorrhoids may recur, although treatment is usually successful

Hair Loss: Baldness / Alopecia.Most common cause of hair loss in older children is the Fungal infection of the scalp knows as Ringworm.This produces circular patches of pink or grey, scaly baldness in the scalp and is extremely itchy.Another cause of temporary baldness in children is a condition known as Alopecia Areata - Round,bald patches appear suddenly and within a few months fine white hair break through into the bald area, followed by normal hair.Some children can actually inflict har loss on themselves with a nervous tic or mannerism, compulsive pulling,twesting and breaking their hair.This condition, which is called Trichotillomania and is often worse when the child is concentrating on something

Hairloss: Term used for Alopecia / Baldness: Common cause of hair loss in older children is the Fungal infection of the scalp knows as Ringworm.This produces circular patches of pink or grey, scaly baldness in the scalp and is extremely itchy.Another cause of temporary baldness in children is a condition known as Alopecia Areata - Round,bald patches appear suddenly and within a few months fine white hair break through into the bald area, followed by normal hair.Some children can actually inflict har loss on themselves with a nervous tic or mannerism, compulsive pulling,twisting and breaking their hair.This condition, which is called Trichotillomania and is often worse when the child is concentrating on something

Alopecia may be localized - in which hair is lost in patches - or generalized - in which there is thinning or total hair loss over the whole scalp.Hair loss can be temporary or permanent.Alopecia is not always associated with ill health - but may cause embarrassment.If your scalp has patchy scarring you may need a skin biopsy to idanose the underlying cause.Scarred areas may be treated with tppical corticosteroids or antifungal drugs,but if the damage is sevee and has affected the hair follicles it is unlikely that new hair will grow

Causes: The most common cause of Alopecia in men is oversensitivity to the hormone testosterone,producing a characterisitic pattern of hair loss (male-pattern baldness).This is an inherited condition and the most common form of Alopecia.The process starts when normal hair at the temples and crown is replaced by fine downy hair.The hair-line then gradually recedes.Only a trained Dermatologist can determine if the hair follicle - the pit in the skin from which the hair grows - is so badly damaged that hair loss is permanent.Patchy hair loss is usually due to Alopecia Areata - an autoimmune disorder that causes bald patches to appear on the scalp,surrounded by short,broken hairs.The hair will usually regrow within 6 months,but in rare cases Alopecia areata can cause permanent loss of all body hair - Alopecia Universalis.Hairstyles that pull on the scalp are a common cause of patchy hair loss.If the pulling is continuous, hair loss is permanent.Patchy hair loss may be the result of a rare psychological disorder in which the hair is compulsively pulled - Trichotillomania.Burns or skin disorders - such as ringworm,that scar the scalp may cause permanent patchy hair loss.Generalized thinning of the hair is noticeable after the menopause,and hair loss is normal in elderly people.Hair loss may occur temporarily after pregnancy for up to a period of 18 months.Hair loss is also a common side effect of Chemotherapy and Hypothyroidism.Other causes of thinning hair include acute illness,stress and malnutrition

Hair Loss in women: Estrogen receptors in hair follicles maintain the health of each hair,which is why problems can occur at the time of menopause if Estrogen levels are lwo.So it is possible that if you have a problem with hair loss - it may be due to a hormone imbalance and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) might help.Consult your doctor for advice about this.It is also possible you have an underactive thyroid as hair loss is one of the symptoms.A simple blood test can diagnose this.Iron-deficiency Anaemia can aslo cause haire loss.Women who suffer with heavy periods are often deficient in iron.Rapid weight loss and stress is also thought to affect the hair folicles by constricting the blood vessels that supply them and so limiting their supply of oxygen.General thinning of the hairi is common after pregnancy.The pregnancy hormones drive most of the scalp hair into a growing phase.Under normal circumstance, hairs are at different stages of resting and growing phases and therefore hair loss is gradual and imperceptibl.The dramatic hair loss associated with pregnancy is because great numbers of hairs come out of the resting phase at the same time and are lost simultaneously.This may go on for anything up to 18months or two years.Although very disturbing, it is no cause for alarm because it is self-limiting and reversible - although hair may take a long time to grow back,and straight hair may become curly and vice versa.Chronic scratching of the scalp - particularly at the back near the nape of the neck,is quite a common symptom of anxiety and can give rise to hair loss.However, this is rarely complete and always recovers when scratching stops.Hair pulling - Trichotillomania - can occasionally cause bald patches but it can always be diagnosed because hair loss is never complete and there are often broken hairs of different lengths present in the bald patches.Like chronic scratching,Trichotillomania nearly always has a psychological cause

Treatment: 1. The hair usually regrows once the underlying cause has been treate 2. Your doctor will probably be able to diagnose Alopecia areata by the appearance of your scalp.This condition does not usually require treatment,but corticosteroids injected into the hairless patches may be effective in promoting regrowth 3. In most cases of hair loss, the hair usually regrows once the underlying cause has been treated 4. If you scalp has patchy scarring - you may need a skin biopsy to diagnose the underlying cause.Scarred areas may be treated with topical corticosteroids or antifungal drugs,but if the damage is severe and has affected the hair follicles, it is unlikely that new hair will grow

Possibilities for Permanent Hair Loss: 1. Hairpieces: This is the safest and least painful way (health & money) to camouflage hair loss.Some can be permanently attached to the head, either by being tied to existing hairs or by being sewn onto the scalp.The latter can cause infection and are not recommended for that reason.The only other possible side effect is that occasionally people are sensitive to the adhesive that is sometimes used 2. Hair Implant: This is a quasi-surgical procedure where strips of hair are attached to the scalp - in the form of sugical threads implanted in the balding area.The implants are usually synthetic so a hairdryer mus not be used 3. Hair Transplants: This is a surgical procedure that generally results in permanent replacement of hair although even when well established, it is not as luxurious as the hair you have lost.Plugs of hair are cut from the remaining healthy hair on the sides and back of the head and implanted in bald spots.This hair normally falls out after transplant - but is replace by new hair.Quite a few follicles must be transplanted in the same session and the process needs to be repeated in the total baldd area is to be covered 4. Hairweaving: This is a non-surgical procedure that adds replacement hair to existing hair in order to cover bald patches.The new hair is braided strand by strand onto the edges of the hair in situ.Hair weaving requires maintenance and careful cleansing 5. Scalp Colorants: A spray available from pharmacies - covers the head in an organic dust to disguise any bald patches.Coloured creams can darken the scalp to camouflage pale,hairless skin 6. Medication: During research on adfrug to control high blood pressure, it was discovered that Minoxidil, promoted hair growth.It has to be applied to the scalp twice daily for a minimum of 4 months for any effect to be noticeable.Treatments has to be continued or hair loss will reoccur.The one thing that all thses treatmetns have in common, is the expense involved over a long period of time.It is sensible to seek advice before committing yourself to any particular form of treatment 7. Self-Help: If possible, try not to worry about your hair loss because anxiety makes the problem worse.Very often it is worth considering wearing a wig so that the psychological effect of the hair loss dos not take too great a toll

Hair Removal: You can deal with excessive hair yourself by bleaching it or by shaving,plucking,waxing or uing depilatory creams.The only way to remove hair permanently is by Electrolysis and Laser treatment - but they can be uncomfortable & expensive.Unlike other body,facial hair can actually be made worse by some methods of removal - so it is always wise for a doctor to identify the cause of facial hirsutism,before any attempt at treatment is made.Some of the hair remval methods are

1. BLEACHING: This won't remove the hair but it will disguise it.It is most suitable for women with light-coloured hair.Coarse hair is likely to show after bleaching - but is not likely to be quite as noticeable - because it will be a lighter shade

2. DEPLITORY CREAMS: Hair removal creams specifically designed for the face,should be the only ones used on this sensitive part of the body.Normal creams are likely to be too strong and will cause irritation.Regrowth usually occurs between two and three weeeks.Hair lighteners & removal creams vary in price and are available from most pharmacies

3. EPILIGHT: The latest concept in permanent hair removal works on the principle of Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) Technology.Using camera-flash bursts of multiple light wavelengths pulsed through a Quartz Crystal, the result is super-fast,long-term removal of all types of hair anywhere on the body.A slight reddening of the skin may be apparent after treatment, but this usually subsides wtihin 24 hours

4. ELECTROLYSIS: This is a very effective & expensive method for removing facial hair.It can be painful and can take some time to remove all the hair and must be carried out by a qualified operator

5. SUGARING & WAXING: Sugaring involves painting the skin with a mixture of lemon,sugar,water & herbs - waiting for it to dry and then pulling it off,with the hairs attached.It works on te same principle as waxing,in which warm melted wax is applied to the skin and allowed to dry before removing along with excess hair,but because the mixture is cold, it is less likely to cause a reaction on sensitive skin.It does not usually cost as much as waxing and lasts for 4-5 weeks.There are home kits available for both sugaring & waxing - but play it safe and have it done at a reputable salon.Waxing not done properly, can cause scaring.Sugaring and waxing - as well as depilatory cream, can be used to remove haire in the bikini-line area

6. LASERS: Extensive research has been carried out into the use of a laser system that can safely slow down or stop hair growth without damaging the surrounding skin.In some cases a ruby laser is used that produces a red light.This is highly absorbed by hair and only minimally absorbed by skin.The light is applied for less than a thousandth of a second - enough time to destroy the hair,but not to heat the skin.Any part of the body can be treated and it has proved particularly popular with people who have a problem with facial hair.Lasers Treatment are very effective on darker hair.Precaution should be taken in the sun with treated skin - discolouration may occur

7. HORMONE REPLACEMENT THEAPY (HRT) Excessive haire can be counteracted by Estrogen in the form of HRT.A woman who takes female hormones shlould have few problems with unwanted hair

Hallucination: Suggest serious Mental or Brain Disorders.False perception by an individual of events that have never occured

Hay Fever: Allergic Rhinitis.An Allergic condition affecting the mucous membranes of the eyeslids and nose and not the chest.Causing sneezing, runny nose and itchy watery eyes and occuring in spring and summer.Reaction to pollen from flowers, grasses and trees

HayFever is due to inflammation of the membrane lining of the nose,throat & eyes.This inflammation is the result of an allergic reaction to specific airborne substances known as allergens.It can occur only during the Spring and Summer - in which it is known as Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis or hay fever and is due to inhaled pollen.If it occurs all year round - it is called Perennial rhinitis and is most commonly due to an allergy to house dust

Allergic Rhinitis is more common in people who have other allergic disorders,such as Asthma,eczema or Migraine - that is - they have Atopy Causes: Seasonal allergic Rhinitis is usually due to grass,trees,flower or weed pollens, it occurs mostly in the Spring and Summer when pollen counts are high.The most common allergens that provoke Perennial Allergic Rhinitis include house dust and dust mites, animal fur and dander,feathers and mould spores

Symptoms: The symptoms of both forms of allergic rhinitis usually appear soon after contact with allergens,but tend to be more severe in hay fever.They include - Itchy senstation in the nose.Frequent sneezing.Blocked runny nose.Itchy red,watery eyes.Some people may develop a headache.If the lining of the nose is severely inflamed,nosebleeds may occur

Treatment: Your doctor may recognize Allergic Rhinitis from your symptoms,particularly if you can identify the substance that triggers a reaction.A skin prick test may be performed in order to identify the allergen that causes the Allergic Rhinitis.In some cases the allergen cannot be found.If you can avoid the allergens that affect you - your symptoms will subside.Oral antihistamines are often combined with decongestants to relieve inflammation and itching. Many anti-allergy drugs are available over the counter or by prescription. eg. allergies can be blocked by nasal sprays that contain Cromolyn Sodium.Alternatively nasal Corticosteroids in the form of a spray are effective for hay fever - but may take a few days to work.Nasal sprays containing decongestants can relieve symptoms - but should not be used regularly.Eyedrops may help relieve eye symptoms.Rarely if symptoms are severe,your doctor may prescribe and oral corticosteroid.The most specific treatment for AllergicRrhinitis is immunotherapy, in which your are infected with gradual increasing doses of allergen with the aim of desensitizing the immune system.This treatment typically takes as long as 3-4 years,is not always successful

Self Help: Perennial Allergic Rhinitis - Avoid keeping furry animal as pets if you are allergic to them.Replace pillows and quilts containing animal materials such as duck feathers with those containing synthetic stuffing.Cover mattresses with plastic.Remove dust collecting items such as upholstered furniture and curtains if possible

Self Help: Hay Fever - Avoid areas with long grass of where grass is being cut.In summer,keep doors and windows closed and spend as much time as possible in air-conditioned buildings.Try to stay inside during late morning and early evening when the pollen count is highest.Keep car windows shut while driving.Make sure your car is fitted with an effective pollen filter.While outside,wear sunglasses to help prevent eye irritation,sunglasses can help stop the pollne from entering eyes.Shower and change when you get home.Wash hair regularly.Eat health-building foods such as fruit & vegetables.Homeopathic preparations are seen by users as preventatives.Aromatic tissues impregnated with vapours help dry up mucus.Spectacles now exist that can filter the air around the eyes. Supplements such as Zinc,that are said to boost the immune system are taken for Hay Fever

Heaf Test: A method of determining Tuberculosis immunity, using an extract of TB bacteria.The extract is applied through a series of light punctures of the skin on the forearm, in the shape of a ring.If the ring becomes a single red patch in about three days, the subject of the test is immune

Heart Attack / Failure: Also known as Myocardial Infarction It is the condition in which a segment of the Heart Muscle dies when its blood supply has been cut off by a blocked artery.This follows a Coronary Thrombosis.A heart attack is is usually a result of Coronary Artery Disease,which stems from Atherosclerosos and could have been presaged by Angina (chest pain).Heart attack is one of the major causes of death in developed countries

Symptoms: The symptoms usually develop suddenly and include:Severe heavy crushing pain - just like Angina,but worse in the centre of the chest spreading into the neck,teeth and into the arms - especially the left arm,sometimes centering on the elbow.Pale clammy skin & shortness of breath.Nausea and sometimes Vomiting,Anxiety,sometimes accompanied by a Fear of dying or Restlessness

Warning: An episode of Angina that does not respond to your usual treatment or that lasts longer than 15min may be a heart attack and requires immediate emergency hospital treatment.About 1 in 5 people expericne no chest pain in a heart attack.However there may be other symptoms, such as breathlessness,faintness,sweating and pale skin.This pattern of symptoms is known as 'silent heart attacks' or 'silent infarction'

Treatment & Diagnosis:An ECG - Electrocardiogram will show evidence of a heart attack.To confirm the diagnosis,blood samples may be taken to measure the levels of particular enzymes that leak into the blood from damaged heart muscle.The immediate aims of treatment are to relieve pain and restore blood supply to the heart muscle in order to minimize the amount of damage and prevent further complications.These aims are best achieved by immediate admission to an (ICU) Intensive Care Unit.You will be given an injection of a powerful painkiller, such as morphine,to relieve pain.To help minimize damage to your heart within the first 6hours of the attack, you may also be given a drug to dissolve the blood clot that is blocking the Coronary Artery.Alternatively, you may have immediate Coronary Angiplasty, to open the artery.If the blood flow to the damaged heart muscle can be restored within 6hours, there is a greater likelihood of full recovery.Once you have recovered from the attack,the condition of your Coronary Arteries and heart muscle is assessed.Tests such as exercise ECG and echocardiography are used to help decide on further treatment.If the pumping action of the heart is impaired, you may be prescribed and ACE inhibitor and / or a diuretic drug.If tests reveal that you have a persistent irregular heartbeat, you may need to have a Pacemaker implanted in your chest.Certian drugs taken long term can reduce the risk of another heart attack, and you may be prescribed a Beta-Blocker drug and / or aspirin for this reason.You may also be adviced to eat a low-fat diet and to take lipid-lowering drugs to lower your blood cholesterol level.These drugs are beneficial after a heart attack even if your cholesterol level is not elevated.If a Coronary Artery is blocked you may need Bypass Surgery

Precaution: It is important to avoid becoming disabled by the fear of having another heart attack.Many hospitals offer ongoing cardiac rehabillitation programmes after discharge from the hospital.If you have not had a previous heart attack, if you are treated quickly and if there are no complications,your outlook is good.After two weeks the risk of another heart attack is considerably reduced.The prognosis is better if your STOP SMOKING,reduce ALCOHOL INTAKE, and follow a HEALTHY DIET and try to keep your weight within the ideal range,learn to relax with relaxation exercises and try to avoid stressful situaltions.You should be able to drive your car within 4 weeks, and resume having sexual intercourse aboaut 4 weeks after a heart attack. Together with your doctor agree on a programme of increasing exeercise until you are able to engage in moderate exercise such as swimming regularly

Heart Burn: Also known as Gastroesophageal Reflux / Acid Reflux.A hot sensation behind the breastbone after meals. Gastroesophageal reflux,acidic juices are regurgitated into the oesophagus from the stomach.This regurgitation causes a pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen and chest,known as heartburn,one cause is a Hiatus Hernia. Gastroesophageal reflux (GOR) commonly known as heartburn or acid reflux is probably the most common cause of indigestion.The discomfort is due to acidic juices from the stomach flowing back up into the oesophagus (the gullet,the tube leading from the throat to the stomach).The lining of the oesophagus does not have adequate defence against the harmful effects of stomach acid,which causes inflammation,sometimes even ulceration and a burning pain kwown as heartburn

Causes: The stomach contents are prevented from entering the oesophagus by a double-action valve mechanism - the lower end of the oesophagus has a muscular ring,known as the ower oesophageal sphincter, which forms one part of the valve mechanism,and the other part consists of the Hiatus,a narrow opeing in the diaphragm muscle.The combination of these two muscular gateways provides an effective one-way valve.GOR may develop as a result of several factors acting together to make the valve leak 1. poor muscle tone in the sphincter 2. increased abdominal pressure due to pregnancy & obesity 3. a weakness in the Hiatus that allows part of the stomach to slide into the chest - Hiatus herna 4. many people develop mild attacks of GOR after eatiang rapidly or eating certain foods,especially pickles,fried or fatty meals,, or drinks,especially carbonated soft drinks,alcohol or coffee.Smoking worsens symptoms too

Symptoms: The main symptoms of GOR are usually most noticeable immediately after eating a large meal or when bending over.They include 1. a burning pain or discomfort in the centre of the chest behind the breastbone,known as heartburn 2. an acidic taste in the mouth due to regurgitation of acidic fluid into the throat or mouth 3. erosion of theteeth due to acid 4. persistent cough and sometimes asthma at night and sore throat 4. hoarseness of the voice 5. belching 5. streaks of blood in the vomit or faeces

6. Longterm Problems: GOR that persist over many years can cause scaring in the oesophagus,which may eventually be severe enough to cause stricture (narrowing).A stricture can make swallowing very difficult and may lead to weight loss.Chronic GOR, may lead to the oesophageal lining replacing the stomach lining,increasing the risk of developing oesophageal cancer

Treatment: The good news is that many products and treatment are now available to alleviate chronic heartburn and prevent stomach acid from damaging cells of the oesophagus- which have no protection against a frequent bath of acid.Acid reflux may also be aggrevated by drugs you can take for other conditions,so consult your doctor about the effects of both over-the-counter and prescription medications you take and ask whether substitutions may be helpful.More severe cases that do not respond to diet and lifestyle changes alone require medications,starting with over-the-counter antacids and Zantac (ranitidine) help,but may not be strong enough to control acid reflux fully.If not, your doctor can prescribe more potent acid suppressors called proton-pump inhibitors - such as Loser.Other potentially useful drugs protect the lining of the oesophagus and speed stomach acid emptying.If acid reflux cannot be controlled through diet, habits and drugs - surgery may be required.One of the newest procedures done through a laparoscope,involves wrapping a defective oesophageal sphincter to strengthen it against reflux.Experts agree that it is not enough merely to claim all the symptoms of heartburn.Rather acid reflux must be prevented and any cellular damage that has occurred must be healed.It is not enough to treat chonic heartburn sporadically stopping treatment when symptoms subside.It has to be long-term.To protect the oesophagus adequately,treatment must be aggressive,continuous and indefinite and so involves some major changes in your life.If you have heartburn two or more times in a week,see your doctor and perhaps request a consultation with a gastroenterologist.If the problem has been long-standing,an examination and biopsy of the oesophagus through an endoscope is the only good way to assess what damage has been done.If any.If there are abnormal cell changes,endoscopic examinations should be done every year or two to check for possible progression towards cancer.Should a pre-cancer condition develop,the oesophagus can be removed and replaced with a piece of intestine or stomach.There are also experimental treatments that use laser or other forms heat to obliterate the abnormal cells and allow healthy cells to replace them

Self-help for chronic heartburn: Check food well and eat slowly.Watch what you eat.Stay away from spicy or fatty food as well as citrus juice,coffee,tea,alcohol or chocolate.Eat 5 or 6 meals rather than two large meals a day.Immediately after a meal,avoid exercising,bending over or lying down.Lose weight if you need to.You will feel better if there is some food in your stomach,so eat little and often.Raise your head of your bed by about four inches or sleep on at least 4 pillows.Antiacid tablets will help to neutralize the acids and protect the oesophagus.Give up smoking.Consult your doctor if the problem occurs 2 or 3 more times a week. If you have recently developed pain the the centre of your chest that seems to be unrelated to mealtimes,you should seek immediate help - because the heart condition Angina may sometimes be mistaken for the pain of severe heartburn

Heart Failure (Acute): A sudden deterioration in the pumping action of the Heart, usually the Left Ventricle.Leads to an accumulation of fluid in the lungs, if not treated immediatley, it is life-threatening.Most common cause of acute heart failure is a heart attack that damages a large area of Heart Muscle.Right-sided acute heart faliure is rare and is usually due to a blood clot blocking the Pulmonary Artery - Pulmonary Embolism)

Heart Palpitations: A feeling that your heart is thumping at high speed or a sensation of fluttering in your chest or a hammering in your head are all descriptions of Palpitations.They don't necessarily denote anything serious.People who are anxious and tense frequently feel palpitations as a symtom of their of their anxiety, there's nothing wrong with their hearts.You can sometimes f eel your heart beating after a heavy meal or after the efffort of running hard or when you lie down quite quickly.Those due to an overactive Thyroid Gland rarely do and that's an important distiction.Cocaine & Alcohol are both increasingly common causes of Palpitations.Palpitations in a person over 60 years of age - can be a symptom of a Heart condition and should always be reported to a doctor for investigation & treatment.Palpitations that arises from the Atria - the upper chambers of the hear, and are regular can be uncomfortable but are hardly ever harmful, although you may feel dizzy and even faint.Fast irregular beats are called Fibrillation and although not immediately dangerous if in the Atria, they are unpleasant and must be investigated and treated promptly.Atrial Fibrillation is the most common cause of irregualr Palpitations

Heat Exhaustion: Results when too much body fluid is lost through sweating and occurs when the body becomes Overheated.Result of Excessive exposure to sunshine through over-exertion or excesive humidity.Important to recognize the problem and cool your child down, thus preventing Heatstroke

Heat Rash: Heat Rash is a faint red rash in the areas of the body where the sweat glands are most numerous - face,neck,shoulders,and in the skin creases.Quite common in babies because their bodies are not efficient at regulating body temperature.Not due to Sunlight, but arises when the body becomes Overheated and the skin responds with excessive production of sweat

Heat Stroke: Sunstroke.Is due to Exposure to Extreme heat, which causes the body's temperature regulating mechanism to break down.The person/child will remain dry instead of sweaty and he may become drowsy with then a Rapid Pulse.He may become confused and lapse into unconsciousness.Very SERIOUS condition and should be treated as an EMERGENCY.Can be FATAL

Hemiplegia: A Paralysis usually caused by a Stroke that affects one side of the body

Hepatitits: Inflammation of the Liver.Caused by at least 3 different Viruses.The most common forms of the illness in Children is Acute Hepatitis A and is very contagious

Hepatitis is a usually sudden,short-term inflammation of the liver due to a variety of causes.The most common being the Hepatitis Viruses A, B & C.Hepatitis C is the most serious.Many people carry the virus for Hepatitis,although not all of them will necessarily go on to develop the disease.The condition has various causes and has a sudden onset.Most people with acute Hepatitis recover within a month or two.However,in some cases inflammation of the liver persist for many months or may even persist for year as in Chronic Hepatitis and may progress to liver failure

Causes: Worldwide,the most common cause of Acute Hepatitis is infection with any one of the several types of Hepatitis Viruses.Until the late 1980's,there were only two known Hepatitis viruses,Heptitis A & B. Additional Hepatitis viruses have now been identified including Hepatitis C,D & E

Hepatistis A virus: The Hepatitits A virus is the most common cause of acute viral hepatitis in the West.Often the virus does not produce symptoms or syptoms ar so mild that the infection passes unrecognized.The Hepatitis A virus can be detected in the urine and faeces of infected people, and it can be transmitted to other people in contaminated food and water

Hepatitis B virus: It is estimated that each year about one million people in Europe become infected with the Hepatitis B virus.The virus is spread by contact with an infected person's body fuids. e.g the virus is spread by sexual intercourse or by sharing contaminated needles used for taking drugs intravenously. In developing countries,the infection is most commonly transmitted from mother to baby at birth.Before blood banks, routinely screened blood from the virus,blood transfusions used to be a source of Hepatitis B infection and many people with haemophillia contracted hepatitis.All blood used for transfusions is now screened for the Hepatitis B virus

Hepatitis C virus: About 3% of people worldwide are infected with the Hepatitis C virus each year.The virus is most commonly transmitted by blood,often by sharing contaminated needles used for drugs intravenously.All blood used for transfusions in now screened for the Hepatitis C virus.It is also spread through sexual intercourse

Hepatitis D & E viruses: Infection with Hepatitis D occurs only in people who already have Hepatitis B infection.It is spread by contact with infected body fluids.The Hepatitis E virus is a rare cause of Hepatitis in the developed world.The virus is excreted in the faeces of infected people and is spread in much the same way as the Hepatitis A virus

Other Hepatitis viruses: Are almost certainly yet to be discovered.The known viruses can all cause acute hepatitis and they have many features in common,although the way in which they are transmitted and their long-term effects may differ.Infections with some types of bacteria, other non-hepatitis viruses and some parasites can also lead to acute hepatitis.In addition - the condition may be caused by non-infectious agents,such as some drugs and toxins including alcohol

Other infectious Causes: Acute hepatitis may also be caused by other viral infections,such as Cytomegalovirus and the Epstein-Barr virus (the casue of glandular fever).Some bacterial infections,such as Legionnaires' disease, can cause hepatitis.Parasitic infections that may also result in acute hepatitis include infection with Plasmodium,the cause of Malaria

Non-Infectoius Causes: In developed countries excesive alcohol consumption is one of the most common causes of Acute hepatitis.The condition can also be caused by other toxins,such as those found in poisonous fungi.Acute hepatitis can also be caused by certain drugs,such as some anticonvulsants,the anaesthetic gas halothane and an overdose of paracetamol

Symptoms: Some people infected with a Hepatitis virus have no symptoms,or symptoms that are so mild they are not noitced.In other cases the disorder may be life-threatening.If Hepatitis is due to a viral invection,the time from infection to appearance of symptoms can vary from up to 6 weeks for Hepatitis A to 6 months for Hepatitis B.Some people who have no symptoms may become carriers of the virus.If symptoms do develop,they may initially include

1. fatigue and a feeling of ill health 2. poor appetite 3. nausea and vomiting 4. fever 5. discomfort in the upper right side of the abdomen 6.Several days after the initial symptoms develop - the white of the eyes and skin may take on a yellow tinge (jaundice) 7. Often the initial symptoms improve once jaundice appears 8. At this time,the faeces may become paler than usual,and widespread itching may be present 9.Acute hepatitis caused by Hepatitis B virus may also cause joint pains 9. Acute hepatitis may result in liver failure,causing mental confusion,seizures and sometimes coma 10. Liver failure is relatively common following an overdose with painkiller Paracetamol,but it is less common with some types of Hepatitis,such as those due to Hepatitis A virus

Diagnoses & Treatment: If your doctor suspects that you have Hepatitis he/she may arrange for you to have blood tests to evaulate your liver function and to look for possible causes of the Hepatitis.Blood tests will probably be repeated in order to help monitor your recovery.If the diagnosis is unclear,you may also have an ultrasound scan and in some cases a liver biopsy,in which a small piece of liver is removed and examined under the microscope

There is no specific treatment for most cases of Acute hepatitis,and people are actually advised to rest.Consult your doctor before taking any medicines - such as painkillers,because there is a risk of side effects.If you have Viral hepatitis,you will need to take precautions to prevent the spread of the disease,including practising safe sex.You should avoid drinking alcohol during the illness and for a minimum of 3 months after you have recovered

Prognosis: Most people with Acute hepatitis feel better after 4-6 weeks and recover after 3 months.However for some people with Hepatitis C - recorvery is followed by a series of relapses over several months.About 3 out of 4 people with Hepatitis C - and 1 out of 20 with Hepatitis B and D develops Chronic hepatitis.People with Acute hepatitis casued by an infection other than the Hepatitis viruses usually recover completely once the infection clears up.Recovery from Acute hepatitis due to excessive alcohol consumption ,drugs or other toxins - depends on the extent of the liver damage.The substances causing the Acute hepatitis must be avoided in the future.In the rare cases in which Hepatitis progresses to liver failure,a liver transplant may be necessary

Prevention: Infection with Hepatitis A & E may be prevented by good personal hygiene.The risk of infection with Hepatitis B & C & D can be reduced by practising safe sex and by not sharing needles or other objects that might be contaminated with infected body fluids.Immunizations to protect against Hepatitis A are given to travellers to certain countries,and others at risk of contracting the infection.Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for high-risk groups,such as health-care workers.To avoid the transmission of Hepatitis through blood transfusion,blood banks routinely screen all blood for the Hepatitis B and C viruses

Herbalism: The use of Plants or substances extracted from them, to try and cure illness

Hernia: A Rapture.A Protrusion of abdominal organs through a gap in the abdominal wall.Caused by a small defect in the muscular wall of abdomen.Obesity and lifting heavy weights may be risk factorsIf pressue in the abdomen is increased due to causes such as lifing heavy weights,persistent coughing or starining at defecation,the muscles of the abdomen become stretched at the weak point.A visible bulge can then develop which may contain fatty tissue or part of the intestine.Abdomina hernias are frequently found in men who have heavy manual jobs

Types of Hernias: They are classified according to the site where they occur in the body.Most occur at sites in the abdomen where there is a weakness in the muscle.Some types occur more often in men,others are more frequently found in women.Inguinal Hernia - This type of hernia occurs when a portion of the intestine pushes through into the inguinal canal,which is a weak spot in the abdominal muscle wall.The hernia causes a visible bulge in the groin or scrotum.These hernias usually affect men,but sometimes occur in women.Femoral hernia - This type occurs in the part of the groin where the femoral vein and artery pass from the lower abdomen to the thigh.Women who are over-weight or who have had several pregnancies are at increased risk of these hernias because their abdominal muscles are weakened.Umbilical Hernia - Babies may be born with an umbilical hernia,which develops behind the navel due to a weakness in the abdominal wall.Hernia that develop near the navel are known as para-umbilical hernias and are most common in women who are overweight or hwo have had several pregancies Other types of Hernia - Epigastric hernias develop in the midline between the navel and the breastbone and are three times more common in men.Incisional hernias may develop after abdominal surgery if there is weakness around the scar.Risk factors include being overweight and having several oprations through the same incision

Treatment: Your doctor may be able to feel a hernia by examining the abdomen or groin.Even small hernias eventually need to be repaired, because if they are left untreated they may become strangulated.The type of operation depends largely on the size of the hernia and on your age and general health.Some procedures are done under local anaesthesia as day surgery.Umbilical hernias in babies can usually be left untreated since they tend to disappear naturally by the age of 5 years.Surgery is usually effective.However a hernia may recur in the same place or elsewhere.After surgery you may be advised to avoid strenuous activity for a few weeks.You can help prevent a recurrence by losing excess weight,doing gentle exeercise and avoiding constipation.

Herpes: Infection caused by Virus Herpes Simplex or Herpes Zoster-Shingles. Herpes Simplex is the name of a virus that can cause cold sores or genital sores,depending on whichever bit of skin is infected.Herpes is called a Cold Sore on the face,but you can get it on the genitals or anywhere else.Cold sores are often due to a mother passing on the virus on to her children through kissing.In genital Herpes the virus is transmitted through infected skin coming into contact with a partner's skin e.g during sex or from mouth to genitals during oral sex.It is more common in women because their genital areas are warmer and more moist than that of men

Causes: Genital Herpes was originally thought to be caused only by the Herpes Simplex Type 2 while cold sores on the lips were thought more likely to be due to Herpes Simplex Type 1. However with the increase in oral sex - this distiction has become blurred.Blood tests show most of us have been exposed to the Herpes Simplex virus by the time we reach middle age.Millions of people are infected with the virus but probably only one-quarter of those infected have symptoms of any kind.Many people have what is called a sub-clinical attack - with no visible signs of infection and no ill effects.These people don't know they have been infected

Once in the body,the virus can retreat to nerve cells near the base of the spine.If the virus is reactivated,it can return to where it entered the body and cause a recurrence.Not all people have recurrence,some have a few and for some the problem recurs from time to time.Usually the initial attack is the most severe

Symptoms: Genital Herpes is highly contagious.New research indicates that the virus can also be transmitted by people who do not have any symptoms.Symptoms appear between three and seven days after sexual contact with an infected partner.The genital skin feels oversensitive to the touch.Itching and irritation around the genitals.A general feeling of being unwell.Headache.Muscle aches and joint pains.Abdominal pain.In genital Herpes - s hooting pain in the lower limbs.Enlarged tender lymph glands in the neck & groin.Pain on passing urine.Blisters appear within a few hours,enlarge,burst and become painful ulcers within two to three days.The ulcers from scabs and take 14-21 days to heal completely

Triggers for Re-currence: Recurrence do not depend on having intercourse with an infected partner.Attacks can be triggered by: physical and mental stress.Excessive cold or heat,including fever.For herpes infections of the face - exposure to strong sunlight.Irritation of delicate genital tissue.Local genital trauma - rough sexual intercourse,plucking or shaving of pubic hair.General ill health and other infections such as a cold causing fever

Treatment Genital Herpes: should always be looked at by a doctor and not treated by yourself at home.See your doctor immediately if you feel numb or sensitive in the genital area or if you have had sexual relations with anyone with the Herpes Virus.There is no cure for Genital Herpes but the sooner treatment is given the more likely it will prevent or ameliorate an attack.Antiviral drugs,such as Acyclovir,taken as tablet make the ulcers less painful and encourage healing if taken early in the attack.Other remedies include bathing the area with salt solution (a heaped spoon of salt in a pint of water).Over-the-counter Acyclovir cream should not be used to treat genital herpes,though it works better on facial cold sore.Other remedies for genital herpes include daily douches with povidone iodine solution or bathing the area with salt solution - one heaped teaspoon of salt to one pint of water.Painful blisters can be relieved by a soak in a tepid bath with salt added and cold packs (not ice) applied to the infected area.To prevent genital herpes recurring get plenty of rest and eat a balanced diet with nutritional foodstuffs and plenty of liquids.Manage stress by learning relaxation excercises or taking up yoga.Wear loose underwear so air can circulate and keep your genitals cool.Leave the sores exposed to air as much as possible.Keep a record of when you get recurrent attacks in an attempt to find a pattern.If,for example recurrence and related to rough sex,try using a lubricant such as KY jelly.You should try taking 200IU (international units) of vit E daily which may improve your body's immune response

Precaution: Herpes is for life.Never have sex if you have symptoms,except with the person from whom you got it - or whom you gave it to.When both partners have the same virus,they don't reinfect each other.Never have unprotected sex with a stranger.Never have oral-genital sex if you have a cold sore or if your partner has one.Never be dishonest about your herpes.It is best to be open about Herpes Simplex and tell your partner.And you must avoid skin contact when the virus is active.It may be easier to explain that you sometimes get cold sores on your genitals.Never be shy to tell your doctor about possible contacts

Pregnancy: You should inform your doctor - if pregnant and if you or your partner has had an attack of Genital Herpes or have had Herpes

Cancer: The herpes virus may have a role in the development of cervical cancer,so women who have had genital herpes should have a cervical smear test regularly

Herpes Simplex: Herpes simplex is the name given to a virus that can cause Cold Sores - usually Herpes SImplex type 1 .Herpes simplex type 2 - virus that causes genital herpes * see above*

Herpes Zoster: Virus that causes Chickenpox & Shingles *see under Chickenpox & Shingles*

Hirsutism: Excessive growth of Hair.There are to types of excessive hair growth - Hirsurtism & Hypertrichosis.HIRSUTISM:affects women only.In this condition,excessive hair develops particularly on the face,trunk and limbs.This type of excessive growth is more common in women over the age of 60, due to estrogen deficiency,especially those who are of Mediterranean,Asian,Hispanic or Hispanic or Arab descent.HYPERTRICHOSIS: can affect both males and femals.In this condition,the hair grows all over the body,even in the area that do not normally have hair

Causes: Mild Hirsutism in women is often considered normal, especially following the menopause when there is a realtive excess of male homones (Androgens) as Estrogen levels fall.Hirsutism may be the result of an increase in normally occurring Androgens in women with disorders such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS).Hypertrichosis may occur with Anorexia Nervosa or may occur as a side effect of Immunosuppressant or antihypertensive drugs

Treatment: If you are a young woman with Hirsutism, your doctor may arrange for a blood test to measure your male hormone levels and exclude Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). If Androgens (male hormones) are high,you may be given a drug to block the hormone's effects and be treated for an underlying disorder such as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.If Hypertrichosis occurs as a side effect of a drug, a change of treatment usually reverses the condition

Hair Removal: You can deal with excessive hair yourself by bleaching it or by shaving,plucking,waxing or using depilatory creams.The only way to remove hair permanently is by ELECTROLYSIS or LAZER TREATMENT - but they are can be uncomfortable & is expensive

Histamine: A Chemical released into the body when an Allergic or inflammatory reaction takes place.The most common results are redness, swelling and itching

HIV (Human Immuno Deficiency Virus): Acquired Immuno Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) are caused by HIV (Human Immuno Deficiency Virus). HIV is a chronic viral infection that,left untreated,results in reduced immunity to other infections and cancers (Particularly Kaposi's Sarcoma) - which may result in death

Infection with HIV,which in many cased leads to AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) has been the most written about, most researched and most feared infection of the past two decades.Despite the development of highly effective drugs to limit the disease - there is still no vaccine against the virus and the number of people with HIV infection contiunes to rise,especially in South Africa and other developing countries

WHERE DID HIV ORIGINATE FROM ? HIV is believed to have originated in Africa,where is similar virus is carried by some species of primates.The virus is thought to have spread from monkeys to humans through saliva in bites,then around the world from person to person in body fluid.The first recognized cases of AIDS in the US occured in 1981,when there was an outbreak of unusual cases of Pneumonia and Skin Cancer in young homosexual men in Los Angeles.Two years later,the virus was isolated and identified as HIV

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE HIV POSITIVE ? - HIV infects and gradually destroys cells in the immune system,weakening the body's response to infections and cancers.People infected with HIV may have no symptoms for many years,or they may experience frequent or prolonged mild infections,but they all develop antibodies to the virus,which can be detected by a blood test.They are said to be HIV POSITIVE

WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO HAVE AIDS ? - When the immune system becomes severly weakend,an infected person is said to have AIDS.A person with AIDS develop serious infections caused by organisms that are normally harmless to healthy people and is also susceptible to certain cancers

HOW MANY PEOPLE HAS BEEN AFFECTED ? By the end of 1998 - there were about 22 000 people in the UK who had HIV infection, with 2,000 new cases a year.Worldwide - over 33 million people are thought to be infected.South Africa has one of highest occurance of HIV in the world. Many carry the virus and unaware that they have the condition & the number is rising. As a result of developments in the drug treatment,deaths due to AIDS have fallen dramatically in the developed world since 1995

It is important to know that the HIV is not contagious like the common cold but is easily transmitted through various methods

1. ALL BLOOD PRODUCTS & BODY FLUIDS - HIV is carried through Blood Products,Semen,Vaginal Secretions,Saliva & Breast Milk - although not to the same degree.All body fluids do not therefore have the same potential for infection. Saliva from an infected person contains HIV, but in such small quantity that it would be exceedingly difficult to be infected by saliva

2. SEXUALLY - HIV is most commonly transmitted sexualy - by vaginal,anal or oral sex.You are more susceptible to HIV infection and more likely to pass on the virus if you have another sexually transmitted disease

3. CONTAMINATED NEEDLES- You are also at increased risk of HIV infection - if you use intravenous drugs and share or reuse needles, contaminated with the virus.Medical workers are also at risk through handling contaminated needles or from contact with infected body fluids,but the risk is very low

4. BLOOD TRANSFUSIONS & ORGAN TRANSPLANT - Although the virus can also be transmitted through organ transplant or blood transfusion - however the risk is low in developed countries,since the screening of organs,blood or tissue for HIV is now compulsory & routine

5. HIV INFECTED PREGNANT WOMEN & MOTHERS - HIV infection can be passed from an infected pregnant woman to the fetus or to the baby at birth or during breast-feeling

6. THROUGH SEXUAL ASSAULT OR RAPE - To prevent the victim from contracting HIV they should be treated with anti-retroviral drugs as soon as posible after an assault

HIV enters the bloodstream and infects cells that have a special structure,known as the CD4 receptor,on their surfaces.The infected cells include a type of white blood cell,known as a CD4 lymphocyte, which is responsible for fighting infection.The virus reproduces rapidly within the cells and destroy them in the process.At first - the immune system is able to function normally despite the infection,and symptoms may not develop for years.However especially if the infection is untreated ,the number of CD4 lymphocyes eventually begins to fall,causing increased susceptibility to other infections an some types of cancer

The first symptoms of HIV infecdtion usually appear within 6 weeks of infection.Some people experience a flu-like illness that may include some or all of the following symptoms

These symptoms usually clear up after a few weeks and namy people with HIV infection feel completely healthy.However in some people - any of the following minor disorders may develop

1. persistent,swollen lymph glands 2. mouth infections - such as thrush 3. gum disease 4. severe,persistent herpes simplex infection - such as cold sores 5. Extensive gential warts 6. itchy flaky skin - seborrhoeic dermatitis 7. neurological symptoms similar to dementia

The time between infection with HIV and the onset of AIDS varies from person to person,but it can be anywhere between 1-14 years.Often people are totally unaware for years that they are infected with HIV - until they develop one or more serious infections or Cancers known as AIDS-defining illnesses

These infections may be caused by protozoa,fungi,viruses or bacteria - and they are often life-threatening

1. PNEUMONIA - One of the most common illnesses in people with AIDS is a severe infection of the lungs by the parasitic Pneumocystis carinii

2. TOXOPLASMOSIS - Other common diseases are protozoal - such as toxoplasmosis - which can affect the brain

3. CANDIDA ALBICANS - A fungus that causes mild superficial infections in healthy people but may produce much more serious infections in people who have AIDS

4. FEVER, HEADACHES LUNG INFECTIONS - Cryptococcus Fungus may cause fever,headaches and lung infection

5. TB, LISTERIOSIS, HERPEX SIMPLEX, SEPTICAEMIA,MENINGITIS, VIRAL ENCEPHALITIS - People with AIDS suffer from severe bacterial and viral infections,include Turberculosis & Listeriosis,which may lead to Blood Poisoning (septicaemia).Viral infections include those caused by the Herpes virusses.Herpes simplex infections can affect the brain,causing Meningitis and Viral Encephalitis

6. PNEUMONIA, VIRAL ENCEPHALITIS, EYE INFLAMMATION, BLINDNESS - The Cytomegalovirus may cause a number of severe conditions,including Pneumonia,Viral Encephalitis and a type of eye inflammation that can result in blindness.However,people with AIDS are no more susceptible to common infections such as colds

7. KAPOSI'S SARCOMA, non-HODGKINS LYMPHOMA & CERVICAL CANCERS - The most common cancer that affects people with AIDS is Kaposi's Sarcoma - a type of skin cancer that can also affect the inside of the mouth and internal organs.Other cancers that commonly develop in people with AIDS include Lymphomas - such as non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma.Cancer of the cervix is an AIDS defining illness in women infected with HIV

If your HIV test results is positive,you will probably be referred to a specialist / centre where you will recieve monitoring,treatment and advice from a team of health-care professional

Drug Treatment -Reverse Transcriptase inhibitors & Protease inhibitors: May be started when you are diagnosed with HIV infection or when CD4 lumphocyte levels start to fall.Advances in the use of anti-retroviral drugs,that prevent HIV from replicating - have made it possible to prevent progression of HIV infections to AIDS and to suppress the viral infection to undetectable levels in some people

There are two main groups of anti-retroviral drugs used in the treatment of HIV infection and AIDS 1. Reverse Transcriptase inhibitors 2. Protease inhibitors. The drugs work by blocking the processes neccessary for viral replication without significantly damaging the body cells that the viru has invaded.Reverse Transcriptase inhibitors,such as Zidovudine(AZT), alter the genetic material of the infected cell (which is needed by the virus to replicate) or the genetic material of the virus itself Protease inhibitors ,such as Ritonavir,prevent the production of viral proteins necessary for replication

Once AIDS has developed,opportunistic infections are dealt with as they occur,usually by treatment with anitbiotic drugs and in some cases,they may also be long-term preventive treatment against most common infections

Emotional support and practical advice can be obtained from the many support groups & charitable organizations that help people with HIV infection & AIDS

There is NO CURE for HIV infection.But the drug treatments available in the develop world have made it possible to regard the condition as a chronic illness rather than as a rapidly fatal one.In the two years following the introduction of anti-vrial drug combination therapies in 1995,deaths from AIDS in the developed world fell dramatically.However for most of the people with HIV who live in the developing world,prognosis is bleak.Few have access to up-to-date treatment and left untreated,half of all people infected with the virus develop AIDS within 10 years & die

1. EDUCATION - HIV infection can be prevented through education and teaching everyone about the risk of infection from an early age

2. DO NOT PLAY WITH YOUR LIFE- The two main precaution that everyone can take to avoid sexual transmission are to abstain or practise safe sex -t hat is to use a condom during any sexual intercourse and to avoid sex with multiple partners.Never give in to the temptation to have sex with a partner you barely know,no matter how wonderful they seem to be.Be on guard if they get angry or resentful when talking about the risks involved

3. HAVE A HIV TEST BEFORE - Both partners migh think about having an HIV test before having unprotected sex in a new relationship

4. TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR YOUR UNBORN CHILD & BABY - If you are HIV positive & Pregnant,anitviral drugs may be given to reduce the risk of transmission to the fetus.You may be advised to to have a caesarean section.Avoid breastfeeding if your are HIV positive to reduce the risk of transmitting the virus to your child

5. MEDICAL PROFESSION ARE TAKING PRECAUTIONS - Medical professionals take many steps to prevent transmissions of HIV,including screening all blood products and tissues for transplant and using desposable or carefully sterilized equipment

6. SUFFERERS NEED TO BE RESPONSIBLE -People with HIV need to take special are to prevent others from coming into contact with their blood or body fluids and should always inform their partners & dental or medical staff that they are HIV positive

7. USE CLEAN NEEDLES - Specific groups also need to take special precautions e.g if you inject drugs intravenously,you must use a clwan needle everytime

1. Swimming in the same pool as an HIV-positive person 2. From kissing an infected person on the mouth,although there is a slight risk if the person has inflamed or bleeding gums 3. From drinking from a glass or eating from a plate that is been used by an HIV-pisitive person 4. By going to school or college with an HIV-positive person 4. By visiting someone with HIV at her home or in hospital 5. By hugging,touching,shaking hands or dancing with someone who is HIV positive 6. By sitting on a toilet seat or use a telephone that has been used by an infected person 7. By standing next to an infected person n who is sneezing - the virus does not travel through air 8. You cannot get HIV from been bitten by an insect 9. Won't get HIV If you give blood at a blood transfusion unit

Hives: Uticaria/Nettle Rash.A Skin condition.The Rash that results is easy to recognize.The skin erupts into white lumps on a red base.These are known as Weals and can be as small as pimples or centimetres across.Hives can be caused by skin contact with an Allergen, such as primulas or it can result from eating certian foods e.g shellfish,strawberries or taking certain drugs, particularly penicillin an asprin.Hives is most common after a nettle sting.Each crop of weals is extremely itchy and lasts up to an hour.Not serious,but if it appears on the face,especially around the mouth and is accompanies by swelling - get medical assisance IMMEDIATELY- This allergic reacton is know as Angioedema.And if the swellling spreads to the tongue or throat, it can cause severe breating problems

Hodgkin's Disease: Tumour of the Lymph Glands or organs rich in lymphatic tissue

Homeopathy: Like may cure like.This philosophy of treatment is in direct contrast to most orthodox medicine

Hormones: Produced by the Endocrine Glands.Chemical substances in the bloodstream that control and regulates the functioning of the body's organs and tissues

Huntington's Chorea: Uncommon Inherited disease.Produces gradual Mental Deterioration that eventually results in death

Hydatid Cyst: Echinococciasis.Rare Infectious Disease caused by tapeworm Taenia Echinococcus

Hydrocele: A hydrocele is a sof painless cyst surrounding teh Testicles.During development, the lining of the abdomen puches down into the scrotum as the Testicle descends.This closes off to leave an empty remnant in the scrotum.In middle age, this remnatn often fills with fluid and can grow quite large.In most cases ther is no underlying cause,but occasionally a hydrocoele forms as a result of inflammation,infection,injury or rarely and underlying tumour of the testicle on that side.A doctor tests for hydrocele by holding a pen torch next to the scrotum skin.The swelling will light up if it is due to a fluid-filled hydrocoele and you can do this test for yourself.Small hydrocoele are often left alone and larger ones may be drained off under a local anaesthetic,though they may recur, so surgery is the most effective treatment

Hydrocephalus: Water on the Brain.Rare condition.Excessive build up of Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in and around the brain and increases pressue inside the brain.May result in causing BRAIN DAMAGE.If not treated can be Fatal

Cerebrospinal fluid,carries nutrients to the brain and acts as a protective fluid buffer.If the circulation of CSF is blocked for some reason,or if the fluid is produced in too great a quantity,the build-up of fluid increases pressure inside the brain.The brain tissue becomes thinner and the bones of the skull stretch to accommodate teh excess fluid.The pressure on the brain can cause brain damage and if untreated,more than 50% of hydrocephalic infants die

Symptoms: 1. Abnormal head size at birth 2. rapid growth of it in the following months - 3. veins standing out on scalp 4. swollen fontanelle 5. headache 6. vomiting.The symptoms depend on the age at which hydrocephalus develops in the child 7.If it is present at birth,the head is abnormally large because the skull bones have been pushed apart by the fluid, in such cases the baby will probably 8. also suffer from spina bifida, a nearal tube defect 9. In milder forms the head may be normal at birth but grow at an excessive rate in the following months 10.Hydrocephalus can also develop later in childhood as the result of a tumour or an 11. infection such as meningitis when there may be no appreciable enlargement to the head, 12.although the pressure of the fluid on the brain may cause headaches and vomiting

Treatment: If the condition is present at birth,it will normally be noticed by the doctor at delivery or at regular check-ups,when your baby's head is measured to check the size.A careful initial evaluation by a paediatrician is necessary to determine the exact cause of the build-up of fluid.In mild cases drugs may be used to prevent excess prodution of CSF.Otherwise provided the hydrocephalus is not too advanced,the condition will be relieved surgically.Under anaesthetic, a fine tube with a one-way valve is inserted into the brain through a hole in the skull.The other end is usually inserted into the peritoneal (abdominal) cavity where fluid from the brain drains.After these treatments the baby's head gradually returns to normal, about 40% of hydrocephalic infants then go on to develop near normal intelligence.If at some stage after the operation our child becomes irritable and is vomiting, a blockage of the tube will be suspected.The tube will be replaced or the blockage removed

Hydrotherapy: The Curative Powers of Water.The external use of water in various types of bath and shower or through the application of high-pressure jets

Hyperactivity: Used as a label for children with minor behavioural problems, such as disruptive behaviour, poor attention span, sleeplessness and excitability.In fact most hyperactive children are simply extremely active and normal.Research has found that certain food colourings and flavourings contribute to patterns of hyperactive behaviour in children, proper handling and tolerance by parents can solve most of the problems of individual behaviour in a child

Hyperemesis Gravidrum: In Pregnancy Persistent severe Vomiting which is an extreme form of 'morning sickness'

Hypermetropia: Long-sightedness.People have difficulty in focusing on Near objects, but can see objects at a distance

Hypertrichosis: Excessive Hair Groth / Hirsutism There are to types of excessive hair growth - Hirsurtism & Hypertrichosis.HIRSUTISM:affects women only.In this condition,excessive hair develops particularly on the face,trunk and limbs.This type of excessive growth is more common in women over the age of 60, due to estrogen deficiency,especially those who are of Mediterranean,Asian,Hispanic or Hispanic or Arab descent.HYPERTRICHOSIS: can affect both males and femals.In this condition,the hair grows all over the body,even in the area that do not normally have hair

Hypnosis: An Artificially created State of Altered Consciousness that is neither wakefulness nor sleep - in which the subject is susceptible to suggestion

Hypomania: Mild form of Mania with Extreme Restlessness and Elation in someone who may also suffer from Depression

Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome (HLHS): Is a condition in which the left side of Heart is undeveloped.It is the most common cause of death from heart disease during the first week of life.Usually it is not possible to replace the underdeveloped side, but rerouting the circulation is essential.This is usually done surgically in three stages.The effect of these procedures is to reroute the blood returning from the body directly via the lungs, allowing the pumping chambers of the heart (right ventricle) to concentrate on pumping blood around the body

Hypospadias: Deformity of the male Penis.Pypospadias is a common birth defect in which the opeing of the Urethra (the passage that carries from the bladder to outside of the body) develps on the underside of the shaft of the penis instead of at the tip.Most commonly,the opening develops near the end of the penis,but in severe cases it can occur far back towards the scrotum.Sometimes,part or the foreskin may be missing and the penis curves downwards a condition known as Chordee.Hypospadias can run in families,suggesting a genetic factor may be involved.The condition is usually detected during the routine examination following birth

Treatment: Hypospadias is usually treated with surgery before the age of 2.During the operation the foreskin is used to form an extension to the existing urethra so that it reaches the tip of the penis,and it is important that your son is not circumcized if he is born with hypospadias.If chordee is also present,it can be corrected during the same operation.Treatment usually allows urine to be passed normally,and sexual activity and fertility in later life are not affected

Hypotension: Low Blood Pressure.Some people have blood pressure that is persistently below normal levels.In most circumstances, however, such low blood pressure is healthy and the longer your blood pressure is on the low side the healthier our heart will be.Except in very old peple, low blood pressure therefore needn't be treated.A common type of low blood pressure is Postural

Hypotension - in which suddenly standing or sitting up leads to light-headedness or fainting.This can be caused by several drugs, including those for high blood pressure.Shock is a serious form of low blood pressure due to rapid loss of fluids or blood or a heart attack, and requires emergency treatment.Dehydration following loss of large amounts of fluid or salts from the body will lower the blood pressure. e.g. heavy sweating, loss blood or profuse diarrhoea may cause varying degreees of low blood pressure

Hysterectomy: Procedure to remove a woman's Uterus.Cervix,Fallopian Tubes and sometimes Ovaries.Caution.Hysterectomy should be seen as a last resort and if your doctor advises it, get a second opinion

Hysteroscopy: This involves examing the inside of the uterus with a small telescopic maera that is passed through the cervix.It can be performed under a general anaesthetic, when it is often combined with a dilatation and curettage (D&C) or in the outpatient clinic.Various hysteroscopic procedures have been developed to treat specific problems.Procedure: Involves passing the hysteroscope through the cervix into the cavity of the uterus.If the procedure is being perormed in the outpatient clinic you may be given painkillers about 1-2 hours beforehand and occasionally a local anaesthetic will be injected in and aoround the cervix to help relieve any discomfort.In order to obtain a good view of the cavity, it has to be distended using either a harmless gas such as carbon dioxide or liquid.Most women go home the day of the operation.DFor a few days afterwards you may notic some spotting.Some women may be required to stay in hospital for a few days if the hysteroscopy has been combined with another operative procedure.Make sure that you unnderstand why the procedure is being performed and what is going to be achieved. Hysteroscopy is usually not performed if you are pregnant and is best avoided if you are suffering from pelvic inflammatory disease

Hysteria: Condition in which sufferer displays unusual Behaviour in order to attract attention or to avoid an unpleasant situation

Family Health Guide & The Baby & Child Health Care Handbook - Dr.Miriam Stoppard