Author: admin
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Shingles – FAQs
1. What is shingles? Shingles is a viral infection that causes a painful rash, usually on one side of the body. It is caused by the varicella-zoster virus, the same virus that causes chickenpox. The virus can reactivate many years after a person has had chickenpox. 2. Who can get shingles? Anyone who has had…
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Herpes – FAQs
1. What is herpes? Herpes is a common viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two main types: HSV-1, which often causes cold sores around the mouth, and HSV-2, which more commonly causes genital herpes. Either type can affect the mouth or genitals. 2. How is herpes spread? Herpes is spread…
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Cold Sores – FAQs
1. What is a cold sore? A cold sore is a small, painful blister or group of blisters that usually appear on or around the lips. It is caused by the herpes simplex virus, most commonly HSV-1. Once infected, the virus stays in the body for life. 2. How do people get cold sores? Cold…
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Heartburn – FAQs
This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional. 1. What is heartburn? Heartburn is a burning, uncomfortable sensation in the chest or upper stomach. It occurs when stomach acid flows back into the oesophagus, which is not designed to handle acid, causing irritation. Occasional heartburn is common,…
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Ear Block FAQs
This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional. 1. What does “ear block” mean? Ear block (blocked ear) is a feeling of fullness, pressure or muffled hearing. It usually happens when something prevents sound from passing through the ear canal or middle ear properly. 2. What are…
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Nosebleed FAQs
This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional. 1. What causes most nosebleeds? Most nosebleeds happen when small blood vessels inside the nose break. Common triggers include dry air, colds, allergies, nose picking, blowing too hard, or minor bumps to the nose. 2. What is the correct…
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Conjunctivitis FAQs
This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional. 1. What is conjunctivitis?Conjunctivitis, also known as “pink eye,” is inflammation of the thin layer covering the white of the eye and inner eyelids. It is a common eye condition. 2. What are the symptoms of conjunctivitis?Symptoms may include…
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Sinusitis FAQs
This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional. 1. What is sinusitis?Sinusitis is inflammation of the lining of the sinuses, which are air-filled spaces around the nose and eyes. It can cause facial pain, congestion, and pressure. 2. What are common symptoms of sinusitis?Symptoms may include a…
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Hay Fever FAQs
This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional. 1. What is hay fever?Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is an allergic reaction to substances such as pollen, dust mites, mould, or animal dander. It affects the nose, eyes, and airways. 2. What are common symptoms of…
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High Blood Pressure/Hypertension FAQs
This information is general health information only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional. 1. What is high blood pressure?High blood pressure, also called hypertension, is when your blood pressure readings are consistently higher than normal. Over time, this can strain your heart and blood vessels. 2. What blood pressure level…