Frequently Discussed Health Issues
Below we share a sample of some cases we've discussed with real clients.
We take time to gather detailed background health and social information to ensure we provide the best and responsible advise to guide treatment.
They may cover maternal and child health issues, topics that are important in sexual and reproductive health and mental health.
Client Bio: Middle aged lady with low mid back pain
'Dear Dr, I've had this pain across the middle of the back and above the hip for about a year, it comes on and off. Its not affected by sleep or position, and I had no injury before it started.
It's worse after I've sat for a prolonged period, and seems present first thing in the morning or late at night. I'm usually well, take no regular medications and I have no allergies.
What can I do to relieve this pain?'
'It is most likely due to a Muscular sprain of the lower back muscles suggested by its repetitive nature and presence after prolonged periods in a particular position.
We think it will improve with:
*Stretching or changing position when practical every half hour or more;
*Address back supports for home or work like your work chair/ bed and mattress / car seat;
*Massage treatment or Physiotherapy;
*Anti-Inflammatory medication (we can recommend some).
If persistent despite these measures or it seems to be getting worse, then seeing your health care worker to arrange for some tests is recommended.'
Client Bio: Young lady with Nose Bleeds
Hi Doc, I've been having nose bleeds for about 3 years now. they come and go - but can happen up to 10 times a year. I've just started again and its quite heavy.
I'm really scared - what could be causing this? Usually it stops by itself. I don't have a cold or pick my nose. I'm not taking any medications. I'm very fit, my BP is ok. Its never painful.Could it be cancer?
Hi, thanks for reaching out to us. Nose bleeds can be really frightening.
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Firmly pinching the soft part of the nose and leaning forward, breathing through your mouth should stop most bleeds after 15-20 minutes.
If not getting better or worsening, please seek emergency help.
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The possible causes are due to a heavy cold, harmless growths, in the nose, high blood pressure, picking the nose (usually in kids), an injury to the face, a problem with your blood flow or clotting, and a few other reasons.
Cancer is possible, but rare.
From the information we've gathered, we think its very unlikely to be Cancer but in view of its recurring nature, we recommend you should see a Doctor soon to examine and specify the cause.
Client Bio: Middle aged man with scrotal pain
Hello, it's a bit embarrassing but I really need your advise.
I was at work and lifting heavy objects 2 weeks ago.A few hours from closing, there was a sharp pain on the left side of my groin. I thought I'd pulled a muscle.
It did get better by the next day and I didn't feel anything unusual so I forgot about it, but in the last 3 days the pain came back. It's been really bad since yesterday. I don't like taking pain medicine but I just need to know what this might be and what tests I need to have.
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I'm fit, I've no medical problems. I haven't felt a lump or swelling in my balls, and I haven't seen any blood or pus when I wee. I didn't have a fever or feel like vomiting. I never had a sexually transmitted infection.
Hello. We think your symptoms do require further assessment and an examination by your doctor. Most commonly, if not as a result of some injury to the area, we would be thinking of an infection as a cause for this pain. It may or may not have resulted from sexual activity.
While sexuality, sexual orientation and sexual encounters are often private and most people are reserved about, it will be helpful for your Doctor or Nurse Practitioner to know about your sexual circumstances. A thorough examination by your doctor would guide further tests which may include testing urine, discharge (if applicable) and blood.
If a lump or swelling is present it could be collection of body fluids in the scrotum which your doctor would confirm on examination. This finding will be investigated further by your doctor to be sure of the cause to advise and treat accordingly.
It is important to see your doctor to treat infections which may affect your fertility and to detect early signs of possible cancer to commence early treatment.