High blood Pressure AKA Hypertension By Dr I Abrahams (MBChB, UCT) What is blood pressure Blood pressure is the force that blood exerts on the walls of our arteries either when the heart is beating or in between beats when the heart rests. The pressure when the heart is beating (or systolic pressure) is the maximum pressure that the heart will exert on your arteries during a single “beat-rest” or cardiac cycle. During the heart’s “rest” period it fills up with blood in prep

By Dr I Abrahams (MBChB) What is acne? Acne is a skin condition involving the pores on your skin and their associated hair follicle and oil gland. Acne is defined by a combination of comedones (white or black heads), pustules (pus pimples), cysts and scarring. In order to diagnose acne, the only necessary criteria is a comedone. Every other lump, bump or scar started out as a comedone at some point. If you don’t have black or white heads, consult your doctor, as you may not

By Dr I. Abrahams (MBChB, UCT) What is Allergic Rhinitis or hayfever (aka “Sinus”) Allergic rhinitis is an allergic condition that is characterised by clear thin mucus, itchy eyes and nose, postnasal drip, runny nose, sneezing and even cough. The condition can either be seasonal or all year round and is normally triggered by pollen, pet dander, cockroaches, fabric and dust. Allergic rhinitis is commonly associated with chronic throat clearing, cough and feeling of mucous d

In today's fast-paced world, managing appointments can often feel overwhelming. With busy schedules and constant notifications, it’s easy to lose track of important meetings or events. Fortunately, WhatsApp has emerged as a powerful tool for organizing appointments efficiently. This blog post will guide you through the various ways you can leverage WhatsApp to manage your appointments seamlessly. Understanding WhatsApp as a Tool for Appointment Management WhatsApp is not just

Mental health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, yet it often remains overlooked in the realm of general practice. As healthcare providers, general practitioners (GPs) are in a unique position to address mental health issues, but many face challenges in doing so. This blog post explores the significance of mental health in general practice, the barriers GPs encounter, and practical strategies to enhance mental health care in primary settings. Understanding Mental Heal

In a world where stress and anxiety are prevalent, the importance of holistic care for mental and physical health cannot be overstated. Holistic care approaches health as a whole, recognizing the interconnectedness of mind, body, and spirit. This blog post will explore the principles of holistic care, its benefits, and practical ways to incorporate it into your daily life. What is Holistic Care? Holistic care is a comprehensive approach to health that considers the whole pers