• Andy Stein
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10 TB (tuberculosis) facts In this article, we will describe 10 facts for health professionals about tuberculosis (TB). Key Points Definition: TB is a contagious bacterial infection caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis, primarily affecting the lungs but can involve any organ. Worldwide: TB remains a significant global health issue, with increased incidence in areas of poverty, […]

• Andy Stein
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10 high cholesterol facts In this article we will provide 10 facts for health professionals about high cholesterol and hyperlipidaemia. Key Points Definition: elevated levels of lipids in the blood, primarily cholesterol and triglycerides Complications: risk factor for atherosclerosis, which can lead to ischaemic heart disease (IHD) and stroke Epidemiology: very common, affecting around 60% […]

• Hasan Afsar
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Anaphylaxis – medical revision notes What? A life threatening allergic reaction. It has a rapid onset, with rapid progression of symptoms. Signs Flushing Angioedema Urticaria Shortness of breath Wheeze Chest tightness Respiratory arrest Tachycardia Bradycardia. Triggers Food products such as peanuts and milk Medications such as antibiotics Insect stings Latex Exercise. Risk Factors Allergies Asthma […]

• Andy Stein
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10 (more) interesting facts about the NHS This is a longer version of this article. 1. How much is spent on health and care? The NHS is not free. In 2022/23, the Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC)  cost £182 billion. This money is used to fund a wide range of health and care […]

• Andy Stein
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Did acne exist 100 years ago? Yes, very much so. Acne in ancient Egypt Acne is described in very ancient writings dating back to the Ebers papyrus (1550 BC). Though its first clear description was by Fuchs in 1840, who coined the term ‘Acne vulgaris’. Then Erasmus Wilson separated it from acne rosacea. The early […]

• Andy Stein
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10 medical facts structure Key points (5) 1. Definition Types 2. Epidemiology 3. Risk factors 4. Causes 5. Symptoms and signs 6. Diagnosis Investigation Differential diagnosis (maximum = 5) 7. Treatment When should I see a doctor? 8. Complications 9. Prognosis 10. Prevention Please write an article for XX on YY, with these subheadings: 5 […]

• Andy Stein
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I’ve got a cold: should I see a doctor? No, not normally. Most colds (and coughs, and sore throats) are due to viruses, and do not need treatment. And you do not need to see a doctor. This is also true if the bug is a bacteria like a Strep (A) throat. Typical cold symptoms  […]

• Andy Stein
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10 common reasons to go to Walk-in or Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) First of all. Let’s start with the basics. What is a Walk-in or Urgent Treatment Centre (UTC) They are designed to take the burden off NHS A&Es by providing a facility to treat more minor complaints such as cuts and scrapes, bruises, small […]

• Andy Stein
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10 common reasons to go to Minor Injury/Illness Unit (MIU) First of all. Let’s start with the basics. What is a minor illness/injury unit (MIU)? Minor illness/injury units are designed to take the burden off NHS A&Es by providing a facility to treat more minor complaints such as cuts and scrapes, bruises, small burns, wound infections and other […]

• Andy Stein
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Is the five second rule for dropped food true? It is not clear. In fact, the origins of the five-second rule are unclear, but it has been passed down through generations as a seemingly practical guideline. The five-second rule, is a food hygiene urban legend that states a defined time window within which it is […]