Mental Matters

Health Conditions

Find information on various health conditions affecting people of all ages. This category covers causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and management options for physical illnesses and chronic diseases. Get insights to help you understand different health challenges and make informed decisions about your wellbeing.

Paediatrician examining young girl for febrile seizure diagnosis

Diagnosis of Febrile Seizures

Febrile Seizures, Health Conditions /

Diagnosis of Febrile Seizures The diagnosis of febrile seizures is mainly clinical, based on a clear history of seizure activity during a fever in a child between six months and five years old. Febrile seizures are usually diagnosed by a general practitioner, paediatrician, or emergency room doctor after careful examination and observation. Medical History and Observation Doctors ask detailed questions, including: Child’s age at the time of the seizure Duration and nature of the seizure (generalised or focal) Presence of fever before or during the seizure Whether it was the first seizure episode Family history of febrile seizures or epilepsy They will also check: If the child regained consciousness quickly Whether the seizure recurred within 24 hours Signs of a current or recent infection If the seizure fits the pattern of a simple febrile seizure, no further investigations are typically required. Physical Examination The doctor will examine: Temperature and vital signs Neck stiffness or rash (to rule out meningitis) Ear, throat, and chest for signs of infection Neurological responses (reflexes, eye tracking, responsiveness) A normal exam with signs of a viral illness supports the diagnosis of febrile seizures. When Tests Are Needed Further testing may be recommended if: The child is younger than six months or older than five years The seizure lasted more than 15 minutes There were multiple seizures in one day The child had focal (one-sided) movements The child did not recover consciousness promptly These cases are classified as complex febrile seizures, and further evaluation is needed. Tests may include: Blood and urine tests, to check for infection or metabolic imbalances Lumbar puncture, if meningitis or encephalitis is suspected (especially in infants) Electroencephalogram (EEG), if epilepsy is a concern CT or MRI scan, in rare cases, to rule out structural brain problems Differential Diagnosis Doctors must rule out: Meningitis or brain infection Epilepsy, if seizures occur without fever or continue after age 6 Breath-holding spells, fainting, or other non-epileptic events A thorough history and examination are usually enough to make a confident diagnosis. Diagnosis of Febrile Seizures The diagnosis of febrile seizures is mostly straightforward. For typical cases, reassurance and fever management are all that’s needed, while more complex or unusual episodes require additional assessment. [Next: Treatment of Febrile Seizures →]

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Mother helping child during febrile seizure recovery

Treatment of Febrile Seizures

Febrile Seizures, Health Conditions /

Treatment of Febrile Seizures The treatment of febrile seizures focuses on managing the seizure, reducing fever, and preventing harm. Febrile seizures usually resolve on their own within minutes and do not require long-term medication or hospitalisation in most cases. Immediate Steps During a Seizure If a child is having a seizure: Stay calm and place the child on their side (recovery position) Clear the area of hard or sharp objects Do not restrain the child’s movements Do not put anything in the mouth (including food, medicine, or fingers) Loosen tight clothing, especially around the neck Time the seizure — seek medical help if it lasts longer than 5 minutes After the seizure ends, keep the child in the recovery position and allow them to rest. They may be drowsy or confused for a short time. Reducing the Fever While fever reduction won’t stop a seizure once it begins, it may help the child feel more comfortable: Use paracetamol or ibuprofen Keep the child hydrated Dress the child in light clothing Use tepid sponging sparingly—avoid cold baths or ice These measures may ease discomfort but don’t necessarily prevent febrile seizures. When to Go to Hospital | Treatment of Febrile Seizures Take the child to hospital or call emergency services if: The seizure lasts longer than 5 minutes The child doesn’t wake up fully after 15 minutes There is difficulty breathing or bluish skin The child has a stiff neck, vomiting, or rash It’s the first febrile seizure or an unusual presentation Doctors may observe the child briefly and rule out serious infections. Long-Term Management Most children do not need daily medication. However: Children with complex febrile seizures or a strong family history of epilepsy may need further evaluation Rescue medications like rectal diazepam or buccal midazolam may be prescribed for children who have long seizures Follow-up with a paediatrician may be advised in certain cases Parental Reassurance and Education Parents should be: Reassured that febrile seizures are not dangerous or harmful in most cases Educated on what to do during future episodes Encouraged to treat fevers promptly, not to prevent seizures but to reduce distress The treatment of febrile seizures is mostly about immediate care and reassurance. With clear instructions and follow-up, most families cope well after the first event. [Next: Complications of Febrile Seizures →]

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Young boy in pain holding his stomach during a febrile seizure episode

Complications of Febrile Seizures

Febrile Seizures, Health Conditions /

Complications of Febrile Seizures The complications of febrile seizures are rare, but the condition can still cause anxiety and disruption for families. Most children with febrile seizures recover fully with no long-term effects. However, a small number may face further challenges. Physical Complications Simple febrile seizures do not cause: Brain damage Learning disabilities Paralysis Developmental delay They are not linked to sudden death or major injury unless a serious underlying illness is present. Risk of Epilepsy The chance of developing epilepsy after febrile seizures is slightly increased, especially in children who have: Complex febrile seizures A family history of epilepsy Neurological abnormalities or developmental delays Febrile seizures before 12 months of age Even then, most children (over 95%) do not go on to develop epilepsy. Recurrence of Seizures Around 1 in 3 children who have a febrile seizure will experience another during future fevers. Recurrence is more likely if: The first seizure occurred at a young age The fever was not very high There is a strong family history Despite recurrence, most children outgrow febrile seizures by age five or six. Parental Anxiety Many parents feel traumatised or frightened after witnessing a seizure Fear of future episodes can lead to over-monitoring or avoiding social situations Guilt or self-blame is common, even though nothing could have prevented the event Education and support are essential to help families manage future episodes with confidence. Emotional and Social Impact Children may be kept out of daycare or school unnecessarily Siblings or caregivers may also feel anxious or overprotective In rare cases, the seizure may highlight an undiagnosed infection, such as meningitis, requiring hospital care Healthcare teams must balance safety with reassurance to reduce unnecessary alarm. Medical Complications (Rare) Serious complications are extremely rare but may occur if: The seizure is prolonged (>15 minutes) The child has an underlying brain condition A serious infection is present and undiagnosed Prompt medical care minimises these risks. Complications of Febrile Seizures The complications of febrile seizures are minimal in most cases. With proper guidance and follow-up, the overwhelming majority of children recover completely and continue to develop normally. [Next: Complications of Febrile Seizures →]

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Man holding eye in pain with red inflammation indicating an eye injury

Eye Injuries

Eye Injuries, Health Conditions /

Eye Injuries This condition, eye injuries refer to any physical harm affecting the eye or its surrounding structures, including the eyelids, cornea, retina, and orbit. These injuries can range from minor irritations to serious trauma that threatens vision. Whether caused by accidents, chemicals, sports, or workplace incidents. All these injuries should be taken seriously—even those that seem minor at first. There are several types of these injuries: Corneal abrasions – scratches on the surface of the eye Blunt trauma – from being hit by an object Penetrating injuries – when something pierces the eye Chemical burns – from household cleaners, industrial substances, or workplace exposure Foreign objects – dust, metal shavings, or wood splinters that enter the eye Common symptoms include redness, pain, tearing, blurred vision, light sensitivity, or the feeling of something stuck in the eye. In more severe cases, there may be bleeding, swelling, or visible damage. Eye Injuries Prompt treatment is essential. Even minor scratches or irritation can lead to infection or long-term damage if not addressed properly. Severe eye trauma requires emergency medical attention to preserve sight. Globally, these injuries are a major cause of preventable blindness—especially in children, workers, and athletes. Proper protection, awareness, and fast care help prevent many injuries or ensure they are successfully treated. [Next: Causes of Eye Injuries →]

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Causes of Eye Injuries

Causes of Eye Injuries

Eye Injuries, Health Conditions /

Causes of Eye Injuries The causes of eye injuries are varied and depend on factors such as environment, occupation, recreational activities, and personal habits. Eye injuries often occur suddenly and unexpectedly, but many can be prevented with basic safety measures. Common Causes of Eye Injuries 1. Foreign Bodies Tiny particles like sand, dust, metal shavings, or wood chips Common in construction, metalworking, or gardening Can cause scratches (corneal abrasions) or embed in the eye’s surface 2. Blunt Trauma Caused by fists, balls, tools, or falls Can result in: Black eye (bruise) Hyphema – bleeding inside the eye Orbital fractures – break in the eye socket Retinal detachment, in severe cases 3. Penetrating Injuries Occur when sharp objects like scissors, knives, broken glass, or wires pierce the eye These are medical emergencies requiring immediate surgery 4. Chemical Exposure Household cleaning products, industrial solvents, or gardening chemicals Acid or alkali burns can rapidly damage the eye’s surface and inner structures Immediate irrigation is critical to reduce damage 5. Radiation and Light Injuries Overexposure to UV light (e.g., welding without eye protection) Sunlight reflected off snow or water (snow blindness) Laser exposure or bright camera flashes (rarely harmful but irritating) 6. Thermal Burns Caused by sparks, boiling water, or hot grease Often seen in kitchens, industrial settings, or during fires 7. Sports-Related Injuries Common in contact sports like rugby, boxing, basketball, or racquet sports Often the result of accidental elbow strikes, ball impact, or flying equipment 8. Childhood Accidents Toys, pencils, and small projectiles can easily injure children’s eyes Many childhood eye injuries occur at home or school High-Risk Environments | Causes of Eye Injuries People working in construction, metalwork, laboratories, or agriculture face a higher risk. Using proper safety goggles and shields significantly reduces incidents. Understanding the causes of eye injuries helps in both prevention and early action when injuries occur. [Next: Symptoms of Eye Injuries →]

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Adult examining young girl’s injured eye for signs of trauma

Symptoms of Eye Injuries

Eye Injuries, Health Conditions /

Symptoms of Eye Injuries The symptoms of eye injuries vary depending on the type and severity of trauma. Eye injuries can affect vision, comfort, and the physical structure of the eye. Some signs may appear immediately, while others develop over hours or days. Quick recognition of symptoms leads to better outcomes. General Symptoms Most eye injuries present with: Eye pain or discomfort Redness and irritation Tearing or watery eyes Blurry or distorted vision Light sensitivity (photophobia) Swelling of the eyelids or surrounding tissue A feeling of something in the eye (foreign body sensation) These symptoms may occur in one or both eyes, depending on the injury’s cause. Specific Symptoms by Injury Type 1. Corneal Abrasions Sharp, stinging pain Excessive tearing Sensitivity to light Foreign body sensation Even small scratches can cause intense discomfort. 2. Foreign Object in the Eye Gritty feeling Inability to keep the eye open Visible particle on the eye’s surface Reflexive blinking 3. Blunt Trauma Swelling and bruising (black eye) Double vision Headache or facial pain Difficulty moving the eye Vision changes Internal damage like retinal detachment may not cause pain but can result in sudden flashes of light or a “curtain” over vision. 4. Chemical Burns Intense burning or stinging Redness and blurred vision Difficulty opening the eye Pain may worsen over time if not treated Alkaline chemicals often cause more severe damage than acids. 5. Penetrating Injuries Severe eye pain Visible cut or hole in the eye Eye contents may leak or appear misshapen Bleeding or swelling inside the eye Sudden loss of vision These are medical emergencies and should never be touched or rinsed without guidance. When to Seek Medical Help | Symptoms of Eye Injuries You should see an eye doctor urgently if you experience: Sudden vision loss Ongoing pain A foreign object that cannot be removed Blood in or around the eye Persistent double vision Any trauma caused by chemicals or sharp objects Identifying the symptoms of eye injuries early helps prevent complications and permanent damage. [Next: Diagnosis of Eye Injuries→]

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Medical professional examining bruised eye of an injured man

Diagnosis of Eye Injuries

Eye Injuries, Health Conditions /

Diagnosis of Eye Injuries The diagnosis of eye injuries begins with a detailed history and clinical examination. Because eye injuries can range from mild surface irritation to life-threatening trauma, early and accurate assessment is essential. Misdiagnosis or delay can lead to long-term complications, including vision loss. Initial Evaluation Doctors first ask about: How and when the injury occurred What object or substance caused it Whether vision changed immediately after the incident Presence of pain, discharge, or swelling Any previous eye conditions or use of contact lenses This information helps determine if the injury is likely blunt, penetrating, chemical, or foreign-body related. Visual Acuity Test A standard eye chart test checks how well the person can see in each eye. Any significant drop in vision may indicate internal damage and warrants further investigation. Physical Examination A thorough examination includes: External inspection of the eyelids and surrounding tissue for bruising, cuts, or swelling Slit lamp examination, using magnification and light to check the cornea, iris, and anterior chamber Pupil reactivity, to assess for neurological or structural damage Eye movement testing, to detect muscle injury or nerve damage Any difficulty moving the eye may suggest orbital fracture or nerve involvement. Special Tests 1. Fluorescein Staining A special dye is applied to highlight corneal abrasions or foreign bodies Viewed under blue light, scratches or defects glow green 2. Tonometry Measures intraocular pressure, useful in trauma cases where glaucoma or bleeding is suspected 3. Ocular Ultrasound Performed when the eye cannot be opened or if internal bleeding blocks visualisation Useful for detecting retinal detachment, vitreous haemorrhage, or foreign objects 4. X-rays or CT Scans Recommended if orbital fractures, embedded foreign bodies, or deep trauma are suspected CT scans are especially helpful for evaluating penetrating injuries or assessing damage behind the eye When to Refer | Diagnosis of Eye Injuries Referral to an ophthalmologist is necessary for: Chemical burns Penetrating trauma Intraocular foreign bodies Persistent vision loss Suspected retinal or optic nerve damage The diagnosis of eye injuries must be handled with care. Thorough assessment ensures prompt, appropriate treatment and minimises long-term risk. [Next: Treatment of Eye Injuries →]

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Medical professional applying bandage to injured man's eye

Treatment of Eye Injuries

Eye Injuries, Health Conditions /

Treatment of Eye Injuries The treatment of eye injuries varies depending on the severity and type of injury. Eye injuries may require anything from simple flushing with clean water to emergency surgery. Early treatment helps preserve vision, reduce discomfort, and prevent infection or complications. Immediate First Aid For all types of injuries: Avoid rubbing or touching the eye Do not apply pressure to the injured area Use clean water or saline to rinse the eye in case of chemical exposure Remove contact lenses only if they are not stuck or painful Seek medical care urgently if symptoms worsen or do not improve quickly Treatment by Injury Type 1. Corneal Abrasions Treated with antibiotic eye drops or ointment to prevent infection Lubricating eye drops ease discomfort Most heal within a few days 2. Foreign Bodies Removed gently using sterile instruments or irrigation Anaesthetic eye drops may be used during removal Followed by antibiotic drops to prevent infection If the foreign object is embedded, specialist removal may be required. 3. Blunt Trauma Cold compresses help reduce swelling Pain relief with oral anti-inflammatory medications Monitoring for complications like retinal detachment or hyphema is essential In some cases, referral to a hospital or eye specialist is necessary 4. Penetrating Injuries Do not remove the object yourself Cover the eye with a rigid shield (not pressure patch) Immediate surgical consultation is required Antibiotics and tetanus prevention are started urgently These injuries are vision-threatening and need rapid, expert intervention. 5. Chemical Burns Irrigate immediately with water or saline for 15–30 minutes Doctors know that flushing the eye as soon as possible leads to better outcomes Alkaline burns are more dangerous than acids and need longer rinsing Follow-up treatment includes anti-inflammatory and antibiotic drops 6. Orbital Fractures Mild cases may heal with rest and cold compresses Severe fractures may require surgical repair Doctors give antibiotics to prevent sinus infections from spreading to the eye Follow-Up and Monitoring | Treatment of Eye Injuries Doctors may need to re-examine patients over several days to monitor healing Doctors must promptly address infections, delayed swelling, or vision changes The treatment of eye injuries depends on fast action, the right tools, and careful follow-up. Patients should always seek professional medical advice if they have any doubt about the severity. [Next: Complications of Eye Injuries →]

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Young boy wearing glasses with an eye patch on one eye

Complications of Eye Injuries

Eye Injuries, Health Conditions /

Complications of Eye Injuries The complications of eye injuries can range from short-term discomfort to permanent vision loss. Eye injuries, especially those that are deep, neglected, or improperly treated, may result in serious and sometimes irreversible outcomes. Common Short-Term Complications 1. Infection Any scratch or foreign object can lead to a bacterial infection if not treated Conjunctivitis, keratitis, or orbital cellulitis may follow Redness, discharge, or increased pain after injury could signal infection 2. Corneal Scarring Deep abrasions or untreated ulcers may cause scar tissue Can lead to blurry vision, glare, or even need for corneal transplant 3. Photophobia and Dry Eye Light sensitivity is common after corneal injury Some injuries damage tear production, leading to chronic dry eye Serious Long-Term Complications 4. Retinal Detachment Often the result of blunt trauma Causes flashes of light, floaters, or a “curtain” effect in the field of vision Surgical treatment is urgent to prevent permanent blindness 5. Glaucoma May develop after trauma due to increased intraocular pressure Can be painless in early stages but causes irreversible vision loss if untreated 6. Vision Loss Severe trauma may result in partial or total blindness Caused by optic nerve damage, globe rupture, or infection Some vision loss is immediate, while other cases worsen over time 7. Cosmetic Deformity Eyelid damage or eye shrinking (phthisis bulbi) may lead to changes in appearance May require reconstructive surgery or a prosthetic eye Psychological and Functional Impact Anxiety and fear, especially if vision is affected Loss of confidence or independence Challenges with reading, driving, working, or recognising faces Impact on quality of life, particularly in children or working adults Prevention of Complications of Eye Injuries Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment Wearing eye protection during high-risk activities Adhering to follow-up care and completing antibiotic or steroid courses The complications of eye injuries are often preventable. Education, safety equipment, and access to emergency care play a vital role in reducing the burden of trauma-related vision loss. [Next: Back to Overview →]

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Close-up of a man with red, infected eye

Eye Infections

Eye Infections, Health Conditions /

Eye Infections Eye infections occur when bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites invade the surface or inner parts of the eye. These infections can affect any part of the eye, including the eyelids, conjunctiva, cornea, and deeper structures. While many are mild and resolve with treatment, others can lead to vision loss or complications if not addressed promptly. The most common types of Eye Infections include: Conjunctivitis (pink eye) Keratitis (corneal infection) Blepharitis (eyelid inflammation) Endophthalmitis (severe internal infection) Stye or chalazion (eyelid gland infection) Symptoms often include redness, itching, swelling, discharge, pain, or blurred vision. In some cases, patients may experience light sensitivity or feel like something is in their eye. The exact symptoms depend on the cause and location of the infection. Anyone can develop this infection, but people who wear contact lenses, have a weakened immune system, or live in areas with poor water sanitation may be at higher risk. Travellers are also more susceptible due to exposure to unfamiliar pathogens or unsanitary environments. Globally, these infections contribute significantly to temporary and permanent vision problems. Prompt treatment and proper hygiene can reduce the risk and severity of infection, preserving vision and comfort. [Next: Causes of Eye Infections →]

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