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.

Illustration of a person sitting on a couch with their head in hands, surrounded by negative thoughts symbolising Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD).

Living with BDD

Body Dysmorphic Disorder, Health Conditions /

Living with BDD – Self-Compassion and Recovery Living with Body Dysmorphic Disorder can feel isolating and overwhelming. However, with support, self-awareness, and ongoing treatment, recovery is possible. Living with BDD and learning to accept uncertainty, reduce compulsive behaviours, and build self-worth beyond appearance are key to long-term wellbeing. 1. Rebuilding self-image 2. Managing setbacks 3. Building a strong support system 4. Limiting triggers 5. Returning to life 6. Finding local help in South Africa 7. Self-care tips Recovery from BDD is not about ignoring appearance altogether — it’s about placing appearance in its rightful place, no longer at the centre of your identity. Living with BDD You are more than what you see in the mirror. With the right help, you can learn to see yourself through a lens of compassion and resilience. 👉 [End of Series | Back to Overview]

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Close-up of feet with visible blisters on the heels caused by friction, likely from footwear.

Blisters

Blisters, Health Conditions /

Blisters – Overview Blisters are small pockets of fluid that form under the skin, usually in response to friction, heat, or irritation. The fluid inside is typically clear serum, but in some cases, it may contain blood (blood blisters) or pus (signs of infection). While they are usually harmless and heal on their own, they can be painful, prone to infection, and interfere with daily activities if not managed properly. Blisters are very common across all age groups. Most people have experienced blisters on the feet from tight shoes, hands from manual work, or sunburn sores after excessive sun exposure. In South Africa, blistering from heat, insect bites, poor footwear, and skin infections is particularly frequent in both urban and rural settings. Types of blisters: Symptoms of blisters: Common causes: Although most are not dangerous, complications can arise if the skin breaks or if bacteria enter, leading to infection. Some may also indicate underlying illness, especially if they recur frequently or appear alongside fever, fatigue, or rashes. 👉 [Next: Causes and Types of Blisters]

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Causes and Types of Blisters

Causes and Types of Blisters

Blisters, Health Conditions /

Causes and Types of Blisters Understanding the cause and type of a blister helps determine how best to treat it and prevent recurrence. While friction is the most common trigger, a wide range of other factors — including burns, infections, and medical conditions — can also cause blisters. Learn about the causes and types of blisters below. 1. Friction blisters 2. Heat or burn blisters 3. Blood blisters 4. Viral infections 5. Allergic and irritant reactions 6. Skin infections 7. Autoimmune and chronic diseases Causes and Types of Blisters Environmental and occupational factors such as heat, excessive walking, or working with chemicals increase the risk of blisters, especially where protective footwear or gloves are not worn. 👉 [Next: Diagnosis and When to See a Doctor]

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Close-up of a person’s palms showing several fluid-filled blisters, indicating possible skin irritation or infection.

Blisters Diagnosis and When to See a Doctor

Blisters, Health Conditions /

Blisters Diagnosis and When to See a Doctor While most blisters are minor and self-diagnosable, certain signs indicate the need for professional medical evaluation, particularly if the blister is unusually painful, widespread, or associated with other symptoms. Read more about blisters diagnosis and when to see a doctor below. Self-diagnosis is typically based on: When to seek medical advice: Diagnostic tools and tests (used in complex or recurrent cases): South African healthcare context: Blisters Diagnosis and When to See a Doctor Knowing when a blister is more than just a friction issue can make all the difference in preventing complications and preserving skin health. 👉 [Next: Treatment and Home Care for Blisters]

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Blister packs of different coloured tablets on a yellow background, representing treatment and home care for skin blisters.

Treatment and Home Care for Blisters

Blisters, Health Conditions /

Treatment and Home Care for Blisters Most blisters heal naturally without intervention, but appropriate care can relieve discomfort and prevent infection. The treatment and home care for blisters depends on the blister’s size, cause, and location. General treatment tips: Specialised care based on blister type: Natural remedies (to use with caution): In South Africa, pharmacies often stock: Treatment and Home Care for Blisters Proper blister care ensures faster healing, less discomfort, and lower risk of infection. 👉 [Next: Prevention and Long-Term Skin Care]

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A medical professional uses a skincare device on a woman's leg during a treatment session to promote long-term skin health.

Blisters Prevention and Long-Term Skin Care

Blisters, Health Conditions /

Blisters Prevention and Long-Term Skin Care While some causes of blisters are unpredictable, many can be prevented with simple lifestyle adjustments and skin protection strategies. Learn more about blisters prevention and long-term skin care below. 1. Prevent friction blisters 2. Avoid burn-related blisters 3. Manage underlying skin conditions 4. Stay hydrated and maintain skin health 5. Prevent infections 6. Diabetic and immunocompromised patients 7. First aid preparedness In the South African context, many blister cases are avoidable with education and protective gear, especially for labourers, outdoor workers, and children in informal footwear. Blisters Prevention and Long-Term Skin Care Protecting your skin means protecting your health — and preventing blisters is easier than treating them. 👉 [End of Series | Back to Overview]

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Man in formal attire using a white cane for navigation, symbolising blindness or vision loss.

Blindness and Vision Loss

Blindness and Vision Loss, Health Conditions /

Blindness and Vision Loss – Overview Blindness and vision loss refer to a significant reduction or total absence of sight that cannot be corrected with standard glasses, contact lenses, or medical treatment. It can be partial (low vision) or complete (total blindness) and may develop suddenly or gradually. Globally, an estimated 2.2 billion people have a vision impairment, and at least 1 billion of these cases could have been prevented or have yet to be addressed. In South Africa, vision loss is common in both rural and urban communities, particularly among older adults, people with diabetes, and those without access to regular eye care. Degrees of vision loss: Symptoms may include: Vision loss may affect one or both eyes, and the impact on a person’s independence, confidence, and mental health can be significant. Common types: Blindness and Vision Loss Vision loss can lead to reduced mobility, isolation, depression, and financial dependence. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are key to preventing blindness in many cases. 👉 [Next: Causes and Risk Factors of Vision Loss]

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Woman wearing sunglasses indoors, possibly blind or visually impaired, seated against a white background.

Causes and Risk Factors of Vision Loss

Blindness and Vision Loss, Health Conditions /

Causes and Risk Factors of Vision Loss There are many causes and risk factors of vision loss, ranging from genetic conditions and chronic diseases to infections, trauma, and environmental exposure. Understanding the root cause helps guide effective treatment and prevention strategies. 9 Causes/Risks below: 1. Refractive errors (myopia, hyperopia, astigmatism, presbyopia) 2. Cataracts 3. Glaucoma 4. Diabetic retinopathy 5. Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) 6. Infections and trauma 7. Retinal detachment 8. Congenital and inherited disorders 9. Lifestyle and environmental risks Causes and Risk Factors of Vision Loss In South Africa, limited access to eye screenings, delayed care, and poor diabetes control are major contributors to preventable blindness. 👉 [Next: Diagnosis and Eye Health Assessments]

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Close-up of a person’s eye showing signs of severe vision impairment or blindness.

Diagnosis and Eye Health Assessments

Blindness and Vision Loss, Health Conditions /

Diagnosis and Eye Health Assessments Timely and accurate diagnosis and eye health assessments is key to preserving vision and slowing the progression of eye disease. An eye examination can detect problems before symptoms develop and prevent permanent damage. When to see an eye specialist: Types of eye health assessments: Specialised assessments in children: South African context: Diagnosis and Eye Health Assessments Regular check-ups ensure treatable problems don’t become permanent disabilities. 👉 [Next: Treatment and Support for Vision Loss]

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Diagram of the eye showing ciliary muscle contraction and lens thickening for near vision focus.

Treatment and Support for Vision Loss

Blindness and Vision Loss, Health Conditions /

Treatment and Support for Vision Loss Treatment and support for vision loss depends on its cause, severity, and whether the damage is reversible. Some conditions require surgery or long-term medication, while others need support strategies to help individuals adapt to vision changes. 8 Common Treatments: 1. Glasses and contact lenses 2. Cataract surgery 3. Medication 4. Laser therapy 5. Intravitreal injections 6. Low vision aids 7. Orientation and mobility training 8. Support and counselling South African resources: Treatment and Support for Vision Loss Treatment success depends on early diagnosis, consistent care, and access to support tools. 👉 [Next: Living with Vision Loss – Adjustment and Independence]

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