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.

Blind man sitting on a park bench wearing sunglasses and holding a white cane.

Living with Vision Loss

Blindness and Vision Loss, Health Conditions /

Living with Vision Loss – Adjustment and Independence Adapting to living with vision loss requires time, support, and the right tools. Whether gradual or sudden, it can affect every aspect of life, from mobility to employment and mental health. 1. Emotional adjustment 2. Independence and daily living 3. Mobility support 4. Education and employment 5. Financial support 6. Advocacy and rights Hope and community: Living with Vision Loss Blindness does not define your ability to thrive. With the right help, sight loss does not mean life loss. 👉 [End of Series | Back to Overview]

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Close-up of an inflamed eyelid showing signs of blepharitis with visible redness and irritation.

Blepharitis

Blepharitis, Health Conditions /

Blepharitis – Overview Blepharitis is a common and often chronic condition that causes inflammation of the eyelids, particularly around the base of the eyelashes. It can affect people of all ages and may occur in one or both eyes. The condition is typically not contagious, but it can be recurrent and uncomfortable, sometimes interfering with vision or leading to other eye problems if left untreated. The eyelid margins become red, swollen, itchy, and may develop crusts or oily flakes. While blepharitis is not usually serious, it can become chronic, requiring long-term care and daily hygiene. Types of blepharitis: This condition is common in South Africa, especially in people with oily skin, rosacea, dandruff (seborrhoeic dermatitis), or allergies. Hot, dry climates, air pollution, and poor eyelid hygiene can also aggravate symptoms. Symptoms of blepharitis include: Although it may look alarming, it is not contagious and doesn’t usually cause permanent damage. However, it can lead to complications such as: Because of its chronic nature, many people with this condition must commit to a long-term eyelid hygiene routine to keep symptoms under control. 👉 [Next: Causes and Risk Factors of Blepharitis]

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Illustration of an eye being examined for blepharitis using a fine instrument at the eyelid margin.

Causes and Risk Factors of Blepharitis

Blepharitis, Health Conditions /

Causes and Risk Factors of Blepharitis Blepharitis results from a combination of bacterial overgrowth, oil gland dysfunction, and inflammatory skin conditions affecting the eyelid margins. It’s not caused by poor hygiene, but hygiene plays a critical role in managing the condition. Learn more about the causes and risk factors of blepharitis below. Common causes of blepharitis: In South Africa, sun exposure, air pollution, and limited access to dermatological care can contribute to worsening skin and eye conditions. People with coexisting conditions like diabetes or eczema may also be more prone to persistent blepharitis. Causes and Risk Factors of Blepharitis Understanding the underlying cause is essential for targeted treatment and long-term control. 👉 [Next: Diagnosis and Tests for Blepharitis]

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Close-up of a baby’s eyes showing early signs of blepharitis, including redness and swollen eyelids.

Diagnosis and Tests for Blepharitis

Blepharitis, Health Conditions /

Diagnosis and Tests for Blepharitis Diagnosis and tests for blepharitis is generally straightforward and is usually based on a clinical eye examination and a review of symptoms. Most general practitioners, optometrists, or ophthalmologists can identify the condition without the need for complex tests. Medical history: Eye examination: Tests that may be used in complex cases: These specialised tests are generally available in ophthalmology clinics or advanced optometry practices in major cities like Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban. In rural areas, most diagnoses rely on physical examination alone. In many South African public clinics, diagnosis is based on visible eyelid signs and patient-reported symptoms. Doctors refer patients to an ophthalmologist if they notice signs of complications such as vision changes, eye pain, or swelling: Diagnosis and Tests for Blepharitis Early diagnosis and patient education can significantly improve outcomes and prevent long-term damage or recurrence. 👉 [Next: Treatment Options for Blepharitis]

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Close-up of a patient receiving thermal eyelid therapy to treat blepharitis using specialised medical equipment.

Treatment Options for Blepharitis

Blepharitis, Health Conditions /

Treatment Options for Blepharitis Treatment options for blepharitis involves a combination of daily eyelid hygiene, medications (when needed), and managing underlying conditions. There is no permanent cure, but regular maintenance can keep symptoms under control. Treatments 1. Eyelid hygiene (the foundation of treatment) 2. Lubricating eye drops 3. Antibiotics 4. Steroid drops or ointments 5. Demodex treatment 6. Managing underlying conditions 7. In-office treatments (for resistant cases) Treatment Options for Blepharitis In South Africa, public clinics offer basic treatments like eye lubricants, antibiotic ointments, and hygiene guidance. Private optometrists or ophthalmologists may provide more advanced therapies. 👉 [Next: Living with Blepharitis – Daily Care and Outlook]

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Close-up of an eye with visible redness and swelling around the eyelid, indicating symptoms of blepharitis.

Living with Blepharitis

Blepharitis, Health Conditions /

Living with Blepharitis – Daily Care and Outlook Blepharitis is a chronic but manageable condition. With the right daily routine and attention to eye health. Living with blepharitis, most people can keep their symptoms under control and avoid complications. 1. Establish a consistent eyelid hygiene routine 2. Manage environmental triggers 3. Review personal care habits 4. Diet and lifestyle 5. Regular follow-ups Emotional impact: South African context: Outlook: Living with Blepharitis With patience and the right tools, clear, comfortable eyes are possible again. 👉 [End of Series | Back to Overview]

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Two removed bladder stones of varying size and shape placed on a white background for clinical observation.

Bladder Stones

Bladder Stones, Health Conditions /

Bladder Stones – Overview Bladder stones are hard masses of minerals that form inside the bladder when urine becomes concentrated, and substances like calcium or uric acid crystallise. They can vary in size and number, ranging from tiny granules to large, painful stones. Although more common in men over 50, it can affect women and children as well. In South Africa, it’s are more frequently diagnosed in people with chronic urinary issues, poor hydration, or limited access to healthcare. In rural areas, late diagnosis is not uncommon due to symptom overlap with other conditions like urinary tract infections (UTIs) or prostate enlargement. Bladder stones may be: Typical symptoms include: Sometimes, small bladder stones may not cause symptoms and are only discovered during imaging for another condition. Common causes: Children in developing countries may develop this condition due to low protein diets, malnutrition, or vitamin deficiencies, although this is less common today. Untreated it can lead to complications such as chronic bladder infections, bladder wall thickening, urinary incontinence, and even kidney damage if back pressure occurs. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to prevent long-term complications and restore normal bladder function. 👉 [Next: Causes and Risk Factors of Bladder Stones]

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Microscopic view showing red and pink crystalline structures representing bladder stone formation in biological tissue.

Causes and Risk Factors of Bladder Stones

Bladder Stones, Health Conditions /

Causes and Risk Factors of Bladder Stones Bladder stones develop when urine in the bladder becomes stagnant or overly concentrated, causing minerals to crystallise and clump together. The resulting stones may remain in the bladder, grow larger over time, or cause irritation and blockage. Learn more about the causes and risk factors of bladder stones below Key causes and risk factors: Causes and Risk Factors of Bladder Stones While many of these factors relate to bladder function, others are systemic or environmental. Addressing the underlying cause is critical to preventing recurrence. 👉 [Next: Diagnosis and Testing for Bladder Stones]

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Female medical professional examining samples under a microscope in a clinical laboratory setting.

Diagnosis and Testing for Bladder Stones

Bladder Stones, Health Conditions /

Diagnosis and Testing for Bladder Stones Timely and accurate diagnosis and testing for bladder stones is essential to ensure effective treatment and to rule out other urological conditions. Symptoms often mimic those of urinary tract infections or bladder obstruction, so clinical assessment and imaging play a crucial role. Initial assessment: Diagnostic tests: In South Africa, ultrasound and cystoscopy are available in most major hospitals, though rural areas may have limited access. Patients in the public sector may experience longer wait times for advanced imaging or urology referral. Diagnosis and Testing for Bladder Stones Early diagnosis not only helps manage symptoms but also prevents long-term damage to the bladder or kidneys. 👉 [Next: Treatment Options for Bladder Stones]

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Various medicine bottles and tablets placed on an open medical textbook displaying a diagram of the urinary tract.

Treatment Options for Bladder Stones

Bladder Stones, Health Conditions /

Treatment Options for Bladder Stones The treatment options for bladder stones focuses on removing the stones and addressing the cause to prevent recurrence. The size, number, and composition of the stones — as well as the patient’s overall health — determine the best treatment approach. 1. Drinking fluids (for very small stones) 2. Bladder stone removal (surgical intervention) A. Cystolitholapaxy (stone fragmentation and removal) B. Open surgery (cystolithotomy) 3. Treating the underlying cause 4. Antibiotics 5. Pain management Public vs private care in South Africa: Complications if untreated: Treatment Options for Bladder Stones Surgical treatment offers quick relief, and with proper follow-up, long-term outcomes are excellent. 👉 [Next: Preventing Bladder Stones and Living Well]

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