The Health Counsellor

Chickenpox (Varicella) What is chickenpox? Chickenpox is an infection caused by the varicella-zoster virus. It causes an itchy rash with small, fluid-filled blisters. Chickenpox is highly contagious to people who haven’t had the disease or been vaccinated against it. Today, a vaccine is available that protects children against chickenpox. Routine vaccination is recommended by the… Continue reading chicken pox

Cold and Canker Sores Is it a cold sore or a canker sore? Cold sores are a cluster of blisters that first appear clear then become cloudy. First infection may be inside the mouth, but cold sores generally appear outside the mouth on the lips. Canker sores are gray or white sores surrounded by a red inflamed… Continue reading cold and canker sores

Asthma What is asthma? Asthma is a chronic condition that makes the lungs’ airways swell and inflame. The muscles around the bronchial tubes in the lungs tighten, causing the airways to become sensitive and restricted. Thicker mucus is produced, which contributes to the narrowing of the airways in the lungs as well. Symptoms of asthma may… Continue reading asthma

what is cholera? cholera is an infectious disease that causes severe watery diarrhea, which can lead to dehydration and even death if untreated. It is caused by eating food or drinking water contaminated with a bacterium called Vibrio cholerae. Cholera Causes Vibrio cholerae, the bacterium that causes cholera, is usually found in food or water contaminated by… Continue reading cholera

WEIGHT REDUCTION Is weight reduction right for you? Safe weight reduction takes time and effort, but by making lifestyle changes that incorporate proper nutrition and physical activity, you can lose and maintain your weight for the long-term. Before making changes, it is a good idea to think about several important questions: Why do you want… Continue reading weight reduction

ANXIETY DISORDER   What is anxiety?     We have all felt anxiety—the nervousness before a date, test, competition, presentation—but what exactly is it? Anxiety is our body’s way of preparing to face a challenge. Our heart pumps more blood and oxygen so we are ready for action. We are alert and perform physical and… Continue reading Anxiety disorder and panic

what is malnutrition? Malnutrition involves a dietary deficiency. People may eat too much of the wrong type of food and have malnutrition, but this article will focus on under nutrition, when a person lacks nutrients because they do not consume enough food.  Poor diet may lead to a lack of  minerals, vitamins and other essential substances.… Continue reading Malnutrition

Zika virus Health alerts:  Zika virus is causing concern because it is relatively new, it is spreading quickly, and it may result in significant health effects. Symptoms and risks: The most common symptoms of Zika are fever, rash, joint pain, and conjunctivitis (red eyes). The illness is usually mild with symptoms lasting for several days… Continue reading Zika virus

Back pain Causes of back pain: Back pain is a common ailment, affecting eight out of ten people at some point in their lives. The spine has a difficult job in that it must support the weight of the upper body and still be able to bend and twist in any direction. The greatest strain… Continue reading Back pain

Pertussis (Whooping cough) What is pertussis? Pertussis (whooping cough) causes violent coughing that may last for months. During coughing episodes, people may make a “whooping” sound when they try to inhale. Most people recover from whooping cough with no problems, but it can be dangerous in young children, especially babies, and the elderly. Cause: Bordetella… Continue reading Pertussis ( whooping cough)