Cough, Cold & Flu
BRONCHITIS & COUGHSCoughing is the body's method of removing obstructions of the airways. It is commonly a consequence of infections (such as colds and flu), but when more persistent may indicate the presence of bronchitis or other chronic respiratory disease. Infectious bronchitis usually resolves itself within 7-10 days, but may be more serious in children or elderly patients. Read more... |
COLD SORESCold sores are lesions that occur around the lips and nose, starting as blisters and progressing to scabbed sores. They are caused by one of the Herpes family of viruses, and consequently share many features with genital herpes, chicken pox, and shingles. Read more... |
COLDS & FLUColds can be caused by any of a large number of viral infections, and normally last 7-10 days. On the other hand, flu is caused by one of the Influenza group of viruses, and tends to last longer than a cold. Read more... |
IMMUNITYThe immune system prevents infections taking hold, and helps overcome those that do. It also catalogues infectious organisms so that the body is better equipped to fight them if they're ever encountered again. The components of the immune system range from simple barrier defences (for example the tiny hairs and mucus secretions of the nostrils) to sophisticated cells that recognise and engulf invading organisms. Read more... |
SINUSITISThe sinuses are airspaces within the bones of the face (cheeks, forehead and around the eyes). The term sinusitis is used to refer to inflammation in these areas, which is most commonly caused by allergy or infection. Read more... |
