6 Different antibiotics and how they work
When penicillin was discovered in the late 1920s, it sparked the modern age of antibiotic (or antimicrobial) treatments. This saved millions of people from disease or death resulting from bacterial infections. Dr Amima Sundas, a specialist physician at Mediclinic Newcastle, explains how antibiotics work, and how many different kinds there are.
A guide to the major antibiotics
Yes, there are different kinds of antibiotics. Here’s your guide to the main types: how they work, what they treat, and what their potential side effects could be.
The battle against antibiotic resistance
The widespread – and, in some cases, unnecessary – use of antibiotics is leading to dangerous levels of antibiotic resistance. How does that happen, and is there anything you can do to prevent it?
A new kind of ray: The history of radiography
In 1895, Wilhelm Conrad Röntgen discovered the X-ray and presented his manuscript, On a New Kind of Ray, to the Würzburg Physical Medical Institute. We look at how technology has advanced since then.
6 Ways to improve your mental health, today
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in four people suffers from a mental disorder. This makes mental disorders one of the leading causes of ill health and disability worldwide.
DID YOU KNOW?
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We install alcohol rub dispensers at our facilities to prevent the spread of pathogens.
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To ensure sterility, our surgical instruments are twice wrapped in sterile fabric.
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Our world-class neonatal units feature high frequency oscillatory ventilators to minimise lung trauma in premature babies.
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The triage admission system in our emergency centres has been able to reduce mortality by up to 50%.
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The only one in Africa and one of only 13 in the world, the P-I BrÅnemark Institute of Excellence at Mediclinic Morningside, specialises in facial reconstruction.
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Mediclinic Cape Town is accredited as a mother and baby friendly institution, having scored 100% at a recent external review.
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Mediclinic uses building materials that reduce background noise for minimal disturbance.
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Our nursing units are designed to minimise the distance between nursing staff and patients.
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Our hospitals did the first minimally invasive transcatheter aortic valve implant procedure in Africa.
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Most nursing units have windows overlooking gardens to promote healing.
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Is a mastectomy required or are there other options for breast cancer?
Breast cancer is a treatable disease and early diagnosis significantly improves the survival rate. Many women now have the option of preserving their breasts. Dr Mariza Tunmer, a specialist radiation oncologist at the Wits Donald Gordon Medical Centre, explains non-surgical treatment options.
Are you washing your hands all wrong?
Washing your hands is one of the simplest and best things we can do to prevent the spread of germs and foodborne illnesses. But many people either just don’t wash their hands regularly or don’t wash their hands properly.
DID YOU KNOW?
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To make the most of every second, we strive to synchronise all our clocks in the hospital.
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We install alcohol rub dispensers at our facilities to prevent the spread of pathogens.
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We use a yacht-mast design for our cabling and keep it safely wound up in our trauma pedestals to avoid any accidents.
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An orange has over 170 different phytonutrients and more than 60 flavonoids, providing anti-inflammatory, anti-tumour and blood clot-inhibiting effects.
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Our radio-translucent theatre beds enable X-rays to be taken on the spot, without having to move the patient or disturb the procedure.
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Our hospitals have been awarded international accreditation for best practice in the management of environmental systems and practices.
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Our corridors are 2.3m wide allowing two beds to pass one another without any interference.
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Our expert breastfeeding advice is based on the principles of the United Nations Children’s Fund and the World Health Organisation.
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The triage admission system in our emergency centres has been able to reduce mortality by up to 50%.
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Some of our hospitals have operating tables that can support patients of up to 370kg in weight and 2.2m in height.
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A match made in medicine: Stem Cell Donation FAQ
If you’d like to add ‘saved a life’ to your bucket list items, you can. It only takes 10 minutes to register as a stem cell donor, and the actual donation process is safe and relatively pain-free. Here we answer some frequently asked questions about stem cell donations.
7 Everyday risks to your eyes – and how to avoid them
Imagine this: You’ve cleaned the patio, and you’re ready to spend a sunny afternoon in the garden. You open an ice-cold drink, Google some new recipes, then take a dip in the pool before lighting the braai and watching the kids play on the grass.
Is it possible to fully recover from a stroke?
The Heart and Stroke Foundation of South Africa estimates that 10 people suffer a stroke in South Africa every hour. There are ways to minimise the effects of a stroke – providing you act fast. Neurologist Dr Marcelle Smith, practising at Mediclinic Sandton, explains.
When does anxiety become a mental health issue?
If you’re in a dangerous situation, anxiety is an important tool for self-preservation, ensuring you take action to protect yourself. But when your anxiety becomes a constant companion, it’s best
7 Eye tests that look at more than just your vision
When you go to the optometrist because you’re having trouble seeing, a vision test is usually conducted. This test assesses how well you can see and your ability to discern objects. However, many eye conditions and diseases present no symptoms, so there’s a range of tests available to see what your eyes can’t. An ophthalmologist and an eye surgeon explain.
Is ADHD a learning disability – and can it lead to other mental health issues?
How does attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder develop? Does it impact a child’s intelligence later in life? And are there any mental health conditions associated with the condition? Paediatrician Dr Hannelie Potgieter, based at Mediclinic Potchefstroom, busts a few prevalent myths.
Colorectal cancer, know the symptoms
Colorectal cancer is the fourth most prominent cancer in South Africa and the sixth most lethal. Dr Mariza Tunmer, a specialist radiation oncologist at the Wits Donald Gordon Medical Centre, explains what we should know.
A guide to the benefits and limits of radiology tests
Radiology plays a major role in medical care as it allows patients to be diagnosed and treated for disease and injuries without having to undergo explorative surgery just to see inside the body. Diagnostic radiologist Dr John-Henry Corbett, of Van Dyk & Partners based at Mediclinic Bloemfontein, takes us through the benefits, advancements and risks.
Metabolic syndrome: why it could kill you
Metabolic syndrome, also known as Syndrome X, is a perfect storm for increasing a person’s risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes.
Myths – and facts – around bone marrow and stem cell transplants
A person who has a disease or condition that prevents their body from making enough healthy blood cells may need a blood stem cell transplant. Sunflower Fund CEO Alana James explains.
Six unexpected signs of kidney damage, and how to reverse it
According to Dr Riaan Flooks, a nephrologist at Mediclinic Bloemfontein, methods of identifying renal disease have advanced to allow for a much earlier diagnosis.
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