We are dedicated to enhancing your health, wellbeing and lifestyle and this is why our comprehensive A-Z list of common ailments and conditions covers everything you and your family need to know.
Simply use the alphabetical listing to find the health topic you require. If you require any further assistance please speak with one of our friendly pharmacists in-store.
Allergies DEFINITION A person who is overly-reactive to a substance that is well tolerated by most other people, is said to be allergic, or atopic.. DESCRIPTION The substance which causes an allergic reaction is called an ‘allergen’. An allergic reaction causes the immune system to over-react to the substance. Antibodies… Read Article
Arthritis types DEFINITION Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints, surrounding tendons, ligaments and cartilage. It can affect virtually every joint of the body from the feet, to the knees, back, shoulders, and fingers. The term Arthritis describes a variety of arthritic conditions, with the three most common forms being… Read Article
Depression DEFINITION Depression is a mental illness which causes symptoms of anxiety, hopelessness, negativity and helplessness. DESCRIPTION Depression is quite a common condition that can affect people of any age, including children. Depression is a real illness and is certainly not a sign of failure. Unlike feelings of unhappiness that… Read Article
Diabetes DEFINITION Diabetes or Diabetes Mellitus is a disorder characterised by hyperglycaemia (high blood glucose levels) caused by impairment in insulin secretion and/or action. DESCRIPTION When the food we eat is digested, most of it becomes glucose (sugar), which the body uses for energy. In order for this to happen,… Read Article
Hayfever Definition Hayfever, also known as ‘seasonal allergic rhinitis’ is an allergic reaction to pollen which causes inflammation and irritation to the lining of the eyes, nose and throat. Description Hayfever results when nasal passages are exposed to an allergy-causing substance (allergen). The membranes release large amounts of histamine, which… Read Article
Melanoma DEFINITION Moles are flat or elevated, flesh coloured to dark-brown markings located randomly over the entire skin surface. Moles can become malignant (melanoma) requiring removal. DESCRIPTION Moles are a clump of cells with different pigment (colour) than the surrounding skin. The surface of moles varies from smooth to pebbly… Read Article
Quit Smoking WHY? There are many benefits of quitting smoking, and you will begin to feel the benefits of quitting straight away as your body repairs itself. Depending on the number of cigarettes you smoke, typical benefits of stopping are: After 12 hours almost all of the nicotine is out… Read Article
Travellers’ diarrhoea DEFINITION Travellers’ diarrhoea is a clinical syndrome resulting from microbial contamination of ingested food and water. DESCRIPTION Travellers’ diarrhoea is the most common ailment affecting overseas travellers. The ailment has many names, including Delhi belly, Bali belly, Montezuma’s revenge and Pharaoh’s curse, depending on what country is being… Read Article