Are you hearing voices in your head? The word schizophrenia may elicit fear. There is a lot of misunderstanding among the public with this disorder. The term actually means split (schizo) mind (phrenia). But it is a misnomer as the illness does not split the mind. The features of this illness include positive symptoms. These…
Swinging from one mood pole to another Bipolar Disorder is a biological illness that causes unusual shifts in your mood, energy levels and ability to function in different aspects of your life (for example, work, going to school, taking care of yourself and maintaining relationships). This illness used to be called Manic Depression because it…
Most patients would be emotionally and psychologically disturbed when they receive a diagnosis stating that surgery is required. Whether it is a major open surgery or a minor endoscopic (keyhole) surgery, the thought of going under the knife sends shivers down the spine of patients and sometimes their family members. Being aware of these psychological…
Feel like you have a constant flu, with runny nose, pain or pressure in the ear, frequently blocked nose ,headache and facial pain? Perhaps you are experiencing frequent nosebleeds, a numbness or tingling in the face, painful teeth or dentures that do not fit, and have recently discovered a lump on your nose or lump…
Many individuals lead a sedentary lifestyle, thus increasing the risks of potentially fatal diseases. Certain physical changes are associated with ageing, but more people are starting to realise that some changes that we used to think are signs of ‘normal’ ageing are actually the result of disease, the environment and lifestyle. Therefore, by controlling our…
Ageing is, in keeping with nature’s intention, a complex but natural process which impacts the physical, mental and spiritual being. Every journey of life, from birth to its end is a personal experience unique to just that one. Above all though, is the shared desire to age gracefully. The need of a strong and healthy…
There’s no denying it – developing nations like Malaysia are slowly but surely moving towards an ageing society. With better hygiene, healthcare systems and standards of living, more people are living longer than before. People today will have to deal with the many health and psychological issues related to menopause, which includes sexual well-being. Sexuality…
Knee replacement surgery is usually recommended for people with severe osteoarthritis when other treatment modules such as medications, exercise or pain-relief methods are no longer working. Surgery helps relieve the pain that keeps patients from their daily activities such as walking, driving or getting out of bed. With medical advancements, many knee surgeries are less…
Mr X is a 52-year-old Chinese man who came to see me a few years ago with a complaint of generalised discomfort of his tummy for six months. His appetite had been poor and he had been losing weight. On further questioning he had a change in his bowel habits. Normally his bowel openings were…
