Coffee has always been a subject of debate. However, if you do like to reach for your morning coffee, then research has shown that coffee consumption may be associated with a reduced risk of several chronic diseases.
But, larger amounts of coffee can have adverse effects on the body, such as anxiety, restlessness, insomnia and an increased heart rate. Additionally, if you fill up your coffee cup with whipped cream or flavoured syrup then you will almost certainly be reducing any health benefits from the bean.
Recommended caffeine consumption varies from each individual so be sure to ask your own medical doctor for advice and whether it’s safe of you.
Sometimes, giving a girl flowers is not the best thing especially if they have hay fever 🌺
Did you know that nearly 1 in 5 Australians suffer from hay fever at some point in their lives. It is more common if there is a family history of allergies, especially asthma or eczema. Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose or itchy eyes.
Treatment usually takes the form of anti-histamine tablets that can be brought from the chemist. However always seek advice from your doctor if you are concerned.
Don’t be alarmed if you see me and Annie wearing masks today in clinic. Given the nature of COVID-19, we desperately don’t want to spread any bugs to our patients who may be immunocompromised, elderly, frail or pregnant.
So if you’ve recently travelled abroad in the past 14 days or have been in close contact with a case of Coronavirus, or are concerned you have symptoms of the virus, please call the clinic in advance.
We are unable to test for the virus and we will happily give you advice and direct you to a local testing centre.
Let’s keep our General Practice protected together so we can continue looking after you.
Whether you’re using them to protect yourself from bushfire fumes, viruses or simply a fashion statement, in today’s episode of Dr Nora I take you through the surgical, P2 and N95 mask. Discussing what each are used for, how to perform a fit check and how to safely dispose of used masks.
SURGICAL MASKS
Surgical masks were originally designed to be used by surgeons helping to keep bugs from their mouth and nose from entering the sterile surgical field and thus reducing the chance of infection. As they are not tight fitting however, they do not provide protection against viruses. They are useful to use if you yourself, has flu like symptoms and do not wish to spread your illness to others.
P2/N95 MASK
Both the P2 and N95 mask block at least 95% of small particles. The difference between the two is where their testing requirements originated from, the N95 being tested in the USA and the P2 by European standards.
P2 RESPIRATORS
P2 respirators are considered to be sufficient for protection against viruses, however, in your local hardware store you may find some masks that offer additional protection to fumes, odours and pesticides. Always read the label to ensure adequate protection for your use.
HOW TO USE THE MASKS
It is very important that when using these masks they are fitted correctly. A fit check must be performed which ensures that there is no leakage of air around the mask on both inhalation and exhalation. To perform this, simply breath in and out with your hands around the mask to ensure there is no leakage. If you suspect there is an air leak readjust and tighten the mask.
I hope you’ve found this video useful and always, if you have any questions or comments, please don’t hesitate to drop me a line below.
