August 2016 - Page 2 of 2 - St Mark James Training

Retinal Vein Occlusion (Eye Stroke): Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Retinal vein occlusion (RVO)—often referred to as an eye stroke—occurs when one of the veins responsible for draining blood from the retina becomes blocked. This blockage is usually caused by a blood clot or increased pressure within the retinal veins, impairing blood flow and damaging retinal tissue. Because the retina plays a critical role in […]

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Rhinitis: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Rhinitis refers to inflammation of the lining of the nasal cavity and can be classified as allergic or non-allergic. It is a common condition in Canada and affects individuals of all ages, particularly during seasonal changes or prolonged exposure to indoor irritants. Allergic rhinitis occurs when an allergen is inhaled and may be seasonal, perennial,

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Foot Numbness: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Medical Care

Foot numbness can be a temporary issue or a sign of an underlying medical condition such as diabetes, nerve compression, or circulatory problems. For many Canadians, this symptom develops gradually, beginning with reduced sensation and potentially progressing to complete numbness over time. Because foot numbness increases the risk of falls, wounds, and unnoticed injuries, it

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Schistosomiasis: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention

Schistosomiasis, also known as snail fever, is a serious parasitic disease that affects internal organs but is preventable. The condition develops when parasitic worms enter the body through skin contact with contaminated freshwater. Although schistosomiasis does not occur naturally in Canada, it remains highly relevant for Canadians who travel, work, volunteer, or provide humanitarian aid

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High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Risks, Symptoms, and Emergency Warning Signs

High blood pressure (hypertension) is a common but often silent medical condition affecting millions of Canadians. Many individuals live with high blood pressure for years without noticeable symptoms. However, the absence of symptoms does not mean the condition is harmless. Uncontrolled high blood pressure damages blood vessels over time and significantly increases the risk of

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Hiccups: Causes, Risk Factors, and When to Seek Medical Care

Hiccups are repetitive, involuntary contractions of the diaphragm muscle. The diaphragm sits beneath the lungs and plays a crucial role in breathing by helping the lungs expand and contract. When the diaphragm suddenly contracts outside of its normal rhythm, the vocal cords close abruptly. This causes a sudden intake of air, producing the familiar “hic”

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Hepatitis B: Causes, Symptoms, Transmission, and Prevention

Hepatitis B is a viral infection that causes inflammation of the liver. It is caused by the hepatitis B virus (HBV) and can occur as either an acute or chronic infection. Acute hepatitis B often causes noticeable symptoms in adults and usually develops shortly after exposure. In contrast, children who acquire hepatitis B are far

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Meniscus Tear: Causes, Symptoms, and First Aid Considerations

A meniscus tear is a common knee injury, particularly among athletes involved in sports that require sudden pivoting, twisting, or direct contact—such as football, basketball, soccer, and tennis. In Canada, meniscus injuries are frequently seen in sports, recreation, and workplace settings that involve physical exertion. The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that acts

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Malaise: Causes, Symptoms, and When to Seek Medical Care

Malaise is a medical term used to describe a general feeling of discomfort, weakness, or not feeling well, often without a clearly identifiable cause. People experiencing malaise may feel as though they are “coming down with something,” yet rest does not restore their sense of well-being. Malaise can develop suddenly or gradually and may last

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