Abstract
InnovAiT is produced on a 3-year cycle. However, many articles do not significantly go out of date in that time. This section of InnovAiT summarises articles from the previous cycle of InnovAiT that GPs and GPs in training might still find useful today.
The painful ear
Dr Alex SL Toh
InnovAiT 2014 7(4): 198–203
DOI:
Painful ear is one of the most common presentations, particularly in children under 5 years in age and is the most common reason for parents to call a doctor out of hours. This article considers the many causes, primary and secondary, in all ages and some pitfalls in diagnosis. Clinical assessment and management are covered in some detail. Less common causes such as Ramsay-Hunt syndrome, cholesteatoma, acute mastoiditis and necrotizing otitis externa are also considered.
Noise-induced hearing loss
Dr Chitra Nair
InnovAiT 2014 7(4): 204–208
DOI:
Noise-induced hearing impairment is permanent, preventable and caused by recreational and occupational noise exposure. Even a small degree of hearing loss has the potential to significantly impair communication and social interaction. This article emphasises the GP's role in diagnosing, referring and preventing noise-induced hearing loss. In one study, 45% of patients seen in audiology with hearing loss had been seen by their GPs but not referred.
Travelling to altitude
Dr Beth Hall-Thompson
InnovAiT 2014 7(4): 217–223
DOI:
Adventure holidays have increased exposure to the physiological challenges of life at high altitude (anywhere above 2000 m). This article helps GPs to address the assessment and guidance for patients exposed to this risk and includes details of the Lake Louise Scoring System for the diagnosis of acute mountain sickness (AMS). Assessment of patients should take account of co-morbidities and incorporate advice on prophylaxis and treatment of AMS.
Malaria: Prevention and treatment
Dr Laura French, Dr Thomas Gray and Dr Pavithra Natarajan
InnovAiT 2014 7(4): 224–232
DOI:
The World Health Organization estimates that around 3.3 billion people are at risk of malaria with 220 000 000 cases and 660 000 deaths every year. It is not only seen in the tropics. In 2011 there were 1677 imported cases and eight deaths from malaria in the UK. This article considers important advice on malaria prevention for travellers, as well as on the clinical features and treatment of malaria. Fever within 1 year of return from the tropics should be considered malaria until proven otherwise.
Assessment of carers of people with dementia
Dr Johanne Dow and Professor Louise Robinson
InnovAiT 2014 7(4): 233–240
DOI:
The number of people requiring care will increase dramatically over the next 30 years. This article considers the particular health risks of carers, how to conduct a holistic and comprehensive assessment of their needs and when to refer to the relevant health, social and voluntary sector services. Psychosocial interventions in particular are discussed, as is the need for increased integration between health and social care.