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 However, many articles do not significantly go out of date in that time.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 May 2018 issue includes articles on dementia, pregnancy and Parkinson’s disease. There is an important article on the GP’s role in managing poverty and health.
When to suspect dementia
Dr Emily Foggin
InnovAiT 2018 11(5): 241–248
Early diagnosis of dementia, with deterioration in memory, thinking and behaviour, provides an opportunity for early treatment, proactive support and advance care planning. This article covers investigation and a range of brief cognitive assessment tools that can be done within 5 minutes. Voluntary services and allied health professionals have a role in managing the problems of dementia.
Vascular cognitive impairment and vascular dementia
Dr Anne M Bonnici-Mallia, Dr Christopher Barbara and Dr Rahul Rao
InnovAiT 2018 11(5): 249–255
Vascular dementia is the second most common type of dementia. Early diagnosis is important because modification of cardiovascular risk factors is the mainstay of management. Signs and symptoms vary according to the areas of the brain affected with marked differences between cortical and subcortical vascular damage. Important early features include changes in gait, loss of bladder control and dysexecutive syndrome.
Parkinson’s disease in adults
Dr Daniella A Forster
InnovAiT 2018 11(5): 256–259
Parkinson’s disease is a common neurodegenerative condition characterised by progressive motor dysfunction. It affects 160 people in every 100 000 in the UK. This article aims to raise awareness of the clinical features and provide a summary of management strategies in line with guidance.
Rashes in pregnancy
Miss Isabella Smith
InnovAiT 2018 11(5): 261–265
Rashes in pregnancy are common and caused by physiological disturbances, eruption of existing skin conditions, viral illnesses and conditions specific to pregnancy. Some conditions are important to recognise because they are associated with maternal and foetal risks. Pemphigoid gestationis is a rare autoimmune condition with a risk of preterm delivery and low infant birth weight. Obstetric cholestasis can lead to still birth and premature labour if missed.
Stopping smoking in pregnancy
Dr Kathryn Harrison
InnovAiT 2018 11(5): 266–268
Smoking is a significant and modifiable cause of adverse pregnancy outcomes. Preconception counselling or antenatal care should incorporate effective advice on smoking cessation. This article details sources of support and details the risks associated with smoking in pregnancy.
Erectile dysfunction
Dr Patricia Schartaue, Dr Aseef Muneer, Professor Irwin Nazareth and Professor Mike Kirby
InnovAiT 2018 11(5): 269–276
Erectile dysfunction is common and treatable. This article details modification of lifestyle, medication optimisation and oral treatments that can be started in primary care. It considers primary care assessment, aetiology, risk factors and referral criteria. It is important to be aware of the overlapping risk factors of cardiovascular disease.
Poverty and health: The GP’s role and opportunities
Dr Hina J Shahid
InnovAiT 2018 11(5): 277–284
The health consequences of poverty present significant challenges for GPs. This article illustrates with a case history how awareness, education, collaboration and resources across all levels of healthcare are needed to minimise the impact of poverty on health. Innovative approaches within the consultation can be employed to benefit patients. Interventions in the consultations and national policy changes can affect the damage to health caused by poverty.