Dr Sivuyile Madikana offers practical advice for everyday health questions.
Hair Loss
Anonymous: I just lost all my hair suddenly with no hair manipulation. My scalp is sensitive and it has flakes like dandruff. Is this normal for a young person and is there any hope for treatment, especially in the public sector?
Dr Sivu: There are a number of reasons that could cause hair loss at a young age. Some may include genetics, hormonal issues, autoimmune conditions or even nutrition. Depending on the underlying cause of the loss of hair, some may be reversible with the right kind of treatment. It is important to seek medical help with a healthcare practitioner as soon as possible. The starting point of help in a public sector is seeing help in a primary healthcare clinic – if the nurses and doctors cannot assist, they will refer you to a dermatologist. This specialist would be better prepared to help and assist and most likely get to the root cause of the issue.
Weight Loss
Anonymous: I want to lose weight, but in a healthy way. Where do I start, and what can I do to achieve my goal?
Dr Sivu: Managing weight and a healthy lifestyle is something that’s on a lot of people’s minds. A big contributor to the discussion is the number of fad diets circulating around the world, with many mixed messages that leave people feeling confused and without real facts. The important lesson to remember in trying to manage one’s weight is that it should be seen in a holistic manner, which includes a well-balanced diet, good amount of exercise and a personalised programme. Here are some quick tips on getting started: 1) Plan your meals ahead so that you can stick to your calorie allowance. 2) Do not stock junk food, such as fizzy drinks, cookies, or sweets, to avoid temptation. 3) Use smaller plates to help control your portions. 4) Get active: exercise will not only help burn excess calories but is also good for your heart.
Mental Health
Anonymous: I don’t know how to ask for a mental-health break from work to get myself admitted to a mental institution. Can my doctor prescribe a sick note for me recommending the institution without revealing my mental illness? I’m scared of being ostracised.
Dr Sivu: The stigma around mental health is something that has prevented many people from seeking healthcare they so desperately need. Mental health is as important as one’s physical health and so should receive the attention it deserves. Taking care of yourself should never feel like a burden. If a doctor has made the decision for you to be admitted to an institution that will assist, then you are more than entitled from a work perspective to go. Healthcare practitioners are guided by a code of conduct and, as such, cannot share your medical information without your consent – this information will not be shared with your employer or colleagues without your approval.
Long Covid-19 Effects
Anonymous: I’m a 30-year-old with no children. I had COVID-19 and was hospitalised. Should I be worried about fertility issues? Can long COVID-19 lead to infertility?
Dr Sivu: COVID-19 has been with us for just a few years and thus considered new in the medical space. We’ve learned lots about it from research, but there is still so much more to learn and explore as the virus transforms. According to studies, long COVID-19 is marked by a wide range of symptoms that could include shortness of breath, fatigue, fever, headaches, ‘brain fog’ and other neurological problems. These symptoms have been seen to last for months or even longer after the initial diagnosis. And there is currently no systematic and comprehensive evidence on the association of COVID-19 with female fertility. However, as the years go by, the medical fraternity will continue to learn more and update the knowledge as it comes.
Do you have a health concern ? Send us your questions via email at bona@hsm.co.za. Your anonymity is guaranteed.
