At first, the hair recedes or thins around the temples, while also becoming thinner on the top of the head. These areas of hair loss get bigger and join up, leaving a patch of hair at the front of the head, which over time also becomes thinner. Often a narrow band of hair will be [...]
The length of time it takes to go bald varies widely between men- from just a few years to more than twenty years.
Other conditions can cause hair loss, though in a different pattern to male pattern hair loss. If you think your hair loss is very rapid, unusual, or not in the expected pattern, you should see your doctor. Patchy hair loss can be caused by ring worm, which is a fungal infection. The autoimmune condition Alopecia [...]
Many men are not concerned by their hair loss, and have no wish to take any action, whilst others may prefer to seek advice and treatment- options include topical lotions, prescription medications, and surgical intervention (hair transplant).
Genital Herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV). There are two forms– HSV1 and HSV2. HSV2 usually infects the genital area. HSV1 tends to affect the mouth, as a cold sore, but it can also occur in the genital region. Around 1 in 8 people carry the [...]
HSV2 is spread by sexual or skin-to-skin contact, and can be passed on during vaginal, oral or anal sex. It can occur anywhere on the genitals or surrounding areas. A person who has had cold sores on their mouth (HSV1) can cause genital infection in a partner by having oral sex. It is important to [...]
Many people do not realise they have been infected with genital herpes and are therefore “silent carriers”, with no symptoms. In many people however, the first episode of herpes can cause a lot of pain, with small intensely painful blisters around the genital area- these break down and form shallow ulcers, which scab and heal [...]
It is easiest to diagnose herpes when the rash is present. A doctor will often be able to tell what it is, simply by looking at the rash. They may also take a swab from the area- results usually come back in a few days. Occasionally, a doctor may decide to do a blood test- [...]
Unfortunately, there is no medication that will completely cure your body of the herpes virus- but there are antiviral treatments that ease symptoms and reduce flare-ups. Ice packs, cool salt water baths and painkillers can be used to help ease symptoms. Local anaesthetic gel (such as Lignocaine gel) can also be used to numb the [...]
Acute attacks or flare ups can be treated with a short course of antiviral medication. Cool baths, topical anaesthetic gels and ice packs may also help to alleviate symptoms. If a person gets repeated bouts of Genital Herpes, a daily antiviral tablet may be used as preventive treatment. Antiviral medications are prescription-only, and may be [...]
