Definition:
A bunion is a bony deformity at the base of the big toe where the toe gradually shifts inward toward the others.
Causes:
- Genetic foot structure
- Tight or narrow footwear
- Arthritis (especially inflammatory types)
Symptoms:
- Pain and swelling at big toe joint
- Visible bump on side of foot
- Difficulty wearing shoes
Management:
- Wider footwear and padding
- Orthotics for alignment
- Pain relief (NSAIDs)
- Surgery (bunionectomy) in severe cases
Chapter 25 | Module 24: Cancer
Definition:
Cancer is uncontrolled abnormal cell growth that can invade tissues and spread (metastasis).
Key Pathophysiology:
- DNA mutations → uncontrolled cell division
- Tumour formation
- Potential spread via blood/lymph
Types (examples):
- Carcinomas (epithelial)
- Sarcomas (bone/muscle)
- Leukemia (blood cancers)
Treatment Approaches:
- Surgery (remove tumour)
- Chemotherapy (systemic cell kill)
- Radiotherapy (targeted destruction)
- Immunotherapy
- Adjuvant / neoadjuvant therapy
Prevention & Screening:
- Smoking cessation
- Screening programmes (e.g., colonoscopy, mammograms)
Chapter 26 | Module 25: Cardiac Arrest
Definition:
Sudden loss of heart function, leading to collapse and no pulse.
Common Causes:
- Ventricular fibrillation
- Ventricular tachycardia
- Myocardial infarction
- Severe hypoxia
Signs:
- Unresponsive
- No breathing or pulse
Emergency Management:
- Immediate CPR
- Defibrillation (shockable rhythms)
- Advanced life support (airway, drugs like adrenaline)
Post-Arrest Care:
- Therapeutic cooling (targeted temperature management)
- Oxygen and blood pressure support
- Neurological monitoring
Chapter 27 | Module 26: Cardiovascular Disorders
Major Conditions:
- Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)
- Heart Failure
- Hypertension
- Congenital heart defects
Coronary Artery Disease:
- Atherosclerosis narrows arteries
- Reduced oxygen to heart muscle → angina or MI
Heart Failure:
- Heart cannot pump effectively
- Symptoms: breathlessness, oedema, fatigue
Management:
- Diuretics
- ACE inhibitors / beta blockers
- Low salt diet
- Lifestyle changes
Chapter 28 | Module 27: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Definition:
Compression of the median nerve in the wrist.
Causes:
- Repetitive strain
- Pregnancy
- Arthritis
- Wrist injury
Symptoms:
- Numbness/tingling in thumb, index, middle fingers
- Weak grip strength
- Night pain
Treatment:
- Wrist splints
- NSAIDs
- Steroid injections
- Surgery (carpal tunnel release)
Chapter 29 | Module 28: Catarrh
Definition:
Excess mucus in the nose, throat, or sinuses due to inflammation.
Causes:
- Colds
- Sinus infections
- Allergies
Symptoms:
- Blocked nose
- Post-nasal drip
- Throat irritation
Management:
- Hydration
- Steam inhalation
- Saline sprays
- Decongestants or antihistamines
Chapter 30 | Module 29: Cellulitis
Definition:
A bacterial skin infection affecting deep skin layers.
Causes:
- Streptococcus or Staphylococcus bacteria
- Entry through cuts, wounds, ulcers
Symptoms:
- Red, hot, swollen skin
- Pain and tenderness
- Fever in severe cases
Treatment:
- Oral or IV antibiotics
- Elevation of affected limb
- Wound care
Chapter 31 | Module 30: Cerebral Palsy (CP)
Definition:
A group of lifelong movement disorders caused by early brain injury.
Causes:
- Oxygen deprivation at birth
- Prematurity
- Infection during pregnancy
- Brain injury in infancy
Types:
- Spastic (most common)
- Dyskinetic
- Ataxic
Symptoms:
- Muscle stiffness or floppiness
- Poor coordination
- Speech difficulties
- Developmental delay
Management:
- Physiotherapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
- Muscle relaxants (e.g., baclofen)
- Mobility aids
