Clinical Practice

The population around the world is ageing. By 2050, it is anticipated that we will see an increase in the population of adults over the age of 65 years to 36%. The potential to live longer will result in an anticipated increase in the over…

An audit of the screening tool of older persons' prescriptions incorporating criteria for potentially inappropriate drugs called STOPP (Screening Tool of Older Persons' Prescriptions) and criteria for potentially appropriate, indicated…

Leg discomfort is a common presentation among the elderly and can be a manifestation of many different disease processes. One key issue is how to differentiate between the benign and the more serious causes. This article will explore the…

Migraine is a common complaint in all age groups, but the diagnosis and treatment in an older population require special consideration.

Hyperhidrosis is a condition characterised by abnormally increased sweating, in excess of that required for regulation of body temperature.

Although three-quarters of patients wish to die at home, only a quarter actually do so. A more concerted effort in primary care can increase the chances of a terminally ill patient fulfilling this wish. Liaison between the primary…

GPs in the UK will, on average, each have 50 men on their list between the ages of 60 and 80 years who have moderate or severe urinary symptoms related to benign prostatic hyperplasia. This article discusses the prevalence and assessment in…

Ulysses syndrome is the name attributed to needless investigations conducted as a result of false-positive test results. It causes needless distress to the patients and leads to waste of human and financial resources.

The control of fluid balance in older people has an important influence on morbidity and mortality in high environmental temperatures. This article looks at management of fluid balance.

Stroke is the most common cause of severe disability in the UK, which is frequently complicated by dysphagia. PEG in a useful procedure that can help maintain nutrition in such patients.

The concept of informed consent is based on an individual's basic human right to make their own decisions and pursue their own goals. However, a diagnosis of dementia or other form of cognitive impairment can affect mental capacity.

Acute posterior vitreous detachment is a common cause of unilateral floaters and flashes in the eyes. These visual experiences are frightening for the patient.

Recognised risk factors for glaucoma now include elevated intraocular pressure, age, race, family history, myopia and corneal thickness.

This article provide an insight into how new radiological techniques can be used to investigate for colon cancer in the older patient.

The Bournewood proposals were issued by the Department of Health to clarify issues surrounding the compliant incapacitant patient where they are being, or risk being, deprived of their liberty.