Frequently Asked Questions

Coughing alone is unlikely to cause a hernia. However, chronic or severe coughing can potentially contribute to the development or exacerbation of a hernia, particularly in individuals with weakened abdominal muscles or pre-existing vulnerabilities.

Yes, persistent or forceful coughing can cause chest pain by straining the muscles in the chest and ribcage. Additionally, underlying respiratory conditions or infections that lead to coughing may also contribute to chest discomfort.

Yes, frequent or vigorous coughing can contribute to a sore throat by irritating and inflaming the throat tissues. Additionally, underlying respiratory infections or conditions that trigger coughing may also cause or worsen a sore throat.

Yes, coughing can be a symptom of allergies, particularly if the immune system reacts to airborne allergens such as pollen, dust, or pet dander. Allergic reactions can lead to irritation in the respiratory tract, triggering coughing as the body attempts to expel the allergens.

While extremely rare, forceful and prolonged coughing could potentially contribute to the development of a spontaneous pneumothorax, which is a type of collapsed lung. However, it's important to note that various underlying factors, such as lung diseases or trauma, are more common causes of a collapsed lung.

Yes, a sore throat can cause ear pain, as the nerves in the throat and ears are interconnected, and irritation or inflammation in the throat can radiate to the ears, leading to discomfort. The phenomenon is known as referred pain, where the sensation is felt in an area other than the source of the problem.

Yes, a sore throat can be caused by allergies when the immune system reacts to allergens, leading to inflammation and irritation in the throat. Postnasal drip, a common allergy symptom, can contribute to throat discomfort and soreness.

While a sore throat itself doesn't directly cause an ear infection, the same infection that causes the sore throat, such as a viral or bacterial infection, can potentially spread to the ears, leading to an ear infection in some cases. Ear pain associated with a sore throat is often due to referred pain, where discomfort from the throat is felt in the ears.

Yes, a sore throat can be accompanied by a fever, especially when the underlying cause is a viral or bacterial infection. The body's immune response to the infection may result in an elevated temperature, contributing to fever along with other symptoms.

Yes, a sore throat can be contagious if it is caused by a viral or bacterial infection, as these pathogens can be transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or shares personal items. Taking precautions like practicing good hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with individuals who are sick can help prevent the spread of contagious sore throat infections.

CallonDoc offers HIV PrEP prescriptions for those who undergo one of our consultations. 

No, HIV PrEP is specifically designed for individuals who are HIV-negative and at high risk of HIV exposure. If someone already has HIV, they should pursue antiretroviral therapy (ART) for HIV treatment, not PrEP.

HIV PrEP works by providing a continuous low dose of antiretroviral medication, usually a combination of tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and emtricitabine, to individuals at high risk of HIV exposure. When taken consistently, PrEP helps prevent the establishment of HIV in the event of potential exposure, such as through sexual activity or needle sharing.

Yes, PrEP is specifically designed for individuals who do not have HIV but are at high risk of exposure. It is taken by HIV-negative individuals as a preventive measure to reduce the risk of contracting the virus.

PrEP and condoms are different methods of HIV prevention with their own advantages. While PrEP is highly effective when taken consistently, it does not protect against other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), so combining PrEP with condom use provides a more comprehensive approach to sexual health.

HIV PEP can be prescribed by CallonDoc for those with recent cases of HIV exposure.

Tests by healthcare authorities conclude that HIV PEP can be highly effective in preventing HIV infection when initiated promptly (within 72 hours) after a known or suspected exposure to the virus. However, its effectiveness decreases with delayed initiation, underscoring the importance of seeking medical attention promptly after potential exposure.

HIV PEP is a time-limited treatment that can significantly reduce the risk of HIV infection if started promptly (within 72 hours) after a known or suspected exposure. While PEP is highly effective when initiated early, it does not provide a 100% guarantee and should not be considered a substitute for ongoing preventive measures such as safe sex practices and regular HIV testing.

HIV PEP is generally well-tolerated, but individuals may experience side effects, which are often mild and temporary. Common side effects include nausea, fatigue, and headache, and severe adverse effects are rare, making PEP a generally safe intervention when needed for preventing HIV infection after a known or suspected exposure.

While on HIV PEP, individuals may test positive for HIV if they are actually infected, as PEP is not 100% effective. It's crucial to continue regular follow-up with healthcare providers, including HIV testing, during and after PEP completion to monitor for infection and ensure appropriate care.

Yes, toenail fungus can spread from one toenail to another and from one person to another through direct or indirect contact with the fungal spores. Fungal spores can be present in nail clippings, contaminated surfaces, or shared personal items like nail clippers and shoes.

Yes, toenail fungus can be cured with appropriate treatment, but it often requires time and persistence. Successful treatment typically involves antifungal medications, either topical or oral, and may take several months to completely eliminate the infection and allow the affected toenail to grow out normally.

Yes, toenail fungus can be painful, particularly in the later stages of infection when the nail becomes thicker, distorted, and starts to lift from the nail bed. The pressure and friction from shoes can cause discomfort, and in some cases, the infection may lead to aching or soreness in the affected toe.

No, toenail fungus itself is not life-threatening and cannot directly lead to a fatal condition. However, in individuals with weakened immune systems or certain underlying health conditions, a severe fungal infection may become a source of complications and should be promptly addressed by a healthcare professional to prevent potential health issues.

Toenail fungus typically remains localized to the toenails and surrounding skin, and it doesn't spread internally to affect organs or other parts of the body. It primarily affects the nails and the tissues immediately adjacent to the infected nail.

Impetigo is a highly contagious bacterial skin infection commonly caused by Staphylococcus aureus or Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria. It often affects children, but individuals of any age can develop this condition.

Impetigo is typically spread through direct contact with an infected person or by touching objects or surfaces that have the bacteria on them. Scratching or insect bites can also contribute to the spread of impetigo.

Common symptoms include red sores that rupture and ooze, forming honey-colored crusts. These sores may be itchy, and swollen lymph nodes may also occur. Impetigo can present in various forms, including bullous (large fluid-filled blisters) and non- bullous (sores without blisters).

A dermatologist can typically diagnose impetigo based on the characteristic appearance of the skin lesions. In some cases, a swab or culture may be taken to identify the specific bacteria causing the infection.

Antibiotics, either topical or oral, are the primary treatment for impetigo. Topical antibiotics are often sufficient for mild cases, while more severe or widespread infections may require oral antibiotics.

Melasma is a common skin condition characterized by the development of brown or grayish-brown patches on the face, typically on the forehead, cheeks, nose, upper lip, and chin. It is more common in women and often occurs during pregnancy or with sun exposure.

The exact cause of melasma is not fully understood, but it is believed to be influenced by hormonal changes, particularly during pregnancy or with the use of birth control pills. Sun exposure, genetic factors, and certain medications can also contribute to its development.

Melasma is a benign skin condition and is not considered serious or harmful to your health. However, it can have a significant impact on one's appearance and self-esteem. It is advisable to consult a dermatologist for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate management.

While it may not be entirely preventable, you can reduce the risk of melasma by using sunscreen with a high SPF, avoiding excessive sun exposure, and wearing protective clothing. Hormonal factors may be more challenging to control, but consulting with a healthcare professional can help manage these aspects.

Melasma is typically diagnosed based on its characteristic appearance on the skin. In some cases, a Wood's lamp or a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other skin conditions.

Athlete's foot is unlikely to resolve on its own and often requires antifungal treatment to effectively eliminate the infection. Without proper intervention, the condition may persist or worsen over time.

Athlete's foot and jock itch are both fungal infections caused by dermatophytes, but they affect different areas of the body. Athlete's foot primarily targets the feet, while jock itch occurs in the groin and thigh areas, and each typically requires specific treatments.

Yes, athlete's foot is contagious and can spread through direct contact with infected skin or by contact with contaminated surfaces such as floors, towels, or shoes. Taking precautions, such as practicing good hygiene and avoiding shared personal items, can help prevent its transmission.

Yes, athlete's foot is generally curable with appropriate antifungal treatment, which may include topical or oral medications. Consistent and thorough application of the prescribed treatment, along with preventive measures, can effectively eliminate the infection.

Athlete's foot can be associated with discomfort, and it often causes symptoms such as itching, burning, and stinging, which may lead to pain, especially if the skin becomes cracked or fissured. The severity of pain varies among individuals and depends on the extent and stage of the infection.

Athlete's foot is unlikely to resolve on its own and often requires antifungal treatment to effectively eliminate the infection. Without proper intervention, the condition may persist or worsen over time.

Athlete's foot and jock itch are both fungal infections caused by dermatophytes, but they affect different areas of the body. Athlete's foot primarily targets the feet, while jock itch occurs in the groin and thigh areas, and each typically requires specific treatments.

Yes, athlete's foot is contagious and can spread through direct contact with infected skin or by contact with contaminated surfaces such as floors, towels, or shoes. Taking precautions, such as practicing good hygiene and avoiding shared personal items, can help prevent its transmission.

Yes, athlete's foot is generally curable with appropriate antifungal treatment, which may include topical or oral medications. Consistent and thorough application of the prescribed treatment, along with preventive measures, can effectively eliminate the infection.

Athlete's foot can be associated with discomfort, and it often causes symptoms such as itching, burning, and stinging, which may lead to pain, especially if the skin becomes cracked or fissured. The severity of pain varies among individuals and depends on the extent and stage of the infection.

Yes, warts are contagious as they are caused by HPV, which can be transmitted through sex, direct skin-to-skin contact, or contact with surfaces or objects that have the virus on them. 

Warts may resolve on their own over time as the immune system naturally fights off HPV. However, some warts may persist or multiply, and seeking medical intervention, such as topical treatments, procedures, or other therapies, is often advisable for effective and timely resolution.

Warts are generally not painful, although certain types, such as plantar warts on the soles of the feet, may cause discomfort or pain, especially when walking or standing. Pain can also occur if warts develop in areas prone to friction or pressure, but in many cases, warts are more of a cosmetic concern than a source of significant pain.

Yes, warts can be itchy, especially if they are located in areas where the skin is thin or sensitive. However, itching is not a universal symptom of warts, and its intensity can vary among individuals.

Yes, warts can potentially bleed, especially if they are scratched, picked, or irritated. However, bleeding is not a common or typical symptom of warts, and caution should be exercised to avoid self-inflicted injury or infection.