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Fofanah Shifa'a Pharmacy, Goderich, Freetown (2025)

17/09/2025

⚠️ Symptoms of Liver Failure — Know the Warning Signs!

Your liver is a vital organ that helps in detoxifying your body, producing bile for digestion, and storing essential nutrients. But when it begins to fail, the symptoms can be *life-threatening* if ignored.

Here’s what to look out for:

🟠 Acute Liver Failure:
- Jaundice (yellowing of eyes/skin)
- Pain in the upper right abdomen
- Swollen abdomen
- Nausea & vomiting
- Dehydration & malaise
- Sudden fatigue

🟡 Chronic Liver Failure:
- Constant tiredness
- Loss of appetite (anorexia)
- Unexplained weight loss

🔴 Acute on Chronic Liver Failure:l
- Fluid overload
- Abdominal pain
- Bleeding from the gut
- Confusion or altered mental state

❗Don’t ignore the signs — *early detection can save your liver and your life*.

*Tips for a Healthy Liver:*
✅ Avoid excessive alcohol
✅ Take medications responsibly
✅ Eat a balanced, liver-friendly diet
✅ Get vaccinated (e.g. Hepatitis B)
✅ Regular medical check-ups

____________________
*Yours in care,*
*FOFANAH 🥼🩺*

17/09/2025

The Silent Danger of Skipping Your Medication

Did you know that skipping your medicines, especially for chronic conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes, can pose serious health risks — even when you feel perfectly fine?

Chronic conditions often have no obvious symptoms, especially in the early stages. You might think missing a dose or two won’t hurt — but in reality, it can silently worsen your condition.

➡️ *High blood pressure*, when uncontrolled, increases the risk of stroke, heart failure, and kidney damage.
➡️ *Diabetes* mismanagement can lead to nerve damage, vision loss, or even amputation.

The key to staying healthy isn’t just medication — it’s *consistency* in taking them as prescribed.

*Tips to stay on track with your meds:*
✔ Set daily reminders
✔ Use a pill organizer
✔ Refill prescriptions before they run out
✔ Talk to your pharmacist if you’re having side effects

🎯 Remember: *Medication only works if you take it.*
Protect your health by staying committed to your treatment plan.

____________________
*Yours in care,*
*FOFANAH 🥼🩺*

17/09/2025

LET'S TALK ABOUT STOMACH ULCER ( GASTRIC ULCER)

*🩺 What is a Stomach Ulcer? (Gastric Ulcer)*

A *stomach ulcer* is a sore or open wound 🩹 that forms on the *inner lining of the stomach* 🥴. It’s one type of *peptic ulcer disease*, which also includes:
- *Duodenal ulcers* (in the small intestine) 🧑‍⚕️
- *Esophageal ulcers* 🫁

*Why do they happen?*
When the stomach’s *protective mucus layer* 🛡️ is weakened, *strong stomach acid* 🧪🔥 can erode the lining.

*Top Causes:*
- 🦠 *Helicobacter pylori* (H. pylori) infection
- 💊 Long-term use of *NSAIDs* like aspirin or ibuprofen

*Common Symptoms:*
- 🔥 Burning stomach pain (especially when hungry)
- 🤢 Nausea, bloating, indigestion
- ⚠️ *Severe signs*: Vomiting blood, black/tarry stool

✅ *Good news:* Stomach ulcers are *treatable* with proper care.
🚨 But ignoring them can lead to serious complications!

*Take care of your gut health. Early treatment = faster healing!*

____________________
*Yours, FOFANAH 🥼🩺*

17/09/2025

🩺 World Patient Safety Day – September 17 🩺

Theme: Safe care for every newborn and every child

Every child deserves a healthy start. Let’s raise awareness about the importance of safe healthcare practices — from the moment of birth throughout childhood.

👶🏽 *Protecting our future begins with protecting our children.*
📌 Patient safety isn't just a medical goal — it's a shared responsibility.

✅ Ensure vaccinations are timely
✅ Avoid harmful self-medication
✅ Seek professional care when needed
✅ Practice hygiene and nutrition awareness

Let’s stand for safety — from the *first breath to every milestone*.

—

**Yours,
FOFANAH 🥼🩺**

17/09/2025

*Key Benefits of Eating Carrots Daily 🥕*

Carrots are more than just a crunchy snack — they’re packed with powerful nutrients that support your overall well-being. Here’s why adding carrots to your daily diet is a smart health move:

1. *Rich in Vitamin A*
Carrots are loaded with beta-carotene, which converts to Vitamin A in the body. This supports eye health, especially night vision, and protects against age-related eye issues.

2. *Boosts Immunity*
The antioxidants and Vitamin C in carrots help strengthen the immune system, making you more resistant to infections.

3. *Improves Skin Health*
Beta-carotene also promotes glowing skin and helps slow down signs of aging, keeping your skin looking fresh and healthy.

4. *Supports Heart Health*
Carrots contain fiber and potassium, which help manage blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels, supporting cardiovascular health.

5. *Aids Digestion*
Their high fiber content supports gut health and regular bowel movements, preventing constipation.

*Tip:* Enjoy them raw, steamed, juiced, or tossed into your meals for a delicious and healthy boost!

________________
*Yours, FOFANAH 🥼🩺*

16/09/2025

SICKLE CELL DISEASE (SCD) 🩸

Definition

Sickle cell disease (SCD) is an inherited blood disorder where red blood cells, which are normally round and flexible, become rigid and shaped like a sickle (crescent moon) due to an abnormal type of hemoglobin called hemoglobin S.

These sickle-shaped cells break down easily (hemolysis) and block blood flow, leading to anemia, pain, organ damage, and increased risk of infections.
*Normal Physiology of Red Blood Cells*

Red blood cells (RBCs) contain hemoglobin, which carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body.

Normal RBCs are round, smooth, and flexible, allowing them to move easily through blood vessels.

They live for about 120 days before being replaced by new cells.

*Pathophysiology of Sickle Cell Disease*

1. A genetic mutation leads to production of hemoglobin S instead of normal hemoglobin A.

2. When oxygen is low, hemoglobin S molecules stick together, causing RBCs to change into a sickle shape.

3. These sickle cells are:

Fragile → break down quickly → chronic anemia.

Sticky → block small blood vessels → pain crises and organ damage.

4. Lifespan of sickle cells is only 10–20 days, compared to 120 days for normal cells.

*Causes & Risk Factors*

Genetic inheritance:

A child must inherit the sickle gene from both parents (SS) to have the disease.

If only one parent passes the gene, the child has sickle cell trait (AS), which is usually symptomless but can be passed to offspring.

Risk is highest when both parents are carriers (AS + AS).

*Symptoms*

Anemia: Fatigue, weakness, pale skin.

Pain crises: Sudden episodes of severe pain (bones, chest, abdomen).

Swelling: Hands and feet (dactylitis).

Frequent infections: Due to spleen damage.

Delayed growth & puberty in children.

Vision problems due to blocked eye blood vessels.

Jaundice: Yellowing of eyes and skin (due to rapid RBC breakdown).

*Types of Sickle Cell Disorders*

1. HbSS: Most common and severe form.

2. HbSC: Milder form (one sickle gene + one C gene).

3. HbAS (Sickle cell trait): Usually no symptoms, but carrier.

4. HbSβ-thalassemia: Combination of sickle gene and thalassemia gene.

Complications

Stroke.

Pulmonary hypertension (high blood pressure in lungs).

Organ damage (kidneys, liver, spleen).

Leg ulcers.

Gallstones (from breakdown of RBCs).

Death from severe infection or organ failure.

*Treatment*

Pain management: NSAIDs, opioids during crises.

Hydroxyurea: Increases fetal hemoglobin, reducing sickling and crises.

Blood transfusions: Reduce risk of stroke and anemia.

Bone marrow/stem cell transplant: The only potential cure, but rarely available in Africa due to cost.

Antibiotics & vaccines: Prevent infections (especially in children).

Folic acid supplementation: Helps new RBC production.

Prevention & Clinical Advice

Genetic counseling: Couples should know their genotype (AA, AS, SS) before marriage.

If both partners are AS, there is a 25% chance of having a child with sickle cell disease.

Drink plenty of water and avoid extreme temperatures (cold/heat).

Manage stress and avoid strenuous activity that may trigger crises.

Children should receive routine immunizations and extra vaccines against pneumonia, meningitis, and influenza.

Regular hospital follow-up is essential.

⚠️ Takeaway: Sickle cell disease is preventable through genotype testing before marriage. For those already living with SCD, proper care, good nutrition, and medical follow-up can greatly improve quality of life and life expectancy.

Note:If you're suffering from Sickle cells Disease.
Visit hospital nearest to you consistently!!!

Consult a Pharmacist close to you for proper and appropriate use of medicine and lifestyle..

________________________________
Yours FOFANAH 🥼🩺

11/09/2025

*CHOOSE WISELY: Your Future Depends on Today’s Choices*

When it comes to your health, you always have two options:

👉 *Invest in a Healthy Lifestyle Now*
OR
👉 *Pay the Price Later with Medical Bills*

This powerful image reminds us of a harsh reality — many people avoid exercise, neglect proper nutrition, and ignore their well-being, only to end up spending huge amounts on medications, hospital visits, and chronic disease management.

💪 Why Choose Workouts & Lifestyle?
- Boosts your energy and mood
- Prevents chronic diseases like diabetes, hypertension, and heart issues
- Strengthens immunity and bones
- Improves sleep and mental clarity

💊 The Cost of Ignoring Your Health:
- Frequent doctor visits
- Expensive medications
- Reduced quality of life
- Long-term suffering from preventable diseases

🌿 It’s Simple:
- Exercise regularly
- Eat clean and balanced meals
- Drink water
- Sleep well
- Avoid harmful habits like smoking or excessive sugar

*Start today. Your future self will thank you.*
Health is an investment, not an expense.

— *FOFANAH 🥼🩺*

28/08/2025

⚠️ 5 Everyday Medicine Mistakes You Should Avoid

Medicines work best when used the right way. Here are some common mistakes people make and why they matter 👇

1️⃣ Mixing Alcohol with Antibiotics.

👉 Alcohol doesn’t just weaken your body’s recovery—it can also interfere with how some antibiotics work (e.g., metronidazole), causing nausea, vomiting, or dizziness. Always check before drinking when on medication.

2️⃣ Stopping Antibiotics Too Early.

👉 Feeling better doesn’t mean the infection is gone. Stopping treatment early gives bacteria a chance to survive, grow stronger, and even become resistant. Always complete your prescribed course.

3️⃣ Sharing Prescription Medicines

👉 A drug that worked for your friend may be dangerous for you. Different bodies, conditions, and doses matter. What helps one person could harm another.

4️⃣ Taking Painkillers on an Empty Stomach

👉 Medicines like ibuprofen or diclofenac can irritate the stomach lining if taken without food, sometimes leading to ulcers or bleeding. Always take them with meals unless told otherwise by your healthcare provider.

5️⃣ Overusing Cough Syrups

👉 More is not better. Some cough syrups contain sedatives or codeine which can cause dependence, drowsiness, or even breathing problems if misused. Always stick to the prescribed dose.

💊 Bottom line: Medicines can heal, but only if used correctly. Understanding the why behind each instruction keeps you safe and helps your treatment work better.

✨ Your pharmacist is your best ally—don’t hesitate to ask before you take any medicine.

________________________________
Yours FOFANAH 🥼🩺

19/08/2025

💪 *ESSENTIAL NUTRIENTS FOR WOMEN’S HEALTH* 💃

Your body needs more than just food—it needs the *right* fuel to thrive! Here are key nutrients every woman should prioritize:

🔹 *Protein* – Builds and repairs tissues, supports muscle health.
🔹 *Vitamin D* – Strengthens bones and boosts immunity.
🔹 *Iron* – Prevents anemia and improves oxygen flow.
🔹 *Calcium* – Essential for bone and dental health; reduces osteoporosis risk.
🔹 *Folate (B9)* – Crucial for cell growth and reproductive health.
🔹 *Magnesium* – Balances hormones, aids muscles and energy.
🔹 *Omega-3s* – Protects heart, brain, and joints.
🔹 *Vitamin B12* – Powers red blood cells and boosts energy.
🔹 *Fiber* – Improves digestion and helps maintain healthy weight.
🔹 *Potassium* – Supports heart and muscle function, regulates blood pressure.

✅ Eat smart, live strong.

PC: *Nurse Manjula*
________________________________
Yours, FOFANAH 🥼🩺

18/08/2025

🍅 *DID YOU KNOW? Eating Rotten Tomatoes Can Be Harmful!*

Many people believe it’s fine to just cut off the bad part of a tomato and eat the rest — but that’s not always safe.

*Rotten tomatoes can contain harmful molds and bacteria* that produce toxins. These toxins can cause:

✅ Stomach pain
✅ Vomiting
✅ Diarrhea
✅ Food poisoning
❗ And in some cases, *liver damage over time*!

Even worse — these toxins don’t always stay in the visibly rotten part. They can *spread silently throughout the entire tomato.*

⚠️ *Expert advice?* If a tomato is rotting, *throw it away completely.* It’s not worth the risk to your health.

👉 *QUESTION TIME:*
Do you usually cut away the bad part and eat the rest, or throw it away entirely?
*Be honest 😅👇*
Yes👍
No👎
____________________
*Yours, FOFANAH 🥼🩺*

16/08/2025

🚨 *COULD YOUR PREGNANCY BE LIFE-THREATENING?*
🚨LET'S TALK ABOUT ECTOPIC PREGNANCY

🚨WHAT IS ECTOPIC PREGNANCY?

🚨ECTOPIC PREGNANCY: occurs when a fertilized egg grows outside the womb, often in the Fallopian tubes, but can also occur in the ovaries, cervix, or abdomen. This condition can cause severe damage to nearby organs or lead to severe blood loss if not treated promptly.

🚨 COMMON SYMPTOMS

√ Abdominal pain
√ Vaginal bleeding
√ Amenorrhea (missing your period)

These symptoms often appear in early pregnancy and may be accompanied by other pregnancy symptoms such as breast fullness and nausea.

🚨 RISK FACTORS

√ Smoking
√ Previous ectopic pregnancy
√ STIs (e.g., gonorrhea)
√ Fertility treatments (e.g., in vitro fertilization)
√ Fallopian tube surgeries
√ Pregnancy while using an Intrauterine Contraceptive Device

🚨 DANGER SIGNS

If you experience any of the following, seek immediate medical attention:

√ Rigid abdomen
√ Severe abdominal pain
√ Shoulder tip pain
√ Signs of shock (cold hands and feet)

🚨 DIAGNOSIS

Ectopic pregnancy can be diagnosed using:

√ HCG blood test
√ Ultrasound scan
√ Laparoscopy (an operation on your abdomen)

🚨TREATMENT

Treatment options vary depending on individual circumstances and may include:

√ Expectant measures
√ Methotrexate
√ Surgery

🚨PREVENTION

While it's not possible to entirely prevent ectopic pregnancy, you can reduce your risk by:

√ Limiting your sexual partners
√ Using condoms to prevent STIs and pelvic inflammatory disease
√ Quitting smoking before trying to conceive

🚨IMPORTANCE OF AWARENESS

Every pregnant woman, especially during the first three months of pregnancy, should be aware of the basic symptoms of ectopic pregnancy. Early recognition and timely medical intervention can be life-saving.

PC: Nurse Marish Fresh
________________________________
Yours FOFANAH 🥼🩺

15/08/2025

Eating Watermelon Is massive for your health!!

Sweet, juicy, and refreshing, watermelon is more than just a summer snack. It’s a hydrating fruit loaded with nutrients that can keep your body healthy all year round. Let’s explore why you should eat more of it.

🎯High in Water, Low in Calories
Watermelon is about 92% water, making it perfect for staying hydrated. It’s also low in calories, so you can enjoy a generous portion without worrying about weight gain.

🎯 Packed with Vitamins and Antioxidants
This fruit is rich in vitamin C for immunity, vitamin A for good vision, and antioxidants like lycopene that protect cells from damage and support heart health.

🎯 Good for the Heart
Lycopene in watermelon can help lower bad cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease. Citrulline, an amino acid in watermelon, may also help relax blood vessels and improve blood flow.

🎯 Supports Skin and Hair Health
Vitamins A and C help your skin stay smooth and your hair strong by supporting collagen production and cell repair.

🎯 Natural Workout Snack
Watermelon’s hydration, natural sugars, and minerals like potassium make it a great choice for rehydrating after exercise. It helps replace lost fluids and reduce muscle soreness.

🎯 Who Should Be Cautious
People with very high blood sugar levels should watch their portions, as watermelon has natural sugars. Always pair it with protein or healthy fats for better blood sugar control.

Dear Family,
Watermelon is not just a tasty treat, it’s a nutrient-rich, hydrating fruit that supports your heart, skin, and overall health. Enjoy it fresh, in smoothies, or as a salad for a refreshing health boost.

Share! Share! share! 💪🏽

________________________________
Yours FOFANAH 🥼🩺

Fofanah Shifa'a Pharmacy

17/09/2025

17/09/2025

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