Anaphylaxis is a very severe form of allergic reaction. Immediate and life-threatening symptoms, including breathing difficulties, can be the result of exposure to an allergen, such as peanuts or eggs. Anaphylaxis is a serious medical condition, but prompt treatment can save lives.

Appendicitis is an infection of the appendix, a tube-shaped sac located at the beginning of the large bowel. Symptoms include abdominal pain, fever and unwellness. Appendicitis can quickly become serious, so if you’re concerned it is important to see a doctor early. It is commonly treated by surg...

Botulinum toxin, commonly known as Botox, is a potent substance derived from bacteria. The toxin can cause fatal muscle paralysis but, in small doses, has cosmetic uses to relax wrinkles, or medical uses, such as relieving muscle spasticity in patients who have had a stroke.

Bowel obstruction occurs when you have a complete or partial blockage of your bowel, stopping liquids, solids and gas passing through your small or large intestine. This can cause severe abdominal pain, bloating, nausea and vomiting. Bowel obstruction requires prompt medical assessment.

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure involving the insertion of implants behind the breast tissue to change the shape or size of the breasts. This may be done to improve appearance and symmetry of the breasts, or to enhance self-confidence and self-image.

A caesarean section is a surgical procedure used to deliver a baby. This can be a planned or an emergency procedure, which involves the use of an anaesthetic for the mother prior to surgical delivery of the baby.

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is a condition that causes pain, numbness and tingling in the fingers and hands. It is caused by compression of the median nerve in the wrist. The condition can be made worse by certain physical activities.

Dermabrasion is a cosmetic technique for improving the look of the skin. There are several different techniques, but they all remove the outer layer of skin. Initially, the skin may be red, swollen or itchy, but after a few months the skin will look improved.

Gallstones are usually small stones formed in your gallbladder, which is an organ that stores bile to help digest food. They can cause problems if they get stuck at the opening of the gallbladder or pass beyond.

Haemorrhoids are swollen veins in the anus or rectum, which can hang down outside the anus. They are often caused by constipation and straining, obesity, heavy lifting or pregnancy. They may be uncomfortable but are not usually serious.

A hernia occurs when an internal organ pushes through a weakness in the abdominal wall, often as a result of increased internal pressure from straining or heavy lifting. This creates a bulge on the abdomen that can be felt through the skin.

A joint is where two or more bones connect. Joint replacement is the surgical removal of a damaged joint and its replacement with an artificial – or prosthetic – joint. Prosthetic joints can be made of metal, plastic, or a mix of both.

Rhinoplasty is surgery to reshape or repair your nose. It generally known as a cosmetic procedure, but is also performed to repair a broken nose, or correct structural abnormalities that are causing breathing difficulties.