Common Conditions

Back Pain / Musculoskeletal Pain

Pain in the lower, middle, or upper back. The majority of back pain is musculoskeletal — caused by muscle strain, poor posture, or overexertion. Usually improves within 2 to 6 weeks with active management.

Constipation

Infrequent or difficult bowel movements. Fewer than 3 bowel movements per week, hard stools, straining, or a feeling of incomplete emptying. Very common and usually manageable with diet and hydration.

Ear Infection / Otitis Media

Infection of the middle or outer ear. Extremely common in children under 5. Causes significant pain and can affect hearing. Most resolve with or without antibiotics but need assessment.

Insect Bites & Stings — Non-Venomous

Common bites from mosquitoes, ants, bedbugs, and non-venomous insects. Usually cause local swelling, redness, and itching. Rarely dangerous unless allergic or infected.

Menstrual Pain / Period Cramps

Lower abdominal cramping before or during menstruation. Affects most women at some point. Usually manageable with medication and heat. Severe pain may indicate an underlying condition.

Migraine

A neurological condition causing severe throbbing headache, usually one-sided, with nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Debilitating but manageable with correct treatment.

Minor Burns & Scalds

Small burns from hot water, steam, hot objects, or brief flame contact. Affecting less than 5% of the body surface area in adults with no involvement of face, hands, or joints.

Muscle Cramps / Pulls / Strains

Sudden involuntary muscle contractions causing intense pain. Usually harmless and brief. Can indicate dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, or overexertion.

Peptic Ulcer / Stomach Ulcer Pain

A sore in the lining of the stomach or upper small intestine. Causes burning or gnawing pain, often related to eating. Very common in Africa due to H. pylori infection, NSAID overuse, and stress.

Skin Rash — Identification & Management

Rashes have many causes — allergic reactions, viral infections, bacterial infections, fungal infections, and parasites. Identifying the type determines the correct treatment.

Sore Throat / Pharyngitis / Tonsillitis

Inflammation of the throat causing pain, especially when swallowing. Most are viral and resolve without antibiotics. Bacterial tonsillitis requires antibiotic treatment.

Toothache / Dental Abscess

Tooth pain ranging from mild sensitivity to severe throbbing pain from an abscess. Dental abscesses can spread to the jaw, neck, and airway — never ignore severe tooth pain.

Upper Respiratory Tract Infection / Common Cold

A viral infection of the nose, throat, and sinuses. The most common illness in humans. Usually resolves in 7 to 10 days without treatment. Antibiotics do not help.