Dr.Clarissa Mordol

For many people exploring medical cannabis treatment , the expectation is often simple. Support should feel calming, steady, and manageable. Yet real experiences can sometimes feel more complicated, especially during the early stages of adjustment. Some individuals describe feeling mentally overstimulated, unusually alert, or emotionally unsettled when first exploring treatment options. This is one reason conversations around cannabis-based medicines increasingly focus on personal response rather than assumptions alone. Why Responses Can Feel So Different No two people respond to support in exactly the same way. What feels calming for one person may feel overwhelming for another. Stress levels, workload, emotional wellbeing, sleep quality, and personal sensitivity can all influence how treatment is experienced. ✔️ Personal tolerance and sensitivity ✔️ Daily routine and emotional state Because of this, experiences can vary significantly between individuals. When Support Feels More Inte...

Some children are born with congenital heart disease but show no outward symptoms. These silent conditions are often discovered during routine medical checks. While most children remain healthy, monitoring is important. Early detection helps prevent complications later in life.

Babies conceived through IVF have a slightly higher risk of congenital heart disease compared to natural conception. However, the overall risk remains low, affecting fewer than 2% of cases. Factors such as multiple pregnancies and underlying fertility issues may contribute to this increase. With proper monitoring and early screening, outcomes are generally very positive.

The first trimester is a crucial stage for fetal heart development. During this period, certain infections and high maternal fever can interfere with how the heart forms. This disruption may increase the risk of congenital heart defects . Early monitoring and preventive care help reduce potential risks and support healthy development.

Fainting in children is usually caused by harmless factors such as dehydration or a temporary drop in blood pressure. However, episodes that occur during physical activity or happen suddenly without warning may indicate a heart-related issue . In congenital heart disease, fainting can result from reduced blood flow or abnormal heart rhythms. Recognising these warning signs allows for timely medical assessment and appropriate care.

Most children with congenital heart disease are able to attend school and participate in daily activities alongside their peers. While some may require adjustments, these are usually manageable within a mainstream school environment. Common support includes flexible attendance for medical appointments, rest breaks during the day, and adapted physical education. Schools in the UK are required to provide appropriate support through structured healthcare plans and trained staff. With the right balance of awareness and flexibility, children with CHD can enjoy a full and positive school experience.

  Congenital heart disease can sometimes be linked to family history, although most cases occur without any prior genetic connection. If a parent or sibling has a heart defect, the risk for future children increases slightly. This is usually due to shared genetic factors or inherited conditions. However, it is important to understand that the overall risk remains relatively low. Most babies, even in higher-risk families, are born with healthy hearts. Distinguishing between inherited conditions and those that occur spontaneously is also important, as many heart defects arise without a clear genetic cause. With modern screening and access to genetic counselling, families can better understand their individual risk and plan accordingly.

Congenital heart surgery allows most children to survive into adulthood. However, these procedures are often repairs rather than permanent cures. As the heart ages, structural and functional changes can lead to complications. These may include heart rhythm disorders, valve problems, or reduced heart function. Many of these changes develop gradually and may not cause symptoms early. Regular follow-up with specialist cardiology services helps identify and manage these issues effectively.

Living with chronic pain often affects more than physical comfort alone. It can influence concentration, productivity, sleep quality, and the ability to stay engaged with daily responsibilities. For many people exploring medical cannabis treatment , one of the biggest concerns is finding support that feels manageable without causing excessive tiredness during the day. Why the Answer Is Not Always Simple When people first learn about cannabis-based medicines , they often hear about Indica and Sativa as though they are opposites. One is usually associated with relaxation, while the other is linked to mental alertness. But real experiences are rarely that straightforward. What feels calming and supportive for one individual may feel overly heavy for another. At the same time, something that feels lighter during active hours may still feel overstimulating depending on the person, timing, and routine. ✔️ Supporting comfort during active hours ✔️ Avoiding excessive tiredness and mental fog...

Most people do not actively ignore their health. They delay decisions that feel unclear. 24–30 April marks World Immunisation Week, highlighting this behaviour. When it comes to immunisation, delays are common. Key reasons include: Not knowing what needs updating Difficulty accessing past records Lack of urgency without symptoms These factors create a cycle of postponement. The longer it is delayed, the less likely it is to be reviewed. That is why clarity matters more than reminders. At My Patient Advice , the focus is on helping people better understand when it may be worth reviewing their health.

Heart valve problems are a key part of congenital heart disease. The heart has four valves that control how blood flows through it. When these valves do not form correctly, circulation becomes less efficient. This may involve narrowing, leakage, or complete closure of a valve. Each of these issues increases the workload on the heart. Over time, this can affect heart function if not monitored. With modern treatments and regular follow-up, many valve-related conditions can be managed successfully.

Congenital heart disease can influence how children learn, even when intelligence is unaffected. Most children with CHD have typical cognitive ability. However, they may experience challenges with concentration, memory, or processing speed. These differences are often linked to energy use in the brain. When the heart is working harder, less energy may be available for sustained focus. Children may tire more quickly, particularly during longer or more demanding tasks. This can sometimes be misunderstood as lack of attention. In reality, it reflects cognitive fatigue. With the right support, including structured tasks and regular breaks, children with CHD can perform well and reach their academic potential.

Congenital heart disease can change as a person ages, even after successful treatment in childhood. Although many defects are repaired, they are rarely considered permanent cures. The heart continues to adapt over time, and this can lead to new challenges. Common long-term changes include valve deterioration, rhythm disturbances, and gradual strain on the heart muscle. These developments may occur slowly and are not always immediately noticeable. Some conditions remain stable for decades. Others progress and require further intervention later in life. This is why regular monitoring is essential. Ongoing reviews allow specialists to identify changes early and manage them effectively. Understanding congenital heart disease as a lifelong condition helps ensure better long-term outcomes.

  Congenital heart disease can continue to affect individuals long after childhood treatment. Even when early interventions are successful, they are typically considered repairs rather than permanent cures. As the heart ages, structural and functional changes may occur. Surgical scarring can affect electrical pathways, increasing the risk of arrhythmias. Repaired valves may deteriorate over time, leading to leakage or narrowing. These changes can result in symptoms such as reduced stamina, palpitations, or fluid retention. In some cases, complications develop gradually and remain unnoticed without regular monitoring. This is why lifelong follow-up with a specialist Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD) team is essential. Ongoing care helps detect changes early and supports long-term heart health.

For many people exploring medical cannabis treatment , the biggest question is not simply whether something works. It is whether it fits into everyday life. Work, concentration, routines, and rest all shape how treatment is experienced from one day to the next. Understanding Daily Functioning Beyond Labels When people first explore cannabis-based medicines , they often come across terms like Indica and Sativa . These labels are usually associated with different experiences, one linked to relaxation and the other to alertness. But real life is rarely that straightforward. For most people, the real question is not about labels. It is about how treatment fits into work, focus, routines, and sleep without becoming disruptive. This is where conversations around cannabis-based treatment become more practical and personal. Why Daily Routine Matters Different parts of the day often require different kinds of support. During working hours, many people want to stay mentally clear and productiv...

  Most people assume their vaccinations are complete. Few ever check again. 24–30 April marks World Immunisation Week, bringing attention to this gap. Vaccination is not a one-time process. Protection can change. Common reasons people fall behind include: Immunity reducing gradually Missed booster schedules Changes in lifestyle or travel exposure There are no obvious signs when protection changes. That is why it is often overlooked. At My Patient Advice , the focus is on helping people better understand when it may be worth reviewing their health.

  Congenital heart disease can continue to affect individuals long after childhood treatment. Even when early interventions are successful, they are typically considered repairs rather than permanent cures. As the heart ages, structural and functional changes may occur. Surgical scarring can affect electrical pathways, increasing the risk of arrhythmias. Repaired valves may deteriorate over time, leading to leakage or narrowing. These changes can result in symptoms such as reduced stamina, palpitations, or fluid retention. In some cases, complications develop gradually and remain unnoticed without regular monitoring. This is why lifelong follow-up with a specialist Adult Congenital Heart Disease (ACHD) team is essential. Ongoing care helps detect changes early and supports long-term heart health.

  Fatigue is a frequent and often overlooked symptom in adults with congenital heart disease . Unlike general tiredness, it may not improve fully with rest and can interfere with daily life. The main reason is reduced cardiac efficiency. The heart may have to work harder to maintain circulation, resulting in less oxygen being delivered to muscles and the brain. This can lead to ongoing exhaustion, particularly during physical or mental activity. Additional factors can contribute, including heart rhythm disturbances, medication side effects, and underlying conditions such as anaemia. Fatigue may also develop gradually, making it difficult to recognise changes over time. Monitoring energy levels is therefore important. A noticeable increase in fatigue should be discussed with a healthcare professional, as it may indicate a change in heart function.

  Congenital heart disease does not always require surgical intervention . Advances in cardiology have introduced a range of non-surgical treatment options that are now widely used in clinical practice. One of the most important developments is interventional catheterisation. This approach allows doctors to repair certain heart defects through a small entry point in a blood vessel, avoiding open-heart surgery. Recovery times are shorter, and the physical impact on the body is significantly reduced. Medication is also a key component of treatment. It supports heart function, manages blood pressure, and helps prevent complications such as arrhythmias or clot formation. In some cases, no immediate treatment is required. Mild defects may be monitored over time, particularly in children, where natural improvement or closure can occur. This reflects a shift in how congenital heart disease is managed. Treatment is tailored to the individual condition, rather than relying on surgery as the...

  Congenital heart disease can be influenced by genetics, but it is not always inherited in a direct or predictable way. Most cases occur without a known family history. However, when a close relative has CHD, the likelihood of a child being born with a heart defect does increase. In the general population, the risk is around 1%. If a parent is affected, this typically rises to between 3% and 5%, although this can vary depending on the specific condition. There are several genetic pathways involved. Some heart defects are linked to chromosomal conditions such as Down’s syndrome or 22q11.2 deletion. Others may involve single gene mutations that can be passed between generations. In many cases, the cause is multifactorial. This means a combination of genetic predisposition and environmental factors contributes to development. Understanding this helps clarify an important point. Genetics influences risk, but it does not determine outcome. Genetic counselling and prenatal screening ca...

  Many congenital heart defects can be identified during pregnancy through routine screening. In the UK, the 20-week anomaly scan is the primary method used to assess the baby’s development, including the structure of the heart. This scan allows clinicians to examine the chambers, valves, and major blood vessels. Detection rates vary depending on the type of defect. More severe or structural abnormalities are often easier to identify, while milder conditions may not be visible during routine screening. If a potential issue is identified, a foetal echocardiogram is arranged. This is a specialised scan that provides a detailed assessment of the heart’s function and blood flow. Early diagnosis offers significant advantages. It allows for planned delivery in a specialist centre, immediate access to neonatal care, and better coordination between medical teams. While not all defects can be detected before birth, many critical conditions are identified early enough to improve outcomes.

  Congenital heart disease can have a significant impact on mental wellbeing as well as physical health. Many individuals live with a constant awareness of their heart. Symptoms, appointments, and long-term uncertainty can create ongoing stress that affects daily life. Anxiety is one of the most common challenges. In CHD, this often presents as cardiac anxiety, where normal physical sensations trigger concern about serious heart issues. Low mood and depression can also develop. This may be linked to physical limitations, lifestyle adjustments, or the emotional weight of managing a lifelong condition. Past medical experiences are another important factor. Early surgeries or hospital stays can contribute to long-term stress responses, even if they occurred in childhood. Recognising these patterns is important. Mental health support should be considered part of routine care, not something separate. With the right support, individuals can manage both the physical and emotional aspects...

  Congenital heart disease can influence career decisions , but it does not limit professional potential. Most individuals with CHD work across a wide range of industries without restriction. The key consideration is how a role aligns with long-term heart health. Certain careers have strict medical requirements. These are usually safety-critical roles where sudden symptoms could pose a risk. Examples include aviation, armed forces, and some emergency service positions. Outside of these areas, flexibility becomes more important than restriction. Energy levels and cardiac fatigue can affect how sustainable a role feels over time. Jobs that allow pacing, rest, and manageable workloads are often more suitable for long-term wellbeing. UK law provides additional support. Under the Equality Act 2010, employers must make reasonable adjustments where a health condition affects daily work. These adjustments can include: • Flexible working hours. • Reduced physical strain. • Time off for me...