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Healthy thoughts & industry news

Thoughts, inspiration, and stories about healthcare in Canada and beyond, brought to you by Maple

How Long Does it Take for Chlamydia to Show up on a Test?
Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections  (STIs) in Canada and around the world, caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. Despite its prevalence, it’s an infection that can be managed effectively with timely intervention. Recent data from the Public Health Agency of Canada reveals that reported cases of chlamydia have been steadily…

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What Causes Lower Back Pain During Cold or Flu
As the cold and flu season sets in, many of us are bracing for the familiar symptoms: a runny nose, sore throat, and fatigue. But for some, a less common discomfort may also arise — lower back pain. While lower back pain isn’t a typical symptom of a cold or the flu, some people do…

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Why do my Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Symptoms Come and Go?
Dealing with discomfort while urinating or suddenly feeling the need to go can be unsettling. However, you’re not alone; urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common reasons people head to their doctors. These infections can pop up anywhere along your urinary tract, which includes the urethra (the tube that lets urine leave…

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How Long Does a Flu Cough Last
When flu season approaches in Canada — by November and December — the usual symptoms like fever and fatigue are common companions. However, one symptom that often overstays its welcome is the lingering flu cough. If you’ve been battling a cough that just won’t quit, you’re not alone. Understanding why it sticks around and how…

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How Do You Test for Herpes?
Herpes is a common but often misunderstood sexually transmitted infection (STI) that affects millions of people worldwide. Herpes, a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that causes painful sores around the mouth or genital region, affects one in seven in Canada, and the majority don’t know they carry the virus. Although herpes remains in the body for…

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Stages of the Flu
During the 2022 to 2023 season, there were over 74,000 lab-confirmed cases of the flu in Canada. For many families, the flu means missed school days, loss of work, and, in severe cases, hospitalization.  The flu hits in stages, each with its own set of symptoms and discomfort. But by understanding these stages, you can…

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How Long Does a Flu Last
The flu, or influenza, is a common respiratory virus that affects thousands of Canadians each year. In many cases, the illness passes within 3-14 days without severe complications. Understanding the typical duration of the flu can help you manage your symptoms more effectively and to know when to seek medical attention.  Read on to learn…

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How do Men Get Tested for STIs?
Sexual health is an essential aspect of overall well-being, and understanding how to get tested for STIs is a key part of maintaining it. It’s important to understand that “STI,” or sexually transmitted infection, is the current term replacing “STD,” which stands for sexually transmitted disease. This change reflects the fact that many infections do…

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Can You Test for Herpes Without an Outbreak?
Herpes is a common sexually transmitted infection (STI) that many people carry without realizing it. Around one in seven Canadians carry the virus — caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV) — but most people don’t have symptoms. This makes understanding and managing the virus even more important.  There are two types of HSV:  HSV-1…

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How Accurate are At-Home STI Tests
It’s easy to see why at-home STI tests have become so popular in Canada — they offer privacy and convenience, allowing you to test for common sexually transmitted infections (STIs) right from the comfort of home. But with something as important as your sexual health, you might be wondering: how accurate are these tests, and…

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3 Ways Virtual Health Care Can Help You Manage Back-to-School Sicknesses
The back-to-school season means the return of a few fall delights, like a new pair of sneakers, just-sharpened pencils, and a classroom full of new friends. But it can also bring a few unpleasantries — like back-to-school sicknesses. When kids return to the playground, they can’t seem to help but bring home some kind of…

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