Dr IJ Van Schalkwyk Family Practice

18/08/2026

18/08/2026

CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT: Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is often closely linked to the hormonal changes that occur during perimenopause and menopause. As oestrogen levels begin to fluctuate during perimenopause and then fall significantly after menopause, the body loses one of its important natural protections against bone loss. This can cause bone density to decline, sometimes rapidly, increasing the risk of osteoporosis, fractures and loss of height. It is therefore important to recognise that bone health can begin to deteriorate around the perimenopausal years, rather than viewing osteoporosis as simply a condition of old age. Maintaining adequate nutrition, strength and resistance exercise, and discussing appropriate hormonal and medical treatment with a doctor can all play an important role in protecting bone health.

18/08/2026

Do you suffer from persistent back pain?
Our practice, in conjunction with DISCOVERY MEDICAL AID, offers patients the opportunity to be evaluated and if qualified, enroll in the SPINAL CONSERVATIVE CARE PROGRAMME. Dr's Ivor van Schalkwyk and Dewald Viljoen are spearheading this wonderful initiative. Call the practice for an evaluation appointment. 012-322 7752/3

18/08/2026

Nine new babies at home 🦆🦆🦆

18/08/2026

CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT: Depression & Anxiety
Depression and anxiety are real mental-health conditions that can affect anyone, often leaving a person feeling overwhelmed, hopeless, fearful or unable to cope with everyday life. They are not signs of weakness, and they can be treated with appropriate professional support, therapy and, when necessary, medication. If someone is experiencing thoughts of su***de or feels that they may harm themselves, it is important to seek help immediately and not face the crisis alone.
In South Africa, the SADAG Su***de Crisis Line is 0800 567 567. SADAG

13/08/2026

"Diabetes is now the leading cause of death in South Africa, overtaking HIV and TB." TimesLIVE
This is a preventable crisis caused by poor diet, limited screening and unhealthy food environments. Below are a list of symptoms. If you have a family history or symptoms, please do not wait, arrange a screening with Doc. 012-322 7752

11/08/2026

GLP-1 medications, such as semaglutide, can cause a range of side effects, particularly when treatment is started or the dose is increased. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation, bloating, abdominal discomfort, heartburn, and reduced appetite. Some people may also experience fatigue, dizziness, headaches, or dehydration, especially if they are eating and drinking less than usual. In some cases, persistent gastrointestinal symptoms can make it difficult to maintain adequate nutrition and may contribute to loss of muscle mass.
Here are a few tips that might make your journey easier.

11/08/2026

We can't stress this enough: colorectal cancer in young people is rising exponentially. It's a 'silent killer', which is why a proactive approach to this disease is paramount! If caught early enough, it is treatable - but regular screenings are essential, especially for high risk patients.

Our heartfelt condolences to Danny K and his children following the sad loss of Lisa, Danny's wife (41), who courageously battled colorectal cancer for three years before she passed.
May God grant the Guldenfinger & Koppel families, strength, peace and long life. 🙏

03/08/2026

CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT:

Thyroid Disease

The thyroid is a small butterfly-shaped gland in the neck that produces hormones controlling metabolism, energy, body temperature, heart rate, digestion and many other body functions. When the thyroid produces too little or too much hormone, it can affect almost every organ in the body.

Hypothyroidism (Underactive Thyroid)

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid does not produce enough thyroid hormone.

Possible consequences:

Fatigue and low energy

Weight gain

Feeling cold

Dry skin and hair loss

Constipation

Depression or low mood

Slow heart rate

High cholesterol

Memory and concentration problems

Hyperthyroidism (Overactive Thyroid)

Hyperthyroidism occurs when the thyroid produces too much thyroid hormone.

Possible consequences:

Weight loss despite a normal or increased appetite

Rapid or irregular heartbeat

Anxiety, nervousness, and irritability

Tremors

Heat intolerance and excessive sweating

Frequent bowel movements

Muscle weakness

Difficulty sleeping

Bone loss (osteoporosis) over time

In severe, untreated cases, thyroid storm, a life-threatening emergency

28/07/2026

Walking fast is the single most important exercise you can do every day as you get older.