Pleurisy

By | March 3, 2025
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Pleurisy

What is Pleurisy?

Pleurisy, also known as pleuritis, is an inflammation of the pleura, the thin membrane that lines the chest cavity and surrounds the lungs. This condition can cause sharp chest pain, especially when breathing or coughing.

Symptoms of Pleurisy

Common symptoms of pleurisy include:

  • Sharp chest pain that worsens with breathing or coughing
  • Shortness of breath
  • Dry cough
  • Fever and chills
  • Rapid or shallow breathing

Causes of Pleurisy

Pleurisy can be caused by various factors, including:

  • Viral infections, such as the flu or pneumonia
  • Bacterial infections, such as tuberculosis or pneumonia
  • Autoimmune conditions, such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis
  • Chest injuries or trauma
  • Pulmonary embolism

Treatment for Pleurisy

The treatment for pleurisy depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Common treatments include:

  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Pain relievers
  • Antibiotics (if caused by bacterial infection)
  • Rest and adequate hydration
  • Thoracentesis (draining excess fluid from the pleural cavity)

FAQs about Pleurisy

1. What are the risk factors for developing pleurisy?

Some common risk factors include viral infections, smoking, and underlying lung conditions.

2. Is pleurisy a contagious condition?

No, pleurisy is not a contagious condition as it is caused by inflammation, not a virus or bacteria.

3. How long does pleurisy last?

The duration of pleurisy can vary depending on the cause and treatment. It may last a few days to a few weeks.

4. Can pleurisy cause complications?

Pleurisy can lead to complications such as pleural effusion (build-up of fluid in the chest cavity) or pneumonia.

5. Can pleurisy be prevented?

Preventing pleurisy involves maintaining good lung health, avoiding smoking, and seeking prompt treatment for respiratory infections.

6. When should I see a doctor for pleurisy symptoms?

If you experience severe chest pain, difficulty breathing, or persistent symptoms, it is important to seek medical attention.

7. Can pleurisy recur?

Yes, pleurisy can recur, especially if there are underlying conditions that predispose you to this inflammatory response.

8. How is pleurisy diagnosed?

Diagnosis of pleurisy typically involves a physical exam, chest X-ray, and sometimes additional tests such as CT scan or blood tests.

9. Are there any lifestyle changes that can help manage pleurisy?

Avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and practicing good respiratory hygiene can help manage pleurisy symptoms.

10. Can pleurisy lead to serious complications?

In severe cases, pleurisy can lead to complications such as respiratory failure or sepsis, especially if left untreated.

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Complete Guide to NSFAS Online Loan Application for South African Students (2025)

If you are a South African student looking to pursue higher education but are facing financial difficulties, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the most accessible funding options available. NSFAS provides financial aid in the form of bursaries and loans to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges in South Africa.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about the NSFAS loan application process, from eligibility requirements to application steps and frequently asked questions.

📌 What is NSFAS?

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme aimed at helping students from low- and middle-income households to access tertiary education without the burden of upfront fees.

NSFAS offers both bursaries and income-contingent loans:

  • Bursaries: For eligible students who meet academic and household income criteria (especially for TVET and university students).
  • Loans: For students who do not meet all bursary criteria or who are pursuing postgraduate qualifications not funded under bursary schemes.

✅ Who Qualifies for an NSFAS Loan?

To qualify for an NSFAS loan (especially for postgraduate students or programs not funded under the bursary system), you must:

  • Be a South African citizen.
  • Be financially needy, with a household income of less than R350,000 per year.
  • Have a valid South African ID.
  • Be enrolled or accepted to study at a public university or TVET college.
  • Not be funded through another bursary program that covers all expenses.
  • Maintain satisfactory academic progress (returning students).

📚 Courses Funded by NSFAS

NSFAS primarily funds undergraduate qualifications, but certain postgraduate programs (e.g., PGCE, postgraduate diplomas in education, and professional courses like LLB) may be considered under the NSFAS loan scheme, not bursaries.

If you’re studying:

  • Undergraduate degree or diploma: You are likely eligible for a full NSFAS bursary.
  • Postgraduate study: You may qualify for a loan, depending on the course and funding availability.

📄 Required Documents for NSFAS Application

When applying, make sure you have the following documents scanned and ready:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID or Smart Card.
  2. Parent(s) or guardian(s) ID documents.
  3. Proof of income (latest payslips, UIF, or affidavit if unemployed).
  4. Consent Form signed by your parent(s)/guardian(s) to allow NSFAS to verify income.
  5. Proof of registration or acceptance at a public institution.
  6. Academic transcripts (for continuing or postgraduate students).

🖥️ How to Apply for an NSFAS Loan Online

Step-by-Step NSFAS Online Application Process (2025)

  1. Visit the NSFAS Website

    Go to: https://www.nsfas.org.za

  2. Create an Account

    • Click on “MyNSFAS” and register your profile.
    • You’ll need a valid email address and South African cellphone number.
    • Choose a strong password and verify your account via email or SMS.

  3. Login and Start the Application

    • After registration, log in to your MyNSFAS account.
    • Click on “Apply” to begin a new application.

  4. Fill in Your Personal Details

    • Input your ID number, name, surname, and other details exactly as they appear on your ID.
    • Provide household income information and living arrangements.

  5. Upload Required Documents

    • Upload all supporting documents in PDF or JPEG format.
    • Each document must be clear and under the size limit specified.

  6. Submit Your Application

    • Review your application for accuracy.
    • Click “Submit” and wait for a confirmation message.

  7. Track Your Application

    • Log in regularly to check your application status.
    • You will be notified via SMS and email at each stage of the process.

🗓️ Important NSFAS Dates (2025)

  • Application Opening Date: September 1, 2025
  • Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
  • Appeals Period: February 2026 (if rejected)
  • Disbursement: After registration and approval

Note: Dates are subject to change; always confirm on the official NSFAS website.

💸 What Does the NSFAS Loan Cover?

NSFAS funding typically includes:

  • Tuition fees
  • Registration fees
  • Accommodation (if living away from home)
  • Meals and transport
  • Learning materials (e.g., textbooks)

For loans, repayment is only required once you start working and earn above a threshold (around R30,000 annually, but subject to change).

🔄 NSFAS Loan Repayment

Repayments are:

  • Income-contingent – you only repay when you can afford to.
  • Administered by DHET (Department of Higher Education and Training).
  • Interest-bearing, but interest rates are low and favorable.

You can also apply for a partial loan conversion to a bursary if you perform well academically.

🔁 How to Appeal a Rejected NSFAS Application

If your application is rejected, you may submit an appeal via your MyNSFAS portal:

  1. Log into your MyNSFAS account.
  2. Click on “Track Funding Progress”.
  3. If rejected, click on “Submit Appeal”.
  4. Upload any missing or corrected documents.
  5. Provide a clear explanation or motivation.

📱 NSFAS Contact Information

📝 Final Tips Before Applying

  • Apply early to avoid system overload near the deadline.
  • Use your own email and cellphone number (do not use someone else’s).
  • Double-check that all your documents are certified and legible.
  • Keep a copy of your submission confirmation for reference.

By following this guide, you can confidently apply for NSFAS funding and move one step closer to achieving your academic and career dreams—without the burden of immediate financial pressure.

If you need a printable checklist or PDF version of this guide, let me know and I’ll create one for you.