What is RSV? Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that infects the respiratory tract, and it’s particularly widespread among babies and young children. Most children will have had RSV by the age of two, and in many cases, RSV causes symptoms similar to a cold (runny nose, cough, sneezing), with children recovering without…
In today’s world, our phones are almost extensions of ourselves. They wake us up in the morning, keep us connected to family and friends, help us work or study, and provide endless entertainment. While these small devices bring tremendous convenience, they also pose risks to both physical and mental health when used excessively. Developing healthy…
Understanding how long antibiotics take to work, and what they are used for, is vital for patients. The NHS provides clear guidance to help people use these medications responsibly and effectively. When do antibiotics start working? Antibiotics start acting against bacteria from the moment you take them, but feeling better can take longer. According…
Did you know that according to a 2022 YouGov survey, one in eight Britons (13%) reported feeling tired all the time? Plus, a more recent survey found that 55% of Britons were hyper-fatigued, meaning they were exhausted all the time, with this figure rising to 65% for 25–34-year-olds. Feeling persistently tired or fatigued can be deeply unsettling,…
Is your child starting or going back to school in September? With school rules and a growing pressure to buy trending or branded items, the average back-to-school shop can cost a shocking £300 or more! Here are some easy eco-friendly swaps you can do to make the school year more sustainable and affordable for your…
Missed or lighter period / implantation bleeding For those with regular cycles, a missed period is often the earliest and most reliable indicator of pregnancy. Some may notice very light bleeding – implantation bleeding – around the time of the expected period, but lighter and shorter in duration. When detectable: Usually from about 4 weeks…
When it comes to managing pain or fever, two of the most commonly used medications in the UK are paracetamol and ibuprofen. While both help relieve symptoms, they work differently and have distinct recommendations under NHS guidance. What are they, and how do they work? Paracetamol is a mild pain reliever and fever reducer.…
When you or someone you’re caring for becomes unwell, it can be difficult to decide the best place to go for help. Should you head straight to Accident & Emergency (A&E), call NHS 111 for advice, or seek help from your GP or a walk-in centre? Knowing the difference can help you get the right…
Over the past decade, ketamine has surged beyond its origins in raves and festival culture to become a widespread recreational drug across the UK. In England alone, an estimated 299,000 people aged 16–59 reported using ketamine during the year ending March 2023 – the highest number on record, driven largely by young adults. Usage has…
Despite common myths about germs in the summer, and also because several viruses actually do have lower activity levels during the warmer months, many people experiencing symptoms may be confused about what they’ve come down with. However, it is still possible to contract a cold, flu, or COVID-19 during the summer. Have COVID-19 symptoms…
Blood is essential for life, and there is currently no artificial substitute. When someone loses blood due to an accident, surgery, or medical condition, they need donated blood to replace it. Some conditions, such as sickle cell disease or certain cancers, require regular transfusions to manage symptoms and prolong life. The UK needs around 135,000…
We often hear the phrase “balanced diet,” but what does it actually mean? Is it just about eating your five-a-day? Does it mean avoiding sugar altogether? In short, a balanced diet is about giving your body the nutrients it needs in the right proportions to maintain health, support energy levels, and reduce the risk of…