Strep throat is a common and highly contagious bacterial infection that can affect people of all ages, although it’s especially prevalent in children. While a sore throat is often a minor ailment, strep throat can be more serious, leading to complications if not properly treated. Understanding the symptoms of strep throat, how to differentiate it…
The further we head towards winter 2025, the more people are asking the same question: Do I have the flu, or is it COVID-19? With both illnesses circulating at the same time, it can be difficult to tell them apart, especially as the symptoms overlap. But understanding the key differences, keeping up with the latest…
As October begins, so does Stoptober – the UK’s leading annual campaign encouraging smokers to quit for 28 days. Organised by the Department of Health and Social Care, Stoptober has already helped over 2.5 million people make a quit attempt since its inception in 2012. This year, the campaign aims to support the remaining 5…
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,…
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. If you’re reading…