Cancer screening plays a crucial role in early detection and treatment success, yet millions of individuals miss their recommended screenings, including cervical, bowel, and breast cancer checks. It’s imperative not to delay these vital health appointments. If you’re due for a screening, contact your GP surgery to schedule an appointment as soon as possible. Proactive health management is key to identifying potential issues early and improving treatment outcomes.
One reader experiencing heart palpitations and shortness of breath, despite having fibromyalgia, sought advice due to a family history of heart conditions. While fibromyalgia can cause palpitations, it’s essential to rule out other potential causes, especially given the family history. The recommended course of action involves consulting a GP for a thorough evaluation, possibly including a 24-hour or seven-day Holter ECG to monitor heart activity during the palpitations. Further investigations might be needed depending on the ECG results. It’s crucial to address concerning symptoms and not dismiss them as solely related to a pre-existing condition like fibromyalgia.
Another reader, a 72-year-old man, experienced new-onset allergy symptoms including itchy eyes, sneezing, and a runny nose. He questioned whether allergies could develop later in life, suspecting his cat or wool clothing as potential triggers. Indeed, allergies can emerge at any age. While becoming allergic to a long-time pet is less common, it’s not impossible. Keeping a symptom diary can help identify potential allergens. Other possibilities include hay fever (triggered by weeds or mold), new plants, pollution (both indoor and outdoor), and even sensitivity to certain household products. Antihistamines can provide relief, but if long-term use is undesirable, allergy testing is an option. A steroid nasal spray, available over-the-counter, might also offer relief and should be used consistently for at least four weeks to assess its effectiveness.
A 72-year-old man who recovered from sciatica experienced lingering tingling or pins and needles in his second toe. While sciatica often resolves within weeks, the tingling sensation could be related to the original sciatic nerve issue, particularly if it originated from the S1 nerve root. However, given his recent diagnosis of type 2 diabetes, the tingling could also indicate peripheral neuropathy, nerve damage commonly associated with diabetes, affecting the extremities. Even with well-managed diabetes, further improvement and monitoring are always beneficial.
Parkrun, a free weekly 5km run held in various locations across the UK, is a great way to improve fitness and connect with the community. This initiative provides a supportive environment for runners of all levels and celebrates its 20th anniversary.
With the rise in flu cases, the NHS urges eligible individuals to get their flu jab promptly, especially before the holiday season. The vaccine takes two weeks to become fully effective, and the NHS anticipates a challenging winter with a potential “quad-demic” of flu, COVID-19, norovirus, and RSV. The flu vaccine offers the best protection against winter viruses and helps reduce the strain on healthcare services. Eligibility for the free NHS flu vaccine includes those aged 65 or over, pregnant women, individuals with long-standing health conditions, those living with someone who has a weakened immune system, and those who are main carers for older or disabled people. Flu cases are currently significantly higher than last year, particularly among children, which often precedes a rise in adult cases. Booking a flu jab can be done through your GP surgery, the NHS website or app, a participating pharmacy, or by calling 119.
