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118 results
- Health condition
High blood pressure
High blood pressure (hypertension) usually has no symptoms, but over time it raises the risk of serious problems such as heart attack and stroke. It can often be lowered with lifestyle changes and, where needed, medicine.
- Health condition
Asthma
Asthma is a common long-term condition that affects the airways. It cannot be cured, but with the right treatment most people can keep their symptoms well controlled.
- Health condition
Migraine
A migraine is more than a headache. It is a neurological condition that causes recurring attacks, often with a throbbing headache, feeling sick and sensitivity to light and sound.
- Health condition
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows in other places, such as around the ovaries and pelvis. It can cause pain and affect daily life, and symptoms vary a lot between people.
- Health condition
Type 2 diabetes
Type 2 diabetes is a common condition where the level of sugar (glucose) in the blood becomes too high. It can often be managed with changes to diet and activity, and with medicine where needed.
- Health condition
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common, long-term condition affecting the digestive system. It can be uncomfortable but is usually manageable with changes to diet and lifestyle, and sometimes medicine.
- Health condition
Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis in the UK. It causes joints to become painful and stiff, but there are ways to manage the symptoms and stay active.
- Health condition
Rheumatoid arthritis
Rheumatoid arthritis is a long-term condition where the immune system attacks the joints, causing pain and swelling. Early treatment can help control it and prevent joint damage.
- Health condition
Gout
Gout is a type of arthritis that causes sudden, severe joint pain — often in the big toe. Attacks can be treated, and there are ways to help prevent them coming back.
- Health condition
Atopic eczema
Atopic eczema is a common skin condition that makes skin itchy, dry and cracked. It is most common in children but can affect any age, and can usually be managed well.
- Health condition
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a common skin condition that causes flaky patches of skin. It is not contagious, and a range of treatments can help manage it.
- Health condition
Shingles
Shingles is a painful rash caused by the same virus as chickenpox. Getting treatment early can help, and a vaccine is available for some people.
- Health condition
COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
COPD is a group of lung conditions that cause breathing difficulties. It is usually linked to smoking. It cannot be reversed, but treatment can help you breathe more easily and slow it down.
- Health condition
Stroke
A stroke is a serious, life-threatening medical emergency that happens when the blood supply to part of the brain is cut off. Acting FAST and calling 999 saves lives.
- Health condition
High cholesterol
High cholesterol is a high level of fatty substances in the blood. It usually has no symptoms, but raises the risk of heart attack and stroke — and it can often be lowered.
- Health condition
Epilepsy
Epilepsy is a common condition that affects the brain and causes seizures. It can usually be controlled with treatment, and there is support to help people live well with it.
- Health condition
Menopause and perimenopause
The menopause is when periods stop due to changing hormone levels, usually between the ages of 45 and 55. The years of changes leading up to it are called the perimenopause. Support and treatments can help with symptoms.
- Health condition
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition that affects how the ovaries work. It can cause irregular periods, and symptoms can often be managed.
- Health condition
Coeliac disease
Coeliac disease is a condition where the immune system reacts to gluten and damages the gut. It is managed by following a gluten-free diet for life.
- Health condition
Heartburn and acid reflux
Heartburn and acid reflux are common and usually not serious. Simple changes and pharmacy treatments often help, but ongoing symptoms should be checked.
- Health condition
Gallstones
Gallstones are small stones that can form in the gallbladder. Many cause no problems, but some cause pain and may need treatment.
- Health condition
Type 1 diabetes
Type 1 diabetes is a lifelong condition where the body does not make insulin, so blood sugar levels become too high. It is managed with insulin and can affect people of any age.
- Health condition
Underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism)
An underactive thyroid is when the thyroid gland does not make enough hormones. It is common, easily diagnosed with a blood test, and usually treated with daily tablets.
- Health condition
Parkinson's disease
Parkinson's disease is a condition in which parts of the brain become damaged over many years. It can cause tremor, slow movement and stiffness, and there is support and treatment to help.
- Health condition
Dementia
Dementia is a set of symptoms that can include memory loss and difficulties with thinking and language. It mainly affects older people but is not a normal part of ageing, and support is available.
- Health condition
Pneumonia
Pneumonia is swelling of the lungs, usually caused by an infection. Many people recover at home, but it can be serious, especially for babies, older people and those with other conditions.
- Health condition
Hay fever
Hay fever is a common allergy to pollen that causes sneezing, a runny or blocked nose and itchy eyes. It cannot be cured, but treatments and self-help can ease the symptoms.
- Health condition
Breast cancer
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in the UK. Most breast changes are not cancer, but it is important to get any new change checked. Screening and early treatment help.
- Health condition
Bowel cancer
Bowel cancer is one of the most common cancers in the UK. Its symptoms are often caused by other, less serious conditions, but they should be checked. NHS screening helps find it early.
- Health condition
Prostate cancer
Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK. It often grows slowly and may cause no symptoms early on. There are ways to check your risk and, where needed, treat it.
- Health condition
Flu (influenza)
Flu is a common viral infection that can make you feel very unwell. Most people recover at home in about a week, but it can be serious for some people, who are offered a free vaccine.
- Health condition
COVID-19
COVID-19 is an illness caused by a coronavirus. Most people feel better within a few weeks, and looking after yourself at home and avoiding passing it on both help. Vaccines are offered to those at higher risk.
- Health condition
Measles
Measles is an infection that spreads very easily and can sometimes be serious. The MMR vaccine gives the best protection. Contact a GP or NHS 111 if you think you or your child has it.
- Health condition
Chickenpox
Chickenpox is a common, usually mild infection that mostly affects children. It clears up on its own in a week or two, and there are simple ways to ease the itching.
- Health condition
Hand, foot and mouth disease
Hand, foot and mouth disease is a common, mild childhood illness that usually clears up on its own within 7 to 10 days. There are simple ways to ease the symptoms.
- Health condition
Chlamydia
Chlamydia is one of the most common sexually transmitted infections. It often has no symptoms, but it is easy to test for and is treated with antibiotics. Free, confidential testing is available.
- Health condition
HIV
HIV is a virus that affects the immune system. With today’s treatment, people with HIV can live long, healthy lives — and cannot pass it on when their treatment keeps the virus undetectable. Testing is free and confidential.
- Treatment & procedure
Laparoscopy (keyhole surgery)
A laparoscopy is a type of keyhole surgery used to look inside the tummy or pelvis, and sometimes to treat a problem at the same time. It uses small cuts, so recovery is often quicker than open surgery.
- Treatment & procedure
MRI scan
An MRI scan uses strong magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the inside of the body. It does not use X-rays, and is used to help diagnose conditions and check how treatment is working.
- Treatment & procedure
24-hour blood pressure monitoring
Wearing a small monitor that takes regular blood pressure readings over 24 hours can help confirm whether you have high blood pressure, by measuring it as you go about your normal day.
- Treatment & procedure
CT scan
A CT scan uses X-rays and a computer to build detailed cross-section pictures of the inside of your body. It is quick, painless and helps doctors diagnose problems, plan treatment or guide other procedures.
- Treatment & procedure
Ultrasound scan
An ultrasound scan uses high-frequency sound waves to create live images of the inside of your body. It does not use radiation and is commonly used in pregnancy and to look at organs and soft tissue.
- Treatment & procedure
X-ray
An X-ray is a quick, painless test that uses a small amount of radiation to take pictures of the inside of your body, most often to check bones, teeth and the chest.
- Treatment & procedure
Colonoscopy
A colonoscopy is a test that uses a thin, flexible tube with a camera to look inside your large bowel. It helps find the cause of bowel symptoms and can remove small growths at the same time.
- Treatment & procedure
Endoscopy
An endoscopy is a procedure that uses a long, thin tube with a camera to look inside your body, usually passed in through a natural opening such as your mouth. It helps diagnose and sometimes treat problems.
- Treatment
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapy helps restore movement and function when someone is affected by injury, illness or disability, using approaches such as exercise, hands-on treatment and advice.
- Treatment
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is a common cancer treatment that uses medicine to kill cancer cells. It is given in cycles and may be used on its own or alongside surgery or radiotherapy.
- Treatment
Radiotherapy
Radiotherapy uses carefully targeted radiation to kill cancer cells. It is a common cancer treatment that can be used to try to cure cancer, alongside other treatments, or to relieve symptoms.
- Treatment & procedure
Hip replacement
A hip replacement is an operation to replace a worn or damaged hip joint with an artificial one. It is most often done to relieve the pain and stiffness of severe arthritis and to improve movement.
- Treatment & procedure
Coronary angioplasty
A coronary angioplasty is a procedure to widen narrowed or blocked arteries supplying the heart. A small tube called a stent is usually left in place to keep the artery open and improve blood flow.
- Medicine
Paracetamol
Paracetamol is a common painkiller used to ease mild-to-moderate pain and to bring down a high temperature. It is widely available and, taken correctly, rarely causes side effects.
- Medicine
Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is an anti-inflammatory painkiller used for pain, swelling and a high temperature. It is often best taken with food and is not suitable for everyone.
- Medicine
Amoxicillin
Amoxicillin is a penicillin antibiotic used to treat bacterial infections such as chest, ear and dental infections. It is only available on prescription.
- Medicine
Omeprazole
Omeprazole reduces the amount of acid the stomach makes. It is used for heartburn, acid reflux and stomach ulcers, and comes as tablets, capsules or a liquid.
- Medicine
Atorvastatin
Atorvastatin is a statin that lowers cholesterol and helps protect against heart attacks and strokes. It is usually taken once a day, often long term.
- Medicine
Amlodipine
Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker used to treat high blood pressure and to prevent chest pain (angina). It is usually taken once a day, often long term.
- Medicine
Ramipril
Ramipril is an ACE inhibitor used for high blood pressure and heart failure, and after a heart attack. It relaxes blood vessels so blood flows more easily.
- Medicine
Metformin
Metformin is a medicine that helps control blood sugar and is mainly used to treat type 2 diabetes. It comes as tablets, a liquid or a powder to take with food.
- Medicine
Sertraline
Sertraline is an antidepressant from the SSRI group used for depression, anxiety and related conditions. It is usually taken once a day and needs a prescription.
- Medicine
Salbutamol inhaler
Salbutamol is a reliever inhaler that quickly eases breathing problems in asthma and COPD, such as wheezing and breathlessness. It relaxes the muscles in the airways.
- Article
Understanding high blood pressure
High blood pressure often has no symptoms but can lead to serious health problems if left untreated. Here is what it means and what can help.
- Article
How to take medicines safely
Simple, general steps that can help you take your medicines correctly and avoid common mistakes — and where to report a side effect.
- Article
5 ways to improve your mental wellbeing
Evidence suggests a few simple steps can help support your mental wellbeing. Here are the NHS’s five ways to feel more positive and get the most out of life.
- Guide
Anxiety
Anxiety is a feeling of unease or worry. It is very common, and when it is ongoing or affects daily life there is support and treatment that can help.
- Guide
Depression
Depression is more than feeling low for a short time. It is a common condition that can affect daily life, and effective support and treatment are available.
- Guide
Stress
Stress is how we react when we feel under pressure. Some stress is normal, but too much can affect how you feel and cope — and there are ways to manage it.
- Guide
Sleep
Sleep and mental health are closely linked. Poor sleep can affect how you feel, and there are simple steps that can help you sleep better.
- Guide
Eating disorders
Eating disorders are serious but treatable mental health conditions that involve difficulties with eating, food or body image. Getting help early makes a difference.
- Guide
ADHD
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) affects attention, activity and impulsiveness. It can affect children and adults, and support is available.
- Guide
Autism
Autism is a lifelong difference in how people experience the world and communicate. It is not an illness, and understanding and support can help.
- Guide
Addiction
Addiction means not being able to control doing something to a point where it could be harmful — such as with drugs, alcohol or gambling. Free, confidential support is available.
- Guide
Bereavement
Grief is a natural response to losing someone. There is no “right” way to grieve, and support is available if you are struggling.
- Guide
Mental wellbeing
Looking after your mental wellbeing can help you feel more positive and get more out of life. The NHS sets out five simple, evidence-based steps that can help.
- Guide
Getting help
If you are struggling with your mental health, support is available — from your GP and NHS talking therapies to urgent help when you need it quickly.
- Guide
Nutrition
Eating well helps you feel your best and lowers the risk of ill health. A balanced diet includes plenty of fruit, vegetables and fibre, and less salt, sugar and saturated fat.
- Guide
Exercise
Being active is one of the best things you can do for your physical and mental health. Adults are advised to aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity a week.
- Guide
Sleep
Good sleep is important for your health and how you feel. A regular routine and simple habits can help you sleep better.
- Guide
Weight
Reaching and staying a healthy weight lowers the risk of many health problems. Small changes to food and activity can add up over time.
- Guide
Smoking
Stopping smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health, at any age. Free NHS support makes it much more likely you will succeed.
- Guide
Alcohol
Cutting down on alcohol can improve your health and how you feel. UK guidance is to drink no more than 14 units a week, spread over several days.
- Guide
Sexual wellbeing
Sexual health is part of overall wellbeing. Free, confidential NHS services offer advice, contraception and testing.
- Guide
Women’s wellbeing
From periods and contraception to menopause, there is trusted NHS information and support for women’s health at every stage of life.
- Guide
Men’s wellbeing
Men’s health covers physical and mental wellbeing. Simple checks and healthy habits can help you stay well — and it is fine to ask for help.
- Guide
Healthy ageing
Staying active, connected and well can help you feel your best as you get older. Small steps make a real difference.
- Guide
Preventative health
Many health problems can be prevented or caught early. NHS screening, vaccinations and health checks all help you stay well.
- Guide
Your NHS rights
The NHS Constitution sets out your rights as an NHS patient in England — including free care, being involved in decisions, and the right to complain.
- Guide
Waiting times
You have the right to be seen within maximum NHS waiting times for many treatments — or to be offered other suitable options if that is not possible.
- Guide
Second opinions
If you are unsure about a diagnosis or treatment, you can usually ask for a second opinion from another doctor.
- Guide
Informed consent
You have the right to accept or refuse treatment, and to be given clear information about your options first.
- Guide
Accessing medical records
You have the right to see your own health records and to ask for any factual mistakes to be corrected.
- Guide
Complaints
If you are unhappy with an NHS service, you have the right to complain and to have your complaint dealt with properly.
- Guide
Choosing a provider
You can choose your GP practice and, for many treatments, have a say in which hospital or service you are referred to.
- Guide
NHS vs private healthcare
You can use NHS care and also choose to pay for private treatment. It helps to understand how the two work and what each involves.
- Guide
Private healthcare rights
As a private patient you still have rights — including safe, regulated care and a clear way to raise concerns or complain.
- Guide
Medical negligence
If you have been harmed by care that went wrong, there are ways to raise concerns and get information. This is general information, not legal advice.
- Guide
Health insurance
Private health insurance can help pay for private treatment. This is general information, not financial advice.
- Guide
Data & privacy
The NHS must keep your health information confidential, and you have rights over how your data is used.
- Guide
Find NHS services
The NHS website and app help you find and use services near you — from GPs and pharmacies to hospitals and mental health support.
- Guide
Find a GP
A GP surgery is usually your first stop for non-urgent health concerns. You can find and register with a practice near you.
- Guide
Find a hospital
You can find NHS hospitals and, for many treatments, have a say in which one you are referred to.
- Guide
Find urgent care
For urgent but non-emergency problems, NHS 111, pharmacies, walk-in centres and urgent treatment centres can help. For emergencies, call 999.
- Guide
Find mental health support
Support for your mental health is available — from your GP and NHS talking therapies to urgent help when you need it quickly.
- Guide
Find pharmacies
Pharmacies do much more than dispense medicines — pharmacists can give confidential advice on minor illnesses and medicines, often without an appointment.
- Guide
NHS vs private healthcare
You can use NHS care and also choose to pay for private treatment. Understanding how the two work helps you decide what is right for you.
- Guide
Getting a second opinion
If you are unsure about a diagnosis or treatment, you can usually ask for a second opinion from another doctor.
- Guide
Complaints
If you are unhappy with an NHS service, you can complain — and your complaint should be acknowledged and properly investigated.
- Guide
Patient support organisations
Charities and patient organisations offer trusted information, advice and peer support for many conditions and situations.
- Guide
Useful helplines
Several UK helplines offer free, confidential support — from urgent health advice to emotional support at any time of day or night.
- Guide
Medicines A–Z
The NHS Medicines A to Z helps you find clear information about a medicine — how it works, how to take it and possible side effects.
- Guide
Medicine safety
A few simple habits help you use medicines safely — reading the leaflet, taking them as directed, and asking a pharmacist if you are unsure.
- Guide
Side effects
Many medicines can cause side effects. Most are mild, and there is a clear way to report suspected side effects in the UK.
- Guide
Interactions
Some medicines, foods and supplements can affect how each other work. A pharmacist can check for possible interactions.
- Guide
Taking medicines safely
Taking medicines exactly as directed, and reading the leaflet, helps them work safely and effectively.
- Guide
Pregnancy & medicines
Some medicines are not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Always check with a healthcare professional before taking anything.
- Guide
Children & medicines
Medicines for children need extra care — using the right dose for their age or weight, and the measuring device provided.
- Guide
Understanding prescriptions
Understanding how prescriptions work — including repeat prescriptions and charges — makes it easier to get the medicines you need.
- Guide
Reporting side effects
If you think you have had a side effect from a medicine, you can report it to the MHRA through the Yellow Card scheme.
- Discovery
Let’s discuss your health and explore your options
A free, no-obligation call with a Patient Care Advisor. We’ll listen, understand your situation and help you take the next right step.