Category: Treatments And Advice

WHAT IS ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION?

Erection starts in the brain. When a man is sexually excited, the brain sends chemical messages to the muscles in the penis; this provides increased blood flow to the penis, filling two chambers inside. As blood fills these chambers, veins in the penis close up, allowing the penis to expand and become ‘hard’.

The erection ends when the muscles begin to contract, pushing the blood out through the penile veins.

Erectile dysfunction (ED) or ‘impotence’ is a health condition affecting men. It is characterised by a difficulty in achieving or maintaining an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse.

Occasional erectile dysfunction is common, especially during times of stress. Frequent ED, however, may suggest some underlying health problems that need to be addressed. Erectile problems can also be a sign of relationship or emotional problems.

Erectile dysfunction is not the same as premature ejaculation. The latter occurs when a man can sustain an erection but frequently reaches orgasm in as little as two minutes during sexual intercourse.

Unresolved erectile problems can cause stress, lower your self-esteem, and affect your relationship with your spouse or partner. However, luckily, us here at Express Pharmacy are on hand to help – we have a range of specialised erectile dysfunction treatments that can be delivered to your door.

HOW COMMON IS ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION?

Erectile dysfunction is much more common than most people realise. Around half of men in the UK will experience erectile dysfunction symptoms at some point in their lives, and one in ten will experience it for a prolonged or significant period.

The majority of men affected by erectile dysfunction are older adults. 70% of men over 70 experience impotence, whilst around 50% of men over 40 experience erectile dysfunction on a regular basis. Yet, although age is a factor in erectile dysfunction, almost a quarter of enquiries made about erectile dysfunction treatment are made by men under the age of 40.

WHAT CAUSES ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION?

Erectile dysfunction can be caused by an array of factors, as the process of achieving an erection is complicated. These cases involve both physical and mental factors, or sometimes a combination of the two. In younger men, the underlying cause is often psychological.

Physical erectile dysfunction causes can include:

• Diabetes (75% of men with diabetes aged 60-64 are affected by impotence, whilst 25% of male diabetes sufferers aged 30-34 are affected)
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Hypertension
• Obesity
• Smoking
• Kidney disease
• Hormone imbalances or low testosterone levels
• Alcohol (consumption of alcohol can damage the nerves leading to the penis, reducing testosterone levels and increasing oestrogen levels)
• Age
• Sleep disorders
• Tobacco/drug use
• Damage to the pelvic area due to injury
• Parkinson’s disease
• Multiple sclerosis
• Peyronie’s disease (scar tissues inside the penis)
• Enlarged prostate

Psychological causes of erectile dysfunction can include:

• Depression and other mental health issues
• Stress and anxiety
• Anxiety specifically related to sexual performance
• Relationship issues
• Confused sexual orientation

Complications from erectile problems can include:

• Stress
• Low self-esteem, embarrassment
• Problems with your partner/spouse
• Unsatisfactory sex life
• Can’t get your partner pregnant

HOW DO YOU TREAT ERECTILE DYSFUNCTION?

Erectile dysfunction treatment depends largely on the underlying cause of the condition. Psychological causes of impotence such as anxiety and depression may require treatment in the form of sexual therapy, whilst specific performance-related anxiety may simply require at-home aphrodisiacs.

If the cause of erectile dysfunction is physical, then treating an underlying condition such as diabetes can improve symptoms. Lifestyle changes such as a reduction in alcohol consumption and improved diet and exercise can also help to improve the condition in conjunction with erectile dysfunction medication.

Express Pharmacy stocks several erectile dysfunction treatments that can treat ED problems swiftly. Check out your options below:

VIAGRA

Viagra is one of the common erectile dysfunction treatments available. Developed in the UK and brought to the market by Pfizer, Viagra is a brand name of sildenafil citrate – an active ingredient used to treat ED.

Viagra works by relaxing the muscles in the walls of blood vessels. It increases the blood flow to the penis so you can get an erection firm enough for sexual intercourse. When used in moderation, Viagra is completely safe. It can be taken orally and may take up to two hours to work.

Viagra’s effect depends on your dosage, level of sexual stimulation, and metabolism. Usually, it lasts up to 3 hours. But it can be longer.

Common side effects of Viagra include:

• Nasal congestion
• Indigestion
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Headaches

SILDENAFIL

Sildenafil is another popular ED treatment. It’s the main active ingredient in popular brands like Viagra and Revatio. Sildenafil can come as an oral tablet, liquid suspension, or as an injection which can only be given by doctors.

This erectile dysfunction treatment helps to increase blood flow to the penis so you can have an erection firm enough for intercourse. But it only works when you are already sexually aroused.

For best effects, Sildenafil must be taken 1 hour before any sexual activity. Your dosage will depend on several factors (your medical conditions, other medications you are taking, response to treatment, etc) and must be determined by your doctor.

Known side effects of Sildenafil include:

• Headaches
• Fever
• Difficulty sleeping
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Vomiting
• Nausea
• Bronchitis
• Flushing (reddening of the face)
• Upset stomach
• Nosebleeds

These side effects are often mild and should go away within a few days or weeks. Contact your doctor if they persist.

CIALIS

Cialis is a brand on par with Viagra. Its active ingredient, tadalafil, works by increasing blood flow to the penis so you can achieve an erection. Cialis comes in yellow, film-coated tablets of varying doses (5, 10 and 20 mg). It can be taken as needed but not more than once every 24 hours. Like most erectile dysfunction drugs, you must be sexually aroused for Cialis to work.

Portions of Cialis remain in the body for at least 24 hours. That’s why a daily dose of 10 to 20 mg is highly discouraged. If you are sexually active, a daily dose of 5 mg (which can be reduced by 2.5 mg depending on your body’s response) is recommended.

Some side effects of Cialis include:

• Headache
• Dyspepsia
• Back pain
• Cough
• Upper respiratory tract infection
• Nasal congestion

SPEDRA

Spedra is the brand name for Avanafil – another drug used to treat erectile dysfunction problems. It works by helping blood vessels in the penis relax, facilitating an increased blood flow which leads to an erection.

Like other treatments mentioned above, Spedra only works when you are sexually aroused. This means you and your partner need to use foreplay – just as you would without taking the medicine.

The recommended dose for Spedra is a 100mg tablet taken once every 24 hours, as needed. Your doctor may adjust your dosage higher or lower, depending on your condition. Spedra must be taken 15 to 30 minutes before sexual intercourse.

Possible side effects of Spedra includes:

• Headache
• Nasal congestion
• Flushing

TALK TO OUR EXPERTS

Erectile dysfunction can be very damaging to a man’s self-confidence. But that should not be the case. Warwick Pharmacy stocks high-quality erectile dysfunction treatments that are proven effective and safe if taken according to specific requirements.

Dry or sore lips are a common problem, especially during hot or cold weather. There are things you can try yourself that may help.

Things you can try yourself

Do

• use a lip balm containing petroleum jelly or beeswax – you can buy these at a pharmacy or supermarket
• try a few different lip balms if one isn’t working for you – some people may be sensitive to some fragrances or ingredients
• wash your hands before applying lip balm
• use a lip balm with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or more during hot weather
• cover your lips with a scarf when you’re outside in cold weather
• drink plenty of water to avoid becoming dehydrated

Don’t

• do not pick or bite any flaky skin on your lips – this can slow down healing
• do not keep licking dry or cracked lips – this can make them sore
• do not share lip balms with other people – this can spread germs

A pharmacist can help with sore or dry lips

A pharmacist can advise you about:

• the best treatments for dry or sore lips
• whether you need to see a GP

See a GP if:

• your lips are hot, painful, red and swollen – this could be a sign of infection
• If your GP thinks you have an infected lip, they may prescribe an antibiotic or antifungal cream to treat the problem.

If you have a small, fluid-filled blister on your lip, you may have a cold sore.

Most people with cold sores get a tingling, burning or itching feeling on their lip before the blister appears.

Feeling sick (nausea) is common and usually goes away on its own. There are some things you can try that might help.

Things that may help you stop feeling sick

Do

• get plenty of fresh air
• distract yourself – for example, listen to music or watch a film
• take sips of a cold drink – some people find fizzy drinks best
• drink ginger or peppermint tea
• eat foods containing ginger – such as ginger biscuits
• eat smaller, more frequent meals

Don’t

• do not eat or cook strong-smelling food
• do not eat hot, fried or greasy food
• do not eat too quickly
• do not have a large drink with meals
• do not lie down soon after eating
• do not wear clothes that are tight around your waist or tummy

Important

If you’re also being sick (vomiting), you could become dehydrated. See what to do if you’re vomiting.

See a GP if you:

• don’t feel better in a few days
• often feel sick (it keeps coming back)

Your GP can look for the cause and suggest treatments.

They may prescribe anti-sickness medicine if needed.

Call 999 if you suddenly feel sick and have:

• chest pain that feels tight or heavy
• pain that spreads to your arms, back, neck or jaw
• shortness of breath

This could be a heart attack.

Common causes of feeling sick

Lots of things can make you feel sick.

Any other symptoms you have may give you an idea of the cause. But don’t self-diagnose – see a GP if you’re worried.

A table of possible causes of symptoms.

Other reasons for feeling sick include:

• pregnancy (morning sickness)
• motion sickness
• anxiety
• alcohol
• medicines
• recent surgery

Information:

Don’t worry if you’re not sure what the cause is. Try the things that may stop you feeling sick and see a GP if you don’t feel better in a few days.

The menopause is when a woman stops having periods and is no longer able to get pregnant naturally.

Periods usually start to become less frequent over a few months or years before they stop altogether. Sometimes they can stop suddenly.

The menopause is a natural part of ageing that usually occurs between 45 and 55 years of age, as a woman’s oestrogen levels decline. In the UK, the average age for a woman to reach the menopause is 51.

But around 1 in 100 women experience the menopause before 40 years of age. This is known as premature menopause or premature ovarian insufficiency.

Symptoms of the menopause

Most women will experience menopausal symptoms. Some of these can be quite severe and have a significant impact on your everyday activities.

Common symptoms include:

• hot flushes
• night sweats
• vaginal dryness and discomfort during sex
• difficulty sleeping
• low mood or anxiety
• reduced sex drive (libido)
• problems with memory and concentration

Menopausal symptoms can begin months or even years before your periods stop and last around 4 years after your last period, although some women experience them for much longer.

When to see a GP

It’s worth talking to a GP if you have menopausal symptoms that are troubling you or if you’re experiencing symptoms of the menopause before 45 years of age.

They can usually confirm whether you’re menopausal based on your symptoms, but a blood test to measure your hormone levels may be carried out if you’re under 45.

Treatments for menopausal symptoms

Your GP can offer treatments and suggest lifestyle changes if you have severe menopausal symptoms that interfere with your day-to-day life.

These include:

• hormone replacement therapy (HRT) – tablets, skin patches, gels and implants that relieve menopausal symptoms by replacing oestrogen
• vaginal oestrogen creams, lubricants or moisturisers for vaginal dryness
• cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) – a type of talking therapy that can help with low mood and anxiety
• eating a healthy, balanced diet and exercising regularly – maintaining a healthy weight and staying fit and strong can improve some menopausal symptoms

Your GP may refer you to a menopause specialist if your symptoms do not improve after trying treatment or if you’re unable to take HRT.

What causes the menopause?

The menopause is caused by a change in the balance of the body’s sex hormones, which occurs as you get older.

It happens when your ovaries stop producing as much of the hormone oestrogen and no longer release an egg each month.

Premature or early menopause can occur at any age, and in many cases there’s no clear cause.

Sometimes it’s caused by a treatment such as surgery to remove the ovaries (oophorectomy), some breast cancer treatments, chemotherapy or radiotherapy, or it can be brought on by an underlying condition, such as Down’s syndrome or Addison’s disease.

Not all women want treatment to relieve symptoms of the menopause, but treatments are available if you find the symptoms particularly troublesome.

The main treatment for menopausal symptoms is hormone replacement therapy (HRT), although other treatments are also available for some of the symptoms.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

HRT involves taking oestrogen to replace the decline in your body’s own levels around the time of the menopause. This can relieve many of the associated symptoms.

National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidelines state that HRT is effective and should be offered to women with menopausal symptoms, after discussing the risks and benefits.

There are two main types of HRT:

• combined HRT (oestrogen and progestogen) – for women with menopausal symptoms who still have their womb (oestrogen taken on its own can otherwise increase your risk of womb cancer)
• oestrogen-only HRT – for women who have had their womb removed in a hysterectomy

HRT is available as tablets, skin patches, a gel to rub into the skin or implants.

HRT is extremely effective at relieving menopausal symptoms, especially hot flushes and night sweats, but there are a number of side effects, including breast tenderness, headaches and vaginal bleeding. It’s also associated with an increased risk of blood clots and breast cancer in some women.

HRT is not advisable for some women, such as those who have had certain types of breast cancer or are at high risk of getting breast cancer.

Your GP can give you more information about the risks and benefits of HRT to help you decide whether or not you want to take it.

Read more about HRT.

Hot flushes and night sweats

If you experience hot flushes and night sweats as a result of the menopause, simple measures may sometimes help, such as:

• wearing light clothing
• keeping your bedroom cool at night
• taking a cool shower, using a fan or having a cold drink
• trying to reduce your stress levels
• avoiding potential triggers, such as spicy food, caffeine, smoking and alcohol
• taking regular exercise and losing weight if you’re overweight

If the flushes and sweats are frequent or severe, your GP may suggest taking HRT.

If HRT isn’t suitable for you, or you would prefer not to have it, your GP may recommend other medications that can help, such as clonidine (a high blood pressure medicine) or certain antidepressants.

These medications can cause unpleasant side effects, so it’s important to discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor before starting treatment.

Mood changes

Some women experience mood swings, low mood and anxiety around the time of the menopause.

Self-help measures such as getting plenty of rest, taking regular exercise and doing relaxing activities such as yoga and tai chi may help. Medication and other treatments are also available, including HRT and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).

CBT is a type of talking therapy that can improve low mood and feelings of anxiety. Your GP may be able to refer you for CBT on the NHS, or recommend self-help options such as online CBT courses.

Antidepressants may help if you’ve been diagnosed with depression.

Reduced sexual desire

It’s common for women to lose interest in sex around the time of the menopause, but HRT can often help with this. If HRT isn’t effective, you might be offered a testosterone supplement.

Testosterone is the male sex hormone, but it can help to restore sex drive in menopausal women. It’s not currently licensed for use in women, although it can be prescribed by a doctor if they think it might help.

Possible side effects of testosterone supplements include acne and unwanted hair growth.

Read more about loss of libido and female sexual problems.

Vaginal dryness and discomfort

If your vagina becomes dry, painful or itchy as a result of the menopause, your GP can prescribe oestrogen treatment that’s put directly into your vagina as a pessary, cream or vaginal ring.

This can safely be used alongside HRT.

You’ll usually need to use vaginal oestrogen indefinitely, as your symptoms are likely to return when treatment stops. However, side effects are very rare.

You can also use over-the-counter vaginal moisturisers or lubricants in addition to, or instead of, vaginal oestrogen.

Read more about vaginal dryness and sex as you get older.

Weak bones

Women who have been through the menopause are at an increased risk of developing osteoporosis (weak bones) as a result of the lower level of oestrogen in the body.

You can reduce your chances of developing osteoporosis by:

• taking HRT – HRT can help to prevent osteoporosis, although this effect doesn’t tend to last after treatment stops
• exercising regularly – including weight-bearing and resistance exercises
• eating a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruit, vegetables and sources of calcium, such as low-fat milk and yoghurt
• getting some sunlight – sunlight on your skin triggers the production of vitamin D, which can help to keep your bones strong
• stopping smoking and cutting down on alcohol
• taking calcium and/or vitamin D supplements if you don’t feel you’re getting enough of these – discuss this with your GP

Read more about menopause and bone health and preventing osteoporosis.

Follow-up appointments

If you’re having treatment for your menopausal symptoms, you’ll need to return to your GP for a follow-up review after 3 months, and once a year after that.

During your reviews, your GP may:

• make sure your symptoms are under control
• ask about any side effects and bleeding patterns
• check your weight and blood pressure
• review the type of HRT you’re taking and make any necessary changes
• discuss when you could stop treatment and how this could be done

Many women will need treatment for a few years, until most of their menopausal symptoms have passed.

Complementary and alternative therapies

Complementary and alternative treatments, such as herbal remedies and bioidentical (“natural”) hormones, aren’t recommended for symptoms of the menopause, because it’s generally unclear how safe and effective they are.

Some remedies can also interact with other medications and cause side effects.

Ask your GP or pharmacist for advice if you’re thinking about using a complementary therapy.

WHAT ARE CONTRACEPTIVE PILLS?

Oral contraceptive pills are a type of medication which helps to prevent pregnancy through using different types of hormones; oestrogen and progesterone. Globally, it is the most commonly used form of contraception in women and when used correctly, is over 99% effective at preventing an unwanted pregnancy.

HOW DOES THE PILL WORK?

So – how does the pill work? The mode of action depends on the pill, although the general purpose of the pill is to prevent ovulation.

As part of the menstrual cycle, a woman’s ovaries release an egg every month. This is known as ovulation. If this egg is not fertilised, the woman will ordinarily menstruate. When this occurs, the woman’s level of progesterone and oestrogen will change. Depending on the type of treatment used, the contraceptive pill supplies the woman’s body with a dose of the vital hormone to either; stop sperm from entering the womb and fertilising the egg; or preventing the ovulation process altogether, thereby preventing the unwanted pregnancy.

Oral contraceptives should be taken at a convenient and consistent time each day. They provide continuous protection against pregnancy, however, offers no protection against sexually transmitted diseases; and so further sexual protection is advised.

Female contraception pills work with different cycle lengths:

21-Day Packs means that you take your pills for three weeks (21 days) and then you’ll get your period during the fourth week.

28-Day Packs means that you’ll take your pills for four weeks (28 days) and then you’ll get your period the week after.

91-Day Packs means that you’ll only get your period every 12 weeks.

The type of pack you use will depend on your lifestyle and doctor’s recommendations.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF THE CONTRACEPTIVE PILL?

Aside from being a convenient, simple, and safe way to prevent unwanted pregnancy, contraceptive pills offer a wide range of benefits too. Some of them are listed below:

• Regulate menstrual cycles
• Less painful periods
• Prevent acne breakouts
• Reduce your risk of uterine cancer
• Reduce your chances of ovarian cysts
• Relieve symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
• Manages endometriosis
• Reduce menstrual migraines
• Suits busy lifestyles
• Reduces your risk of anaemia

WHICH CONTRACEPTIVE PILL IS RIGHT FOR ME?

There are three types of contraceptive pills. The type of contraception prescribed will depend on your health and lifestyle. If the pill is not suitable or applicable, there are several alternative prescription-only contraceptive solutions available.

Combined Pill: the combined pill contains synthetic versions of the hormones oestrogen and progesterone and works by stopping the process of ovulation. Some of the advantages of combined pills include:

• Regular, less painful, and lighter periods
• Reduced risk of womb, colon, and ovarian cancers
• Protection against pelvic inflammatory diseases
• Reduced premenstrual syndrome symptoms

Mini Pill: the mini pill is a contraceptive pill which contains only progesterone and no oestrogen. Mini pills are best for women who have higher blood pressure, are overweight and who have a history of blood clots. Some of the mini pill’s benefits include:

• You can use this pill even when breastfeeding
• Ideal for women who smoke
• No age restriction (you can still use this even when you are over 35 years old)
• Perfect for women can’t tolerate oestrogen

Low Dose Pill: the low dose pill is a contraceptive pill which contains synthetic versions of the hormones oestrogen and progesterone, but has small doses of oestrogen. A lower dose of oestrogen reduces some of the side effects that may occur.

Non-Pill Alternatives: alternative contraceptive methods, such as patches, may be used and are recommended for those who cannot swallow tablets, or who may not remember to take a pill regularly each day.

ARE CONTRACEPTIVE PILLS SAFE TO USE?

Oral contraceptives are safe to use when taken correctly, as instructed by a health professional. It is recommended not to take oral contraceptives if the following apply to you:

• Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding
• History of breast cancer
• Personal history of venous or arterial thrombosis

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF THE CONTRACEPTIVE PILL?

The intended effect of the pill is preventing pregnancy. However, it’s not without its side effects. Below are some of them:

• Mood Changes – some women report that they experience some depression while taking contraceptive pills.
• Migraines – some birth control pills can make migraines worse.
• Appetite Changes – depending on the pill you take, you may experience an increase or decrease in your appetite.
• Nausea and Bloating
• Weight Fluctuations – because of changes in your hormones or appetite, you may gain or lose weight.
• Increased Blood Pressure – taking contraceptive pills increases your risk of high blood pressure.
• Unwanted Hair Growth – changes in your hormones may cause unwanted hair growth, although some women reported a reduction in hair growth.

DO I STILL NEED TO WEAR A CONDOM WITH THE CONTRACEPTIVE PILL?

Your risks of getting pregnant fall to only 1% if you take your pill as instructed. However, the pill will not protect you from sexually transmitted diseases. So, if you have multiple partners, wearing a condom is a must.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I FORGET TO TAKE MY PILL?

If you forget to take your pill, your risks of getting pregnant increases. But don’t worry, you can still do something about it. Your approach will depend on what type of pill you are taking:

MISSING COMBINED PILLS

If you missed your combined pill by one day:

Take the missed pill as soon as possible even if that means taking two contraceptive pills on the same day. You will not need additional contraceptives whatsoever.

If you missed your combined pill for two or more days:

Take the most recent pill, even if that means taking two tablets in one day. Continue with your usual schedule. Don’t take the other missed pills.

Use other contraceptives (e.g. condoms, EVRA patches, etc.) or abstain from sexual intercourse until you have taken your pills consecutively for a week.

If the contraceptive pills you missed were in the last week of your hormone pills (ex. Day 15-21 for a 28-day pack), don’t take the remaining hormone-free pills and start a new pack the next day. Use backup contraception if you cannot start a new pack or avoid sexual intercourse until you’ve got back on track.

If you’ve missed your female contraception pills on the first week and you’ve engaged in unprotected sex in the past five days, you might want to consider emergency contraception. You can consult with your doctor, or Express Pharmacy, regarding this option.

MISSING PROGESTIN-ONLY (MINI) PILLS

If you have missed one or more pills by more than 3 hours and are getting menstrual periods (even when breastfeeding):

Take one pill immediately and continue taking one pill each as per your schedule. Don’t have sex or use backup female contraception for the next two days.

If you missed one or more pills by more than 3 hours, is breastfeeding, but not getting menstrual periods:

Take one pill as soon as possible and continue on your regular schedule.

Emergency contraception might be needed if you engaged in unprotected sex within the past five days. You can consult with your doctor or Express Pharmacy about this matter.

NEED FEMALE CONTRACEPTION? TRY WARWICK PHARMACY TODAY

Female contraception pills are the most effective method to prevent unwanted pregnancy. Talk with our experts on 020 8123 0703 or browse our treatments to see what options are available for you. We stock a whole range of female contraceptives, including the popular Yasmin and Microgynon pills.

WHAT IS A MIGRAINE?

Migraines are common conditions affecting around one in five women and up to 6 per cent of men. They can be loosely described as severe headaches involving a throbbing pain in the front or side of the head. A migraine sufferer often finds these headaches to be a recurring, debilitating problem.

25 million days of school and work are lost every year in the UK due to migraines, costing the UK economy somewhere in the region of £2.25 billion.

HOW IS A MIGRAINE DIFFERENT TO A HEADACHE?

There is a common misconception that migraines are nothing more than intense headaches. In reality, a migraine is a complex neurological affliction which is recognised by the World Health Organisation as one of the most disabling lifestyle conditions.

Migraine pain is often concentrated in one side of the head, and is sometimes preceded by visual or sensory disturbances such as flashing lights or blurred vision. Migraines can last for hours or even days at a time.

As well as severe head pain, symptoms of migraines can include:

• Heightened sensitivity to noise, bright lights and strong fragrances
• Nausea, queasiness and sometimes even vomiting
• An inability to carry out normal daily activities, often because sufferers feel the need to lie in a dark, cool room
• Neck and shoulder stiffness

Feelings of exhaustion can stay with migraine sufferers for days after the head pain itself has subsided.

WHAT CAUSES MIGRAINES?

There is no one specific cause for migraines and scientists do not yet know precisely why they have such an impact on some people. However, a range of factors have been identified as triggers for migraines, including light, noise, reactions to food and dehydration. Other factors might include prolonged stress, insomnia, general inactivity and overexposure to screens on devices like computers, smartphones and televisions.

Migraines are thought to be the result of abnormal brain activity temporarily altering nerve signals, chemicals and circulation through blood vessels. There is evidence to suggest that genetics may make you more likely to experience migraines as the result of a specific trigger.

Lifestyle aspects such as alcohol consumption, poor diet, poor posture and low blood sugar can all make you more susceptible.

HOW DO YOU TREAT MIGRAINES?

Despite these severe triggers and symptoms, many people still see migraines as an untreatable, even unavoidable condition. They see these headaches as just “something you have to live with”, but this isn’t true. Pain is the body’s way of telling you something is wrong.

Practising self-care can help tackle migraine symptoms through gentle stretches and exercises, improving your diet, drinking plenty of fluids and taking time away from screens in order to experience some fresh air.

Medication is also an effective form of migraine relief, and there are several medications on the market that pharmacists can prescribe to sufferers. Imigran is the leading brand when it comes to migraine relief medication, but there now several alternatives such as Sumatriptan, Zolmitriptan and Rizatriptan.

Heartburn is a burning feeling in the chest caused by stomach acid travelling up towards the throat (acid reflux). If it keeps happening, it’s called gastro-oesophageal reflux disease (GORD).

Check if you have acid reflux

The main symptoms of acid reflux are:

• heartburn – a burning sensation in the middle of your chest
• an unpleasant sour taste in your mouth, caused by stomach acid

You may also have:

• a cough or hiccups that keep coming back
• a hoarse voice
• bad breath
• bloating and feeling sick

Your symptoms will probably be worse after eating, when lying down and when bending over.

Causes of heartburn and acid reflux

Lots of people get heartburn from time to time. There’s often no obvious reason why.

Sometimes it’s caused or made worse by:

• certain food and drink – such as coffee, alcohol, chocolate and fatty or spicy foods
• being overweight
• smoking
• pregnancy
• stress and anxiety
• some medicines, such as anti-inflammatory painkillers (like ibuprofen)
• a hiatus hernia – when part of your stomach moves up into your chest

How you can ease heartburn and acid reflux yourself

Simple lifestyle changes can help stop or reduce heartburn.

Do

• eat smaller, more frequent meals
• raise 1 end of your bed 10 to 20cm by putting something under your bed or mattress – make it so your chest and head are above the level of your waist, so stomach acid does not travel up towards your throat
• try to lose weight if you’re overweight
• try to find ways to relax

Don’t

• do not have food or drink that triggers your symptoms
• do not eat within 3 or 4 hours before bed
• do not wear clothes that are tight around your waist
• do not smoke
• do not drink too much alcohol
• do not stop taking any prescribed medicine without speaking to a doctor first

A pharmacist can help with heartburn and acid reflux

Speak to a pharmacist for advice if you keep getting heartburn.

They can recommend medicines called antacids that can help ease your symptoms.

It’s best to take these with food or soon after eating, as this is when you’re most likely to get heartburn. They may also work for longer if taken with food.

Find a pharmacy

Non-urgent advice:

See a GP if:

• lifestyle changes and pharmacy medicines are not helping
• you have heartburn most days for 3 weeks or more
• you have other symptoms, like food getting stuck in your throat, frequently being sick or losing weight for no reason

A GP can provide stronger treatments and help rule out any more serious possible causes of your symptoms.

Information:

Coronavirus update: how to contact a GP

It’s still important to get help from a GP if you need it. To contact your GP surgery:

• visit their website
• use the NHS App
• call them

Find out how to get medical help from home.

Treatment from a GP

To ease symptoms of acid reflux, a GP may prescribe medicine that reduces how much acid your stomach makes, such as:

• omeprazole
• lansoprazole

You may be prescribed 1 of these medicines for a month or 2 to see if your symptoms stop.

Important

Go back to your GP if your symptoms come back after stopping your medicine. You may need a long-term prescription.

Tests and surgery for heartburn and acid reflux

If medicines do not help or your symptoms are severe, a GP may refer you to a specialist for:

• tests to find out what’s causing your symptoms, such as a gastroscopy (where a thin tube with a camera is passed down your throat)
• an operation to stop acid reflux – called a laparoscopic fundoplication