April - 2022

The three different types of hay fever – and how to spot them

Hay fever, also known as allergic rhinitis, is a common allergic reaction in the UK. Nearly half (up to around 49%) of the population report suffering from the condition, with up to 37% developing symptoms for the first time in the last five years, according to Allergy UK. Hay fever is characterised by symptoms including itchy eyes and throat, sneezing or a blocked nose, watery red eyes, headaches, shortness of breath, tiredness and mucus in the back of the throat. We often t

Relax law to ease HRT shortage, pharmacists say

A simple law change around prescribing could help ease the treatment crisis facing many women going through the menopause, the Royal Pharmaceutical Society (RPS) says. Some are now struggling with untreated symptoms due to shortages of some types of hormone-replacement therapy (HRT). Women who rely on the medicine have reported feeling suicidal without it. The RPS wants pharmacists in England to be able to alter GP prescriptions and make medicine swaps when appropriate. Short

Valneva Covid vaccine approved for use in UK

A new Covid vaccine has been approved for use in the UK by regulators. It is manufactured by Valneva, using more traditional technology - similar to how polio and flu shots are made. It contains a whole copy of the virus which has been inactivated, so that it can't cause the disease but does teach the body how to fight it. The UK was due to receive 100 million doses of the jab, but the government cancelled the deal in September due to a "breach of obligations". The French com

Keep your waist to less than half your height, guidance says

People should be encouraged to measure their waist to check they don't have too much dangerous fat around their middle, updated guidelines say. An adult's waist should be less than half their height to reduce health risks, health body NICE recommends. Measuring body mass index (BMI) is also useful - but doesn't take into account excess weight around the abdomen. This increases the risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and stroke. New d

Calories now appear on menus in large restaurant chains

Diners in England will see calories on menus when they eat out from today. Restaurants, cafes and takeaways with more than 250 staff must print how many calories are in meals on their menus, websites, and on delivery platforms. The new rule is part of government plans to tackle obesity by helping people to make healthier choices. Some restaurants fear it will increase their costs, while an eating disorder charity says it could contribute to harmful thoughts and behaviours. Wh