Latest news with #ChunTang
Scottish Sun
13-05-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
The 16 common drugs in your medicine cabinet that increase your risk of agonising sunburn revealed
Experts warn that dozens of prescription and over-the-counter medications can make you more sensitive to the sun and increase your chances of skin cancer HOT TOPIC The 16 common drugs in your medicine cabinet that increase your risk of agonising sunburn revealed THE sun is finally shining and many of us will be making a beeline for the beach or our local park. But thousands of Brits need to take extra care when outdoors this summer as their medication might make them more prone to sunburn. 1 Some medications can make you more susceptible to sunburn Credit: Getty Dozens of drugs - both prescription and over-the-counter - can increase what's known as photosensitivity. In the short term, this could mean sore, red, blistered skin that can make it difficult to sleep. But longer term, frequent sunburn means you are at increased risk of skin cancer - which kills six people in the UK every day. Dr Chun Tang, a GP at Pall Mall, tells Sun Health: "People might be surprised to hear that some everyday medicines can make skin extra sensitive to sunlight. "It's called photosensitivity, and it means your skin reacts more strongly to UV rays, often ending in a sunburn that arrives quicker and hits harder than usual. "A few common culprits include antibiotics like doxycycline and ciprofloxacin, both often prescribed for infections. "Then there are anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen and naproxen, diuretics (water tablets used for blood pressure), and even some acne treatments like isotretinoin (formerly Roaccutane). "Older antidepressants such as amitriptyline can also increase your sun sensitivity. "These meds are perfectly safe when taken as prescribed, but when it's a sunny day, suddenly your skin is on high alert. "Some reactions look and feel like severe sunburn (that's called phototoxicity), while others show up more like a rash (which is known as photo allergy). The dangerous sunburn hacks you should NEVER try... from mouthwash to sour cream "Either way, it's not much fun, especially if you weren't expecting it." Also among the most common potentially problematic medicines are oral contraceptives - taken by almost a third of women in the UK. Antihistamines, antifungals, arthritis medicines, chemotherapy and immunosuppressants can also cause photosensitivity. No matter the drug, even short periods of sun exposure can trigger symptoms when the skin is photosensitive. Older adults, who are more likely to be taking multiple medications, need to be especially mindful Dr Chun Tang Dr Tang says: "The most obvious side effect is that you burn far faster than you normally would, sometimes after just 10 or 15 minutes in the sun. "I don't mean just a gentle pink glow, we're talking red, sore, blistered skin that can peel and take days to calm down. "You might also notice itchy rashes, changes in skin colour, or patches of irritation that appear on parts of the body you didn't think had even seen the sun. "Some of these reactions can be mistaken for heat rash or even eczema, so if something doesn't look quite right, it's worth asking your GP or popping into your local pharmacy for advice." The drugs that increase your risk of sunburn Acne medicines - isotretinoin Antibiotics - doxycycline and other tetracycline drugs, fluoroquinolones like ciprofloxacin and ofloxacin, levofloxacin, trimethoprim, sulfamethoxazole, dapsone Antidepressants - fluoxetine, citalopram, sertraline, amitriptyline, doxepin, St. John's wort Antifungals - griseofulvin, voriconazole, flucytosine Antihistamines - promethazine, diphenhydramine, cetirizine, loratadine, cyproheptadine Antipsychotics - chlorpromazine, fluphenazine, perphenazine, thioridazine, thiothixene, prochlorperazine Arthritis drugs - leflunomide, hydroxychloroquine Blood pressure drugs - hydrochlorothiazide, diltiazem, furosemide , bumetanide Chemotherapy Cholesterol drugs - simvastatin, atorvastatin, lovastatin, pravastatin Diabetes medications - sulfonylureas Heart medications - amiodarone, diltiazem, nifedipine Immunosuppressants - cyclosporine Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) - celecoxib, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, naproxen, piroxicam, diclofenac Oral contraceptives and oestrogens Sulfonamides - sulfadiazine, sulfamethoxazole, sulfisoxazole It's important to note that not everyone who takes any of these medications will be more sensitive to the sun. But we are all at risk, and some of us will be more prone to complications than others. "Some of us are naturally more sun-sensitive than others," Dr Tang says. "If you're fair-skinned, you'll already know you need to be careful in the sun, and medications that increase photosensitivity can make it even trickier. "Older adults, who are more likely to be taking multiple medications, also need to be especially mindful. "It's not just about age or skin tone though; if you spend lots of time outside for work, exercise, or gardening, the risk goes up too. "If you're starting a new medicine, always check the patient info leaflet, or speak with your pharmacist to see if sun sensitivity is a known issue. "The good news is it's easy to protect yourself. High-factor sunscreen, hats, and covering up during peak sun hours (usually 11am to 3pm) can make all the difference, so you can enjoy the sunshine." As with all medications, if you have a reaction, speak to a pharmacist or doctor.
The Independent
27-02-2025
- Health
- The Independent
Why people are getting norovirus twice
Known for its rapid spread and stomach-churning symptoms, norovirus has long been a common culprit behind wintertime stomach bugs. However, health officials are now warning the public about the potential for a 'second norovirus wave', as reports suggest that more individuals are contracting the vomiting bug more than once. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has noted that those who've already battled the virus this winter may be at risk of reinfection due to multiple strains. To shed light on this growing concern, we spoke to a GP who has explained why people could get norovirus more than once… What is norovirus? ' Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes vomiting and diarrhoea, often referred to as the 'winter vomiting bug',' says Dr Chun Tang, GP at Pall Mall Medical. 'It spreads like wildfire, usually through contaminated food, water, surfaces, or direct contact with an infected person.' According to the NHS website, the primary symptoms include sudden nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Patients may also experience a high temperature, headaches and stomach pains. 'It usually comes on very quickly, making you feel awful for a couple of days, but most people recover without any complications,' says Tang. 'The biggest risk is dehydration, so staying hydrated is key.' Why are people getting it twice? 'Unlike some viruses, norovirus doesn't give you long-term immunity,' explains Tang. 'There are many different strains, so even if you've had it before, you can still catch a different version of it. 'Plus, any immunity you do develop is short-lived, which means you can get sick again.' The two primary norovirus strains circulating in the UK at the moment are the GII.17 genotype, which is believed to be responsible for the surge in cases this winter, and the GII.4 strain. New UKHSA data shows that while the GII.17 genotype remains dominant, accounting for 59% of cases, its prevalence has dropped from 76% since November. Meanwhile, the GII.4 strain has seen a sharp rise, now representing 29% of cases compared to just 10% three months ago. What is the difference between the GII.17 and the GII.4 strain? 'The GII.4 strain has historically been the dominant one, causing most outbreaks,' notes Tang. 'However, the GII.17 genotype has been increasing in some parts of the world, and researchers think it may behave slightly differently in terms of how our immune systems respond to it. 'The recent sharp rise in GII.4 cases suggests it may have mutated again, making it more infectious or better at evading immunity.' Who is more at risk? Children younger than five years old, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems are more likely to develop severe infections, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website. 'This is because [these groups] struggle to stay hydrated, which is the biggest danger with norovirus,' explains Tang. 'For babies and the elderly, dehydration can lead to hospitalisation if it's not managed properly.' How contagious is it? 'Norovirus spreads through tiny particles in vomit and stool, which can linger on surfaces or even in the air after someone vomits,' highlights Tang. 'You only need a few viral particles to become infected, which is why outbreaks happen so quickly in shared spaces.' Can it be treated? 'There's no specific treatment for norovirus – it's all about resting, staying hydrated, and letting your body fight it off,' says Tang. A common misconception is that alcohol hand gels kill norovirus. 'They don't,' clarifies Tang. 'Norovirus is resistant to alcohol, so washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water is the best way to prevent its spread.' Should people go to the doctors about norovirus? Most people don't need to see a doctor and can recover at home with rest and fluids. 'However, if you're struggling to keep fluids down, showing signs of severe dehydration (like dizziness, confusion, or very little urination), or have a baby or elderly person who seems particularly unwell, it's best to seek medical advice,' advises Tang. What can you do to prevent yourself from catching it? 'The best prevention is good hygiene – wash your hands properly with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom or before preparing food,' recommends Tang. 'Also, avoid close contact with sick people and disinfect surfaces regularly. 'If you do get norovirus, stay home for at least 48 hours after symptoms stop to prevent spreading it to others.'
The Independent
18-02-2025
- Health
- The Independent
This is how living in a cold home can impact your health
Winter in the UK appears to be never-ending. And new research by Age UK found three out of four people aged 66 and over thought their homes were colder than they'd like some, most of, or all of the time in January. The study also found for those with incomes of £20,000 or less, one in three (35 per cent) reported their homes were too cold most or all of the time. Nearly half (48 per cent) of respondents of the online survey were worried about being able to heat their homes when they wanted to. Some 44 per cent told Age UK they were worried about the impact of energy costs on their health. This is a noticeable increase from January 2024, when only one in three (33 per cent) expressed similar concerns. These figures - obtained in a survey of 2,573 adults aged 66 and over - suggest that beyond the discomfort, the effects of living in a cold environment can be far more serious than we might think. So, we've spoken with experts who have explained how cold homes could affect our health and have also provided some advice on how to reduce these risks… Heart The cold can take a hidden toll on our heart health. 'When your home is consistently cold, your body has to work harder to stay warm, which can put extra strain on your heart,' says Dr Chun Tang, GP at Pall Mall Medical. ' Cold temperatures can lead to higher blood pressure and over time, prolonged exposure to the cold can increase the risk of more serious conditions, like heart attacks and strokes.' 'Breathing in cold air can irritate your airways, making conditions like asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) worse,' explains Tang. 'A cold, damp home is also the perfect breeding ground for mould and mildew, which can trigger respiratory infections, wheezing, and persistent coughing. 'If you're finding yourself short of breath more often in winter, your home's temperature could be playing a role.' 'Cold temperatures can make joints feel stiff and achy, particularly if you have arthritis,' notes Tang. 'But more than that, if you're not moving around as much because you're trying to stay warm under blankets, your bones and muscles don't get the activity they need to stay strong. 'In the long run, this can contribute to weaker bones and an increased risk of conditions like osteoporosis.' Cold conditions can also increase the risk of falls and slips. 'When your muscles are cold, they don't work as efficiently, making you more prone to stiffness and slower reactions – both of which can increase the risk of slips and falls,' explains Tang. 'If you're shivering, you're also more likely to be unsteady on your feet. 'And if your home is cold and damp, floors can become slippery, making things even riskier.' Mind Living in a constantly cold environment isn't just uncomfortable – it can have a real impact on your mood and mental wellbeing. 'Being cold for long periods can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and even depression,' says Tang. 'It can also make you feel more fatigued and unmotivated, which makes everyday tasks feel harder. 'A warm, comfortable home is important not just for physical health, but for keeping spirits high, too.' Who is most at risk? 'Older adults, young children, and people with chronic conditions – like asthma or heart disease – are at higher risk,' highlights Tang. 'Those with weaker hearts may struggle more to pump blood effectively in the cold, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.' Here are some things you can do to reduce these health risks… See if you are eligible for financial support 'We'd definitely encourage everyone to ensure that they are getting any financial support that they are eligible for,' says Jenny Lippiatt, health programme manager at Age UK. 'The winter fuel payment is available still to some older people, and there are other benefits that are available.' Put the heating on 'I think some people are really fearful of putting their heating on and I completely understand why, but the health implications are potentially really damaging,' says Lippiatt. 'You can do things like concentrate the heating in the rooms that you are most likely to be in.' Draught-proof your home 'Make sure that your house is draught-proof,' recommends Lippiatt. 'We would encourage everyone to look at home efficiency tips, like making sure your boiler is checked and up to date and keeping windows and doors closed as much as possible so you're keeping the heat in.' Movement will help keep your body healthy and warm. 'If you do have stairs, you could try going up and down your stairs, or get outside for a walk if it's not too cold,' suggests Lippiatt. 'There's also lots of things around chair-based exercises if your movement is limited.' 'Eating warm meals and drinking hot drinks can also help regulate your body temperature,' says Tang.
The Independent
18-02-2025
- Health
- The Independent
How living in a cold house could affect our health
New research commissioned by Age UK has found that three out of four people aged 66 and over said that their homes were colder than they would like them to be some, most of, or all of the time during January. The study – which involved an online survey completed by 2,573 UK adults aged over 66, between January 6-16 this year – also found that for pensioners with low-to-modest household incomes of £20,000 or less, one in three (35%) reported their homes were too cold most or all of the time. In addition, nearly half (48%) of the respondents were worried about being able to heat their homes when they wanted to, while 44% told Age UK they were worried about the impact of energy costs on their health. This is a noticeable increase from January 2024, when only one in three (33%) expressed similar concerns. These figures suggest that beyond the discomfort, the effects of living in a cold environment can be far more serious than we might think. So, we've spoken with experts who have explained how cold homes could affect our health and have also provided some advice on how to reduce these risks… Heart The cold can take a hidden toll on our heart health. 'When your home is consistently cold, your body has to work harder to stay warm, which can put extra strain on your heart,' says Dr Chun Tang, GP at Pall Mall Medical. ' Cold temperatures can lead to higher blood pressure and over time, prolonged exposure to the cold can increase the risk of more serious conditions, like heart attacks and strokes.' Respiratory system 'Breathing in cold air can irritate your airways, making conditions like asthma and COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) worse,' explains Tang. 'A cold, damp home is also the perfect breeding ground for mould and mildew, which can trigger respiratory infections, wheezing, and persistent coughing. 'If you're finding yourself short of breath more often in winter, your home's temperature could be playing a role.' Bones 'Cold temperatures can make joints feel stiff and achy, particularly if you have arthritis,' notes Tang. 'But more than that, if you're not moving around as much because you're trying to stay warm under blankets, your bones and muscles don't get the activity they need to stay strong. 'In the long run, this can contribute to weaker bones and an increased risk of conditions like osteoporosis.' Cold conditions can also increase the risk of falls and slips. 'When your muscles are cold, they don't work as efficiently, making you more prone to stiffness and slower reactions – both of which can increase the risk of slips and falls,' explains Tang. 'If you're shivering, you're also more likely to be unsteady on your feet. 'And if your home is cold and damp, floors can become slippery, making things even riskier.' Mind Living in a constantly cold environment isn't just uncomfortable – it can have a real impact on your mood and mental wellbeing. 'Being cold for long periods can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and even depression,' says Tang. 'It can also make you feel more fatigued and unmotivated, which makes everyday tasks feel harder. 'A warm, comfortable home is important not just for physical health, but for keeping spirits high, too.' Who is most at risk? 'Older adults, young children, and people with chronic conditions – like asthma or heart disease – are at higher risk,' highlights Tang. 'Those with weaker hearts may struggle more to pump blood effectively in the cold, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.' Here are some things you can do to reduce these health risks… See if you are eligible for financial support 'We'd definitely encourage everyone to ensure that they are getting any financial support that they are eligible for,' says Jenny Lippiatt, health programme manager at Age UK. 'The winter fuel payment is available still to some older people, and there are other benefits that are available.' Put the heating on 'I think some people are really fearful of putting their heating on and I completely understand why, but the health implications are potentially really damaging,' says Lippiatt. 'You can do things like concentrate the heating in the rooms that you are most likely to be in.' Draught-proof your home 'Make sure that your house is draught-proof,' recommends Lippiatt. 'We would encourage everyone to look at home efficiency tips, like making sure your boiler is checked and up to date and keeping windows and doors closed as much as possible so you're keeping the heat in.' Move your body Movement will help keep your body healthy and warm. 'If you do have stairs, you could try going up and down your stairs, or get outside for a walk if it's not too cold,' suggests Lippiatt. 'There's also lots of things around chair-based exercises if your movement is limited.' Consume warm meals 'Eating warm meals and drinking hot drinks can also help regulate your body temperature,' says Tang.
The Independent
06-02-2025
- Health
- The Independent
Norovirus cases hit a new high – symptoms and causes you need to know
The number of people in hospital in England with norovirus is continuing to climb and has hit another new high for this winter, NHS figures show. An average of 961 hospital beds were filled each day last week by patients with diarrhoea and vomiting or norovirus-like symptoms, up 7% from 898 the previous week, which had been the highest so far this season. Norovirus levels also remain higher than at this point 12 months ago, when an average of 570 beds were filled with patients with symptoms, and also two years ago (750 patients). It comes as flu levels in hospitals in England have fallen for the fourth week in a row. An average of 2,461 flu patients were in beds each day last week, including 122 in critical care. This is down 18% from 3,019 the previous week, when 148 were in critical care. The total is slightly lower than at this point last winter (2,478) but higher than this stage two years ago (962). The figures have been published in the latest weekly snapshot of the performance of hospitals in England. Here's what you need to know about Norovirus: What is norovirus? 'Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, which is an inflammation of the stomach and intestines,' explains Dr Chun Tang, GP at Pall Mall Medical. 'It spreads easily through contaminated food, water, surfaces, or direct contact with an infected person. 'You can also get it by touching surfaces that have the virus on them and then putting your hands in your mouth, or by eating food that's been handled by someone who has the virus.' Norovirus is often mistakenly associated with the flu. 'Unlike respiratory viruses like influenza, norovirus specifically targets the gastrointestinal system,' clarifies Dr Ashwin Sharma, from online pharmacy MedExpress. 'In addition, often people think that because they feel better, they must not be transmittable anymore and that isn't the case. 'Most people can remain contagious for up to two weeks or more after symptoms have resolved.' Who is most at risk of getting Norovirus? 'Anyone can catch norovirus, but it tends to spread more easily in environments where people are in close contact, like in schools, hospitals, or nursing homes,' notes Tang. 'Young children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are most at risk for severe symptoms because their bodies might not handle dehydration and other effects as well as others. 'But even healthy adults can get really sick from it because it's so contagious.' What are the symptoms of Norovirus? 'Common symptoms of norovirus include nausea, diarrhoea, and vomiting,' says Sharma. 'In some cases, individuals may also experience additional symptoms such as fever, headaches, and body aches. 'It is important to monitor these symptoms and seek medical attention if they become severe or persistent.' Tang adds: 'The most important thing to watch for is dehydration, especially in young children or older adults, as it can happen quickly due to vomiting and diarrhoea.' Over-the-counter medications can help with fever and aches, however recovery mostly involves rest and letting the virus run its course while staying hydrated. 'The key is to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids, especially if you're vomiting or have diarrhoea,' advises Tang. 'In extreme cases, where dehydration becomes a problem, some people may need intravenous fluids.' Can we do anything to prevent it? 'The most important thing is washing your hands regularly with soap and water, especially after using the bathroom or before eating,' says Tang. 'Hand sanitisers aren't as effective against norovirus, so good old-fashioned handwashing is key. 'Also, make sure to clean and disinfect surfaces, especially in kitchens and bathrooms, and wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating. 'If someone around you has norovirus, it's best to avoid direct contact and be extra on top with your hygiene. If symptoms continue, contact a GP.'
