Latest news with #HaltonStairlifts
South Wales Guardian
04-08-2025
- Health
- South Wales Guardian
Common poisonous plants to keep away from children
But when it comes to making your garden a safe space for children to play in, it often requires attention to detail that might not be immediately obvious. This includes being aware of plants that can be toxic to children and knowing what steps parents and carers need to take when it comes to preventing exposure. Home expert Neil Mckenzie from Halton Stairlifts has given us a guide to some of the most common and dangerous plants to watch out for in our homes and gardens. While they are stunning to look at, certain species of lilies are very toxic if ingested, especially to pets like cats. For children, touching the pollen and then rubbing their eyes or mouth could cause irritation or more severe reactions. This is one of the most toxic, commonly grown garden plants. Ingestion of its leaves, flowers, or even water from its vase can lead to severe cardiac issues, potentially fatal in both children and adults. Popular in many homes for its lush, attractive foliage, philodendrons can cause severe irritation to the mouth and gastrointestinal tract, leading to swelling, pain, and difficulty swallowing if chewed or swallowed. Do you have any of these plants in your home? (Image: Getty) Known for its hardy nature and striking leaves, pothos can be quite harmful if ingested. It can cause significant irritation to the mouth and other parts of the digestive tract, leading to symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. With their large, beautiful clusters of flowers, hydrangeas are a common decorative plant. However, their buds and leaves contain compounds that can release cyanide when chewed, potentially leading to oxygen depletion at the cellular level. This plant is attractive and easy to care for but contains oxalate crystals that can cause intense oral irritation, drooling, and swelling, which can lead to difficulty breathing if the throat swells too much. The source of the heart medicine digoxin, foxglove is highly poisonous if ingested. Eating even a small amount of the plant can cause heart palpitations, severe digestive distress, and potentially life-threatening heart issues. To keep your children safe from the dangers posed by these and other poisonous plants, consider implementing the following strategies: Recommended reading: Expert shares 30p 'secret' for keeping flowers alive for longer When does Japanese Knotweed flower in the UK and what to do if you find some Warning over dangers of plant that can pose 'severe risk' to humans and pets Neil commented: 'While the vibrant greens and florals of plants can enhance the beauty and atmosphere of our homes, they can also pose hidden dangers to the littlest members of our families. 'By staying informed and vigilant, parents can significantly mitigate these risks and ensure a safer play environment for their children. 'Remember, the key to safety with plants, as with all aspects of childproofing, is vigilance and education.'
Yahoo
01-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Five common medications affected by warm weather and the resulting side effects
As Brits bask in the sunshine, it's vital to make sure you're staying safe in the sun - especially if you take certain medications. As temperatures are set to reach up to 30C across certain parts of the UK, experts have advised people to check which medications don't mix well with the heat in order to stay safe in the sun, reports MirrorOnline. Common medications can make it more difficult for the body to regulate temperature, and can heighten the risk of heat exhaustion and dehydration in people. READ MORE: UK tourists fall ill as travel alert issued for holidaymakers heading abroad Get breaking news on BirminghamLive WhatsApp, click the link to join Neil McKenzie, a home expert at Halton Stairlifts has urged people to look after the elderly especially during the heatwave and be aware of the implications the heat can have. "Many people don't realise that common medications can make it harder for the body to regulate temperature," Neil said. "In older adults, the combination of medicine, pre-existing health conditions, and limited mobility can be dangerous in a heatwave," he added. He said the most common medications that may increase heat risk include: Diuretics (water tablets) – often prescribed for high blood pressure or heart failure; they increase urination, which can lead to dehydration. Beta-blockers – can reduce the body's ability to cool down by lowering heart rate. Antidepressants and antipsychotics – may impair the brain's ability to regulate heat. Antihistamines – can block sweating, increasing the risk of overheating. Certain Parkinson's or Alzheimer's drugs – can interfere with body temperature control. Neil said if you are taking any of these medications: "Always speak to a GP or pharmacist if you're unsure about your medication in hot weather - don't just stop taking them." There are ways you can keep your homes cool during a heatwave according to the expert who shared some top tips to not getting heat exhaustion. These include: Block direct sunlight – Close blinds and curtains during the hottest part of the day (11am–3pm). Create airflow – Open windows at opposite ends of the house early morning and late evening for cross-ventilation. Switch off unnecessary tech – TVs, laptops, and kitchen appliances can generate additional heat. Use a fan safely – Position it near a bowl of ice or frozen water bottles for an improvised air-con effect. Stay downstairs – Heat rises, so lower floors tend to stay cooler. Avoid cooking with ovens – Opt for light, cold meals or use a microwave where possible. "Even a few degrees can make a big difference to vulnerable people. If you have elderly neighbours or family, check in, make sure they're drinking water, and help them keep their homes cool and safe," Neil further added.
Daily Mirror
30-04-2025
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Common medications affected by heatwave as expert warns it 'can be dangerous'
As Brits bask in the sunshine, it's important to make sure you're staying safe in the sun - especially if you take certain medications. As temperatures are set to reach up to 30C across certain parts of the UK, experts have urged people to check which medications don't mix well with the heat in order to stay safe in the sun. Common medications can make it harder for the body to regulate temperature, and can heighten the risk of heat exhaustion and dehydration in people. Neil McKenzie, a home expert at Halton Stairlifts has advised people to look after the elderly especially during the heatwave and be aware of the implications the heat can have. "Many people don't realise that common medications can make it harder for the body to regulate temperature," Neil explained. "In older adults, the combination of medicine, pre-existing health conditions, and limited mobility can be dangerous in a heatwave." He said the most common medications that may increase heat risk include: Diuretics (water tablets) – often prescribed for high blood pressure or heart failure; they increase urination, which can lead to dehydration. Beta-blockers – can reduce the body's ability to cool down by lowering heart rate. Antidepressants and antipsychotics – may impair the brain's ability to regulate heat. Antihistamines – can block sweating, increasing the risk of overheating. Certain Parkinson's or Alzheimer's drugs – can interfere with body temperature control. Neil said if you are taking any of these medications: "Always speak to a GP or pharmacist if you're unsure about your medication in hot weather - don't just stop taking them." There are ways you can keep your homes cool during a heatwave according to the expert who shared some top tips to not getting heat exhaustion. These include: Block direct sunlight – Close blinds and curtains during the hottest part of the day (11am–3pm). Create airflow – Open windows at opposite ends of the house early morning and late evening for cross-ventilation. Switch off unnecessary tech – TVs, laptops, and kitchen appliances can generate additional heat. Use a fan safely – Position it near a bowl of ice or frozen water bottles for an improvised air-con effect. Stay downstairs – Heat rises, so lower floors tend to stay cooler. Avoid cooking with ovens – Opt for light, cold meals or use a microwave where possible. "Even a few degrees can make a big difference to vulnerable people. If you have elderly neighbours or family, check in, make sure they're drinking water, and help them keep their homes cool and safe," Neil further added.
