Latest news with #Hayfever
Glasgow Times
09-05-2025
- Health
- Glasgow Times
Glasgow residents warned as pollen levels to be 'high'
High pollen counts are returning to the Strathclyde region, with pollen levels expected to increase over the coming days. According to the Met Office, pollen levels will be 'medium' on Saturday, May 10; however, 'high' levels of pollen are predicted to sweep across the city on Sunday, May 11. Ahead of the high levels, Airborne Allergens expert Max Wiseberg has urged those with Hayfever to 'keep their windows and doors closed'. READ MORE: Police issue statement after Glasgow Orange walk members 'trolled' online READ MORE: Footage released after incident on Glasgow Central train service He said: 'The main pollen expected at this time of year is oak, and there is some early grass pollen. 'The pollen count is measured according to the number of pollen grains per cubic metre of air. "The pollen count forecast can help you to judge if your hay fever symptoms will be particularly severe on any given day. "Many hay fever sufferers start to experience symptoms when the count reaches 'moderate'. "Pollen forecasts have been low for the past few days, so many people may have thought the season was over for them. "But we're seeing high pollen counts return this weekend.' 'Many people may have stopped taking their medications as a result of the recent low pollen levels, and they can take time to build up to maximum effectiveness again. 'When you go outdoors, as well as using an allergen barrier balm, wear wraparound sunglasses to help stop pollen from getting in your eyes. "Tie up long hair and wear a cap or other head cover to help stop pollen getting in your hair.' 'If you are planning a barbecue, avoid early evening – in fact, try to avoid being outdoors in the early evening and early in the morning – as this is when pollen counts are at their highest. "Many fruits and vegetables contain quercetin, which is thought to limit the release of histamine, the chemical that sets off allergy symptoms in your body. "So, try to incorporate these into salads and other dishes. "Red onions, kale, cherry tomatoes, broccoli, blueberries and apples are good options. And garlic reduces catarrh.' 'When you return home after being outdoors, remove footwear at the door so you don't tread pollen around your home. "Wash your face or take a shower and put on clean (pollen-free) clothes – to remove pollen that has attached itself to your hair, body and clothes.' 'Keep doors and windows closed, especially during the day, to help stop pollen getting in your home. "This also applies when driving – keep car windows closed and use the air conditioning instead. "Though ensure that air conditioning or a pollen filter is cleaned regularly, so pollen is filtered out effectively.'
Yahoo
03-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Olympian explains best exercises to deal with back and joint pain
New research shows that a quarter of adults are avoiding exercise due to aches and pains. To help, Boots has partnered with Olympian, Michelle Griffith-Robinson to create some exercise routines designed to help strengthen joints, whilst providing motivational tips. Michelle, Olympian, life coach, personal trainer and health advocate, has shared her expert tips for exercise to deal with back, hip and knee pain. Back pain: READ MORE: London doctor dies three weeks after discovering stomach pain was fatal by ignoring early warning signs READ MORE: Hayfever injection cost, where to get the immunotherapy and how long it works 'Three exercises you can do every day for back pain which will really make a different are…' Back Rolls Back rolls can be really beneficial! Hold your knees into your chest, push back firmly into floor, then release. Repeat this 10 times and do this exercise 3 times a day! Piriformis Stretch Piriformis stretches can really ease lower back pain. Lie on your back and cross your legs, then thread your arm through. Gently adjust your body until you feel the stretch. Hold this stretch for 5 seconds and repeat 3 times on each side. I recommend completing this 3 times a day! Child's Pose Child's pose is one of my favourite stretches and best to do in the morning. Start on your hand and knees. Push back and hold, then push forwards. Repeat this 8 times for 3 sets. Hip pain: 'Simple things like walking up the stairs and getting off the couch can really feel hard with achey hips. Three simple moves to alleviate discomfort are…' Bridging Bridging is a great move to just open up those hips and strengthen those hips as well. Start by lying on your back, putting your feet flat on the floor and hand on hips. Slowly lift up your hips and pause, and slowly lower back down. Hold this for 5 seconds and repeat 8 times for 3 sets. I recommending completing this first thing in the morning! Hip Abductions Hip abductions. Start by sitting on the floor, place the soles of your feet together and press your knees down. Hold this for 8 seconds and repeat 3 times! Hip Flexion Hip flexion is a great move to do daily. Start by laying on your side and bring your heel to your bum. Hold for 5 seconds and release, then repeat 8 times for 3 sets. Knee pain: 'Three moves to strengthen your knee and help with discomfort are…' Single-Leg Extension Single-leg extension. Start by sitting upright on a chair, hold on to the sides of the chair for support if needed. Then, extend the leg out and back in. Repeat this 8 times on each leg and complete 3 times a day! Calf Raise to Toe Lift Calf raise to toe lift. Raise up onto the balls of your feet and hold for a few second then lower. Repeat as many times as you feel comfortable! Hip Flexion Stretches Hip flexion stretches are a great move to do daily or every other day. Hold on to a chair for support and lift your leg up. Push your knee in and your hips forward. Hold this for 8 seconds and repeat 3 times, then repeat on the other leg 'Remember, consistency is key and that way you'll really see the benefit!' Speak to your GP before starting any new forms of exercise if you have an existing medical condition or have not exercised in a while.
Yahoo
03-04-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Pharmacist says 'stay home' as measles cases soar and spike is coming
As cases of measles rise sharply across Europe and with experts predicting another spike this Spring, Superdrug's Pharmacy Superintendent Niamh McMillan has explained the symptoms to look out for and how to protect yourself against the potentially dangerous virus. Niamh said: 'Measles is a highly contagious viral infection, which can have serious health consequences, especially for young children, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems. Early detection and vaccination are key to protecting yourself and others from this potentially dangerous illness. 'The measles virus spreads through respiratory droplets, when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can live in the air for up to two hours, making it easy for the disease to spread, especially in crowded environments, such as public transport and office settings. READ MORE: London doctor dies three weeks after discovering stomach pain was fatal by ignoring early warning signs READ MORE: Hayfever injection cost, where to get the immunotherapy and how long it works 'The best way to protect yourself and others from measles is through vaccination. The MMR vaccine (Measles, Mumps and Rubella) provides long term immunity against the disease and is suitable for both adults and children. It's recommended that individuals get two doses of the MMR vaccine for full protection. Superdrug's nationwide high street clinics offer the MMR vaccination for £45 per dose, with appointments able to be made online.' If you or your child show signs of measles, it's important to seek immediate medical attention. If measles is confirmed, then you should stay at home and avoid contact with others, in order to prevent the infection from spreading. Niamh explained the various symptoms to be aware of, saying: 'Measles typically begins with cold-like symptoms, which can make it difficult to distinguish from other common illnesses.' Additional symptoms include: High fever 'One of the earliest signs, often starting around 10-12 days after exposure to the virus. Superdrug's Own Brand Paracetamol, £0.49 or 3p per tablet, can help bring down high fever.' Cough, runny nose and sore throat 'The symptoms can mimic a cold and usually accompany the fever.' White spots inside the mouth 'Referred to as Koplik spots which are found inside the mouth on the inner lining of the cheek. Not everyone with measles will have these spots, which usually last for a few days.' Rash 'The most typical symptom of measles, which usually starts on the face and spreads to the rest of the body. It usually appears three to five days after first signs of symptoms and lasts for several days. The rash can be flat or slightly raised and join together into larger patches.'
