Five Health Niggles and How To Deal with Them

Working as a general practitioner, Dr Emma Southworth estimates that around a quarter of her consultations are for common health niggles that can often be managed at home.

Sore throat

Usually caused by a virus, sore throats aren’t helped by antibiotics. The advice is to rest and stay hydrated. Sip warm water with lemon and honey or use over-the-counter throat sprays to ease symptoms.  Most sore throats improve within a week. If symptoms worsen, persist or if the tonsils are pus-covered, seek medical advice. “Local pharmacies are a great first call,” says Dr Southworth. “They offer helpful guidance and treatments, and some can prescribe if needed.”

 Breathing problems

Blocked sinuses can be relieved by the age-old remedy of inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water with a towel over your head. You can buy nasal steroids over the counter to reduce congestion and mucus.  “However, decongestant nasal sprays shouldn’t be taken for more than a few days as they can lead to dependency,” says Dr Southworth. “Persistent breathlessness should always be taken to a GP.”

 People with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease should ensure they have an annual treatment review as medication may need to be updated in line with new guidelines.

 Common viruses

A variety of infectious diseases circulate in the community, including influenza, norovirus and Covid-19. “The most effective prevention is hand hygiene,” says Dr Southworth. “It’s all about regular handwashing and keeping touchpoints such as door handles clean. If you do get sick, it’s important to rest, hydrate and isolate until symptoms pass.”

 Vaccinations offer protection against a range of common diseases including shingles, pneumonia and flu. Dr Southworth also advises taking a daily multivitamin. “Zinc and vitamin C may shorten cold symptoms. Vitamin D supplementation is advisable for individuals with lighter skin during the autumn and winter months, and for those with darker skin tones or who are housebound throughout the entire year,” she says. “We just don’t get enough from sunlight in the UK.”

 Heartburn

Most of us have experienced heartburn, when stomach acids reflux into the oesophagus, causing irritation. Common triggers include stress, drinking too much coffee, alcohol or fizzy drinks and eating fatty or spicy food.  “Sometimes keeping a diary of what you’re eating and drinking can help to identify the causes,” says Dr Southworth. “Over-the-counter antacid medicines can ease the discomfort, but if it persists, medical advice and further investigation should be sought.”

 Joint pain

It’s estimated that one in six people in the UK has arthritis, the leading cause of disability. Osteoarthritis is the most common, when joint wear and tear causes significant discomfort.

 In addition to painkillers, topical anti-inflammatory gels can be effective to relieve symptoms. Dr Southworth suggests trying natural supplements such as chondroitin and turmeric. “Different things work for different people so if you don’t get relief, try something else,” she says. “It’s also worth keeping a stock of anti-inflammatory gels, paracetamol and a standby hot-water bottle for when they’re needed.”

 Rheumatoid arthritis is an auto-immune disorder that requires specialist treatment and is relatively rare while gout, a form of inflammatory arthritis, is surprisingly prevalent. Caused by crystals of uric acid forming in the joints, gout brings sudden and severe pain attacks.

 “It presents with a swollen, red hot, exquisitely tender joint, commonly a big toe,” says Dr Southworth. “Drink lots of water and cut out alcohol during an attack. Gout can be associated with over-consumption of alcohol and poor diet, so lifestyle factors may need to be reviewed.”

Source: Benenden Health and advice from Dr Emma Southworth.