NHS patients in Oxfordshire issued warning amid strike
Strikes are set to hit today (Monday, July 28) and tomorrow (Tuesday, July 29) in the county.
This is part of a five-day walkout by resident doctors, previously known as junior doctors, which commenced on Friday (July 25).
Set to finish on Wednesday morning, the strike is the 12th by doctors since 2023 in what has been a long-running dispute over pay.
READ MORE: Former US Vice President visits country pub in Cotswolds
It comes after last week's failure to agree on wages between the doctors' union, the British Medical Association (BMA), and the government.
Patients in Oxfordshire have been warned about the potential strikes over the next couple of days via an NHS update across social media.
Despite the expected action, those in the county with appointments with GPs have been encouraged to attend unless informed otherwise.
A statement from NHS Oxfordshire said: "Today and tomorrow, some services may be affected due to strike action.
"Please continue to attend your GP appointments unless you are contacted and told otherwise."
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Football fan sets up mental health voice note site
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Does acupressure help you sleep better? I asked two experts — this is what they said
In a time where we're bombarded with social media trends for sleep like April Theory and the 'sleepy girl mocktail,' it can be easy to forget that there are some methods you can use to help with your slumber that have been around for thousands of years. Like acupressure, a non-invasive, ancient traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves the use of pressure on the face and body at certain points, some of which are used to help with sleep. Research has shown that acupressure can help with sleep, from reducing insomnia, to improving sleep quality in hospital patients and even contributing to better sleep in menopausal women. Here, we'll explore this research and the potential benefits of acupressure for sleep, as well as speaking to experts in the field to find out about what acupressure is, and how you can even practice it in the comfort of your own home. "Acupressure is a non-invasive traditional Chinese medicine technique that uses pressure on the face and body at specific points known as acupoints," says registered acupuncturist Lily Lai, who has a PhD in Chinese Medicine in Primary Care and offers acupressure at her UK clinic. "Pressure is applied in a variety of ways – most commonly finger pressure is used as well as tools," she adds. Doctor of Oriental Medicine (DOM), Dr. Haley Parker, who is a licensed acupuncturist and the Director of Clinical Operations at VUIM Clinic (Virginia University of Integrative Medicine), explains that in acupressure, gentle sustained pressure is applied to "specific points along the body's meridians — energy channels that correspond to organs and systems." Get instant access to breaking news, the hottest reviews, great deals and helpful tips. "It's based on the same principles as acupuncture, but instead of using needles, you use fingers, palms, elbows, or tools to stimulate the points," Dr. Parker explains. "The idea is to restore the smooth flow of Qi (vital energy) and blood through the body to promote healing, reduce tension, and support balance between the body and mind," she says. "From a Western perspective, acupressure may stimulate the nervous system, influence endorphin release, reduce cortisol, and activate the parasympathetic 'rest and digest' response," the doctor continues. According to The American Institute of Alternative Medicine, the practice is "based on the belief that applying firm pressure in specific acupoints stimulates the nervous system and brain to release endorphins and neurotransmitters to ease... pain." Acupressure falls under what the National Health Service (NHS) in the UK describes as 'complimentary and alternative medicine' (CAM) and they do advise that "if you think you may have a health condition, first see your GP. Do not visit a CAM practitioner instead of seeing your GP." As the NHS points out, it is important to review the evidence when considering a complimentary or alternative medicine. When it comes to acupressure there is "a growing body of evidence supporting [its] effectiveness for sleep," says Dr. Parker. As well as the research cited below, a review of studies into the effect of acupressure on hospital inpatients showed that it improved factors such as sleep quality, total sleep time, sleep efficiency and sleep onset latency compared to control groups. Researchers concluded that it is an "effective intervention to improve sleep quality and sleep parameters in inpatients." Among the studies she highlighted, Dr. Parker pointed to a review of studies and a specific study which both showed that acupressure improved sleep quality in older people. As we've explored above, this traditional Chinese medicine practice involves applying pressure to certain points. Dr. Parker says it can support sleep "by calming the nervous system, easing physical tension, and regulating the underlying organ systems that influence rest." She notes that the best combination of acupressure points for sleep depends on what the individual is experiencing and that a personal point prescription would then be selected to "to support the patient and the present symptoms, like insomnia and restlessness." However, she shares the following common points and how they work from a traditional Chinese medicine perspective: Anxiety can mean that worries, racing thoughts and restlessness make it particularly hard to fall asleep. Lai says that one of the common causes of sleeplessness is stress and anxiety, and points to a systematic review and meta-analysis of research which showed acupressure can significantly reduce anxiety. Acupressure can significantly reduce anxiety "Studies suggest that acupressure and acupuncture work in similar ways by encouraging the body to release neurotransmitters such as endorphins and serotonin," says Dr. Parker. "both of which are mood elevators and play a major role in sleepregulation via the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis," she explains. "Acupressure may also be increasing parasympathetic nervous activity, the rest-and-digest part of our nervous system which takes the body away from being in the sympathetic nervous system state, the fight-or-flight response," Lai adds. She says that these calming, anxiety-reducing effects of acupressure can help sleep by improving both sleep latency, and sleep duration. Those who have experienced either short-term (several days or weeks) or chronic insomnia (lasting three months or more), know that it doesn't just interfere with your sleep. It can also cause issues including irritability, fatigue and problems with focus the next day. But research shows that acupressure may be a tool you can include to combat it. One study compared the effect of acupressure on those with insomnia, with 200 participants divided into a group who were taught self-administered acupressure, and a group who were given sleep hygiene education. They found that those who had learned acupressure had improved Insomnia Severity Index scores after both four weeks and eight weeks, compared to the other group. Auricular acupressure, which focuses on pressure points on the ear, has been shown in a number of studies to help with insomnia. One review of studies looking at how effective auricular acupressure is as a treatment for insomnia concluded that, "the effects of auricular acupressure on insomnia are comparable to those of estazolam," which is a medication used short-term for treating insomnia. And while Dr. Parker noted above that acupressure be used to help with sleep issues like insomnia, she also explains that, "lack of sleep/insomnia is often a symptom of an underlying imbalance." "There are also lifestyle factors and habits that should be addressed to support a restful nights sleep (examples include limiting screen time before bed, limit caffeine after 3pm in the afternoon, eliminate noises and lights in the bedroom, try to go to bed at a regular time each night etc)," she explains. "Sleep problems can also be associated with hormonal changes and studies have demonstrated that acupressure can be effective for improving sleep in these patient populations," says Lai. A huge number of women experiencing menopause have issues with their sleep. In fact, 2023 research noted that across the world, sleep and menopause effects the lives of about a third of women. Lai suggests that acupressure may be one way to help tackle this, explaining that, "acupressure has shown in recent trials to significantly improve sleep quality in menopausal women." A trial published in the Iranian Journal of Medical Sciences, found that "acupressure alone can improve sleep quality at a rate of 22% in menopausal women by massage on the effective points," and concluded that it "can be used as a complementary treatment to relieve sleep disorders in menopausal women." In addition, Lai says that "Studies have indicated that acupressure impacts hormone-related sleep problems through decreasing levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) as well as through increasing levels of oestradiol." "These in turn improve sleep quality related to hormonal conditions, but also in other symptoms such as hot flushes and fatigue," she explains. If you're interested in exploring acupressure and want some simple options that you can try out from the ease of your home, Dr. Parker suggests the following. Acupressure mats like the Shakti mat and Pranamat have become popular options to try at home, and both promise to help improve your sleep after just 20 minutes use. Pranamat even cites stats from Dr. Marek Dvořák's sleep tracker, which show that after using the Pranamat 20 minutes before sleep, his REM sleep increased by 2%, deep sleep increased by 7% and light sleep was reduced by 10%. Lai also shares the one piece of advice given to every patient in her practice experiencing sleep issues: "Utilise acupressure wristbands to stimulate Nei Guan (Pericardium 6). Whilst this acupoint is widely known for nausea and vomiting, it is also used frequently in traditional acupuncture for sleeplessness as well as for stress and anxiety," she says. This pressure point is found between the two tendons ont he inner aspect of the forearm, three finger widths below the wrist crease. It's important to consult your doctor if you are experiencing pain or a medical condition, however, Lai and Dr. Parker agree that acupressure is, in general, very safe for most people. "Basic self-acupressure can be safely carried out in specific circumstances such as with acupressure wristbands for nausea and vomiting," Lai says. But she notes that, "for face, body or ear acupuncture and for more complex conditions, this is safest and most effective when carried out by a TCM practitioner who is registered with an appropriate acupuncture professional body." "If you are actively under the care of a doctor or consultant for a medical condition, you should always seek their advice prior to using acupressure," she explains. It's important that certain patient groups such as children, pregnant women and the elderly should check with their doctor before using acupressure for their health concerns.
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Like Justin Timberlake, these 15 celebrities have Lyme disesase and shared their journeys with fans
After wrapping his mammoth tour, singer Justin Timberlake shared a personal health update with fans and explained that touring had been tougher than ever due to his Lyme disease diagnosis. Lyme disease, an infection caused by bacteria called Borrelia burgdorferi (are spread by ticks), can "cause arthritis, memory problems, neurological symptoms, Bell's palsy, cardiac arrhythmias, depression and anxiety", Dr Deborah Lee previously told Cosmopolitan UK. It can also be "a cause of chronic fatigue with a clinical picture similar to chronic fatigue syndrome." Many people are able to treat the disease with antibiotics meaning it cannot progress, but unfortunately for some it can cause life-altering symptoms on a long-term basis. Sharing his own experience, Timberlake said, "If you've experienced this disease or know someone who has — then you're aware: living with this can be relentlessly debilitating, both mentally and physically. When I first got the diagnosis I was shocked for sure. But, at least I could understand why I would be onstage and in a massive amount of nerve pain or, just feeling crazy fatigue or sickness." He added that at one point, quitting touring seemed like an option but he ultimately decided that the joy performing gives him outweighed the downsides. "I'm so glad I kept going." Here are 15 celebrities who've opened up about their Lyme disease diagnosis: This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical with Lyme disease: Avril Lavigne Singer Lavigne had a really difficult time during the earlier stages of her diagnosis, saying it left her bed-bound for two years, but is now back to making music and doing well – proving recovery is possible. "I spent the last few years at home sick fighting Lyme disease," she wrote in a letter to fans on her website. "[At one point, I] had accepted death and could feel my body shutting down. I felt like I was drowning. Like I was in a river being pulled in a current. Unable to breathe." Lavigne added, "A single bug bite can f*ck you up hard. People aren't aware that Lyme must be treated almost immediately."Celebrities with Lyme disease: Bella Hadid The model has been candid about the difficulties she's faced following her Lyme disease diagnosis, sharing honest posts of her journey and recovery on social media. "If you look back at work pictures from the past eight years you can tell the difference between me when my Lyme flares up and me when I'm healthy," she said. "She's a different girl. I feel so bad for her." In an Instagram post following months of intensive treatments, Hadid wrote, "If you are struggling – it will get better. I promise. Take a step away, stay strong, have faith in your path, walk in your truth and the clouds will start to clear up. I have so much gratitude for and perspective on life, this 100+ days of Lyme, chronic disease, co-infection treatment, almost 15 years of invisible suffering, was all worth it if I'm able to, God willing, have a lifetime of spreading love from a full cup."Celebrities with Lyme disease: Justin Bieber Back in January 2020, Bieber took to Instagram to clear up some speculation about his health, telling fans he was working hard to recover from Lyme disease. "It's been a rough couple years," he told them, pointing out that allegations that he was dealing with a substance abuse issue had been hurtful. "They failed to realise I've been recently diagnosed with Lyme disease, not only that but had a serious case of chronic mono which affected my skin, brain function, energy, and overall health." "I've been battling and OVERCOMING!!" the singer added. "I will be back and better than ever."Celebrities with Lyme disease: Hailey Bieber While luckily not impacted to the same extent as her husband, Justin Bieber, the make-up mogul revealed on Women's Health's Going for Goal podcast that she too had faced a Lyme disease diagnosis – showing just how differently it can impact individuals. "Lyme disease is an interesting thing because a lot of people don't believe it's real, and a lot of people think it's BS," she said. "But I've had it before, I've dealt with it. My husband has it and deals with it very deeply. "I think it's about finding the right doctors who believe in getting to the bottom of any health issues that you might have."Celebrities with Lyme disease: Riley Keough Speaking about seeking treatment for Lyme disease and how it impacted on her family planning, the Daisy Jones and the Six star told Vanity Fair, "I used this little break that I have to come and try and see if I can alleviate [my Lyme disease] a bit. It's a holistic treatment centre and offers all kinds of things that you can't really do in America yet, like cleaning your blood." She also discussed how her condition influenced her decision to choose surrogacy for her daughter, who she welcomed in 2022 with husband Ben Smith-Petersen."I can carry children, but it felt like the best choice for what I had going on physically with the autoimmune stuff."Celebrities with Lyme disease: Kelly Osbourne In her memoir, Osbourne wrote about her battle to be diagnosed. "I had started entering my symptoms into online quizzes, and the results kept coming back Lyme disease. I got tested. The results were positive: I had stage III neurological Lyme disease. I was relieved to finally know what was going on, but I was also scared sh*tless." She has since stated that stem cell therapy has helped to alleviate her symptoms, although this is not a formally recognised with Lyme disease: Shania Twain In a documentary of her life, Not Just A Girl, Twain recalled her symptoms and how she was initially worried she would never be able to sing again. "My symptoms were quite scary because before I was diagnosed, I was on stage very dizzy. I was losing my balance. I was afraid I was going to fall off the stage," she said. "I was having these very, very, very millisecond blackouts, but regularly, every minute or every 30 seconds." The diagnosis process was difficult, the star also recalled. "It took several years to determine what it was. It wasn't anything obvious. Nobody connected the Lyme disease to it. In the end, a neurologist finally connected that it was the nerve to each vocal cord." Twain now says she has "a grip" on the disease, and is back touring, singing and doing what she loves in the music with Lyme disease: Ben Stiller Actor Stiller has told press that he has had periods of living symptom-free from Lyme disease, but that it has stayed in his system. "I got it in Nantucket, Mass., a couple of years ago. My knee became inflamed and they couldn't figure out what it was, then they found out it was Lyme," he said. "I'm symptom-free now, but Lyme doesn't ever leave your system. It's a really tough thing."Celebrities with Lyme disease: Miranda Hart After taking a break from her acting and comedy career due to her health, Hart wrote a poignant book, I Haven't Been Entirely Honest With You, about her experience of living with Lyme disease – something she attributes to being bitten by a tick as a teenager while holidaying in the US. While promoting the book, Hart said on BBC Radio 4, "I thought I need to research this whole wellness expertise and dialogue that's out there, but I was at bed at home alone, the doctors didn't know what to do with me and I couldn't have a cold plunge or go on a yoga retreat. "So I thought what are the universal truths? So I did years of research, when I felt able to, and in the book there are 10 keys, which I call my treasures, to living well. And they've really genuinely [helped]. I feel like despite the suffering it came from, that I'm living a life of joy and meaning and fulfilment in a way I never have before."Celebrities with Lyme disease: Justin Timberlake Following a two-year tour, Timberlake told fans on Instagram that he'd been juggling a Lyme disease diagnosis as well as a gruelling schedule – but that working and performing was worth it for all the joy it provides him with. "If you've experienced this disease or know someone who has — then you're aware: living with this can be relentlessly debilitating, both mentally and physically," he said. "When I first got the diagnosis I was shocked for sure. "But, at least I could understand why I would be onstage and in a massive amount of nerve pain or, just feeling crazy fatigue or sickness."Celebrities with Lyme disease: Yolanda Hadid Like her daughter Bella, Yolanda Hadid has also been living with Lyme disease for a number of years – and wrote about it in her book, Believe Me: My Battle with the Invisible Disability of Lyme Disease. "I honestly don't have the proper words in my vocabulary to describe to you the darkness, the pain, and the unknown hell I've lived these past years. I actually did not live," she shared in a speech about her illness, too. Thankfully, Hadid has been in remission for years now and says she's feeling well, happy and healthy, with diet having a big impact on her with Lyme disease: Mark Ruffalo When The Quiet Epidemic, a film about a young student and a scientist who are both diagnosed with Lyme disease and who embark on a joint quest for answers, came out, Ruffalo urged people to take note and watch it. "From personal experience, Lyme disease can be brutal, persistent, and misdiagnosed. The healthcare industry is way behind on this disease," he with Lyme disease: Ramona Singer The Real Housewives star said she counts herself "blessed" to have caught her Lyme disease in its early stages and to have been able to start an effective antibiotics regime, along with overhauling her diet. "You must get tested [for Lyme disease] once a year, especially if you're in an area where there are deer," she told E! News. "But, we caught it early and I'm very lucky and very blessed."Celebrities with Lyme disease: Amy Schumer Actor and comedian Schumer asked her followers for advice on living with Lyme disease in 2020, saying she was on medication and feeling "good" but wanted to hear the experiences of with Lyme disease: Alexis Ohanian The Reddit founder and entrepreneur who is married to Serena Williams has shared his experience of Lyme disease, saying he was asymptomatic when diagnosed. "Doing a full battery of health scans, tests, etc, and found out I have lyme disease," he wrote on X. "Wild. No symptoms, thankfully, but gonna treat." You Might Also Like A ranking of the very best hair straighteners - according to our Beauty Editors Best party dresses to shop in the UK right now 11 products you'd be mad to miss from the Net A Porter beauty sale
