Latest news with #MartinThornton
Daily Mirror
6 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Online self-diagnosis is dangerous and causing 'fixation on worst case scenarios' says GP
More people are turning to Google for healthcare, as GPs are having to deal with patients self-diagnosing. Dr Martin Thornton speaks to The Mirror about the dangers of doing this for most commonly searched symptoms Many young people have admitted to losing faith in their GP, and have turned to alternative measures for help - but how far can Google really go when you need help? With many of Gen Z experiencing their teenage years in Covid, it's no wonder many suffer with health anxiety. With years worth of Covid scares as well asextortionate NHS waiting times trying to see a medical professional, people have turned to online help. Many of us are guilty of turning to 'Dr Google' or ChatGPT for advice when we notice something wrong, as figures from 2023 show that there were nearly 50 million health-related Google searches, while NHS figures also show that GP consultations have fallen by 30% over the last year. Dr Martin Thornton, Chief Medical Officer at Bluecrest spoke to The Mirror why this might have happened - and why it can be so dangerous. "What we've seen is that Gen Z has grown up with the internet in their pocket, so it seems a natural behaviour to turn to search engines, or even AI for quick, anonymous and shame-free answers," he explained. "While that information is always available, there's huge swathes of health information online that hasn't been verified by healthcare professionals, so can't always be trusted." Traditionally access to health information and advice was only garnered from seeing a GP or medical professional, but now people are able to access it easier than ever through the internet. But is this creating more fear and anxiety, with information being so easily accessible? Or does it mean people no longer feel the need to see their doctor? Dr Martin reveals the truth. Calling at 8am, and joining the mad rush of people hoping to get an on-the-day appointment isn't enjoyable for anyone, especially when you can have a quick search on your phone to figure out if you're in urgent need of attention or not. So it's easy to see why this may becoming a more popular alternative. During the pandemic, GP consultations took place online and by phone where appropriate, as a response to restrictions on face-to-face contact. This can often be more convenient for patients and more opportunities for this type of contact have become the norm. However Dr Thornton said: "access doesn't always equal understanding". He warned: "Misinformation online is rife, and younger generations may lack the experience to spot unreliable sources, through no fault of their own – that's a healthcare professional's job." He added that what he's seeing more and more in his clinic is "people becoming fixated on worst-case scenarios". He detailed: "It happens especially after looking up symptoms online. While it's good that people are taking ownership of their health, there's a fine line between health intelligence, and knowing what to do with it. In some cases, online searches feed into existing fears, which can be hard to ignore without guidance from a healthcare professional." For more stories like this subscribe to our weekly newsletter, The Weekly Gulp, for a curated roundup of trending stories, poignant interviews, and viral lifestyle picks from The Mirror's Audience U35 team delivered straight to your inbox. This is causing a surge in people thinking they could have something more severe than they do. Dr Thornton said: "It's increasingly common for patients to arrive with a self-diagnosis in hand, sometimes fearing the worst. While I'm happy that patients are taking control of their health, more often than not, I'm happy to tell them that their fears are unfounded." He reiterated that professional evaluation is so important, to provide the context around vital health intelligence. In terms of Covid and the mental health impacts of the pandemic, the expert said he has noticed how that time shifted how people think about illness. While public health messaging was vital at the time, Dr Thornton said it's left a "lingering sense of unease for many, and it's important not to ignore a lingering cough, it's also important to think of the wider context around perceived symptoms." But it has also meant people are more health conscious than previous generations. He added: "At Bluecrest, we certainly see health assessments taken up more regularly by over 30s, and our research shows that health intelligence is highest in Gen Xs. "At the same time, we know that many conditions, from high cholesterol to vitamin deficiencies, can appear much earlier than people expect. The key is reframing preventive health as a tool for confidence, alongside advice and support, so that people aren't left wondering what to do with the health data they receive," he explained. With this in mind, Dr Thornton has detailed some of the most common symptoms people may have, and the risks of Googling them. Pain We've all been guilty of googling a nagging pain at one point, but it's one of the most misunderstood ailments. An online search might suggest anything from trapped nerves to late-stage cancer, when in reality, a lot of pains could be temporary, mechanical, or stress-related. The danger is that people either panic unnecessarily or, conversely, dismiss persistent pain that could benefit from clinical attention. It'll be important to talk to your doctor about the context and history of your pain, as well as complete a physical examination to truly understand the pain puzzle, something that I don't think AI can offer yet! Fatigue If you're feeling more tired than usual, and type in a quick Google search, you might be alarmed to be presented with chronic fatigue syndrome, thyroid disorders, or even leukaemia. But the truth is, there are often lifestyle factors at play, whether it's poor sleep or diet, dehydration, stress, or even low iron. Before sending yourself into a spiral of anxiety, speaking to a doctor could help you uncover something that could be easily addressed. Itchy skin Google 'itchy skin' and you could be served with anything from liver disease, kidney failure or rare skin conditions. But most of the time, itching can be down to dry skin, allergies, or irritation. The risk with online searches is that people self-diagnose too early or panic before ruling out simple causes like soap sensitivity or winter dryness. Stomach aches Stomach pain can mean anything from indigestion to appendicitis when you ask Google. And while some causes do require urgent care, the majority are due to diet, stress or hormonal changes. If stomach pain persists, a more thorough assessment can give you the health intelligence you need to deal with it. Coughs We've been trained to be very suspicious of coughs post-Covid, and this could be a good thing, as persistent coughs that last longer than three weeks could signal something worse. However, common culprits are viral illnesses. I often find that patients who have googled their coughs are keen for antibiotics, which could have significant long-term consequences when used inappropriately. Rashes Skin rashes can look alarming online, particularly when you're served hundreds of graphic images of serious rashes. Lots of rashes are harmless, particularly in younger adults. The biggest risk is either overreacting and fearing something serious like meningitis, or missing red flags because online advice has falsely reassured you. Stiff neck A stiff neck can be scary, especially when a quick search brings up meningitis or spinal infections as top results. While these are serious conditions, they are also rare. Most cases of stiff neck are due to muscle strain, poor posture (sometimes ironically from poor tech hygiene!), or sleeping in an awkward position. It's important to assess things in context and avoid jumping to worst-case scenarios. Headaches Be honest, who hasn't googled a headache and feared the worst case scenario after a bad night? In reality, the vast majority of headaches are due to tension, dehydration, eye strain, or hormonal changes. Headache patterns, frequency, and associated symptoms are what matter most, and that needs professional input and health intelligence. Eczema patches - usually on the back Eczema can be really uncomfortable, so it's no wonder people are keen for answers, and are often told online that these patches can indicate autoimmune disorders of even skin cancer. Though uncomfortable, eczema is extremely common, particularly in young adults, and is often triggered by dry skin, allergens, stress, or even your clothing. Remember, online images look totally different on different body types and skin tones, so if you're truly concerned, a healthcare professional can help you piece together the eczema puzzle. Help us improve our content by completing the survey below. We'd love to hear from you!
BBC News
09-07-2025
- Business
- BBC News
Alderney care home extension inquiry finds 'shortcomings'
An independent inquiry into a £1.3m overspend on a care home extension has found there were "a number of shortcomings in the project's administration and management".The inquiry was tasked with examining where accountability lies for the soaring costs of the 13-room extension to the States-owned Connaught Care States of Alderney said while the project governance was correctly structured, the report provided recommendations that the General Services Committee (GSC) would endorse and apply to its future major capital GSC said it recognised the public interest in the matter and had agreed for the inquiry to be published in full on the States of Alderney website. 'Responsible and accountable' The inquiry, which took place in private was led by Martin Thornton, a judge from Guernsey Magistrates' MacFarlane, chair of the GSC said: "The report highlights issues with oversight and communication across various responsible bodies and third parties."However we can now be responsible and accountable to learn and move forward from the findings of the inquiry and create a framework that can be applied when the States of Alderney takes on major capital projects."Planning permission was granted for the extension in St Anne in 2019 and £1.29m was approved for the project in March 2020. It was previously reported that, overall, the States had approved spending of £2.367m.
The Sun
04-05-2025
- Health
- The Sun
The 8 household items harbouring germs that could kill you – or give you bloody diarrhoea, warts and boils
WE all know that maintaining good hygiene is important to stop us from picking up bugs and getting ill. But even if you are the biggest fan of hand sanitiser or you're regularly seen parading a bottle of surface spray and a cloth, you might be missing a trick when it comes to keeping clean. 9 There are actually several items in your house - perhaps even in your vicinity right now - that could be harbouring a serious number of germs. And these tiny pathogens can cause everything from boils to bloody diarrhoea. In very rare cases, they can even be fatal. Dr Martin Thornton, chief medical officer at Bluecrest, tells Sun Health: 'Many of the items below probably seem harmless but they can become breeding grounds for bacteria and mould. 'Over time, this can have a bigger impact on your long-term health than you might realise.' Are you the victim of any of these germ-ridden household items? We reveal eight of the worst offenders… 1. Your kitchen sponge 9 WHEN did you last replace the soggy sponge that lingers by your kitchen sink? If it wasn't in the last week, you might want to buy a new one ASAP because they hold onto moisture and quickly breed bacteria. Research published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology found that a cubic centimetre of a kitchen sponge - about the size of a pea - can contain millions of bacteria, making it one of the dirtiest items in a typical household. This includes E. coli, salmonella and staphylococcus, according to a study by Justus–Liebig–University Giessen. Most strains are harmless, but some can lead to problems like stomach cramps, skin infections, boils, and urinary tract infections (UTIs). One killed and 10 hospitalized after 'eating McDonald's Quarter Pounders' in horror E. coli outbreak Also watch out for faecal matter. The National Sanitation Foundation found more than 75 per cent of dish sponges and rags had faecal matter, compared to nine per cent of bathroom taps. Instead of classic sponges, Siobhán Carroll, a naturopath and herbalist for suggests silicone scrubbers that dry quickly and don't allow bacteria to live on them. 'Or use more old-school dishcloths,' she adds. 'These are great because you can get natural materials such as cotton. 'Simply pop them in the washing machine at the end of the day and take a new one out the next morning. 'With about seven or eight cloths, you can easily interchange them throughout the week this way!' 2. Your reusable water bottle 9 IF you use your water bottle every day, it should really be washed every day, Dr Thornton says. 'Drinking bottles can harbour bacteria like E. coli and staphylococcus, which could potentially lead to recurring tummy bugs or low-level infections,' he adds. 'While one-off exposures aren't likely to impact you long-term, repeated infections could put pressure on your immune system and make you more likely to pick up illnesses. 'This is particularly true if you're already managing an existing or underlying health condition.' 3. Your mobile phone 9 OUR phones are pretty much an extension of our hands these days. But that means they are collecting germs non-stop throughout the day. 'Although it's not something to panic about, be aware that the germs that build up on phones can potentially make us ill,' says Siobhán. 'Mobile phones pick up bacteria, viruses and even fungal spores as they travel everywhere with us, from worktops to handbags, trains to toilets. 'When you then hold your phone to your face, or tap away and eat a snack without washing your hands, you're giving those germs a free ride into your body.' Our immune systems usually do a great job of keeping us protected. But Siobhán says there are times, like when you're run-down, stressed or not eating well, that those microbes can take hold. How deadly can bacteria be? SALMONELLA Salmonella can cause stomach cramps, diarrhoea and a fever, which can last up to a week. In rare cases, it can infect the urine, blood, bones, joints and nervous system, and can result in reactive arthritis known as Reiter's syndrome. It is not usually fatal. The UK recorded 57 deaths due to the infection in 2017 and 2018, according to data compiled by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). In 2019, there were 8,398 cases, down from 8,838 the year before. E. COLI E. coli are a diverse group of bacteria that are normally harmless and live in the intestines of humans and animals. However, some strains produce toxins such as STEC that can make people very ill, including stomach cramps and fever and about 50 per cent of cases having bloody diarrhoea. Some patients, mainly children, may develop hemolytic uraemic syndrome, which is a serious life-threatening condition resulting in kidney failure. One person died and hundreds fell ill in an outbreak in England linked to contaminated lettuce last year. STAPHYLOCOCCUS Staphylococcus causes staph infections, which most often affect the skin. They can cause painful red lumps, boils and abscesses, as well as hot, swollen skin, sores, crusts and blisters, and red eyes or eyelids. Staph bacteria can also cause more serious infections, like blood poisoning and toxic shock syndrome. From 2022 to 2023, there were 13,125 confirmed cases of bacteraemia caused by methicillin-sensitive staphylococcus aureus reported in England, and 2,837 deaths. A study by the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine found that 16 per cent of mobile phones were contaminated with E. coli, indicating faecal contamination from poor hand hygiene. The University of Arizona even discovered that phones carry 10 times more bacteria than a toilet seat, including norovirus and gonorrhoea. 'If your phone is harbouring staphylococcus, or any other bacteria and you touch your mouth, eyes or nose, there's a chance you could end up with an upset stomach, skin infection or a bout of sniffles if your immune system is not up to the job of clearing the pathogen before symptoms arise,' Siobhán says. Remember: wash hands regularly, avoid using your phone while eating, and give your device a gentle clean every now and then. 'And yes, let's all agree to stop bringing it into the loo,' adds Siobhán. 4. Your shower loofah 9 IT'S likely that you haven't given your shower loofah a second thought, until now. 'Loofahs are full of crevices that could be home to bacteria or mould,' Dr Thorton says. 'When these are used on broken skin, you could be setting yourself up for chronic skin conditions or recurrent skin infections.' This could be thanks to E. coli, pseudomonas aeruginosa, staphylococcus or streptococcus bacteria, according to Cleveland Clinic - but loofahs can also carry fungal organisms. While health problems from your loofah might be rare, introducing these things to the bloodstream through tiny cuts could lead to serious infections in more vulnerable people, Dr Thornton warns. That's why it's vital to change your shower puff every three to four weeks. 5. Your computer keyboard 9 YOU might overlook your keyboard when doing the weekly clean, but Siobhán says that they are hotspots for harbouring crumbs, dust and bacteria accumulated from our fingertips. 'Bacteria like E. coli and viruses such as norovirus can survive on hard surfaces like keyboards for hours, sometimes even days,' she warns. 'The risk of getting sick from your keyboard is relatively low if your overall health and immunity are in good shape. 'The bigger issue comes when people touch their face or eat at their desk without washing their hands as that's when the transfer can really happen.' Research by the University of Arizona found that the average desktop computer carries 400 times more germs than a toilet seat. And according to a study by Chicago's Northwestern Memorial Hospital, some of these can survive for up to 24 hours on a keyboard. Rather than stress about germs, give your keyboard a wipe with a disinfectant specifically made for electronics. You may also want to consider silicone keyboard covers that are easier to clean. 6. Your reusable shopping bags 9 ALTHOUGH good for the environment, reusable shopping bags could harm our health as they rarely, if ever, get washed. 'Frozen or chilled food can leave your bags moist, often with little bits of food that can go mouldy,' says Siobhán. 'Even when you shake the bits of food out of the bag, invisible bacteria and mould particles can remain.' In 2017, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) warned that 'bags for life' can spread deadly food poisoning bacteria if they are used to carry raw meat and fish. And there was evidence to suggest that bugs like listeria, campylobacter and salmonella - which can cause stomach bugs - could survive on the bags, regardless of the material, for up to 21 days. Thankfully, giving reusable bags a deep clean every now and then should be enough to get rid of germs, Siobhán says. 'If you are someone with a really compromised immune system then biodegradable single-use bags could be helpful,' she adds. 7. Your pet 9 WE cuddle them, kiss them and often let them into our beds. But have you ever considered the unseen germs that pets can bring into your home? 'Pets' fur, collars and toys can carry bacteria, transferring it to various surfaces in your home,' says Siobhán. 'Unlike our own bedding, pet beds also aren't washed or changed nearly as often and can harbour lots of germs.' Research by Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences found household pets can spread norovirus, rabies, pasteurella, salmonella, brucella, yersinia enterocolitica, campylobacter, capnocytophaga, bordetella bronchiseptica, coxiella burnetii, leptospira, staphylococcus intermedius, and MRSA - a major cause of fatal infection in humans. These can cause everything from coughs, headaches and vomiting, to internal bleeding, back pain and even endocarditis - a rare and potentially fatal infection of the inner lining of the heart. The dirtiest room in your house WHEN thinking about what room in your house is dirtiest, your mind probably goes to the bathroom. It's where we go to the loo and wash off the day's dirt, after all. But according to experts, the grimiest spot in your home is actually your kitchen. They say the space where you prepare your food is riddled with germ-laden items - all of which are grubbier than a toilet seat. The National Sanitation Foundation, a global public health and safety organisation, tested 30 surfaces in 22 homes to measure levels of yeast, salmonella, mould, and staph germs. Toilet seats didn't even rank in the top 10 grimiest household articles. Instead, it was kitchen items that featured most heavily in the list, and ranked the highest too. This included: dish sponges and dish cloths, kitchen sinks, toothbrush holders, pet bowls, coffee makers, bathroom faucet handles, pet toys, kitchen counters, stove knobs and cutting boards. Pets can also carry pollen and dust, potentially triggering hay fever symptoms. It's not all doom and gloom though. Research in the British Medical Journal Evidence-Based Medicine suggests that early exposure to pet microbes may lower the risk of developing asthma and allergies in children. 'This highlights the potential positive impact pets, and their germs, can have on the immune system,' adds Siobhán. To stay on top of pet-related hygiene, aim to wash your pet's bed regularly and brush your dog's hair once to three times per week to reduce shedding and minimise germ transfer. 8. Your bath towels 9 DAMP towels and even bath mats can develop a build up of mould and bacteria over time. 'This could contribute to skin irritation or even respiratory problems, particularly for people with asthma or eczema,' says Dr Thornton. 'Repeated exposure to mould spores, for example, could exacerbate chronic respiratory issues in sensitive individuals.' Research by De Montfort University found Covid could survive on cotton for up to 24 hours, and a separate study by Leiden University showed that human papillomaviruses (HPV), which can cause warts, can be spread through contact with towels shared with other people. The odd missed towel wash is unlikely to cause you harm, but Dr Thornton recommends washing your towels after every few uses. Hand towels especially should also be washed regularly. 'If you're being vigilant with hand washing and then drying your hands with a towel that has been left unwashed for too long, you're just transferring more germs back onto your clean hands,' says Siobhán. 'Wash towels and bath mats regularly at high temperatures, and ensure they are thoroughly dried after each use. 'Quick-drying, antimicrobial towels or bamboo mats are a good option as they naturally resist bacterial growth.'
Scottish Sun
04-05-2025
- Health
- Scottish Sun
The 8 household items harbouring germs that could kill you – or give you bloody diarrhoea, warts and boils
From kitchen sponges to reusable shopping bags, these objects could cause stomach bugs, fungal infections and in rare cases, death DIRTY SECRET The 8 household items harbouring germs that could kill you – or give you bloody diarrhoea, warts and boils Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) WE all know that maintaining good hygiene is important to stop us from picking up bugs and getting ill. But even if you are the biggest fan of hand sanitiser or you're regularly seen parading a bottle of surface spray and a cloth, you might be missing a trick when it comes to keeping clean. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 9 Some items in our homes are teeming with bacteria, experts warn Credit: Getty There are actually several items in your house - perhaps even in your vicinity right now - that could be harbouring a serious number of germs. And these tiny pathogens can cause everything from boils to bloody diarrhoea. In very rare cases, they can even be fatal. Dr Martin Thornton, chief medical officer at Bluecrest, tells Sun Health: 'Many of the items below probably seem harmless but they can become breeding grounds for bacteria and mould. 'Over time, this can have a bigger impact on your long-term health than you might realise.' Are you the victim of any of these germ-ridden household items? We reveal eight of the worst offenders… 1. Your kitchen sponge 9 Dish sponges are said to be one of the dirtiest items in a typical household Credit: Getty WHEN did you last replace the soggy sponge that lingers by your kitchen sink? If it wasn't in the last week, you might want to buy a new one ASAP because they hold onto moisture and quickly breed bacteria. Research published in the Journal of Applied Microbiology found that a cubic centimetre of a kitchen sponge - about the size of a pea - can contain millions of bacteria, making it one of the dirtiest items in a typical household. This includes E. coli, salmonella and staphylococcus, according to a study by Justus–Liebig–University Giessen. Most strains are harmless, but some can lead to problems like stomach cramps, skin infections, boils, and urinary tract infections (UTIs). One killed and 10 hospitalized after 'eating McDonald's Quarter Pounders' in horror E. coli outbreak Also watch out for faecal matter. The National Sanitation Foundation found more than 75 per cent of dish sponges and rags had faecal matter, compared to nine per cent of bathroom taps. Instead of classic sponges, Siobhán Carroll, a naturopath and herbalist for suggests silicone scrubbers that dry quickly and don't allow bacteria to live on them. 'Or use more old-school dishcloths,' she adds. 'These are great because you can get natural materials such as cotton. 'Simply pop them in the washing machine at the end of the day and take a new one out the next morning. 'With about seven or eight cloths, you can easily interchange them throughout the week this way!' 2. Your reusable water bottle 9 Reusable water bottles can carry bacteria like E. coli Credit: Getty IF you use your water bottle every day, it should really be washed every day, Dr Thornton says. 'Drinking bottles can harbour bacteria like E. coli and staphylococcus, which could potentially lead to recurring tummy bugs or low-level infections,' he adds. 'While one-off exposures aren't likely to impact you long-term, repeated infections could put pressure on your immune system and make you more likely to pick up illnesses. 'This is particularly true if you're already managing an existing or underlying health condition.' 3. Your mobile phone 9 We should all clean our phones regularly to avoid getting ill Credit: Getty OUR phones are pretty much an extension of our hands these days. But that means they are collecting germs non-stop throughout the day. 'Although it's not something to panic about, be aware that the germs that build up on phones can potentially make us ill,' says Siobhán. 'Mobile phones pick up bacteria, viruses and even fungal spores as they travel everywhere with us, from worktops to handbags, trains to toilets. 'When you then hold your phone to your face, or tap away and eat a snack without washing your hands, you're giving those germs a free ride into your body.' Our immune systems usually do a great job of keeping us protected. But Siobhán says there are times, like when you're run-down, stressed or not eating well, that those microbes can take hold. How deadly can bacteria be? SALMONELLA Salmonella can cause stomach cramps, diarrhoea and a fever, which can last up to a week. In rare cases, it can infect the urine, blood, bones, joints and nervous system, and can result in reactive arthritis known as Reiter's syndrome. It is not usually fatal. The UK recorded 57 deaths due to the infection in 2017 and 2018, according to data compiled by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC). In 2019, there were 8,398 cases, down from 8,838 the year before. E. COLI E. coli are a diverse group of bacteria that are normally harmless and live in the intestines of humans and animals. However, some strains produce toxins such as STEC that can make people very ill, including stomach cramps and fever and about 50 per cent of cases having bloody diarrhoea. Some patients, mainly children, may develop hemolytic uraemic syndrome, which is a serious life-threatening condition resulting in kidney failure. One person died and hundreds fell ill in an outbreak in England linked to contaminated lettuce last year. STAPHYLOCOCCUS Staphylococcus causes staph infections, which most often affect the skin. They can cause painful red lumps, boils and abscesses, as well as hot, swollen skin, sores, crusts and blisters, and red eyes or eyelids. Staph bacteria can also cause more serious infections, like blood poisoning and toxic shock syndrome. From 2022 to 2023, there were 13,125 confirmed cases of bacteraemia caused by methicillin-sensitive staphylococcus aureus reported in England, and 2,837 deaths. A study by the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine found that 16 per cent of mobile phones were contaminated with E. coli, indicating faecal contamination from poor hand hygiene. The University of Arizona even discovered that phones carry 10 times more bacteria than a toilet seat, including norovirus and gonorrhoea. 'If your phone is harbouring staphylococcus, or any other bacteria and you touch your mouth, eyes or nose, there's a chance you could end up with an upset stomach, skin infection or a bout of sniffles if your immune system is not up to the job of clearing the pathogen before symptoms arise,' Siobhán says. Remember: wash hands regularly, avoid using your phone while eating, and give your device a gentle clean every now and then. 'And yes, let's all agree to stop bringing it into the loo,' adds Siobhán. 4. Your shower loofah 9 Replace your loofah every three to four weeks Credit: Getty IT'S likely that you haven't given your shower loofah a second thought, until now. 'Loofahs are full of crevices that could be home to bacteria or mould,' Dr Thorton says. 'When these are used on broken skin, you could be setting yourself up for chronic skin conditions or recurrent skin infections.' This could be thanks to E. coli, pseudomonas aeruginosa, staphylococcus or streptococcus bacteria, according to Cleveland Clinic - but loofahs can also carry fungal organisms. While health problems from your loofah might be rare, introducing these things to the bloodstream through tiny cuts could lead to serious infections in more vulnerable people, Dr Thornton warns. That's why it's vital to change your shower puff every three to four weeks. 5. Your computer keyboard 9 Research shows keyboards carry more germs than a toilet seat Credit: Getty YOU might overlook your keyboard when doing the weekly clean, but Siobhán says that they are hotspots for harbouring crumbs, dust and bacteria accumulated from our fingertips. 'Bacteria like E. coli and viruses such as norovirus can survive on hard surfaces like keyboards for hours, sometimes even days,' she warns. 'The risk of getting sick from your keyboard is relatively low if your overall health and immunity are in good shape. 'The bigger issue comes when people touch their face or eat at their desk without washing their hands as that's when the transfer can really happen.' You could contribute to skin irritation or even respiratory problems, particularly for people with asthma or eczema Dr Martin Thornton Research by the University of Arizona found that the average desktop computer carries 400 times more germs than a toilet seat. And according to a study by Chicago's Northwestern Memorial Hospital, some of these can survive for up to 24 hours on a keyboard. Rather than stress about germs, give your keyboard a wipe with a disinfectant specifically made for electronics. You may also want to consider silicone keyboard covers that are easier to clean. 6. Your reusable shopping bags 9 Reusable shopping bags can spread bacteria Credit: Getty ALTHOUGH good for the environment, reusable shopping bags could harm our health as they rarely, if ever, get washed. 'Frozen or chilled food can leave your bags moist, often with little bits of food that can go mouldy,' says Siobhán. 'Even when you shake the bits of food out of the bag, invisible bacteria and mould particles can remain.' In 2017, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) warned that 'bags for life' can spread deadly food poisoning bacteria if they are used to carry raw meat and fish. And there was evidence to suggest that bugs like listeria, campylobacter and salmonella - which can cause stomach bugs - could survive on the bags, regardless of the material, for up to 21 days. Thankfully, giving reusable bags a deep clean every now and then should be enough to get rid of germs, Siobhán says. 'If you are someone with a really compromised immune system then biodegradable single-use bags could be helpful,' she adds. 7. Your pet 9 We love our pets - but they can also make us very ill Credit: Getty WE cuddle them, kiss them and often let them into our beds. But have you ever considered the unseen germs that pets can bring into your home? 'Pets' fur, collars and toys can carry bacteria, transferring it to various surfaces in your home,' says Siobhán. 'Unlike our own bedding, pet beds also aren't washed or changed nearly as often and can harbour lots of germs.' Research by Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences found household pets can spread norovirus, rabies, pasteurella, salmonella, brucella, yersinia enterocolitica, campylobacter, capnocytophaga, bordetella bronchiseptica, coxiella burnetii, leptospira, staphylococcus intermedius, and MRSA - a major cause of fatal infection in humans. These can cause everything from coughs, headaches and vomiting, to internal bleeding, back pain and even endocarditis - a rare and potentially fatal infection of the inner lining of the heart. The dirtiest room in your house WHEN thinking about what room in your house is dirtiest, your mind probably goes to the bathroom. It's where we go to the loo and wash off the day's dirt, after all. But according to experts, the grimiest spot in your home is actually your kitchen. They say the space where you prepare your food is riddled with germ-laden items - all of which are grubbier than a toilet seat. The National Sanitation Foundation, a global public health and safety organisation, tested 30 surfaces in 22 homes to measure levels of yeast, salmonella, mould, and staph germs. Toilet seats didn't even rank in the top 10 grimiest household articles. Instead, it was kitchen items that featured most heavily in the list, and ranked the highest too. This included: dish sponges and dish cloths, kitchen sinks, toothbrush holders, pet bowls, coffee makers, bathroom faucet handles, pet toys, kitchen counters, stove knobs and cutting boards. Pets can also carry pollen and dust, potentially triggering hay fever symptoms. It's not all doom and gloom though. Research in the British Medical Journal Evidence-Based Medicine suggests that early exposure to pet microbes may lower the risk of developing asthma and allergies in children. 'This highlights the potential positive impact pets, and their germs, can have on the immune system,' adds Siobhán. To stay on top of pet-related hygiene, aim to wash your pet's bed regularly and brush your dog's hair once to three times per week to reduce shedding and minimise germ transfer. 8. Your bath towels 9 It's vital to wash bath and hand towels regularly to avoid mould and bacteria Credit: Getty DAMP towels and even bath mats can develop a build up of mould and bacteria over time. 'This could contribute to skin irritation or even respiratory problems, particularly for people with asthma or eczema,' says Dr Thornton. 'Repeated exposure to mould spores, for example, could exacerbate chronic respiratory issues in sensitive individuals.' Research by De Montfort University found Covid could survive on cotton for up to 24 hours, and a separate study by Leiden University showed that human papillomaviruses (HPV), which can cause warts, can be spread through contact with towels shared with other people. The odd missed towel wash is unlikely to cause you harm, but Dr Thornton recommends washing your towels after every few uses. Hand towels especially should also be washed regularly. 'If you're being vigilant with hand washing and then drying your hands with a towel that has been left unwashed for too long, you're just transferring more germs back onto your clean hands,' says Siobhán. 'Wash towels and bath mats regularly at high temperatures, and ensure they are thoroughly dried after each use. 'Quick-drying, antimicrobial towels or bamboo mats are a good option as they naturally resist bacterial growth.'
The Irish Sun
01-05-2025
- Health
- The Irish Sun
From cancer warning signs to heart disease risk factors – online quiz reveals how clued up you are on all things health
ARE you clued up on general health and wellbeing knowledge - knowing how much fruit and veg you should eat a day and the amount of exercise you should aim for each week? An online tool can help you find out your Health IQ number and how you compare to the rest of the nation. 2 A new quiz has been developed to test people's knowledge on different aspects of health Credit: Getty 2 Be quizzed about BMI, healthy cholesterol levels and early diabetes symptoms with the online tool Credit: Bluecrest Questions delve into nutrition and diet, chronic conditions and preventative health, resulting in suggested ways to take a more proactive approach to your health - have a go at the quiz It comes as a poll of 2,000 adults found they will diagnose themselves with 1,202 illnesses and ailments over the course of their lifetime by turning to 'Dr Google'. The first thing 14 per cent do when they start feeling unwell is search their symptoms online, rather than going to a pharmacy, making a GP appointment or visiting a walk-in centre. Individuals typically do this twice a month, but Gen-Z's do so more than any other generation at three times a month. Read more on cancer symptoms The research was commissioned by Bluecrest and found the majority turn to search engines for insights (77 per cent), followed by medical websites and AI platforms (15 per cent). As a result, 56 per cent have self-diagnosed themselves with an illness - and 33 per cent of those who have done so were incorrect with their diagnosis. They only found out they'd falsely detected something when they received correct test results (38 per cent), spoke to a professional at their local surgery (38 per cent) or visited hospital (34 per cent). Dr Martin Thornton, chief medical officer at Most read in Health 'But when it comes to our health, we shouldn't solely accept what we read online, particularly when the source isn't backed up by reliable, expert-led research. 'Although it's useful to find out what symptoms might mean and get a quick answer, the outcomes can cause more worry than its worth. Life-saving NHS health checks to spot killer diseases will be carried out at work 'We created the Health IQ because we believe health intelligence has never been more important, in this world of growing misinformation. 'We hope our tool can help change that, making people more aware of their health knowledge, and encouraging them to take proactive steps to understand their bodies better.' The research also found reasons for initially searching online include to get a quicker answer (51 per cent), peace of mind (43 per cent) and to find out what the next symptoms might be (22 per cent). Despite this, 34 per cent believe searching online when feeling unwell often tells you the worst news and 40 per cent said it can cause more issues in the long run. And 38 per cent admitted while it's quick and easy to self-diagnose it's often incorrect. A fifth have sought professional help after being alarmed by online results, but on average people wait six days before speaking to a medic. The OnePoll stats also revealed lack of knowledge around health and wellbeing, including 20 per cent not knowing the recommended daily fruit and veg portion number is five. A further 61 per cent aren't aware the advised amount of physical activity adults should aim for a week is 150 minutes and half don't know the healthy range for Dr Martin added: 'The results of the research and our Health IQ tool highlight some gaps in knowledge around general wellbeing, nutrition and conditions. 'It's important to be clued up on your own health status in order to correctly treat and prevent issues. 'In the long run this will help have a smarter approach to personal health.' Eight ways to stay on top of your health Keep to a healthy weight Do regular exercise Make sure you get good quality sleep Eat well Cut down on the amount of alcohol you drink Quit smoking Get help for addiction Look after your sexual health Source: NHS
