Latest news with #travelhealth
The Sun
2 days ago
- Health
- The Sun
I get a very severe pain at the bottom of my spine every time I have sex, I'm 76 – help!
SCHOOLS are out and the summer holidays are upon us. If you're lucky enough to be escaping for a break abroad, there are important precautions to take to stay healthy and enjoy your trip without any hiccups. 2 As well as being aware of sun safety and staying hydrated, do also note other travel risks. Make sure you are up to date with any vaccinations you might need, and check any restrictions on bringing prescription medication, including weight- loss injections, into your destination country. Take steps to avoid insect bites and animal scratches, and stock up on mozzie spray and remedies to relieve pain from bites. To avoid traveller's diarrhoea and food-borne illnesses, opt for well cooked, hot food and be cautious of raw fruits and vegetables. Get travel insurance covering you for medical care and any planned activities while away. With all those bases covered, have a wonderful time. Meanwhile, here's what readers asked this week . . . Worry pains straight after sex Q: I DAREN'T see a doctor, but after sex and ejaculation, I get a severe pain at the bottom of my spine which lasts for a minute or so. I have had it for a couple of years now. I am 76 and quite healthy. A: Thank you for sharing – it's understandable to feel hesitant, but you're not alone in having unusual or concerning symptoms like this, especially later in life. I'm a sexual health expert and here's the 5 reasons sex can be painful (and when to see your doctor) What you're describing deserves to be taken seriously, and you should consider seeing a doctor, even if it's a bit uncomfortable to bring up. At 76, even with generally good health, several conditions could cause pain in that area after ejaculation. Top of the list would be prostatitis or other prostate issues. The prostate gland plays a big role in ejaculation, so if there is inflammation or enlargement of the gland (which is very common in older men), this could cause referred pain to the lower back or perineum (the area between the scrotum and anus). The pelvic floor muscles also contract during orgasm, and they attach to the lower spine and tailbone, so tightness or dysfunction of these muscles could cause sharp pain associated with ejaculation. A spinal disc issue such as mild degeneration or a herniated disc could be irritated by it, too. I also want to mention coccygodynia – the medical term for tailbone pain. People who have this often report it being made worse by sitting, bowel movements or activities that involve pelvic pressure, such as ejaculation. Less commonly, things such as bladder issues, bowel problems or referred pain from vascular issues could be triggered by ejaculation. You should not ignore this pain, even if everything else seems fine. It might be nothing serious, but some possible causes, like prostate disease, should be investigated further. So please do book to see your GP. Ask for a male doctor or nurse if it helps – and remember that this is a normal topic for healthcare professionals. SKIN SORES WON'T HEAL Q: I'M a 58-year-old lady with sores under both breasts. I have been given fungal and bacterial antibiotics, plus a cream, to no avail. I can't get a GP's appointment. I have been to a walk-in clinic and was advised I need to see a dermatologist. It looks like I have been burned and it smells, too. I rarely wear a bra these days, but really need to as I am a 38H. My self-esteem is on the floor. I would be grateful for any advice. A: It sounds like a skin condition called intertrigo, which tends to affect the flexures of the body where there is skin in contact with another area of skin – under the breasts, armpits, groin and below the tummy if the skin hangs. Intertrigo is characterised by a rash that looks wet, soft and glistening, with scaling on the edges. It can itch, burn and sting. Diabetes, smoking and excessive alcohol may all make it more likely, and it can be made worse by hot and humid weather. In your case, due to the smell, it sounds like it may be complicated by secondary infection – bacterial and/or fungal – and there may be some skin breakdown due to friction, moisture and warmth. Daktacort cream is recommended as a first-line treatment because it can treat the most common fungal infection, candida, and help reduce inflammation as it contains a mild steroid. It's available over the counter, no prescription. Short-term use of Trimovate cream can also be considered. Oral antibiotics or oral antifungal therapy may be needed and should be guided by results of skin swabs. If you can send an e-consult to your GP, you can easily do the swabs yourself – then your practice can send them off to the lab. Meanwhile, gently clean the folds once or twice a day with lukewarm water and a very mild soap, then pat dry – do not rub – and consider using a hairdryer on a cool setting to dry the area. Use a zinc oxide-based cream such as Sudocrem, Metanium or Bepanthen to create a barrier over raw areas and reduce friction. Even though bras feel uncomfy, not wearing one can cause further friction and sagging, worsening the condition. If you can, try a cotton, wireless, breathable support bra or even a sleep bra just to lift the skin off itself gently. If that's not possible, use a soft, cotton cloth or medical-grade intertrigo pads between the fold to keep skin separated and dry. Some people use cotton bra liners or folded gauze. SWOLLEN ANKLES AFTER STROKE Q: MY mum had a stroke in June last year. Her ankles are swollen and she is taking medication for her blood pressure. She walks to work and back home. What can she do to reduce her BP? Could it be the medication that is making her legs swell? 2 A: I'm really sorry to hear about your mum's stroke. You're doing the right thing by paying close attention to her health and asking questions. Swollen ankles (also called peripheral oedema) can be caused by many factors, especially after a stroke. Firstly, what medication does she take? Some common blood pressure drugs called calcium channel blockers (such as amlodipine or nifedipine) are a well-known cause of ankle swelling. Other medications, like beta-blockers or diuretics, can also cause fluid shifts or retention. After a stroke, blood and lymph flow in the legs can be impaired if there has been a period of reduced activity. You say that she is walking now, which is fantastic and really helpful. But is she walking as far and as fast as before? More is better. It's also good to have regular breaks and elevate the legs if possible, and consider using compression stockings. These measures can help with venous insufficiency, where blood pools in the lower legs because the valves in the veins don't work at pumping blood back up to the heart. This is common in older adults and those who sit or stand a lot during the day, and it tends to be better first thing in the morning after being laid flat all night. It's the most common cause of peripheral oedema, but it's also important for the less common causes to be considered. If either leg is red, swollen and tender, then a deep vein thrombosis has to be ruled out urgently. Any signs of infection should be assessed. And, finally, it's important for your mum to have her heart checked for heart failure. If the heart's pumping ability is reduced, this can also cause swelling. Her GP can do a simple blood test called a pro-BNP and, if necessary, an ECG, too. She may have already had these in recent months if she's been seen by her hospital team.
Daily Mail
7 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
Pharmacist issues vaccine warning to Brits heading on holiday this year
Tourists heading abroad this summer have been urged to consider what vaccinations are recommended for their destination. Holidaymakers jetting off to tropical climates could be exposed to diseases their immune systems aren't used to. Though there aren't mandatory vaccines for some countries, Brits are advised to check any requirements before travelling. Boots pharmacist Claire Nevinson explained the urgency of travellers protecting their health when going abroad. 'It's important to take steps to protect our health when we travel abroad so we can focus on enjoying our holiday,' she said. 'Travel vaccinations may be recommended depending on where you are travelling, the activities you will be doing, and your age and general health.' The healthcare company revealed the most common diseases customers were seeking advice on included Japanese encephalitis, rabies and hepatitis A. More than a third of travellers are planning to jet off to long-haul locations this year, according to Boots, including with Thailand, India and China. Claire added: 'If you're travelling abroad this summer, you may be exposed to diseases we don't usually have in the UK. 'Travel vaccinations may be recommended for your trip as a measure to help prevent you picking these illnesses up. 'The childhood vaccination programme in the UK provides protection from several diseases, but it may also be necessary to consider boosters or other vaccinations if you're planning to visit certain parts of the world.' The pharmacist advised that holidaymakers should consider taking medications with them on their travels too. Claire recommended several items including antihistamines and pain relief, regardless of the destination. 'Whether you're jetting off or keeping it local this summer, it's always wise to pack a few healthcare products depending on the destination you're travelling to,' she said. 'A small first aid kit may be a good start. You could consider including pain relief medicine, antihistamine medicine to help relieve symptoms of hayfever and other allergies, plasters, antiseptic cream, insect repellent and of course broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum of SPF30. 'It's also important to make sure you have an adequate supply of any prescription medicines that you take. 'Additionally, I'd always check whether you might need medication to help prevent malaria. 'It is important that antimalarials are started before you travel to a place where you might be at risk.'
Daily Mail
09-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Doctor issues 'jet belly' warning to anyone going on holiday
Ever felt incredibly bloated after a flight? You might have been suffering from 'jet belly', a common affliction where cabin pressure causes your stomach to bloat. 'On long-haul flights, it's important to be aware of "aeroplane bloat", categorised as a build-up of gas in the intestines and stomach, caused by a combination of factors,' explains Dr Donald Grant, senior clinical advisor at The Independent Pharmacy. 'At 30,000 feet, plane pressure drops dramatically, causing the gas in our guts to expand. In turn, this causes bloating and discomfort, which can lead to aeroplane bloat. 'It's kind of like how crisp packets expand while in the air - the same effect is happening to our guts!' And sitting still for hours during a long flight doesn't help matters either, reveals Dr Grant. He explains: 'This fixed position can slow digestion and increase gas buildup, further adding to the discomfort and bloating.' So, how can you escape jet belly this summer? Ever felt incredibly bloated after a flight? You might have been suffering from 'jet belly', a common affliction where cabin pressure causes your stomach to bloat Dehydration increases your risk of bloating as it slows down your digestion Hydrate Dehydration increases your risk of bloating as it slows down your digestion. Dr Grant explains: 'Drinking substantial amounts of water can make a huge difference, limiting the risk of bloating. 'I advise against fizzy drinks as the carbonation can increase gas buildup. Realistically, adults should be aiming for 2-2.5 litres of fluid each day, but prioritise still water before a flight.' Opt for light meals 'Stay away from salty foods and anything hard to digest, including beans, cabbage, dairy products or fatty foods,' says Dr Grant. The doctor recommends eating light food such as rice and protein like chicken and fish as they're 'easier to digest'. Try and move every hour While it can be hard to exercise on a plane, Dr Grant recommends 'walking to the toilet' every hour or two to reduce your risk of bloating. He explains: 'By moving, we're aiding our digestive system, allowing it to work more efficiently. This actively reduces the risk of bloating.' Consider probiotics If you have a 'long history of gut issues', Dr Grant suggests using probiotics to 'target' and 'reduce' discomfort and bloating. He adds: 'Overall, with the holiday season underway, it's important to be aware of aeroplane bloat and the factors that can increase the risks. 'However, by drinking enough still water, avoiding any trigger foods and packing emergency over-the-counter medication, I believe people can dramatically reduce the risk of experiencing this strange phenomenon.'
Khaleej Times
04-07-2025
- Health
- Khaleej Times
UAE: Schools out, bags are packed but are your child's vaccines up to date?
Doctors in the UAE are urging parents to ensure their children are fully vaccinated before summer travel, warning that this period brings increased exposure to infectious diseases and travel-related health concerns. Medics are reiterating that a well-timed vaccination schedule is key to a safe and healthy journey for children and their families. Notably, private schools in the UAE will resume classes on August 25, 2025, following a two-month summer break. Dr Pankaj Nandlal Tardeja, HOD and Specialist, General Paediatrics at NMC Specialty Hospital, Al Ain, said, 'As summer holidays approach, many families are planning international trips. But before booking flights, parents must ensure their children's vaccinations are up to date. Vaccines play a critical role in protecting children from travel-related illnesses, some of which may not be common in the UAE but are prevalent in other countries.' He added that early planning is crucial, especially for families who are aware of their travel plans months in advance. "For parents who are aware of travel plans several months in advance, it's a good idea to schedule a consultation with a paediatrician at least six to nine months before departure. This will ensure that all recommended vaccinations and booster shots are completed on time. We are reminding residents to ensure that their children's immunisation schedule is up to date in preparation for summer travel," he said. Vaccinate well in advance Vaccinating children well in advance allows time for the vaccines to provide the necessary protection before they are exposed to potentially high-risk environments. Dr Vishrut Singh, Specialist Paediatrics at Aster Clinic, Bur Dubai (AJMC), said, 'This allows sufficient time for vaccines to take effect and for any necessary follow-up appointments. Some vaccines require multiple doses or might need to be ordered in advance, so early planning is crucial.' Doctors have also noted a rise in travel-related illnesses among unvaccinated children, including serious cases of measles and influenza. 'Measles and influenza have particularly seen a rise in recent years. Between May 2024 and April 2025, Europe reported 22,481 measles cases, nearly half in children under five, mostly unvaccinated or partially vaccinated. "World Health Organisation (WHO) data highlighted that 35 million children globally lacked full measles immunization in 2023, leading to widespread outbreaks. In the Middle East and North Africa, 4.3 million children missed a single dose of MMR between 2019–2021 — increasing regional risks,' added Singh. Preventive care Dr Mamata Bothra, Specialist Pediatrics and Neonatologist at International Modern Hospital, Dubai, reinforced the importance of preventive care. 'It's important to complete vaccinations before traveling to protect your health and the health of others. They are also effective in preventing the spread of diseases to other travellers and back home upon your return.' She stressed that routine immunisation should not be overlooked in the rush of travel preparation. This includes boosters such as DPT, polio, MMR, chickenpox, and meningococcal vaccines. Some countries may also require proof of specific vaccinations for entry, such as yellow fever for parts of Africa and South America. She added, 'Children travelling for education to other countries are advisable to take meningococcal vaccine doses. I recommend taking Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccinations also before travel to prevent from these diseases. "Vaccinations reduce your risk of contracting potentially serious illnesses while traveling. It's advisable to plan ahead and discuss with your doctor and ensure they are administered in time. Some vaccines require multiple doses or a specific time frame before travel for maximum protection and efficacy.'
RNZ News
03-07-2025
- Health
- RNZ News
American Samoa on alert after imported dengue fever cases confirmed
Photo: 123RF The American Samoa Department of Health has issued a travel health alert after confirmation of three imported cases of dengue fever. The department said the disease was found in travelers who had recently returned from Samoa. In its statement on Tuesday local time (Wednesday, NZT) it said there were no confirmed locally-acquired cases. "While there is no confirmed local transmission in American Samoa at this time, the presence of dengue in travellers returning from these affected countries increases the risk of the virus being introduced and spread locally by mosquitoes." Environmental spraying and monitoring have been underway at the affected residences and surrounding areas. The health department has issued advice for travellers, including that those who have recently traveled to Samoa, Fiji, Tonga or other dengue-affected areas should monitor their health for 14 days upon return. "Be alert for symptoms such as fever, rash, body aches, headache, or nausea. Seek medical care immediately if you develop symptoms and inform your physician of any travel history." Samoa, Fiji and Tonga all declared dengue outbreaks earlier this year. In its latest numbers released on 27 June, Tonga's dengue number had reached 884. Samoa's Ministry of Health is posting on social media to remind people "dengue fever hasn't gone away" and offering advice. It said Aedes mosquitoes are most active during early morning (6am-8am) and evening hours (4pm - 6pm). "We can all prevent the spread of dengue by following easy preventative measures, such as wearing long sleeved clothes, remove all breeding sites, use repellent and mosquito net." Meanwhile, the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) has developed a major climate change and health programme aimed at preventing the spread of climate-sensitive diseases. The SPC said illnesses from dengue fever to diarrhoea, once considered seasonal, are now becoming year-round threats, driven by rising temperatures, saltwater intrusion, and failing water and sanitation systems. The project is backed by a US$17.9 million grant from the Green Climate Fund and delivered in partnership with the Pacific Community (SPC). SPC said over the next five years, more than 78,000 people will benefit directly from improved disease surveillance and early warning systems, better access to health information, and resilient water and sanitation infrastructure. Director of SPC's climate change and sustainability division, Coral Pasisi, said this addresses one of the Pacific's most pressing but underfunded challenges - the intersection between health and climate.
