Medical information

How much sleep do adults really need?

For most adults, at least seven hours of regular sleep is a useful starting point.

Do daytime naps help or disrupt night-time sleep?

A short nap can improve alertness; long or late naps may disrupt sleep at night.

Why are we tired despite getting enough sleep?

Anaemia, thyroid problems, sleep disorders, stress and some medicines are possible causes.

How much does phone light before bed matter?

Screen light and stimulating content can make falling asleep harder.

When should we stop drinking coffee to protect sleep?

Caffeine lasts for hours, and sensitivity varies between people.

Does everyone need eight glasses of water a day?

Fluid needs vary with weather, activity, diet and health.

Must carbohydrates be eliminated to lose weight?

The quality and amount of carbohydrates matter more than eliminating them.

Is whole fruit better than juice?

Whole fruit usually provides more fibre and slower sugar absorption.

Which foods contain hidden salt?

Bread, salty cheese, processed meat, canned food and snacks can contribute much of our daily salt.

What does a balanced plate look like?

Vegetables and fruit, appropriate protein and whole grains form the basis of a varied meal.

How normal is bloating after eating?

Some gas is normal; fast eating, fizzy drinks and certain foods increase it.

Where should you start with constipation?

Gradually increasing fibre, adequate fluids and daily movement are usual first steps.

What changes can help heartburn?

Smaller meals, time before lying down and identifying triggers may reduce symptoms.

What matters more than food during diarrhoea?

Replacing fluids and salts is the priority, especially for children and older adults.

When should abdominal pain not be watched at home?

Severe or worsening pain, a rigid abdomen, fainting, bleeding or persistent vomiting are warning signs.

When is fever in adults concerning?

Temperature alone is not the only measure; general condition and accompanying symptoms matter.

Can all painkillers be taken on an empty stomach?

Some painkillers irritate the stomach or may be unsuitable for the kidneys or certain patients.

Why are antibiotics unnecessary for a cold?

Colds and flu are viral; antibiotics do not act on viruses.

Are supplements always safe?

Supplements can interact with medicines or cause harm at high doses.

Which headaches need urgent assessment?

Sudden severe headache, weakness, speech problems, fever or neck stiffness are warning signs.

Is sun protection needed on cloudy days?

Ultraviolet rays pass through clouds and can reach skin even in cool weather.

How often should sunscreen be reapplied?

Sweating, swimming and drying the skin reduce sunscreen protection.

Which changes in a mole need checking?

Asymmetry, irregular borders, multiple colours, growth or new changes matter.

What should you do for a small superficial burn?

Cool running water helps; direct ice and unproven household remedies are unsuitable.

How can insect bites be prevented?

Suitable clothing and correctly used repellent help reduce bites.

How can blood pressure be measured more accurately at home?

Five minutes of rest, correct sitting posture and a properly sized cuff improve reliability.

Does high blood pressure always cause symptoms?

It is often symptomless; correct measurement is the way to know.

What are the signs of high blood sugar?

Thirst, frequent urination, weight loss and blurred vision may occur, but symptoms may be absent.

Does reducing salt really lower blood pressure?

Reducing sodium is an established part of preventing and controlling high blood pressure.

Are changes in heart rate always dangerous?

Activity, stress, fever and caffeine affect heart rate; accompanying symptoms matter.

What is the minimum weekly physical activity?

For most adults, 150 minutes of moderate activity per week is a basic goal.

How can prolonged sitting be interrupted?

Short, frequent breaks to stand and walk are better than sitting continuously.

For back pain, is rest or movement better?

For most uncomplicated back pain, gentle movement is better than prolonged rest.

How can heavy objects be lifted more safely?

Keep the load close, use your legs and avoid twisting while lifting.

Is muscle pain after exercise normal or an injury?

Gradual soreness one or two days later is common; sudden localised pain suggests injury.

How do a cold and an allergy differ?

Itchy eyes and repeated sneezing suggest allergy; fever and body aches are more common in infection.

When does a cough need medical attention?

Breathlessness, blood, chest pain or a persistent cough are important signs.

How can saline nasal rinsing help?

Saline can reduce mucus and some irritants when used correctly and hygienically.

Can you use someone else’s inhaler?

No; the medicine and technique must be prescribed and taught for that individual.

When is breathlessness an emergency?

Sudden or severe onset, blue lips, chest pain and inability to speak are warning signs.

How long should handwashing take?

About 20 seconds with soap and water allows all hand surfaces to be washed.

When can sanitiser replace soap and water?

If hands are not visibly dirty, sanitiser with at least 60% alcohol is an option.

Why must antibiotics be taken exactly as prescribed?

Dose and duration are chosen for the infection; irregular use disrupts treatment.

How long can food remain outside the fridge?

Perishable food needs prompt refrigeration; heat shortens the safe interval.

Are vaccines only for children?

Adults also need vaccines depending on age, health, work, travel and vaccination history.

How can stroke signs be recognised quickly?

Facial drooping, arm weakness and sudden speech problems mean there is no time to lose.

When is chest pain likely to be an emergency?

Chest pressure or heaviness with breathlessness, cold sweat or spreading pain is a warning sign.

What are the signs of severe dehydration?

Very little urine, confusion, severe weakness, a fast pulse and inability to drink are warning signs.

What can gastrointestinal bleeding look like?

Vomiting blood, black tarry stool or a substantial amount of fresh blood require urgent assessment.

How can a severe allergic reaction be recognised?

Tongue or throat swelling, wheezing, breathlessness, sudden weakness or widespread hives may indicate anaphylaxis.