Acute Illness

Allergies are characterised by autoimmune responses to certain stimuli. These reactions can cause inflammation and swelling in the affected region.

1. Can vary in severity
2. Reactions flared by certain triggers
3. Effective treatment is available

A blood clot is a solid collection of blood, and occurs when too much blood gathers in one place in a vein. It can result in the development of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or a pulmonary embolism, which constitutes a medical emergency.

Constipation is a condition identified by an inability to regularly and comfortably pass stools. It can be caused by a number of dietary or health factors.

1. Likely to affect everyone at least once
2. Can result in pain when going to the toilet
3. Simple to treat with prescription medication

Diarrhoea is a condition which affects the gut. Symptoms include loose stools, and a sharp increase in bowel movements.

1. Severe cases can lead to dehydration
2. Can be acute or chronic in nature
3. Easy to treat with prescription medication

Food poisoning is the result of consuming food or drink which is contaminated. It may be caused by bacteria, viruses or parasites, but isn't usually serious and passes of its own accord within two or three days. Staying hydrated and eating reduced meals are measures usually taken to treat it.

Haemorrhoids, known more commonly as piles, is a condition characterised by varicose veins in the back passage. These can cause discomfort, irritation, and sometimes rectal bleeding.

1. Experienced by around 40% of people at least once
2. Caused by high pressure in blood vessels
3. Host of effective treatments readily available

Hay fever is simply defined as an allergy to pollen, or dust mites. During periods of activity, symptoms include sneezing, nasal irritation and swelling in the throat.

1. More common during Spring
2. Caused by airborne irritants like pollen
3. Effective remedies are available

Heartburn is a symptom often caused by GORD, a condition which is better known as acid reflux. It is typified by a painful, or burning feeling in the chest.

1. Caused by stomach acids
2. Lifestyle factors can induce symptoms
3. Effective treatments are available

A hernia is a small lump that develops beneath the skin, usually around the groins, thighs or in the abdomen. It is caused by a torn muscle in the abdomen, resulting in fatty tissue or part of the bowel protruding through. 

Insomnia is a condition which is characterised by the inability to sleep, or sleep to a comfortable degree.

1. One third of UK people experience it
2. Influenced by age and lifestyle
3. Effective relief is available for over 55s

Leg cramps

Migraines are very painful, intense headaches, often accompanied by other symptoms such as visual problems, or the need to be sick.

1. Caused by inflamed blood vessels
2. Can last for several days in some cases 
3. Effective, rapid relief is available

Nausea is the name given to feelings of queasiness, which is in many cases is followed by vomiting, or actual sickness.

1. Can lead to vomiting
2. Often accompanied by abdominal pain
3. Helpful treatments available

Norovirus is a stomach bug that results in vomiting and diarrhoea. Symptoms are usually apparent within 1-2 days of contracting the infection. Typically you can treat yourself for the condition from home. You should avoid the school or work environments until symptoms have ceased.

A stomach ulcer manifests when there is an imbalance of acid levels in the stomach, resulting in an open sore developing. Severe abdominal pain tends to characterise the condition, and bloating, retching and nausea may be further symptoms.

Traveller's diarrhoea is a condition characterised by loose stools, and is often caused by a bacterial infection picked up when visiting a foreign country.

At present, we do not offer treatments for traveller's diarrhoea through our service. To find out which treatment is most suitable for you, we recommend you visit your local travel clinic or your GP.