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

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

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

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

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

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

Leg cramps occur in most cases at night, and cause feelings of tightness and pain. In some cases, they can prevent or disrupt sleep.

1. Exercises can help to reduce symptoms
2. Thought to be caused by abnormal nerve function
3. Recurrent cases treatable with medication

Traveller's diarrhoea is a condition characterised by loose stools, and can often be caused by a bacterial infection.

• Can be the result of many different organisms
• May lead to 3 or more watery movements per day
• Some cases may require medicinal treatment