Tag: symptoms

Bowel Cancer Awareness Month

It’s #BowelCancerAwarenessMonth.

People living in Scotland aged 50 to 74 are sent a home bowel screening test every two years.

The test can be done in the privacy of your home and returned using the pre-paid envelope provided.

To find out more, visit http://nhsinform.scot/bowelscreening

IBS vs Bowel Cancer: three red flags that need to be seen by a doctor

With April being IBS awareness month, Google searches for ‘What is irritable bowel syndrome?’ have increased by over 300% in the past 30 days, and ‘What does IBS feel like?’ has also seen an increase of 250%.

Below you will find some answers from Dr Vivek Goel, a gastroenterologist at Spire Cardiff Hospital . 

I’m a doctor and here are the symptoms, triggers, and cures for your IBS 

The exact cause of IBS is unknown, but some causes include family history and infection 

The exact cause of IBS isn’t known, although potential risk factors have been identified such as stress and family history. Differences in the bacteria that live in the gut of those who have IBS could also have other conditions. IBS can also occur after an abdominal infection (gastroenteritis), which subsequently changes the gut microbiome.

IBS is also caused by contractions that are too weak, which can slow down the movement of food through the gut leading to constipation. At the same time, contractions that are too strong or too long can lead to diarrhoea, bloating and flatulence.

Symptoms include problematic urination, backaches and nauseousness, as well as the usual stomach pain

IBS symptoms are often triggered or worsened by eating or drinking. Common symptoms include stomach pain and cramps, abdominal bloating, diarrhoea and constipation. You may also experience backache, feel tired and nauseous, pass more wind (flatulence), pass whitish mucus on your stools, and have problems controlling your urge to urinate and open your bowels.

Food triggers are different for everyone, but some of the main culprits are cabbage, broccoli and apples

Food and drink triggers for those with IBS vary from one individual to the next, which is why it is helpful to keep a food diary where you can track what you’ve eaten and drank alongside your symptoms.

Drinks that can trigger IBS include caffeinated drinks (e.g. tea, coffee, and certain energy drinks), and fizzy drinks. Foods that may trigger IBS include cabbage, cruciferous vegetables (e.g. broccoli, Brussel sprouts), high-fructose fruits (apples, mangoes, pears), fatty/fried foods (chips, crisps, cheese), highly processed foods and pulses.

Chewing gum might also be a trigger of your IBS 

The primary triggers for IBS outside of food and drink are anxiety, stress and certain medications e.g. antibiotics, certain antidepressants and medication containing sorbitol (e.g. cough syrup). Eating too quickly and chewing gum can also trigger IBS symptoms.

Non-caffeinated drinks and probiotics can help ease symptoms of IBS 

Drinking non-caffeinated tea (e.g. peppermint, chamomile or fennel tea) may help to reduce stomach cramps.

Taking probiotics can also be helpful. Probiotics contain live bacteria that support your gut microbiome and can be taken as tablets or found in certain foods (e.g. yoghurts with live bacteria, kefir, kimchi, miso, sauerkraut, tempeh) and drinks (e.g. kombucha).

In general, cooking food at home using fresh ingredients can help you better manage IBS as you can control exactly what goes into your food to avoid triggers.

There is no cure for IBS. However, it can get better on its own and its symptoms can be managed through dietary changes, regular exercise and stress relief.

IBS vs bowel cancer: bloody stools, thin stools and unexplained weight loss should cause concern 

Both cause stomach pain, cramps, bloating and changes in your bowel habits. IBS can also cause whitish mucus on your stools but this doesn’t usually occur in bowel cancer. Unlike IBS, bowel cancer can cause bloody stools, thin stools, unexplained weight loss and general weakness. If you’re experiencing persistent bowel symptoms, seeing your GP to rule out more serious conditions, such as bowel cancer is important.

IBS vs diverticulitis – IBS can cause pain anywhere, whereas diverticulitis causes pain on the lower left side

Both IBS and diverticulitis cause stomach pain. However, in diverticulitis, this is usually focused on the lower left side of the abdomen and is constant. In IBS, pain can occur anywhere across your abdomen and usually eases after opening your bowels.

Diverticulitis changes occur in the lining of the gut, with the formation of small pockets that become inflamed and/or infected. In IBS, no changes occur to the gut lining.

United Kingdom Health Security Agency issues Scarlet Fever update

The latest data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) shows that scarlet fever cases continue to remain higher than we would typically see at this time of year. There were 851 cases reported in week 46, compared to an average of 186 for the preceding years.

Health officials have recorded more than 430 cases of Strep A in Scotland in two weeks.

Scarlet fever is usually a mild illness, but it is highly infectious. Therefore, look out for symptoms in your child, which include a sore throat, headache, and fever, along with a fine, pinkish or red body rash with a sandpapery feel. On darker skin, the rash can be more difficult to detect visually but will have a sandpapery feel. Contact NHS 111 or your GP if you suspect your child has scarlet fever, because early treatment of scarlet fever with antibiotics is important to reduce the risk of complications such as pneumonia or a bloodstream infection. If your child has scarlet fever, keep them at home until at least 24 hours after the start of antibiotic treatment to avoid spreading the infection to others.

Scarlet fever is caused by bacteria called group A streptococci. These bacteria also cause other respiratory and skin infections such as strep throat and impetigo.

In very rare occasions, the bacteria can get into the bloodstream and cause an illness called invasive Group A strep (iGAS). While still uncommon, there has been an increase in invasive Group A strep cases this year, particularly in children under 10.

There were 2.3 cases per 100,000 children aged 1 to 4 compared to an average of 0.5 in the pre-pandemic seasons (2017 to 2019) and 1.1 cases per 100,000 children aged 5 to 9 compared to the pre-pandemic average of 0.3 (2017 to 2019) at the same time of the year.

So far this season there have been 5 recorded deaths within 7 days of an iGAS diagnosis in children under 10 in England. During the last high season for Group A Strep infection (2017 to 2018) there were 4 deaths in children under 10 in the equivalent period.

Investigations are also underway following reports of an increase in lower respiratory tract Group A strep infections in children over the past few weeks, which have caused severe illness.

Currently, there is no evidence that a new strain is circulating. The increase is most likely related to high amounts of circulating bacteria and social mixing.

There are lots of viruses that cause sore throats, colds and coughs circulating. These should resolve without medical intervention. However, children can on occasion develop a bacterial infection on top of a virus and that can make them more unwell.

As a parent, if you feel that your child seems seriously unwell, you should trust your own judgement. Contact NHS 111 or your GP if:

  • your child is getting worse
  • your child is feeding or eating much less than normal
  • your child has had a dry nappy for 12 hours or more or shows other signs of dehydration
  • your baby is under 3 months and has a temperature of 38°C, or is older than 3 months and has a temperature of 39°C or higher
  • your baby feels hotter than usual when you touch their back or chest, or feels sweaty
  • your child is very tired or irritable

Call 999 or go to A&E if:

  • your child is having difficulty breathing – you may notice grunting noises or their tummy sucking under their ribs
  • there are pauses when your child breathes
  • your child’s skin, tongue or lips are blue
  • your child is floppy and will not wake up or stay awake

Good hand and respiratory hygiene are important for stopping the spread of many bugs. By teaching your child how to wash their hands properly with soap for 20 seconds, using a tissue to catch coughs and sneezes, and keeping away from others when feeling unwell, they will be able to reduce the risk of picking up or spreading infections.

Dr Colin Brown, Deputy Director, UKHSA, said: “We are seeing a higher number of cases of Group A strep this year than usual.

“The bacteria usually causes a mild infection producing sore throats or scarlet fever that can be easily treated with antibiotics.

“In very rare circumstances, this bacteria can get into the bloodstream and cause serious illness – called invasive Group A strep (iGAS). This is still uncommon; however, it is important that parents are on the lookout for symptoms and see a doctor as quickly as possible so that their child can be treated and we can stop the infection becoming serious.

“Make sure you talk to a health professional if your child is showing signs of deteriorating after a bout of scarlet fever, a sore throat, or a respiratory infection.”

Awareness of leukaemia symptoms ‘non-existent’, say charities

  • Non-existent awareness of leukaemia symptoms “extremely worrying” – as new figures show people in Scotland don’t know bleeding, bruising, fatigue and infections are a sign of the blood cancer
  • Leading UK leukaemia charities launch memorable new campaign to get people “parroting on” about the symptoms for Blood Cancer Awareness Month in September

People in the Scotland are being urged to take notice of the symptoms of leukaemia, as new research published today shows that only 1% of those surveyed in the region were able to identify ALL four of most widely reported symptoms – fatigue, bruising, unusual bleeding and repeated infections.

Leukaemia is a form of blood cancer affects people of all ages and 28 people receive a leukaemia diagnosis every day in the UK – that’s over 10,000 every year. Overall survival for leukaemia stands at just over 50% – making it one of the most deadly forms of cancer.

Early diagnosis could saves lives yet the recent public survey by leukaemia charities Leukaemia UK and Leukaemia Care, found that over that nearly half (48%) of respondents from Scotland could not recognise ANY amongst the four most widely reported symptoms of the disease, which kills 5,000 people a year in the UK, and which is often diagnosed too late.

The two charities are collaborating on an important campaign, #SpotLeukaemia, to raise awareness of the symptoms ahead of Blood Cancer Awareness Month in September. Blood cancer is the fifth most common cancer and third deadliest.

In a new film released today Leukaemia Care and Leukaemia UK have called on the expertise of ‘Henry’, a talented Macaw parrot, to try to make the symptoms of leukaemia memorable.

The ad sees Henry using a range of objects to create a catchy and repetitive ‘Spot Leukaemia rap’ featuring the symptoms of leukaemia.

People who are concerned about any of these symptoms – fatigue, bruising, unusual bleeding and repeated infections – are being strongly urged by the charities to contact their GP and request a blood test. More information is available on the Spot Leukaemia website at www.spotleukaemia.org.uk.

The ad focuses on the top four symptoms. Other symptoms of leukaemia include fever or night sweats, bone or joint pain and swollen lymph nodes.

The charities are now calling on people to start “parroting on” about leukaemia and its symptoms, share the video (https://youtu.be/UMRTMKVvYhQ) with friends and family, and visit the Spot Leukaemia website for more help and advice.

Awareness of the symptoms of leukaemia is low in Scotland

Only 9% of respondents across Scotland recognised that repeated infections – one of the most common symptoms of leukaemia – are a symptom, only 31% said unusual bruising is a symptom and only 17% said unusual bleeding is a symptom. Only 39% of respondents were not able to recognise fatigue as a symptom – which is often the most likely symptom to be identified by those later diagnosed with leukaemia.

Case study:

Melissa McNaughton, 33, from Bridgeton, Glasgow, felt tired, something she attributed to working too hard. So, it came as a shock to Melissa when she was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukaemia. Here, she talks about her diagnosis and her life since.

“I was diagnosed 12th June 2018 and I am not yet in remission. I am now on my fourth chemotherapy drug. Looking back to just before my diagnosis, I felt tired, but other than that, nothing.

“I have had quite bad health most of my adult life, so I am in and out of the doctors a few times per year. I just put the tiredness down to working too much as I run my own business.

“I popped into the doctors for my blood test (every few months) to check my iron levels. My GP told me to go to hospital the following day – I knew what hospital and what ward I was heading to. My GP is absolutely amazing and has been very supportive throughout the journey.

“So, I arrived at the hospital, headed to the second floor and walked through the doors. I was surrounded by posters that were all about cancer and effects of chemo, support groups, giving blood, wig makers, etc. I felt ill with fear, and I had no clue what I was going into.

“I sat down and one of the nurses came up to me and said, “Are you here for chemo today?” I said, “I have no idea why I’m here.” And ran away into the toilet and had a panic attack. I was meant to see a consultant first. I then went in and they said there was a 99 per cent chance I had chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML).

“Sitting in the consultant’s room with my mum, dad and husband, I was in my own little world. I heard a few words and could see the consultant’s mouth moving but nothing coming out. I just heard the words “cancer” and “leukaemia”. A million questions were going through my head: what’s going to happen to me? What will my life be like? Am I going to die? How long will I live? Can I have children?

“It’s so strange all these things go through your head that you have never thought of before. I was looking around at my mum and dad and they were asking questions; my husband was just in a daze. It wasn’t nice to see the fear in their eyes. I’m such a happy, bubbly, positive person and I snapped myself out of the daze and said, “What’s next?” completely interrupting the consultant.

“He said the next step was to do a bone marrow biopsy and he could get me in next week. I asked if I could just have it done today. I was then taken into another room and had my back injected to make it numb to do the biopsy. Then it began; it was a horrible pressure pain and I was crying.

“But the song from The Greatest Showman ‘This Is Me’ was playing in the background and I focussed on that – I feel it’s now became my theme song! I was back in the hospital on Friday. I was told the results were back and I had CML. Everything was going to change.

“Again, I tried not to let all the thoughts come into my head and I asked to start the treatment straight away; I was not waiting around. Off to the pharmacy I went and collected all my pills. I then went back to work the following week – this was not stopping me.

“The first generation of the TKIs were awful, I couldn’t get through a full day, I could only get up for about an hour or two at a time. I was sick, weak, bone pain, muscle pain. It was horrible! I’ve never cried so much. I lost so much weight, I was so weak I could hardly use a knife and fork. I tried to keep going with work, but it was all too much. I had to cut my hours right down.

“I have never felt like this in my life, it got me really down for a while. But my inner warrior was not going to let that happen for long. I tried to power through. I was then taken off these tablets and moved onto another generation. I am still on them now, but I was covered from head to toe in a rash, and my bones in my legs were so sore and weak they felt like they were going to snap.

“Fast forward to today. I have had my “cancerversary” of four years living with cancer. Every day is still a struggle and some days are worse than others. I’m getting there.

“Cancer will just have to get used to living with me because I am in no way going to let it beat me. I’m still smiling and not stopping. My blood levels are steadily going down which is great. I have not hit my target yet, but everything is moving in the right direction.

“I try to keep doing everything I would normally do weekly but just a bit slower and sometimes it’s quite difficult. I try to carry on as normal as possible, but this is my new normal! I try to pop make-up on and look a bit more like myself. I am a hair extension master and I had to close down my salon of 10 years due to the pandemic so I have started a new business from scratch, IvyHQ where I for hair extensions and I have developed my own line of hair and training.

“When I had my own salon we did a charity karaoke night to raise funds for Leukemia Care. In my spare time, myself and husband love travelling around Scotland with our new puppy, Hope.

“I have heard a few times that if you’re going to have cancer, this is the best one to have. Really? Did you actually just say that to me? Nobody will know how it feels unless they are going through it. Some other cancers you have to go through the horrible process of being injected with chemo, losing your hair and being weak, but when you come out the other side of it that can be you “fixed”. Whereas with me I will have to be on tablets for life. It’s very different.

I’ve also had, “Is that you cured now?”, because I’ve done my hair and make-up and managed to get out in high heels for an hour. Just because I look ok doesn’t mean I feel it. I try not to talk about it too much, so when someone asks me how I am I always say I’m good!

“I’m not going to go into detail with them by saying, “Oh, today’s been a bit hard, it took me two hours to get out of bed and I needed help getting out of the shower today as my legs went into a cramp.” But these are things I have daily and I just carry on with a smile on my face as I’m so lucky to be able to have this treatment.

“And hopefully, in time, these will all ease off. I have kept working as much as I can all the way through, as having my own business, if I don’t work, I don’t get paid. I have also made up my own hashtag #mycmljourneydiary online as I felt it’s good to keep a wee diary to look back on.

“Also, if someone is going through the same thing as me and if I can help in any way at all, that will make me feel good that I can help. It’s got the good, the bad and the ugly. All “keeping it real” posts. Spot Leukaemia is so important to raise awareness as I had no idea what leukaemia really was until I had it. It is so important to me as getting the word out there will hopefully make someone go along for a blood test!”

Melissa’s only symptom of leukaemia was fatigue, but there are other signs which include:

  • Bruising
  • Bone Pain
  • Repeated infections

Are you currently experiencing similar symptoms to Melissa? Request a blood test from your GP. For more information on our Spot Leukaemia campaign, our goal and how to get involved, head over to our official Spot Leukaemia website at www.spotleukaemia.org. Early diagnosis saves lives. #SpotLeukaemia

Nationally, those who are over 55 also underestimate their risk, thinking that leukaemia is a childhood disease. Only 11% of over 55s thought that they had the greatest risk of leukaemia, whereas in reality cases rise sharply after the age of 55 and 38% of all new cases occur in the over 75s.  

Fiona Hazell, Chief Executive of Leukaemia UK said, “It’s extremely worrying that less than 1% of Brits are able to identify the most common symptoms of leukaemia, when 28 people are diagnosed each day in the UK.

“People underestimate their risk by thinking that leukaemia is a childhood disease. In reality, both incidence and mortality rates rise sharply after the age of 55. Raising awareness in this age group is critical in order to treat it early and effectively; and ultimately to improve survival rates overall.”

A lack of awareness of which age groups are most at risk from leukaemia is also concerning, with 43% of respondents thinking that leukaemia is most common in the under 24s.

Whilst it is true that leukaemia is the most common type of childhood cancer, leukaemia incidence rates rise sharply after the age of 55 and 38% of all new diagnoses occur in those over 75. The survey found that only 2% of Brits think that leukaemia is most common in those over 75. The Spot Leukaemia campaign particularly wants to increase awareness among those who are over 65, as this age group is the most likely to be diagnosed with leukaemia.

Zack Pemberton-Whiteley, Chief Executive of Leukaemia Care said, “To hear that less than 1% of the UK public are able to identify the four most common symptoms of leukaemia is extremely worrying.

“Early diagnosis of leukaemia can improve survival. With over 10,000 people being diagnosed every year with a leukaemia, this shows just how important it is to continue to raise awareness of the signs and symptoms and how much work needs to be done.

“We know that our new Spot Leukaemia video may ruffle some feathers but in order to raise awareness we needed to create something that will fly. It’s crucial that if you think you have fatigue, bruising or bleeding or repeated infections that you contact your GP and ask for a blood test. It’s as simple as that and we will continue to parrot-on about it.”

To watch the campaign video visit www.spotleukaemia.org.uk

Sign up for Step out and help spot the signs of Leukaemia

Participants across the country are being invited to sign up to the Leukaemia Care Step Out Challenge for Spot Leukaemia, which launches this September. 

The aim is to move as far as you can between 1st and 30th September and raise as much as you can – there’s no minimum limit. To take part you can walk, run, cycle or run and set whatever distance you want to. Once signed up, all you need to do is ask friends and family to sponsor whatever they can.

Chief Executive of Leukaemia Care, Zack Pemberton-Whiteley, said: “The challenge is free to sign up to and people can raise anything they can – as every penny raised makes a difference to those living to help make a difference to those living with a leukaemia, MDS or MPN diagnosis.”

Leukaemia Care is delighted to reveal this year’s medal in an eco-friendly design, to be given to anybody who reaches the £50 milestone.

There is also a fabulous new t-shirt for the 2022 event for anybody who raises over £100, while those who raise £250 or more will receive a £20 gift card for the Leukaemia Care online shop. 

This year Leukaemia Care has introduced two fantastic overall trophies – one for the fundraiser that raises the most and another for the person who covers the most distance during the challenge. 

Sign up to Step Out then join the Facebook community to get motivated for your challenge. 

Ahead of Blood Cancer Awareness Month later this year, the charity is keen to share the six most common symptoms of leukaemia which are; fatigue, shortness of breath, fever or night sweats, bruising or bleeding, bone or joint pain, and repeated infections.

Learn more about the signs and symptoms of leukaemia here.

One in twenty Scots has the virus … but Covid helpline to close down

Planned closure of COVID special helpline

After helping three quarters of a million Scots during the pandemic the COVID special helpline service will formally close at 4pm on Thursday 30th June 2022.

This reflects changes in national guidance on testing and isolation advice. All information will continue to be available at www.nhsinform.scot/coronavirus.

NHS 24 Medical Director, Dr Laura Ryan said: “The formal closure of the non-clinical Covid 19 special helpline reflects how life is returning to a more normal or familiar pattern.

“Covid-19 has not gone away. We still need continue to follow the current guidelines and advice to keep everyone safe. This includes getting your vaccines, staying at home if unwell with Covid -19 symptoms, and simple but effective measures such as washing hands frequently.

“There is an extensive range of information on NHS Inform including symptom checkers for Coronavirus which provide advice and suggest what to do if your condition worsens.

“Remember, if you are unwell or concerned about your symptoms, please continue to access care as normal.”

Hay fever: Doctor reveals everything you need to know about spotting the signs and treatments 

  • Doctor shares tips on how to manage hay fever symptoms over spring and summer
  • Giving your dog a bath could help minimise irritation!  

Now that it’s spring, the blooming flowers and warmer weather means that we’re officially in hay fever season.  

To support those who suffer from a reaction to pollen, Dr Rhianna McClymont lead GP at digital healthcare provider, Livi, shares tips on how to spot the signs and manage the symptoms so you can make the most of the British summer.  

What is hay fever? 

Hay fever is a type of allergic rhinitis – irritation and inflammation mainly in the nose and eyes as a response to something that triggers the immune system. In the case of hay fever, it’s an allergy to pollen in the air – tree pollen, grass pollen, and other plants can cause problems. 

When we have an allergic reaction, our body naturally releases chemicals called histamines as part of a natural protective response. Sometimes when we’re exposed to an allergen, like pollen, our body’s response is excessive and makes us feel unwell. Some people are more susceptible to these kinds of allergic response than others – this seems to be down to a combination of lifestyle, genetic and environmental factors. 

Common signs of hay fever: 

Hay fever can make you feel quite unwell and can mimic the symptoms of other related allergies. 

Some of the most common signs of hay fever include: 

  • Sneezing 
  • Runny nose 
  • Swollen, red and sore eyes 
  • A sore throat 
  • Itching 
  • Feeling very tired and generally unwell 
  • Poor sleep 

Some people also find that they get headaches and earaches, and hay fever can even affect your sense of taste and smell. 

When is it hay fever season? 

Hay fever season is usually between around March and September, when plants release pollen as trillions of microscopic particles. 

However, depending on the type of pollen, some people may start showing signs of hay fever as early as February.  

  • Grass pollen: This is the most common trigger for hay fever and is usually particularly active from May to July in the UK. 
  • Tree pollen: This affects people a little earlier in the year, between February and mid-summer. There might even be differences in how each person reacts to different types of trees. 
  • Weed pollen: From June to September, hay fever is more likely to be a reaction to weed pollen – common weeds which cause hay fever include dock, nettles, mugwort and ragweed. 
  • Crops: Some crops also cause problems around this time of year, particularly rapeseed, just before and around the time of harvest. 

Managing hay fever: 

Treating hay fever can be done effectively at home and for most people, following the below steps will be sufficient in helping you manage the symptoms.  

  • Use over-the-counter treatments: your local pharmacy is usually a good first port of call for hay fever relief. There are ample options on the market and a variety of ways to ingest the medicine.  
  • Plan ahead: take notice of which days are likely to be worse than others. Dry, windy days when the pollen count is high are particular culprits for causing hay fever, and you can take antihistamines in advance. You can usually find the pollen forecast on the weather report.  
  • Wash clothes (and pets): doing laundry and showering after you’ve been outside on high pollen days can help with signs of hay fever. For pets, especially dogs, pollen may get trapped in their fur after rolling around in the grass or running through plants. If this is a case, giving them a good clean can help get rid of the pollen.  
  • Dry clothes indoors: hanging laundry on the line will increase the amount of pollen you’re exposed to so opting for indoor drying can help reduce the risk of contamination.  

For those who begin to develop trouble breathing or if you’re struggling to manage with symptoms using over-the-counter medications, speaking to a doctor can help as there are stronger medications for hay fever available on prescription, or in severe cases, a GP may refer you to an allergy specialist.  

For more information and support on hay fever, please visit:

https://www.livi.co.uk/your-health/hay-fever-signs-and-treatment/  

Don’t assume it’s COVID – it might be meningitis, charity warns

CHARITY MENINGITIS NOW are urging young people off to university or the world of work this Autumn not to assume it’s COVID-19 if they feel ill – it might be meningitis.

As A-level results are announced and thousands of young people contemplate their future, the charity is concerned that the combination of new-found social freedoms, the desire of young people to mix in large groups and a move to campus-based accommodation for students, present the ideal opportunity for infectious diseases to spread, putting young people at a higher risk of meningitis.

It’s calling on young people to carefully consider their actions if they or any of their friends fall ill. In particular, Government advice to self-isolate if COVID-19 is suspected could have the worst possible consequences if the illness is not COVID-19 but meningitis or septicaemia.

One person who knows, only too well, the consequences of making the wrong assumption, is 26-year-old Londoner Nick Gilbert, who is spearheading Meningitis Now’s awareness campaign.

In 2018, Nick felt under the weather, but assumed he didn’t have anything serious. After resting overnight, he went about his business the next day and even went on a date.

But just 24 hours after first feeling ill, Nick collapsed, vomiting in a busy central London street. His symptoms were mistakenly assumed to be drunkenness by the many people who saw him.

Fortunately for Nick, a young woman passer-by helped him to hospital, where his meningitis was diagnosed. Nick went on to make a good recovery.

“I dread to think how the outcome could have been different if I’d just gone home and shut myself away from everybody,” Nick said. “It’s vital that anybody who feels ill does not automatically assume it’s COVID-19.

“Learn the signs and symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia. Let someone know if you are feeling unwell. If you are concerned about yourself or a friend, trust your instincts and get urgent medical advice. Call NHS 111 or in an emergency dial 999.”

Ryan Bresnahan wasn’t so lucky. His mum, Michelle, who set up the Bristol-based charity, a Life for a Cure, following Ryan’s death from meningitis in 2010, has been campaigning tirelessly to raise awareness of the symptoms of the disease and funds for research.

Ryan was a fit and healthy 16-year-old when he was tragically struck down by Meningitis B within an hour of first feeling ill.

Michelle said: “I know only too well how devastating this disease can be and have seen the worst it can do, destroying young lives and tearing apart those who remain.

“No-one should be left counting the cost of making the wrong assumption – meningitis can affect anyone at any time but we need to highlight that teenagers and young people are the second most at risk group of contracting the disease, after babies and toddlers.”

Meningitis Now chief executive, Dr Tom Nutt, said: “Research has shown that up to a quarter of 15 to 24-year-olds carry the bacteria that cause meningococcal meningitis and septicaemia in the back of their throats compared to one in 10 of the general population.

“Whilst many young people will have been vaccinated against MenACWY, which protects against four strains of meningococcal meningitis, at school, we estimate that up to half a million under-25s may have missed this important vaccination. If that’s you – contact your GP and see if you can get up to date with your vaccinations.

“And very few young people will have been vaccinated against MenB, which is the strain that causes the most cases of bacterial meningitis in the UK.

“Common complaints such as a hangover and Freshers’ Flu are often given as reasons for a person not feeling too well – but we are asking young people not to simply assume this is the case. A headache and fever are also common signs of meningitis, which is why it is so important that if young people feel unwell, they should not jump to what seems the obvious conclusion – COVID-19 or just a hangover!”

The early signs and symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia can be similar to ‘flu, tummy bug or a hangover and include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, muscle pain, stomach cramps and fever with cold hands and feet.

More specific signs and symptoms include fever with cold hands and feet, drowsiness, confusion, pale blotchy skin, stiff neck, dislike of bright lights and a rash which doesn’t fade under pressure.

Meningitis Now has a free information pack for parents and students, including leaflets, signs and symptoms cards and fridge magnets – all of which contain lifesaving information.

Find out more and request a pack at www.MeningitisNow.org

Scottish Government launches lung cancer detection campaign

A new Detect Cancer Early (DCE) campaign is encouraging people to contact their GP if they have a new or different persistent cough or unusual breathlessness for three weeks or more in an effort to return to pre-pandemic cancer detection levels.  

These could be the early signs of lung cancer – and it’s important to get checked, especially if you’re over 40. While lung cancer is the most common cancer in Scotland, with around 5,500 new cases diagnosed every year, more people than ever are surviving the disease. This is down to improved treatments and more people being diagnosed earlier.

The campaign has been developed in response to Public Health Scotland’s data that show around 25% fewer lung cancers are being diagnosed now compared to pre-COVID-19. This, coupled with the fear of a potential cancer diagnosis continues to stop people acting early, when there are more treatment options available and the chance of survival is higher. The campaign, entitled ‘Settling In’, aims to empower people to take responsibility for getting any potential symptoms checked.

Since the launch of our £43m Detect Cancer Early Programme the proportion of lung cancer diagnoses at the earliest stage have increased by 43%, and by 57% in the most deprived areas of Scotland.

Launching the campaign, Health Secretary Humza Yousaf said: “More people are surviving cancer than ever before, but we know that fear of cancer is putting people off getting checked or attending screening, when invited.

“Don’t ignore early cancer signs and symptoms, and certainly don’t delay getting checked. NHS Scotland remains open during COVID-19 and your GP practice is still there for you – getting checked early is a hugely important step in finding out if you, or your loved one, needs urgent medical help.

“While it’s probably nothing to worry about, a quicker diagnosis can mean less worry. If cancer is confirmed, more treatment options are available if it’s found early.”

Co-chair of Scottish Primary Care Cancer Group Lorna Porteous said: “If you have a sign or symptom that might be due to lung cancer, please don’t delay contacting your GP practice.

“During the pandemic appointments may be done by either telephone or video so when you do get in touch, please give as much information as you can. You will be asked to come in for a face-to-face appointment if we need to examine you or do some tests – measures are in place to ensure your safety.”

Top professional snooker referee, Leo Scullion, today backed the call for people worried about potential lung cancer symptoms to get checked without delay, as someone who survived the disease after seeing his GP about a persistent cough. 

Leo, 63, originally from Glasgow but treated in Ayrshire, was diagnosed in July 2014 and started treatment in September 2014 which involved chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Following a period of recovery, Leo returned to the snooker circuit in 2017. 

He was told his cancer was in remission in December 2019, five years after diagnosis –  the same year he reached the pinnacle of his career, officiating his first World Championship final.

Leo said: “I was aware I was coughing, but it became noticeable to those around me.  I was in China for a tournament and put it down to the smog at that time, and the fact I was a smoker. 

“I did have other symptoms which I now know were warning signs.  I was waking up in the middle of the night with terrible sweats, and by the time I came back home, I was feeling pretty horrible. Looking back, I think I knew there was something more going on, your body just tells you.

“As soon as the results came back, I just remember saying ‘is it terminal?’ At that point my GP reassured me that there was plenty they could do.

“When I was at the sharp end and I needed help, the NHS was there for me.  If you’re worried about any unusual changes to your health, or worried about someone close to you, go and get checked.  It really is that simple.  The sooner they can find out what is wrong, the better.  I’m very grateful I went when I did.  There were times when I wondered whether I’d be back refereeing.  To be back working at a professional level, and to have my health, is tremendous. 

“There is life after a diagnosis, and I intend to cause havoc for the rest of it!”