Tuberculosis (TB)

Tuberculosis (TB) is an infection that usually affects the lungs. It can be treated with antibiotics but can be serious if not treated. There’s a vaccine that helps protect some people who are at risk from TB.

Symptoms of TB

  • A cough that lasts for more than 3 weeks
  • Fatigue
  • Night sweats
  • Weight loss
  • Fever
  • Loss of appetite
  • Children may also have difficulty gaining weight or growing.

If TB has spread to another part of your body such as your glands (lymph nodes), bones or brain, you may also have other symptoms, including:

  • Swollen glands
  • Body aches and pains
  • Swollen joints or ankles
  • Tummy or pelvic pain
  • Constipation
  • Dark or cloudy pee
  • Headache
  • Illness
  • Feeling confused
  • Stiff neck
  • Rashes

Sometimes you can have TB in your body but have no symptoms. This is called latent TB.

Latent TB is a condition in which you have the TB bacteria in your body but you are not sick and cannot spread the disease to others. However, if your immune system weakens, latent TB can turn into active TB.

Who is at risk for TB?

  • People who have been in close contact with someone with TB
  • People who were born in areas with high TB rates
  • People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or diabetes

If you have any of these symptoms, please see your doctor at The Grange Medical Practice.

Non-urgent advice: Ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if:

You’re coughing up blood or mucus (phlegm) with blood in it

You can call 111 or get help from 111 online.

Urgent advice: Call 999 or go to A&E if:

You have a stiff neck and a severe headache

It is painful to look at bright lights

You’ve had a seizure or fit

You’ve had a change in behaviour – such as sudden confusion

Weakness or loss of movement in part of the body

These could be signs that tuberculosis (TB) has spread to your brain (meningitis)

Tuberculosis (TB) vaccination

There is a vaccine for tuberculosis (TB) called the BCG vaccine.

It’s recommended for some people who are at higher risk of catching TB or getting seriously ill from it, including:

  • Babies who live in areas of the UK where TB is more common
  • Babies and children who live with someone who has TB
  • Babies and children who were born or lived in a country where TB is more common
  • Babies and children whose parents or grandparents were born in a country where TB is more common
  • People aged 35 and under who are spending more than 3 months in a country where TB is more common
  • People at risk of getting TB through their work, such as healthcare workers who work with people who have TB

Find out more about the BCG vaccine for tuberculosis (TB)

Please note that this is just general information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns about TB, please see your doctor.

NHS Funded Travel Vaccines

NHS funded travel vaccinations are available at The Grange Medical Practice.

two-travel-vaccination-syringes-on-a-map

The only travel vaccines that are provided by the NHS at no charge to patients are:

  • Polio (combined diphtheria/tetanus/polio jab)
  • Typhoid
  • Hepatitis A
  • Cholera

You will have to pay for travel vaccines that are not available free of charge by the NHS.

How to get NHS funded travel vaccines at The Grange Medical Practice

  • Make an appointment: Schedule an appointment for travel vaccinations.
  • Appointment timing: It’s crucial to book well in advance, ideally at least eight weeks before your travel date. We cannot guarantee appointments close to your departure.

Further Information

For a comprehensive list of travel vaccinations and additional information, please visit the NHS website: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/travel-vaccinations/

Important Note: Patients are not obligated to choose NHS, they can choose to visit Private Travel Health clinics for advice and are under no obligation to do so. But patients who have already visited private travel clinics can still receive NHS funded vaccines at their GP practice.

Pneumonia and Meningitis Vaccine

Easy Guide to the Pneumococcal and Meningitis Vaccine

The below easy-to-read guide explains what the pneumococcal and meningitis vaccine is, who can get a pneumococcal infection, and the benefits of getting vaccinated.

The Grange Medical Practice is committed to helping you stay healthy. If you think you might benefit from the pneumococcal vaccine, please contact us to schedule an appointment. Our friendly staff can answer your questions and determine if the vaccine is right for you.

Disclaimer: The information provided is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for specific questions about the pneumococcal vaccine.

Blood Pressure Control

High blood pressure (hypertension) is a serious health condition that can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and other health problems. The good news is that there are many things you can do to control your blood pressure and live a long, healthy life.

At Grange Medical Practice, we are committed to helping you manage your blood pressure.

This webpage provides information on:

Understanding Blood Pressure

Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. It is measured in two numbers:

  • Systolic pressure: the top number, which represents the pressure when your heart beats.
  • Diastolic pressure: the bottom number, which represents the pressure between heartbeats.

What is considered healthy blood pressure?

A healthy blood pressure reading is less than 120/80 mmHg.

Risks of High Blood Pressure

If left untreated, high blood pressure can damage your heart, arteries, kidneys, and other organs. This can lead to serious health problems, including:

  • Heart attack
  • Stroke
  • Kidney failure
  • Vision loss
  • Dementia

Lifestyle changes to lower blood pressure

There are many lifestyle changes you can make to help lower your blood pressure, including:

  • Eating a healthy diet: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit saturated and unhealthy fats, salt, and added sugars.
  • Maintaining a healthy weight: Losing weight can significantly reduce your blood pressure.
  • Exercising regularly: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
  • Reducing stress: Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature.
  • Limiting alcohol: Excessive alcohol consumption can raise your blood pressure.
  • Quitting smoking: Smoking damages your blood vessels and increases your risk of heart disease and stroke.

When medication may be needed?

Lifestyle changes are often the first line of treatment for high blood pressure. However, if your blood pressure remains high despite lifestyle changes, your doctor may prescribe medication. There are several different types of blood pressure medications available. Your doctor will work with you to find the medication that is right for you.

If you have any concerns about your blood pressure, please schedule an appointment with your doctor at Grange Medical Practice. We can work with you to develop a personalized plan to control your blood pressure and improve your overall health.

Preventative Health Checks

At The Grange Medical Practice, we believe prevention is key to maintaining good health. That’s why we offer a range of preventative health checks designed to identify potential health risks early on, allowing for early intervention and improved long-term health outcomes.

What are preventative health checks?

Preventative health checks are comprehensive assessments that go beyond simply waiting for symptoms to arise. These checks typically include:

  • Medical history review: Discussing your family history and any existing health conditions.
  • Lifestyle assessment: We’ll explore your diet, exercise habits, and any risk factors like smoking.
  • Physical examination: A basic check-up to assess your overall health.
  • Blood tests: These may screen for cholesterol levels, blood sugar levels, and other health markers.
  • Vaccinations: Ensuring you’re up-to-date on recommended vaccinations.

Benefits of preventative health checks

There are numerous benefits to having regular preventative health checks. These include:

  • Early detection of potential health problems: Catching health issues early allows for prompt treatment and potentially better outcomes.
  • Reduced risk of developing chronic diseases: By identifying risk factors, you can take steps to lower your chances of developing conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and some cancers.
  • Improved overall health and well-being: Preventative care allows you to take a proactive approach to your health and make positive lifestyle changes.
  • Early detection of any fatal disease: Finding early and preventing it from happening is always better than finding a cure.
  • Peace of Mind: Knowing your health status can provide peace of mind and allow you to focus on living a healthy life.

Who should consider preventative health checks?

Preventative health checks are beneficial for everyone, regardless of age or current health status. However, they are especially important for:

  • Individuals with a family history of certain health conditions.
  • People who are overweight or obese.
  • Smokers or those who live with someone who smokes.
  • People with a sedentary lifestyle.
  • Individuals with abrupt changes in body from a week or going through sever pain

Getting Started with Preventative Health Checks at Grange Medical Practice

If you’re interested in scheduling a preventative health check, please book an appointment online, call us: 01484 428282 or contact our reception team. We can discuss your individual needs and recommend the most appropriate check for you. We are committed to partnering with you to achieve your optimal health and well-being.

COPD and Spirometry

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a common lung condition that makes it difficult to breathe. Spirometry is a simple, painless test that plays a vital role in diagnosing and managing COPD.

What is COPD?

COPD is a progressive disease that damages your lungs, causing inflammation and narrowing of the airways. This makes it harder to breathe in and out. Symptoms of COPD include:

  • Breathlessness, especially during activity
  • Frequent coughing, with or without mucus
  • Chest tightness
  • Wheezing

What is Spirometry?

Spirometry is a test that measures how well your lungs are working. During the test, you will be asked to take a deep breath and then blow out as hard and fast as you can into a mouthpiece connected to a machine called a spirometer. The spirometer measures the amount of air you can expel from your lungs and how quickly you can exhale it.

How can Spirometry Help with COPD?

What to Expect During a Spirometry Test?

If you have any concerns about COPD or would like to schedule a spirometry test, please call The Grange Medical Practice to schedule an appointment.

Here’s an additional link for more information Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: https://goldcopd.org/

Diabetes Prevention and Care

Diabetes is a condition that causes a person’s blood sugar level to become too high.

There are 2 main types of diabetes:

  • Type 1 diabetes – a lifelong condition where the body’s immune system attacks and destroys the cells that produce insulin.
  • Type 2 diabetes – where the body does not produce enough insulin, or the body’s cells do not react to insulin properly.

Type 2 diabetes is far more common than type 1. In the UK, over 90% of all adults with diabetes have type 2.

High blood sugar that develops during pregnancy is known as gestational diabetes. It usually goes away after giving birth.

Non-Diabetic Hyperglycaemia (Pre-diabetes)

Pre-diabetes, often referred to as “borderline diabetes,” acts as a crucial turning point. While blood sugar levels are elevated, they haven’t reached the full-blown diabetic range. This presents a golden opportunity for intervention through lifestyle changes to potentially prevent or delay the onset of type 2 diabetes.

Symptoms to Watch: While pre-diabetes may not exhibit noticeable symptoms, some individuals might experience increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, or blurred vision. Regular check-ups with your GP are vital for early detection.

Importance of Early Action: Taking action early through healthy eating, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight can significantly reduce your risk of progressing to type 2 diabetes. Studies have shown that lifestyle modifications and early detection can decrease the risk by up to 70%!

When to see a GP

Ignoring potential signs of diabetes can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Here are some key indicators to prompt a visit to your GP:

Common Warning Signs:

  • Increased thirst and urination: Your body tries to eliminate excess sugar through urine, leading to frequent bathroom visits and increased thirst to compensate for fluid loss.
  • Excessive hunger: Cells deprived of glucose due to insulin insufficiency signal hunger, even after eating.
  • Unexplained weight loss: The body starts breaking down muscle and fat for energy when glucose isn’t available, leading to unintended weight loss.
  • Fatigue: Chronic high blood sugar levels can drain your energy, leaving you feeling tired and sluggish.
  • Blurred vision: High blood sugar can affect the lenses in your eyes, causing blurry vision.
  • Slow-healing wounds: Impaired blood circulation and nerve damage associated with diabetes can delay wound healing.
  • Many people have type 2 diabetes for years without realising because the early symptoms tend to be general, or there are no symptoms at all.

    Don’t Wait: If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, book an appointment via PATCHS or call us on: 01484 428282. Early diagnosis can significantly improve your long-term health outcomes and prevent complications.

Causes of Diabetes

Several factors contribute to the development of diabetes, and the specific type diagnosed determines the most effective treatment approach.

Main Types:

Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune condition where the body attacks insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to an absolute lack of insulin. This type typically manifests in childhood or young adulthood and requires lifelong insulin therapy.
Type 2 Diabetes: The most common type, accounting for around 90% of cases. In type 2, the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin or becomes resistant to its effects. Risk factors include genetics, obesity, physical inactivity, and unhealthy dietary habits.
Gestational Diabetes: Develops during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and usually resolves postpartum. However, it increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life for both mother and child.

  • You can reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes through healthy eating, regular exercise and achieving a healthy body weight.
  • You may be more at risk of type 2 diabetes if you:
  • are living with overweight or obesity
  • do not have a healthy diet
  • have a family history of type 2 diabetes
  • are of Asian, Black African or African Caribbean origin
  • take certain medicines such as steroids for a long time
  • have high blood pressure
  • have had gestational diabetes during pregnancy

Understanding the Cause: Knowing the type of diabetes you have empowers you to work with your doctor to create a personalized management plan tailored to your specific needs and circumstances.

Living with diabetes

If you’re diagnosed with diabetes, you’ll need to eat healthily, take regular exercise and have regular checks including blood tests.

You can use the BMI healthy weight calculator to check whether you’re a healthy weight.

Try to quit smoking if you smoke, and cut down on alcohol.

People diagnosed with type 1 diabetes also require regular insulin injections for the rest of their life.

Type 2 diabetes can get worse over time and people living with type 2 diabetes often need medicine, usually in the form of tablets or injections.

However, some people can put their type 2 diabetes into remission by losing weight, where their blood sugar is reduced below the diabetes range. Some people are able to do this through a low-calorie diet, but this is not suitable for everyone, so it’s important to get medical advice first.

Read about: 

Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Please contact The Grange Medical Practice for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.

Coronary Heart Disease

Coronary heart disease (CHD), also known as coronary artery disease, is a condition where the arteries supplying blood to your heart become narrowed or blocked. This can happen due to a build-up of fatty deposits (plaque) on the artery walls, a process called atherosclerosis.

Symptoms of Coronary Heart Disease:

CHD can develop gradually over time and some people might not experience any symptoms until a serious event, like a heart attack. However, some common symptoms of CHD include:

  • Chest pain (angina): This can feel like a tightness, pressure, or squeezing in your chest. It can also radiate to your shoulders, arms, jaw, neck, or back.
  • Shortness of breath
  • Pain in your neck, shoulders, jaw, or arms
  • Feeling faint or lightheaded
  • Feeling sick (nausea)

Causes of Coronary Heart Disease:

Several factors can contribute to the development of CHD, including:

  • High blood pressure: Uncontrolled high blood pressure puts a strain on your heart and arteries.
  • High cholesterol: High levels of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol can contribute to plaque build-up in the arteries.
  • Smoking: Smoking damages the lining of your arteries and increases your risk of blood clots.
  • Diabetes: Diabetes can damage your blood vessels and increase your risk of heart disease.
  • Family history: Having a close family member with CHD increases your risk.
  • Unhealthy diet: A diet high in saturated and unhealthy fats, and low in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can contribute to CHD.
  • Physical inactivity: Lack of exercise can increase your risk of CHD.
  • Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases your risk of developing other risk factors for CHD, such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

Preventing Coronary Heart Disease:

The good news is that many risk factors for CHD can be controlled through lifestyle changes. Here are some steps you can take to reduce your risk:

  • Maintain a healthy weight.
  • Eat a heart-healthy diet low in saturated and unhealthy fats, and rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
  • Exercise regularly. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise per week.
  • Don’t smoke.
  • Manage stress.
  • Control your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

If you are concerned that you might be at risk for CHD or facing above difficulties, please schedule an appointment with your doctor at The Grange Medical Practice. We can help you assess your risk factors and develop a plan to keep your heart healthy.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult with your doctor for personalized recommendations.

Asthma

Overview: 

Asthma is a chronic lung condition that causes inflammation and narrowing of the airways, making breathing difficult. While there is no cure, with proper management and treatment, you can live a full and active life. Our dedicated team at The Grange Medical Practice is here to help you understand and control your asthma so you can breathe easier. 

Symptoms: 

Coughing
Chest Tightness
Wheezing

Many things can cause these symptoms, but they’re more likely to be asthma if they:

  • Happen often or keep coming back
  • Are worse at night an early in the morning
  • Seem to happen in response to an asthma trigger like exercise or:
  • Allergens: Dust mites, pollen, pet dander, mold 
  • Irritants: Smoke, pollution, strong odours, chemicals 
  • Genetics: Family history of asthma increases risk 
  • Respiratory infections: Cold, flu, etc. 

Diagnosis: 

  • Medical history: Discussing your symptoms and risk factors 
  • Physical examination: Listening to your lungs 
  • Lung function tests: Measuring how well your lungs work 
  • Allergy testing: Identifying potential triggers 

Treatment: 

There’s currently no cure for asthma, but treatment can help control the symptoms so you’re able to live a normal, active life.

  • Inhaled medications: Quick-relief and long-term control medication 
  • Bronchodilators: Relax and open airways 
  • Anti-inflammatory medications: Reduce inflammation 
  • Allergy immunotherapy: Desensitize the body to allergens 
  • Get an asthma action plan on Asthma + Lung UK

Living with Asthma: 

  • Develop an asthma action plan: Know your triggers and medications 
  • Identify and avoid your triggers: Manage your environment 
  • See your doctor regularly: Monitor and adjust treatment as needed 
  • Stay active: Regular exercise improves lung function 

Asthma Attacks: 

What to do: 

  • Follow your asthma action plan 
  • Use your quick-relief inhaler 
  • Sit upright and relax 
  • Seek medical attention if symptoms worsen 

Preventing Asthma Attacks: 

  • Monitor your symptoms: Track triggers and early warning signs 
  • Take your medications as prescribed: Don’t skip doses 
  • Avoid triggers: Identify and manage your environment 
  • Get regular check-ups: Discuss concerns with your doctor 

Advice for Friends and Family: 

  • Learn about asthma and how to recognize an attack 
  • Encourage medication adherence and trigger avoidance 
  • Be supportive and understanding 
  • Help create a safe and asthma-friendly environment 

Remember

Asthma is manageable with proper care. Our team at The Grange Medical Practice is here to guide you on your journey to healthier breathing. Schedule an appointment today for personalized assistance. 

Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes only and should not be construed as medical advice. Please contact The Grange Medical Practice for diagnosis and treatment of any medical condition.

Enhanced Wound Care

Promoting Faster Healing and Better Outcomes

Chronic wounds affect millions of people worldwide, impacting their quality of life and placing a burden on healthcare systems. Fortunately, advancements in wound care offer a beacon of hope. Enhanced wound care goes beyond traditional approaches, promoting faster healing and improved patient outcomes.

What is Enhanced Wound Care?

Enhanced wound care encompasses a holistic approach to wound management, utilizing advanced therapies alongside traditional methods. It focuses on:

  • Wound assessment: Identifying the underlying cause of the wound is crucial for effective treatment.
  • Debridement: Removing dead or damaged tissue creates a clean environment for healing.
  • Moist wound healing: Maintaining a moist wound bed promotes faster healing and reduces infection risk.
  • Advanced dressings: Specialized dressings deliver targeted therapies, manage exudate (fluid from the wound), and create an optimal healing environment.
  • Negative pressure wound therapy: This technique applies controlled suction to promote healing and reduce infection risk.
  • Bioengineered skin substitutes: In some cases, these lab-grown skin tissues can accelerate closure and improve outcomes.

Benefits of Enhanced Wound Care

  • Faster healing times: Advanced therapies can significantly reduce healing times, leading to improved patient comfort and reduced healthcare costs.
  • Reduced infection risk: Effective wound management minimizes the risk of infection, a major concern in chronic wounds.
  • Improved quality of life: Faster healing and reduced pain allow patients to regain their quality of life sooner.
  • Lower healthcare costs: Faster healing translates to shorter hospital stays and fewer complications, reducing overall healthcare costs.

Who Can Benefit from Enhanced Wound Care?

Enhanced wound care benefits patients with a variety of chronic wounds, including:

  • Diabetic foot ulcers
  • Pressure ulcers
  • Venous leg ulcers
  • Surgical wounds that are not healing properly
  • Burns

Living with a Wound? There is Hope

Enhanced wound care offers a new era of possibilities for those living with chronic wounds. By working with The Grange Medical Practice, you can explore these advanced therapies and experience faster healing and a better quality of life.