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Constant coughing, painful aches and feeling fragile – flu can leave you feeling defeated. While it may put your life on hold for a little while, there are steps you can take to have the best, and quickest, recovery.

## How do I know it's flu?
Unlike a [common cold](/medical-advice/infections/common-cold/), flu symptoms usually come on suddenly and you may feel them throughout your body. Common symptoms include:
- A dry cough
- Fever
- Headache
- [Sore throat](/medical-advice/ent/sore-throat/)
- Runny nose
- Muscle aches
- Weakness and fatigue
-[ Loss of appetite](/your-health/8-causes-that-could-explain-your-loss-of-appetite/)
- Difficulty sleeping

## How to recover from flu quickly – 7 tips
### 1. Rest up
The most important thing is to get plenty of rest when you’re unwell. Get as much sleep as you can, and when you’re awake, try not to feel guilty for relaxing on the sofa – this will be giving you the energy you need to fight your flu symptoms. 

### 2. Stay at home
It's important to avoid spreading your symptoms to others, especially in the first 24 hours of having flu. There’s a risk you may come into contact with someone more vulnerable than you who’s more likely to experience complications from flu. 

If you live with others, you can avoid spreading the flu by:
- Washing your hands regularly
- Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze
- Throwing used tissues in the bin as soon as possible

### 3. Take over-the-counter medication if you need
- __Pain relief__ – you can take ibuprofen to help relieve aches and pains and paracetamol can help reduce fever. If you’re taking cold and flu medication make sure you avoid anything with caffeine at night time as you may struggle to sleep.
- __Decongestants__ – to [unblock your nose](/your-health/how-to-get-rid-of-a-blocked-nose-a-doctors-best-tips/), for short-term relief only. Don’t take more than the recommended dosage – ask a pharmacist or doctor for guidance if you’re unsure. 
### 4. Drink plenty of fluids
Staying hydrated is key for getting over flu fast. Fever, a common symptom of flu, makes you sweat, which can cause dehydration. Drinking fluids replaces lost liquids and can help fight infection.

If you’re not a big water drinker, low-sugar squash and herbal teas are good options. Just steer clear of alcohol and caffeine, as these can cause dehydration and inflammation.

You can [check the colour of your pee](/your-health/why-is-hydration-so-important-a-doctors-guide/) to see how hydrated you are – it should be light straw colour yellow and clear.

### 5. Eat healthy meals
Although it’s tempting to give into cravings when you’re under the weather, your body needs nutritious foods to recover from flu. 

Fresh fruits and vegetables have the essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants your immune system needs to fight off the virus, and protein will help give you the strength to get back to normality.

If you don’t feel hungry, eat as much as you can, and rest assured your appetite will come back soon.

### 6. Stay propped up
Losing sleep because of a [blocked nose](/your-health/how-to-get-rid-of-a-blocked-nose-a-doctors-best-tips/) or cough? You can help ease your breathing by keeping your head raised – treat yourself to an extra comfy pillow or 2 and you should feel some relief in your sinuses.

You may find this is more effective after a hot, steamy bath or shower just before bed. 

### 7. Be kind to yourself
It’s okay to do nothing for a while as your body fights flu. Feeling stressed about missing out on things on socialising, work or exercise can only lead to a negative effect on your body. Remind yourself you need to take the time to recover.

## Should I have a flu vaccine?
[Flu vaccines are safe and effective](/your-health/why-are-vaccines-and-immunisations-so-important/) at preventing infection. Even if you’re able to recover from flu on your own, it can be dangerous to people with existing health conditions. You can have the flu vaccine at your GP surgery or at a pharmacy that offers the service.

If you’re more vulnerable, you’ll be contacted by the NHS to get your vaccine for free. The best time to get the vaccine is autumn or early winter before flu infections peak, though you can get it at any time.

## When should I seek help for flu?
Flu symptoms will often clear up on their own if you take the right measures to recover. But you should think about speaking to a doctor if: 
- Your symptoms are getting worse or haven't improved after 7 days
- You're age 65 or over
- You're pregnant
- You have a long-term condition like [diabetes](/medical-advice/autoimmune-diseases/type-1-diabetes/), heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease or a [neurological condition](/medical-advice/neurology/)
- You have a weakened immune system – for example if you're having chemotherapy or have HIV
- You feel very unwell or develop chest pain, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing or start coughing up blood.

__This article has been approved by Dr Bryony Henderson, Lead GP at Kry.__

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kry.co.uk > Article page > How to recover from flu faster

How to beat flu faster

Flu can feel horrible and bring daily life to a halt. But there are steps you can take to recover as quickly as possible. Discover how to get rid of the flu faster.

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How to recover from flu faster | Kry 

kry.co.uk > medical reviewer

Dr Bryony Henderson

Lead GP at Kry

General health and seasonal

How to recover from flu faster

[Haemorrhoids (or piles)](/medical-advice/digestive-system/piles/) happen when the blood vessels in or around the opening of your bottom become inflamed and swollen. This is why you might feel pain, itchiness or lumps around your bottom.

Piles are more common than you’d think. Anywhere between [5-37% of us](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4473435/#CIT3) will experience symptoms at some point in our lives. The number of people is so wide-ranging as experts have found it difficult to get the exact data. This is probably because the symptoms can range so much and because some of us might not seek help due to embarrassment. 

## How do you get haemorrhoids in the first place?

You might be surprised to learn that we all have haemorrhoids. They are lines of tissue and blood vessels close to the opening of your anus. They’re useful because they help us sense what’s in your rectum (the last few inches of your large intestine before it reaches the anus). 

They help you feel whether the pressure you’re feeling in your bottom is gas, a normal poo or potentially diarrhoea. Haemorrhoids also help to form a seal within your anus that keeps it closed. In other words, they help to keep your poo in until you’re ready to go.

The problem happens when your haemorrhoids become inflamed or enlarged, usually when we strain or put pressure on them. This causes those [uncomfortable symptoms](/medical-advice/digestive-system/piles/) – including burning, itching, swelling and bleeding. 

Your chances of getting piles increases, if:
- You regularly strain your bottom while pooing
- You have long-term [diarrhoea](/medical-advice/digestive-system/diarrhoea/) or [constipation](/medical-advice/digestive-system/constipation/)
- You sit down for long periods of time
- You do lots of heavy lifting

## What’s the difference between internal and external haemorrhoids?
Haemorrhoids can be either internal (when they're located further inside the anus) and external (when they're very close to the anal opening). 

External haemorrhoids are rare and tend to occur suddenly. They might hang down or come out of your anus, and they can be very painful. 

Piles are also graded according to whether they come out and how far they come out of your anus. First-degree piles may be inside and you might see some bleeding, while fourth-degree piles hang down from your anus and can become swollen and painful if the blood clots inside them. 

Most importantly, don’t worry. There are treatments available for all types of haemorrhoids. 

## What should I do if I have symptoms of haemorrhoids?

If you have symptoms of piles, speak to a pharmacist who can provide over-the-counter medication. If you’re in pain and your symptoms have lasted over a week, speak to a doctor who will be able to help. 

It’s always worth finding out whether your symptoms are haemorrhoids or something more serious. You can also [discover more about medication and treatments](/medical-advice/digestive-system/piles/).

## How to prevent haemorrhoids
The best way to swerve the pain and discomfort of haemorrhoids is to prevent them happening in the first place. 

The good news is that there are simple lifestyle habits that can help. Here are 6 ways to lower your risk:

### 1. Don’t sit too long
Sitting down for long periods on a regular basis, whether for work or when relaxing, can put pressure on your bottom and worsen haemorrhoid symptoms. 

[Experts now warn](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8416428/) against sitting on the toilet for too long. This can put strain on the blood vessels around your anus. If you feel like you’ve got more to go but it’s not coming, rather than sitting and straining, try getting up and coming back later. 

If you tend to sit on the toilet for longer, try leaving your phone in a different room so you’re not tempted to sit and scroll.

### 2. Eat plenty of fibre
Piles are more likely to happen if you don’t poo regularly. How often you should poo differs for everyone, but around [one poo a day](/your-health/10-things-your-poo-can-tell-you-about-your-health/) is a good guide. Not sure what a healthy poo looks like? [Check out our guide.](/your-health/10-things-your-poo-can-tell-you-about-your-health/)

An easy way to become more regular is by eating more fibre – experts recommend around [30g a day](https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/eat-well/digestive-health/how-to-get-more-fibre-into-your-diet/#:~:text=Government%20guidelines%20say%20our%20dietary,ways%20of%20increasing%20our%20intake.). But you don’t need to count, try adding a little more fibre to every meal:

- __Breakfast__ – try high-fibre cereal, oats and fruit
- __Lunch__ – try whole grain bread and vegetables like carrots, broccoli, peppers and spinach
- __Dinner__ - try pulses like lentils, whole grain rice or pasta and leafy vegetables

### 3. Drink more water
Staying hydrated is key for having healthy poos. Drinking enough water can make our stools sofer, help to prevent constipation and therefore decrease straining and the risk of getting piles. Aim for [6-8 glasses of water](/your-health/why-is-hydration-so-important-a-doctors-guide/) each day, and it will benefit your whole body too.

### 4. Try a poo stool
[New research](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6382038/) is showing that how you sit on the toilet matters. Using a footstool (scientifically known as a ‘defecation postural modification device’) under your feet while sitting on the toilet changes the angle of your sitting. Sitting in more of a squatting position – where your knees are raised above your hips – is proven to reduce strain and help you poo more easily. 

### 5. Try to go when you feel the urge
The longer a poo sits in your colon, the more dehydrated it becomes and the more difficult it is to pass. As soon as you feel the urge to poo, try to head to the toilet as soon as possible.

### 6. Keep it moving
Getting active helps to keep your bowel movements regular and means you’ll generally spend less time sitting down, which can put pressure on the blood vessels in your bottom. Walking, jogging, yoga or swimming are all great exercises to introduce into your routine.

However, certain exercises can [make the problem worse](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8416428/). If you’re prone to piles or worried about symptoms, try to avoid activities that increase pressure on sensitive areas or cause straining like heavy weight lifting, cycling or horse riding.

## When should I speak to a doctor about haemorrhoids?
If you have any symptoms of piles like burning, bleeding, pain or itching around your anus, speak to a pharmacist or doctor. 

Always speak to a doctor if:

- You’re in severe pain – it’s painful to sit down or [go to the toilet](/your-health/bowel-pain-causes/)
- There’s blood in your poo, from bright red through to black
- You’ve have persistent abdominal pain
- You have unexplained weight loss
- There's any change in your normal bowel habit

__This article has been medically approved by Dr Bryony Henderson, Kry Lead GP.__


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Haemorrhoids

This pain in the bottom is very common. Here’s why haemorrhoids (piles) happen and our expert advice on how to prevent them

Meta information > Haemorrhoids article 

How do you get haemorrhoids? And how to prevent them | Kry UK

How do you get haemorrhoids? And how to prevent them

What causes pain before, during or after you [poo](/your-health/10-things-your-poo-can-tell-you-about-your-health/)? It’s something many of us want to know, but are too embarrassed to ask. 

Almost everyone experiences a painful bowel movement every once in a while. Often it goes away on its own. But ongoing or severe pain before or during a poo could signal an underlying condition that may need checking out by a doctor. 

Remember, always get checked out by a doctor if you experience bright red or dark blood in your poo. 

## Why does it hurt when I poo? 
Painful bowel movements can happen before, during or after you poo. You might experience pain either in your bowel, your lower abdomen, your anus (opening of your bottom) or your lower back. 

If it hurts when you poo, it could be due to several factors. 

## 1. You’re constipated 
[Constipation](/medical-advice/digestive-system/constipation/) can feel painful and uncomfortable, particularly when you do have a poo. 

The most common causes of constipation are:
- Not having enough fibre in your diet
- Not drinking enough fluids
- Taking certain medications like painkillers
- Not getting enough physical activity 
- [Anxiety](/medical-advice/mental-health/anxiety/), [depression](/medical-advice/mental-health/depression/) or stress 

You’re likely to have constipation if:
- You haven’t had a poo at least 3 times in the last week
- Your poo is hard and lumpy and you’re straining when you go to the toilet
- You may also have abdominal pain and feel bloated or sick 

__What to do:__ 

To make your poo softer and easier to pass, eat a fibre-rich diet and drink plenty of fluids to keep you regular. Try to increase your physical activity and never ignore the urge to go. 

If diet and lifestyle changes aren’t helping, speak to a pharmacist who may suggest taking a laxative.

## 2. You have piles 
[Piles (haemorrhoids)](/medical-advice/digestive-system/piles/) are swollen veins inside the rectum or under the skin around the opening of your bottom. 

Factors that make piles more likely include: 
- Pregnancy
- Heavy lifting
- Constipation or severe [diarrhoea](/medical-advice/digestive-system/diarrhoea/)
- Pushing too hard when pooing 

As well as pain during bowel movements, symptoms of piles include:
- Discomfort, itching or bumps in or around your anus
- Bright red blood or mucus after wiping your bottom 
- Feeling like your bowels haven’t fully emptied after going to the toilet

__What to do:__

To prevent and treat the symptoms of piles, drink plenty of fluids and increase your fibre intake to make your poo softer. The good news is that piles aren’t usually serious, but if you’re in pain, speak to a pharmacist who can recommend over-the-counter medication. 

If your symptoms don’t pass or you’re in severe pain, speak to a doctor.

## 3. You have an anal tear 
An [anal tear (anal fissure)](/medical-advice/digestive-system/anal-fissure/) is a small cut or open sore on the inside or around your anus. Although anal tears are common and aren’t usually serious, they can be especially painful during or after you poo. 

They’re often caused by passing a hard or large poo, but can also be due to pregnancy and childbirth, persistent diarrhoea, [anal sex](/your-health/anal-sex/), unusually tight anal sphincter muscles, inflammatory bowel disease and [sexually transmitted infections (STIs)](/medical-advice/sexual-health/stis/).  
Anal tears can cause a sharp pain when you poo, followed by a deep burning or stinging sensation up to a few hours after. You may also see bright red blood in your stool or when you wipe your bottom. 

__What to do:__

Make an appointment to see a doctor if you think you have an anal tear. Most tears heal themselves, but [self-help measures](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526063/), like eating enough fibre, drinking plenty of fluids and exercising regularly, can help ease the symptoms as well as prevent them from recurring. 

## 4. You have an inflammatory bowel disease 
Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a name used to describe two types of conditions that cause [chronic inflammation in the intestinal tract](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470312/), including [Crohn’s disease ](/medical-advice/digestive-system/crohns-disease/)and [ulcerative colitis](/medical-advice/digestive-system/ulcerative-colitis/).

IBD causes abdominal pain and cramps before, during or after a bowel movement. Excessive diarrhoea can also lead to irritation and pain. 

The other symptoms of IBD include: 
- Feeling the urge to poo very suddenly
- Blood or mucus in your poo
- Tiredness and fatigue

__What to do:__

If you have any of these symptoms, speak to a doctor. IBD requires treatment, which can include symptom management, medication and surgery. 

## 5. You have proctitis 
Proctitis is inflammation of the lining of the rectum. Proctitis is common in people who have IBD or [STIs](/medical-advice/sexual-health/stis/) like [chlamydia](/medical-advice/sexual-health/chlamydia/) and syphilis. It can also be a side effect of radiotherapy. 

Proctitis can cause cramping and pain in the left side of your abdomen and in your anus, which may occur during bowel movements. 

Other symptoms include:  
- Blood or mucus in your poo 
- Diarrhoea
- A continuous feeling that you need to have a bowel movement

__What to do:__

If you have any symptoms of proctitis, make an appointment with a doctor. Your treatment will depend on the type of proctitis you have and its causes.

## 6. You have endometriosis 
[Endometriosis](/medical-advice/gynaecology/endometriosis/) is a painful condition where cells similar to the ones in the lining of the uterus grow in other places, like your bowel, ovaries and pelvis. 

As well as pain when pooing, common symptoms of endometriosis are:
- Heavy periods
- Pain during or after sex
- Fatigue and lack of energy
- Severe period pain
- Lower back or tummy pain
- Feeling sick
- Constipation and diarrhoea

__What to do:__

Endometriosis is a condition that can have a significant impact on your life. It’s essential to speak to a doctor, who can recommend specific treatments to ease your symptoms. 

## 7. You have a skin condition  
Skin conditions, like [psoriasis](/medical-advice/skin-conditions/psoriasis/) and [eczema](/medical-advice/skin-conditions/eczema/), can affect the skin around your anus. As well as causing pain before, after and during a bowel movement, you may also experience bleeding, severe itching and splitting of the skin.  

Psoriasis on or near the anus can appear non-scaly and red and become sore, weepy and itchy. Eczema around the opening of the anus and the skin between the cheeks of the buttocks (perianal eczema) can be red, inflamed, dry and sore. 

__What to do:__

A doctor will usually be able to diagnose eczema or psoriasis when they’re examining you. A small skin sample (biopsy) may be taken for analysis if there’s any doubt about what it may be. 

## 8. You have anal cancer
Anal cancer is a rare condition, which can cause [bowel changes and pain around the anus](https://www.msdmanuals.com/en-gb/home/digestive-disorders/tumors-of-the-digestive-system/anal-cancer). But don't panic, the symptoms are very similar to other conditions, including piles and anal tears. 

Keep an eye out for other symptoms of anal cancer, including: 
- Itching around the anus
- Bleeding or discharge from the bottom
- Lumps or sores inside or around the anus
- Needing to poo more often 

__What to do:__

If you have any of these symptoms, speak to a doctor. Remember, most of these symptoms can be caused by other conditions, and it doesn’t necessarily mean you have cancer. 

## When should I speak to a doctor about a painful poo?
When it comes to [your poo](/your-health/10-things-your-poo-can-tell-you-about-your-health/), it’s important to know what’s normal for you. It can feel awkward talking about your bowel habits, but remember that we all poo and doctors are there to help and support, rather than judge. 

If you have bleeding or pain around your bottom or there’s a change to your normal bowel pattern, make an appointment to speak to a doctor. 

Always speak to a doctor if:
- There's blood in your poo, including bright red through to black
- You have persistent abdominal pain
- You have unexplained weight loss
- Any change in your normal bowel habit

__This article has been medically approved by Dr Bryony Henderson, Kry Lead GP.__


Section > Call-out > Hurts when I poo CTA

Kry.co.uk > Article page > Why does it hurt when I poo? 

Why does it hurt when I poo

Discover everything you need to know about painful bowel movements, including the causes, other symptoms, what to do and when to seek help 

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Why does it hurt when I poo? 8 causes of bowel pain  | Kry UK

kry.co.uk > Medical Reviewer

Why does it hurt when I poo? 8 causes of bowel pain

If you need chemotherapy, it’s completely normal to feel worried and overwhelmed. But discovering more about this type of treatment can help you prepare and feel less anxious. 

Chemotherapy is most commonly used to [treat cancer](/medical-advice/cancer/), alongside other treatments, such as surgery and radiotherapy. But it’s also used for other conditions, including autoimmune diseases, like [Crohn’s disease](/medical-advice/digestive-system/crohns-disease/) and [rheumatoid arthritis](/medical-advice/musculoskeletal-conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/). 

There are many different types of chemotherapy drugs but they all work in a similar way. Chemotherapy destroys cancer cells in your body, and it prevents these cells from dividing, growing and producing more cells. 

## What is chemotherapy? 
Chemotherapy is a [systemic medication](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279427/), which means it can treat cancer cells almost anywhere in the body due to it circulating through the bloodstream. 

Chemotherapy is a type of [anti-cancer (cytotoxic) drug treatment](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK564367/) that destroys cancer cells or stops them from dividing and multiplying uncontrollably.

There are billions of individual cells in our body tissues. Every time a new cell is formed, it goes through a cell cycle. Chemotherapy attacks cells during specific parts of the cell cycle. Cancer cells tend to form new cells at a faster rate, making them a better target for chemotherapy.  

## When is chemotherapy used? 
Chemotherapy may be used as part of your treatment plan. What chemotherapy you take and whether it’s suitable for you depends on several factors, including: 
- Your general health 
- The [type of cancer](/medical-advice/cancer/) you have
- Whether the cancer has spread
- Where the cancer is in your body

Chemotherapy can also be used to: 
- Eliminate all cancerous cells (curative chemotherapy) 
- Reduce the risk of cancer coming back after radiotherapy or surgery (adjuvant chemotherapy)
- Make another treatment more effective – it can be used before surgery to shrink large tumours (neoadjuvant chemotherapy) or in combination with radiotherapy 
- Treat cancer that’s spread to other parts of your body
- Relieve symptoms and improve your quality of life if a cure isn’t possible (palliative chemotherapy) 

Chemotherapy can be combined with radiotherapy, but the treatment is different as radiotherapy only treats a specific area of the body. 

## Why does chemotherapy cause side effects?
As well as destroying cancer cells, chemotherapy can also affect some of the [healthy cells in your body](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK279427/). Some of these cells are more sensitive to the medication, particularly those in the hair follicles, bone marrow, mouth and digestive tract. 

Chemotherapy can damage these cells and this causes side effects. Some of the most common include: 
- [Tiredness](/your-health/why-am-i-always-tired/) and weakness
- [Hair loss](/your-health/hair-loss-in-women/)
- Feeling and being sick
- A higher risk of getting infections
- [Constipation](/medical-advice/digestive-system/constipation/) and [diarrhoea](/medical-advice/digestive-system/diarrhoea/)
- Sore, dry or itchy skin 
- A sore mouth 

Everyone reacts differently to chemotherapy, and some people have more side effects than others. It’s important to remember that healthcare professionals are there to support you throughout the whole treatment. 

Always let a doctor or nurse know if you’re having physical or mental side effects that you’re struggling with. 

## Can chemotherapy cause long-term side effects? 
Although most side effects are temporary, sometimes they can cause long-term changes. Some chemotherapy drugs can cause:
- [Early menopause](/your-health/early-menopause/)
- Damage to the nerves connecting to the brain, spinal cord and the rest of the body (peripheral neuropathy)
- Problems with your [fertility](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6649805/) 

If you’re affected by any of these, a doctor can help to support you. 

## What are the different types of chemotherapy?
Chemotherapy can be given in several ways depending on your treatment plan and the type of cancer you have.

Chemotherapy is most commonly given: 

__- By drip or injection directly into a vein__
Known as intravenous chemotherapy, this is usually given in a hospital

__- By mouth as capsules or tablets__
Known as oral chemotherapy, you will usually take the medication at home 

You might have chemotherapy consisting of just one drug but it’s more usual to take them as a combination of two or more.

## How long does chemotherapy usually take? 
When you have chemotherapy, you’ll usually have a course of treatment rather than a single treatment. One course of chemotherapy may last between 3-6 months, but you may receive it for shorter or longer periods depending on your type of cancer and the chemotherapy you’re having. 

During a course of chemotherapy, you can have around 4-8 cycles of treatment. A cycle of treatment is made up of your chemotherapy and rest period, which allows your body to recover from the side effects. A doctor will decide on the number of cycles you need to treat the cancer. 

## Advice for looking after your mental wellbeing 
[Experiencing a cancer diagnosis](/your-health/things-i-learned-after-my-cancer-diagnosis/) can feel like your world is being turned upside down. Understandably, you might feel worried and overwhelmed. 

Taking care of your mental wellbeing and making small lifestyle changes can help you cope during treatment, as well as recover better. 

Think about sharing your experiences with your friends and family, try to eat as healthy diet as possible and try to be physically active whenever you can.

[One study](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26952681/) found that emotional support along with up-to-date information during chemotherapy made a significant difference to the quality of life of someone with cancer. 

## What support is available?
From the time you’re diagnosed, there’s support available. You can use:
- [Macmillan](https://www.macmillan.org.uk/), [Cancer Research UK](https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/) and [Maggie’s](https://www.maggies.org/about-us/how-maggies-works/our-story/) for advice, information and support 
- Support from your specialist nurse or other members of your medical team
- Support groups, helplines and online forums or chats for your cancer type or cancer in general 
- Online communities coordinated by people who have experienced cancer treatment 

If you have any concerns about chemotherapy or your cancer diagnosis, speak to a doctor or cancer nurse who will be able to help you access support. 

## When should I speak to a doctor? 
If you’re struggling with specific side effects of chemotherapy or need mental health support, make an appointment to speak to a doctor. 

Speak to a doctor or your care team immediately if you are having chemotherapy and experiencing any of the following symptoms:
- A high temperature 
- Diarrhoea
- Being sick 
- Breathing difficulties 
- Flu-like symptoms, such as muscle aches or feeling hot and shivery
- Redness, soreness, swelling or discharge of liquid around a wound or where you have had an intravenous or catheter line into your veins 

__This article has been medically reviewed by Dr Bryony Henderson.__


Section > Call-out > Chemotherapy CTA

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Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a treatment for cancer. Find out about when you might have it, the possible side effects, how it’s given and how you can access support

Meta information > Chemotherapy article

Let's talk: what you need to know about chemotherapy  | Kry UK

Let's talk: what you need to know about chemotherapy

Hearing ringing in your ears is called [tinnitus](/medical-advice/tinnitus/). It’s when you experience noises that only you can hear and aren’t coming from anything around you. 

As many as [1 in 7 adults](https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaneurology/article-abstract/2795168) have tinnitus, and although the sensation is strange and can be quite annoying, it’s usually nothing to worry about. 

For lots of people, tinnitus gets better on its own. In the meantime, it can help to understand the most common causes of ringing in the ears and what you can do to ease your symptoms. 

## What does tinnitus sound and feel like? 
Tinnitus usually sounds like a high-pitched ringing in your ears, though it can also be a whooshing, sizzling, buzzing or pulsing noise. You might hear the noises in one ear or both, or it can feel like it comes from inside your head. 

Tinnitus often comes and goes, and some people find it gets worse at night. This is probably because there’s less going on to distract you from the noise.

## What causes ringing in the ears?
Scientists think tinnitus is caused by a change in how sounds are processed in the brain, which starts when your hearing is damaged. 

[Studies suggest](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0140673613601427#bib3) that the brain tries to make up for the hearing loss by increasing activity in the nerve cells responsible for high-pitched sounds. This causes you to hear sounds that aren’t there. 

There are lots of triggers for tinnitus and sometimes it’s as simple as built up earwax, which a doctor can remove. Depending on what’s causing the ringing in your ears, you may experience other symptoms. 

### 1. Damage to your hearing 
Ringing in the ears is linked to hearing damage, which can be age-related or caused by loud sounds. It could be noises related to your job, like drilling on construction sites, or listening to loud music.

There are little hairs in your ears that vibrate when sound waves hit them, which is how noises reach your brain. Tinnitus and hearing loss can occur when these hairs are damaged. The louder the sound and the longer you listen to it, the more likely you are to experience hearing loss. 

__What should I do?__
The best strategy here is to protect your hearing before the damage happens. Keep loud music to a minimum and wear ear defenders when you’re exposed to loud noises.

### 2. An ear infection 
If you have pain or pressure in your ears, then [an ear infection](/medical-advice/infections/ear-infections/) is the most likely culprit behind your tinnitus. Other signs of an ear infection include a high temperature, itching around the ear and ear discharge.

__What should I do?__
Make an appointment with a doctor if it doesn’t clear up within a couple of days. 

### 3. A change to your blood pressure 
If you hear a rhythmic or pulsing noise that syncs with your heart beat, then you may have pulsatile tinnitus. It’s related to a change in your blood pressure, which can be caused by exercise, pregnancy or [hypertension](/medical-advice/cardiovascular-diseases/hypertension/).

__What should I do?__
If you’re getting this regularly then it’s best to speak to a doctor.

### 4. Other health conditions 
Sometimes tinnitus is related to other health conditions, including mental and physical conditions. 

Ringing in the ears can be linked to anxiety, depression, and stress. [Getting help with mental health](/your-health/talking-about-mental-health-with-a-gp/) can ease tinnitus symptoms. 

There are links between tinnitus and diabetes, thyroid disorders and [multiple sclerosis](/medical-advice/neurological-disorders/multiple-sclerosis). Some medicines cause ringing in the ears too, including chemotherapy, antibiotics and certain painkillers. 

Meniere’s disease is a set of symptoms including dizziness, headaches, hearing loss and tinnitus. It’s not common but it’s worth speaking to a doctor if you’re worried – there are treatments available.

## How long does tinnitus last? 
It’s hard to say exactly how long tinnitus lasts because of the variety of causes. [One scientific study](https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.3109/14992021003753508) found that people’s symptoms tend to improve over time rather than getting worse. 

## How can I stop the ringing in my ears? 
Although there isn’t a direct cure for tinnitus, there are things to help you reduce the triggers and cope with the irritation it can cause.

### 1. Be mindful of volume 
Avoiding any further hearing damage is important if you have tinnitus symptoms. Watch the volume and the length of time you’re exposed to loud sounds. Avoid in-ear headphones, reduce volume levels and wear ear protection.

### 2. Limit your risk factors
You can take lifestyle steps to reduce your risk of tinnitus or further hearing damage. Smoking, vaping, having poorly controlled diabetes or uncontrolled hypertension can cause damage to the small structures inside your ears, increasing your risk of age-related or [noise-related hearing loss](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0011502913000217?via%3Dihub). 

### 3. Avoid total silence 
Tinnitus often feels most intrusive when there are no other sounds to distract you. Some people find that playing quiet background music or white noise helps, especially when going off to sleep. 

### 4. Try therapy 
If tinnitus is disrupting your life or sleep, therapy might be helpful. The idea is to help manage any anxiety and give you the coping tools to make tinnitus less stressful. 

## When should I speak to a doctor about tinnitus? 
If you notice ringing in your ears regularly, it’s worth talking to a doctor. 

You should also book an appointment if:

- Your symptoms are getting worse
- Tinnitus is affecting your sleep or worrying you
- The tinnitus pulses with your heartbeat

Get medical help immediately if you develop tinnitus after a head injury or if you have sudden hearing loss or dizziness. 

__This article has been medically approved by Kry Lead GP, Dr Bryony Henderson.__

Section > Call out > Ringing in ears CTA

Your health > Why do I hear ringing in my ears?

Ringing in ears

Tinnitus causes ringing, buzzing, or whooshing sounds in your ears that nobody else can hear. Depending on the cause, you may be able to find some relief. 

Meta information > Your Health > Ringing in ears

Why do I hear ringing in my ears – and how can I stop it? | Kry UK

Why do I hear ringing in my ears?

### Why should I get tested?

Some STIs, such as chlamydia, can have no symptoms. Yet if left untreated, they can have serious consequences. The good news is they are all treatable by a doctor.

So, to protect yourself, always get tested if you’ve had unprotected sex with a new partner. Using a barrier method such as male or female condoms with a new partner is still the best way to avoid getting an STI.

Here are 10 common STIs (sometimes called STDs), their symptoms, how they are tested and their treatments.

## 1. Chlamydia

### Symptoms
When they do show, in women these might include: pain when urinating; unusual vaginal discharge; pain in the abdomen or pelvis; or, extra sensitivity during sex, bleeding after sex and bleeding between periods. If chlamydia is left untreated, it can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), which can cause ectopic pregnancy and infertility in women.

Men should look out for pain when urinating, white, cloudy or watery discharge from the tip of the penis, burning or itching in the urethra and pain in the testicles. Left untreated, the infection can cause swelling in the epididymis (the tubes that carry sperm) and the testicles. This might affect fertility. Chlamydia can also affect the throat (although this is rare), rectum (via anal sex) and eyes.

### Testing
Involves a urine or swab test. You can be tested through a local sexual health clinic, a contraceptive clinic or your GP. If you’re under 25 you can get a kit sent to you free via pharmacies and other local venues. [Search for venues near you](https://www.nhs.uk/service-search/other-services/Chlamydia-free-online-tests-for-u-25s/LocationSearch/344).

### Treatment
Antibiotics will be prescribed to treat the infection. You should avoid sex until the infection is gone.

## 2. Gonorrhoea
Gonorrhoea is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae or gonococcus, which is spread through unprotected vaginal, anal or oral sex, or contact with genital fluid, including sharing sex toys. Less commonly, it can affect the throat or eyes. If passed on during labour, it can cause permanent blindness in a newborn.

### Symptoms
Include a thick green or yellow discharge from the vagina or penis, pain when urinating or lower abdominal/vaginal pain and discomfort. Around 1 in 10 men and more than half of women do not experience any symptoms.

### Testing
Completed by a swab test or can be a urine test in men. If left untreated, gonorrhoea can lead to PID and infertility in women.

### Treatment
Antibiotics will be given to clear the infection. This can either be by injection, a tablet, or a combination of both. 

## 3. Trichomoniasis 
Trichomoniasis is caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis.

### Symptoms
Usually develop within a month of infection – similar to those of many other STIs, which can make it difficult to diagnose. Up to half of all people will not develop any symptoms, though they can still be infectious.

### Testing
Diagnosed after an examination of the genitals and a sample taken using a swab from the vagina or penis. If the test is positive, it's important that your sexual partner and any other recent partners are also tested and treated.

### Treatment
Unlikely to go away without treatment, but it can be effectively treated with antibiotics (usually metronidazole).

## 4. Genital warts
Caused by human papillomavirus (HPV), a type of virus that infects the skin. There are hundreds of different types of HPV but around 13 of these can cause cancer, including cervical cancer in women. The strain of HPV that causes cervical cancer doesn’t cause genital warts, but it’s still very important to have regular cervical screenings. The best way to avoid becoming infected is to use a condom. 

### Symptoms
Include one or more lumps, bumps or fleshy, cauliflower-like growths around the genitals or anus. There might also be discomfort, itching or bleeding, and changes to the flow of urine.

### Testing
For genital warts, testing is done by a physical examination of the genital area.

### Treatment
May include the application of a prescription cream or liquid over several weeks, or surgery where warts are cut, burnt, lasered or frozen off.

## 5. Genital herpes
Genital herpes is caused by the herpes simplex viruses, HSV-1 and HSV-2. They’re passed on through sexual contact (vagina, penis, anus, mouth). People can pass on the herpes virus when they’re not showing any symptoms.

### Symptoms
Include small, fluid-filled blisters (on the genitals or anus) leaving open sores. These burst and cause severe tingling and itching, burning when urinating and women might have a vaginal discharge. Symptoms may take months or even years to appear after you’ve become infected. These clear up by themselves (usually within 2 weeks) but come back periodically. Recurrent outbreaks are usually milder.

### Testing
Usually carried out by taking a swab of fluid from the affected blisters.  

### Treatment
There is no cure for herpes and it can lie dormant in the body for months or years. You might be prescribed antiviral medicine to stop symptoms worsening. Local anaesthetic ointment and soothing creams might also be prescribed to help alleviate itching and pain. Taking a cool shower or bath might also help.

## 6. Public lice
Pubic lice are tiny insects that live on pubic hair around the penis or vagina. They are spread through close body contact, mostly through sexual contact. Public lice are also referred to as crabs.

### Symptoms
They most often live on pubic hair but can also be found in hair on the chest, armpits, face and eyelashes – but are often too small to see. Other symptoms of pubic lice include:

- Itching that is usually worse at night
- small red or blue spots on your skin (lice bites)
- white/yellow dots attached to your hair (lice eggs)
- dark red or brown spots in your underwear (lice poo)
- crusted or sticky eyelashes, if they're affected

### Testing
A doctor or nurse will check your hair for lice, and specifically your pubic hair. They may use a comb or a magnifying lens and ask about your sexual partners. It is usually suggested to get tested for any other STIs too.

### Treatment
Medicated creams or shampoos will be prescribed to kill the lice. You may need to repeat this again a week later to make sure all the lice have been killed. A follow up appointment may also be needed to check the treatment has worked. Any current or recent sexual partners should also be treated, even if they have no symptoms.

## 7. Scabies
Scabies is a common STI that can affect anyone. It should be treated quickly to prevent it from spreading. Scabies is very infectious but can take up to 8 weeks for visible symptoms to appear.

### Symptoms
Intense itching especially at night and a raised rash or spots. These may look red and are more difficult to see on dark skin (but you can feel them). The rash usually spreads across the body, apart from the head.

### Testing
A GP can advise you whether your symptoms suggest you have scabies and they can prescribe a treatment. A pharmacist can help with this too.

### Treatment
A doctor or pharmacist will recommend a cream or lotion to apply over your whole body. Let them know if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. You'll need to repeat the treatment a week later. Everyone in your home needs to be treated at the same time, even if they do not have symptoms. Any sexual partners within the past 8 weeks should also be treated.

## 8. Syphilis
Syphilis is a chronic infectious disease caused by Treponema pallidum, a type of bacterium. It’s most commonly spread during sex (vaginal, anal or oral) or through close contact with an infected sore. It can be passed on from mother to baby (congenital syphilis) with an increased risk of miscarriage, fetal death and premature birth.

### Symptoms
Usually includes a small, painless sore or ulcer on the vagina, penis, anus, mouth or other area (21 days after incubation). This resolves spontaneously after 1-2 months and is followed after 6-8 weeks by flu-like symptoms – fatigue, headache, fever, joint pains and swollen glands usually a couple of months after being infected. Left untreated, syphilis can spread to the brain and other parts of the body many years after infection.

### Testing
Involves a physical genital examination, a blood test and swab test (if there are any sores).

### Treatment
Includes a penicillin injection or (if you’re allergic to penicillin) a 10-14 day course of antibiotics. If you’ve had syphilis for longer than 2 years or symptoms are more serious, you might need weekly or even daily injections or a longer course of antibiotics (28 days).

## 9. Human papillomavirus (HPV)
HPV is the name of a very common group of viruses affecting the skin. For most people, they do not cause medical problems, but some types can cause genital warts or cancer. There are more than 100 different types of HPV.

### Symptoms
Often there are no symptoms but sometimes the virus can cause painless growths or lumps around your vagina, penis or anus (genital warts).

### Testing
HPV testing is a routine part of [cervical screening](/your-health/what-happens-during-a-cervical-screening-test/) for women. There's currently no blood test for HPV. Cervical screening is offered to all women and people with a cervix aged 25 to 64. This helps protect them against [cervical cancer](/medical-advice/cancer/cervical-cancer/).

### Treatment
There is no treatment for HPV, but most infections do not cause problems and are cleared by your body within 2 years. Treatment is needed if HPV causes medical problems like genital warts or changes to cells in your cervix.

## 10. HIV
Human immunodeficiency virus affects the cells in your immune system and their ability to fight everyday infections and disease. HIV infection is found in body fluids and is most commonly transmitted through sexual contact. It can also be passed on by sharing needles (among drug addicts) and can be passed on from mother to baby.

### Symptoms
Most people experience a short flu-like illness around 2-6 weeks after initial infection. HIV might not cause any symptoms for many years. AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) describes the potentially life-threatening infections and illnesses that might occur when your immune system is severely damaged by the HIV virus. 

### Testing
For HIV, testing is done by taking a sample of blood or saliva to check for the infection. 

### Treatment
There’s no cure for HIV but there are now effective drug treatments to manage it. These include antiretroviral medicines that work by stopping the virus from replicating itself in the body, allowing the immune system to repair itself. This means people with HIV can usually lead long lives if they take medication.

kry.co.uk  > article page > CTA 

Kry.co.uk > Your health > 10 common STIs and their treatments

Kry STI HoldingImage v1-01

Looking after your sexual health is always important – especially as some sexually transmitted infections take time to show up, while others have no symptoms at all

10 common STIs and their treatments

Ever landed awkwardly on your ankle playing sport or rolled your ankle while walking? A sprained ankle can be painful. A [mild sprain](/your-health/what-is-a-sprain/) means you’ve overstretched your ligaments – the strong but stretchy bands that hold your bones in place and keep your joint stable. A severe sprain can cause the ligaments to tear. 

It can be difficult to know whether you’ve strained, sprained or broken your ankle. Here’s how to tell what type of injury you might have and how to get the best treatment for the fastest possible recovery.

## First aid tips for an ankle sprain
Even if you don’t know whether it’s a sprain or break, if you twist or jolt your ankle painfully, follow these first steps to prevent further injury and to help with healing in the long-run:

- Avoid putting weight on it if it’s very painful and make sure you rest your ankle
- Sit in a comfortable position with your ankle elevated
- Use a crutch or friend for support
- Place ice or a cold compress on the ankle as soon as you can. It helps if this is done regularly throughout the first few days
- Keep your ankle elevated as much as you can
- Seek medical help if the pain and swelling is severe

## How do I know if I have a sprained ankle?
A sprained ankle will feel painful but it may also start to look swollen and bruised. Your symptoms will depend on how bad your injury is, the initial symptoms might be:

- Pain
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Restricted movement of the ankle
- Difficulty putting weight on your foot or more pain when you do
- Feeling wobbly or unstable when you try to stand on it

## Sprained ankle vs broken ankle – what’s the difference?

A [sprain](/your-health/what-is-a-sprain/) happens when you damage the ligaments in your ankle – either stretching them beyond their limit or tearing them completely. An ankle fracture or break happens when at least one of the bones in your ankle breaks.

There are some key ways to help you identify which your injury might be:

- __Noise__ – a sprain may be silent or in severe cases cause a popping sound. With a fracture, you’ll likely hear a loud crack.
- __Shape__ – swelling can happen with both injuries, but if your ankle looks out of shape or off its usual position, this means it’s most likely broken.
- __Feeling__ – with a sprain, you’ll usually feel pain. If you have numbness or tingling, your ankle is more likely broken.
- __Pain placement__ – if the pain is in the soft part of your ankle, it’s more likely a sprain. If your ankle hurts directly above the ankle bone, you probably have a fracture.

Still not sure? Speak to a doctor. They can properly examine your ankle and identify which injury you have so you can get the best ankle sprain or break treatment. If it’s a bad injury then they may suggest that you have an X-ray to look at the bones in your ankle.

## When should I seek medical help?
You don’t always need medical help for a sprained ankle. You can usually follow some self-care steps at home to aid the healing process, including RICE – Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate.

If your sprain is very bad, the skin is broken, if your ankle is too painful to stand on or you think the bone might be fractured, seek medical attention as soon as possible. It may be best to go to an urgent treatment centre or minor injury unit where they will help to determine the injury type. You can phone NHS 111 if you’re not sure.

You should also seek medical help if your ankle is still painful or the swelling doesn’t improve after a few days. If you keep spraining your ankle or it feels unstable when you walk on it, make an appointment to see a doctor or physiotherapist, and they can help find you the right support.

## The best self-help steps for a mild sprained ankle
Most minor ankle sprains will get better on their own.  

Try the RICE method for the first 2-3 days:
- __Rest__ - try not to put weight on your ankle as much as possible
- __Ice__ - place an ice pack (or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel) on the ankle joint for about 20 minutes every 2-3 hours
- __Compression__ - use a bandage or ankle support, but be careful not to wrap too tightly
- __Elevation__ - keep your ankle above your heart as much as you can, try propping it up with pillows

You can also try the following:
- Take an anti-inflammatory drug to ease the pain if you’re able to do so
- Try physiotherapy for a moderate sprain or introduce your own exercises to increase the range of motion once the pain and swelling go down.

## The best sprained ankle treatments if the sprain is severe

If your sprain is severe, it’s best to seek medical help as soon as you can. To diagnose the injury, a healthcare professional will likely do an imaging scan to rule out a fracture or to look in more detail at your ligament damage. They may do one of the following:

- X-ray
- MRI
- CT scan
- Ultrasound

You then might need any of the following treatments or methods for a severe ankle sprain:

- __Medication__ – pain relievers and anti-inflammatories recommended by a doctor can help to ease the pain
- __Crutches or a support brace__ – these can help to stabilise the ankle while it heals
- __Physiotherapy__ – once the swelling and pain has reduced, a doctor or physical therapist will be able to recommend exercises to help you build stabilisation and balance
- __Surgery__ - on rare occasions when the injury doesn’t heal or the ankle remains unstable, you may need surgery

## How long does a sprained ankle take to heal?
Most sprained ankles are minor, but your injury – and recovery time – depends on the severity of damage to your ligaments. 

__Grade 1 sprain__ – one or more ligaments in your ankle is overstretched but not torn. You’ll likely see normal range in your foot after a few days, and this type of sprain usually heals within 2 weeks.

__Grade 2 sprain__ – your ligament is partially torn and a doctor may be able to feel the instability when they move your ankle. This can take 6-8 weeks for the swelling to go down and for the injury to heal properly.

__Grade 3 sprain__ – your ligament is completely torn. This can take 3-6 months or longer for you to regain full strength and movement in the foot.

__This article has been medically reviewed by Dr Bryony Henderson, Lead Kry GP.__


kry.co.uk > CTA > Ankle sprain

Speak to a GP about an ankle sprain

kry.co.uk > Your Health > Sprained ankle

Ankle sprain

A sprained ankle can be painful and requires rest and recovery – discover the best ways to manage a sprained ankle.

Meta information > Your Health > Sprained ankle

What to do if you have a sprained ankle | Kry UK

What to do if you have a sprained ankle

[More than 8 in 10 workers](https://www.ons.gov.uk/employmentandlabourmarket/) who worked from home during the Covid-19 pandemic planned to continue with hybrid working. Since then, hybrid working in the UK has risen from 13% in early February 2022 to 24% in May 2022.

We take a look at some of the physical and psychological consequences of working from home for an extended period of time, and the steps you can take to protect and improve your health.

## 1. Loneliness

Working from home offers lots of benefits. You avoid long commutes to and from your place of work and have more time for your family and other interests. But the social aspects of our jobs are very important to some of us.

Working from home for long periods of time can lead to feelings of loneliness and social exclusion. Studies show that involuntary loneliness takes a great toll on our mental health, and may lead to [depression](/medical-advice/mental-health/depression/) and [anxiety](/medical-advice/mental-health/anxiety/). 

### How to feel less lonely working from home

If you mostly work from home, or going to the office to see colleagues is not an option, you can actively look for other ways to ease your loneliness.
Find a coworking space – If you’re a freelancer or don’t have an office, you can rent a desk in a coworking space. Find your nearest coworking space and try working from there a few days a week.

Communicate digitally – Try to stay in touch with colleagues and friends via phone calls, video calls and text messages. While this isn’t the same as meeting face-to-face, it may help you feel less isolated.
Spend more time with friends – Make an effort to spend some extra time socialising with a friend or neighbour, either during your lunch break, evenings or weekends. 

## 2. Muscle stiffness

Working from home often involves long periods of sitting in front of your computer. Some of us may experience muscle stiffness and discomfort after prolonged periods of inactivity. You’ll usually be able to ease this stiffness simply by moving around.

Here are 2 exercises you can do to relieve a stiff neck and shoulders:

### Stretch your neck

- Keeping your shoulders straight and relaxed, gently incline your neck sideways until your ear touches your shoulder
- Hold for 15 to 30 seconds and then gently incline your head to the other side
- Turn your head so that your nose touches your armpit, hold for 15 to 30 seconds and then change sides
- Lower your chin towards your chest while carefully holding the back of your head with both hands 
- Hold for 15 to 30 seconds and repeat these exercises 2 or 3 times

### Roll your shoulders

- Stretch your back so you’re sitting or standing straight and relaxed
- Roll your shoulders upwards, backwards and down
- Repeat this movement up to 10 times

## 3. Excess weight and obesity

Working from home inevitably involves more sitting still. Moving about more and exercising can reduce your risk of excess weight and obesity, low mood and anxiety.

Several conditions are linked to excess weight and obesity, such as [type 2 diabetes](/medical-advice/type-2-diabetes/), [high blood pressure](/medical-advice/cardiovascular-diseases/hypertension/) and other cardiovascular diseases. Arthritis, a common condition that causes pain and inflammation in your joints, is also associated with excess weight and obesity.

### How to manage your weight

There’s a lot you can do to improve your health and maintain a healthy weight:

__Diet__ ‒ eat regular healthy and balanced meals. Remember to eat slowly and mindfully, and stop when you feel full.

__Activity__ ‒ exercise regularly for at least 30 minutes a day and try to include both strength and conditioning training. It’s important to start exercising at a light to moderate level and gradually increase your activity.

__Behaviour__ ‒ identify and embrace the activities or habits that help you maintain a healthy lifestyle.

__Social support__ ‒ tell your friends and family that you’re making a conscious effort to improve your health, and ask for their help and support.

## 4. Piles (haemorrhoids)

You can develop gastrointestinal problems like piles after sitting still for long periods of time. Piles may also be caused by [constipation](/medical-advice/digestive-problems/constipation/), especially if you strain too hard on the toilet. 

If you notice any bleeding after you poo, always speak to a GP. Or if you already know that you have piles, keep them clean and dry, but avoid using soap as this may irritate your skin. There are creams available from the pharmacy to ease the pain, itching and swelling. 

### How to avoid constipation and piles

- [Drink more water](/your-health/why-is-hydration-so-important-a-doctors-guide/) and eat plenty of fibre
- Go to the toilet regularly
- Try and get some exercise each day
- Try over-the-counter medicines that soften your poo

## 5. Skin problems

Dry indoor air can make your skin especially sensitive and sometimes cause skin problems. When your skin is dry, its natural protective barrier has been damaged by the lack of moisture and oils in your skin. 

Typical symptoms include tight, inflamed or flaky skin that itches. Your skin may even crack and bleed. These problems can lead to [eczema](/medical-advice/skin-conditions/eczema/), which may require treatment with emollients and steroid creams.

If your skin tends to be dry, you’ll need to regularly apply moisturising and hydrating products. This helps to restore your skin’s elasticity and protect it from further damage. You can get emollients and moisturising products from the pharmacy.

### How to avoid and treat dry skin

- Regularly moisturise your skin especially after washing
- Don’t scratch as it will make the problem worse and can cause infection
- Stick to shorter showers as water strips your skin of its natural oils
- Avoid harsh soaps and choose products made with natural plant oils
- Use rubber gloves when washing up to protect your hands
- Limit the amount of time you spend in the sun and always apply sunscreen
- Protect your skin against the cold as chilly, dry air is tough on your skin

## 6. Alcohol dependence

For some people, working from home contributes to a lack of routine and social isolation. This can increase your risk of having [problems with alcohol](/medical-advice/mental-health/support-for-addiction/) – especially for people who may have experienced these struggles in the past. 

A temporary high intake of alcohol has an immediate effect on the nerve cells in your brain – it impairs your judgement, your responses, your balance and your memory.

Your muscles and emotions are also harder to control, your sleep is disrupted and you may experience nausea and vomiting. A really high blood alcohol level can lead to unconsciousness and alcohol poisoning which requires urgent care.

### How to spot the warning signs

If you suspect that you have an unhealthy relationship with alcohol, it’s important to seek professional help. Here are some of the signs to look out for:

- You feel a strong craving for alcohol
- You drink more, for longer and more frequently than you intended
- You need to drink more to get the same effect
- You have memory gaps and feel shame about your drinking
- Alcohol has a dominant role in your life to the detriment of everything else
- You’ve tried to cut down on your drinking with no success
- You experience withdrawal symptoms if you don’t drink such as shaking and feeling sick
- You drink in secret or continue drinking to cure a hangover
- You drink to cope with your daily life
- The people around you are concerned you drink too much
- Your drinking is causing you financial problems and/or relationship problems, or making you suicidal
- If you’re struggling to limit or give up drinking, you can get help in several different ways. You can contact your GP, or alcohol support services such as Drinkchat, Drinkline, Alcoholics Anonymous or With You.

## 7. Mental health problems

Spending more time at home without regular social contact can increase low mood, [anxiety](/medical-advice/mental-health/anxiety/), and [depression](/medical-advice/mental-health/depression/) for some of us.

Depression is a state of feeling persistently sad for weeks or months, and losing interest in the things you used to enjoy. Sleeping badly and feelings of lethargy and hopelessness are other common symptoms.

While depression may be triggered by traumatic life events or setbacks, sometimes there’s no obvious cause. Genetic factors and anxiety-related difficulties can make you more susceptible.

### Ways to improve your mental health

__Get some fresh air__ – going outdoors every day helps to boost your mood, as both the light and natural vitamin D are good for you, and give you a much-needed break from work.

__Stay active__ – physical activity makes you more resilient against anxiety and low mood, and can alleviate stress, worrying and sleeping difficulties.
Eat healthily – nourishing food at regular intervals throughout the day helps your body to function better.

__Prioritise sleep__ – good sleeping habits make you less prone to low mood, anxiety and depression.

__Avoid stress__ – make time in your working week for relaxation, mindfulness or an activity that you feel has a positive impact on your stress levels.


Speak to a GP about your mental health

kry.co.uk > Your health > 7 ways working from home affects our health

how working from home affects our health

More of us are adapting to a new hybrid way of working. We take a look at the effects on your physical and mental health of working from home.

7 ways working from home affects our health | Kry

7 ways working from home affects our health

kry.co.uk > General health and seasonal > Articles 

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