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Health & Lifestyle

Plain-English introductions to common conditions, with trusted NHS information one click away.

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Common conditions

A short introduction to some of the conditions our patients ask about most. Each one links to the NHS website for full, up-to-date information on symptoms, causes and treatment.

Type 2 diabetes

A long-term condition where blood sugar levels become too high. It's often linked to weight and lifestyle, and can usually be managed with healthy eating, regular activity and, where needed, medicines.

Read more on NHS

High blood pressure

Often has no symptoms, but over time it puts extra strain on the heart and blood vessels. Regular checks and the right treatment lower the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Read more on NHS

Asthma

A common lung condition that can cause wheezing, a tight chest, coughing and breathlessness. Reliever and preventer inhalers, used correctly, keep most people well controlled.

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High cholesterol

Too much fat in the blood can build up in the arteries and raise the risk of heart disease and stroke. It rarely causes symptoms, so a blood test is the only way to know.

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COPD

The name for a group of lung conditions that cause long-term breathing problems, most often linked to smoking. Treatment can ease symptoms and slow the condition down.

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Coronary heart disease

Happens when the arteries supplying the heart become narrowed by fatty deposits. It can cause chest pain and, if an artery blocks completely, a heart attack.

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Depression

More than feeling sad for a few days. Low mood that lasts for weeks or months and affects daily life is common and treatable, with talking therapies, medicines or both.

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Osteoarthritis

The most common type of arthritis. Joints become painful and stiff, particularly the knees, hips and hands. Staying active, managing weight and pain relief all help.

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Eczema

Causes dry, itchy, inflamed skin and often comes and goes in flare-ups. Regular moisturising and prescribed creams can keep it under control.

Read more on NHS

Looking for a different condition?

Browse all conditions on NHS.uk

Living in Wales? Try the NHS 111 Wales health information too.

Living well

Small, steady changes make a real difference. These NHS guides are a good place to start.

Eat well

A balanced diet supports a healthy weight and lowers the risk of many long-term conditions.

Read more on NHS

Get active

Regular exercise helps your heart, bones, sleep and mood, whatever your age or fitness.

Read more on NHS

Stop smoking

Quitting is the single best thing you can do for your health, and support makes it far more likely to work.

Read more on NHS

Alcohol advice

Cutting down on alcohol has benefits for your liver, heart, sleep and mental health.

Read more on NHS

Please note

This page gives general information only and is not a substitute for advice from a healthcare professional. If you're worried about your health, speak to your GP or call NHS 111. In an emergency, call 999.

Questions about your medicines? Call us on 024 7627 5891 or email sajid.hussain@nhs.net.