Health & Beauty

#1 – Persistent Coughing

Coughing is a natural process which clears the respiratory tract of foreign particles and normal secretions. Everyone is susceptible to coughs from time to time, especially when exposed to air pollution, pollen, etc. However, if you have been coughing for over two weeks, and you haven’t been influenced by common causes like smoking, it could be a symptom of a greater problem including bronchitis, pneumonia, and in rare cases, lung cancer.

#2 – Sharp Pain in the Side

If you have exerted your body after a long period of relative inactivity,...

The Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust is delighted to announce the appointment of Dr Alison Diamond as Chief Executive.

Dr Diamond, a GP in Bideford and currently the Trust’s Medical Director, will start in this role on 1 May 2014.

Roger French, Chair of the Northern Devon Healthcare NHS Trust said: “The Board is delighted to welcome Alison to the role of Chief Executive. There was a really strong field of candidates but Alison was outstanding. She won this appointment deservedly.

“She has worked for the Trust as Medical Director since 2010 and has shown immense...

The NHS walk-in centre in Sidwell Street, Exeter, will be temporarily closed on Wednesday 9 April and Thursday 10 April due to staff shortages at short notice.

The centre will reopen at 8am on Friday 11 April.

Patients will be signposted to the walk-in centre at Royal Devon and Exeter Hospital or to call 111.

Kate Lyons, the Trust’s director of operations, said: “We apologise for any inconvenience the temporary closure may cause.

“Patient safety is paramount and we cannot operate the service without the appropriately skilled and experienced staff.”

#1 – Regular Exercise

Working out regularly will help substantially lower your blood pressure. Even a brisk walk for 30 to 60 minutes every day could show considerable effect. By exercising regularly, you could reduce the risk of developing full-blown hypertension as well. Talk to your physician about developing an exercise regime. If you haven’t been leading an active lifestyle, even moderate activity, such as light stretching or walking, can be helpful. Avoid the temptation of remaining inactive during the weekdays and working out during just the weekends. This could cause more...