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London (PA Media/dpa)  – HPV is often considered a taboo subject. Although most of us will be exposed human papillomavirus (HPV) at some point in our lives, it remains widely misunderstood. Receiving a positive HPV result can be worrying and confusing, yet the link between HPV and cervical cancer is more nuanced than many people realise. We spoke to Adeola Olaitan, a consultant gynaecological oncologist, who explained what HPV is, how it relates to cervical cancer and addressed some common myths around this topic. What is HPV? “HPV is a family of viruses that infect the skin and the mucosal tissue,” explains Olaitan. “There are different subtypes of HPV which are denoted by numbers.” You can get HPV from any skin-to-skin contact of the genital area, vaginal, anal or oral sex or through sharing sex toys, according to the UK's National Health Service (NHS) website. Most of the time HPV does not cause any problems, highlights the gynaecological oncologist. “In most cases, HPV is a transient, harmless condition, and most people clear it without even knowing that they had it,” says Olaitan. “It will usually clear naturally within two years.” What is the biggest misconception about HPV? “I think the biggest misconception about HPV is the stigma surrounding it,” says Olaitan. “Because it’s a sexually associated infection, people think it has connotations of promiscuity, which it doesn’t. You can have sex once and get HPV.” Which types of HPV can increase your risk of cervical cancer? There are over 200 types of HPV, according to The Eve Appeal, and they are split into two groups: low-risk HPV and high-risk HPV. Around 14 types of HPV are considered high risk for cervical cancer and two of these types (HPV 16 and HPV 18) cause about 70 out of 100 (70%) of all cervical cancer cases, according to Cancer Research UK. “HPV 16 and HPV 18 can infect the cervix, and if the infection persists then they can increase the risk of cervical cancer,” explains Olaitan. How can you find out if you have HPV? “There are usually no symptoms of HPV, so if you don’t go to a cervical cancer screening, you won’t know you have it,” says Olaitan. “The knowledge of whether you have HPV or not is only important because it marks people out as having a greater risk of having abnormal cells, which if left undetected or untreated can increase the risk of cervical cancer.” Everyone with a cervix should be invited for screening every five years from the age 25 to 64, according to the NHS website. It also states that during the screening appointment, a small sample of cells is taken from your cervix and the sample is checked for high-risk HPV types that can cause changes to the cells of your cervix. “If the initial screening finds high-risk HPV, a reflex cytology test would be conducted on the same sample to look for abnormal cells,” explains Olaitan. “If that finds no abnormal cells, you will be told to come back for a screening at a shorter interval. However, if abnormal cells are found you will be referred for a colposcopy to have a closer look at the cervix.” Can protect yourself against HPV? “The HPV vaccine is very effective at protecting people against HPV,” says Olaitan. “It’s typically given to children between the ages of 11 and 13 and is licensed to the age of 45, but it’s less effective the older you are. “But you can have it even if you’ve been exposed to HPV or you have a current HPV infection, and it gives immunity that’s stronger and longer lasting than natural immunity alone. So, it’s still good to have it, but it’s better to have it when you’re young.” What are some symptoms of cervical cancer to look out for? “The most common symptoms of cervical cancer are bleeding after sex, bleeding in between periods, bleeding after the menopause, or an offensive, persistent vagina discharge,” highlights Olaitan. “Most of the time these symptoms are indicative of benign conditions, but it’s important that they’re not ignored and that you go and get them checked to exclude anything more serious going on.” What’s the most important thing people should know about HPV and cervical cancer? “Remember that cervical cancer is preventable, and people who go for regular screenings are unlikely to get cancer,” says Olaitan. “Screening and being vaccinated are two of the most important things you can do for your health.” The following information is not intended for publication dpa pa mls

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Be extra vigilant about the health and wellbeing of older loved ones this winter. London (PA Media/dpa) – Cold weather, darker evenings and seasonal illnesses can make everyday tasks more challenging during the winter period, especially for older people. “Winter is a period when we need to be particularly vigilant about the health and wellbeing of older adults,” says Maria Talaban, registered nurse at the UK's Loveday Abbey Road care home. “Colder temperatures can trigger a rise in respiratory infections, reduced mobility from stiffness and cold-related pain, and an increased risk of dehydration as people naturally drink less. “Falls also become more common as joints tighten and energy levels dip, and in more severe cases, inadequate heating or clothing can lead to hypothermia. Chronic conditions such as COPD, diabetes and cardiovascular disease often worsen during this season, requiring closer monitoring and timely intervention.” However, the older adults in our lives might hesitate to ask for help. So, here is some advice on how to keep a closer eye on your loved ones this winter… How can you tell if an elderly relative is coping well day-to-day? “A relative who is coping well maintains their usual routines, keeps their living space relatively tidy, engages in conversation and shows interest in daily activities,” says Talaban. “Look for steady appetite, good hydration, appropriate clothing choices and a stable mood. If loved ones appear content, oriented and able to manage small tasks independently, it’s a strong indicator they’re managing well.” Other positive signs include keeping on top of bills and appointments, maintaining good social connections with family, friends and neighbours, and sleeping well with a regular routine, she adds. What subtle signs of decline do people often miss? Small, subtle changes often signal bigger issues. “Families often overlook reduced mobility, minor memory lapses, reluctance to go outdoors or small changes in posture and gait,” says Talaban. “Pay close attention to behavioural shifts such as irritability or withdrawn behaviour. These subtle markers, especially when new or progressing, can indicate emerging health challenges.” A prominent shift in eating or sleeping patterns could also be a red flag. “Shifts in sleep patterns, particularly increased daytime napping and night-time disorientation, may suggest an underlying change in wellbeing,” says Talaban. “In addition, unexplained weight loss, a declining appetite or an empty fridge are equally important signs. “Changes in personal hygiene, from wearing the same clothes repeatedly to an unkempt appearance, body odour or avoiding bathing and grooming, can also all point to someone quietly struggling with day-to-day life.” How can you tell if a loved one isn’t eating or drinking enough? “Weight loss, dry skin, dry mouth or cracked lips, constipation, fatigue, headaches, dark concentrated urine, reduced urination, dry skin, sunken eyes and mood changes or confusion often indicate poor nutrition or hydration,” highlights Talaban. “You may notice food left untouched, expired groceries, or a dwindling interest in meals. Families can support this by offering hydrating snacks, warm drinks and nutrient-dense foods.” How often should family members or friends check in? “Daily contact, whether through a call, message, or brief visit, offers invaluable reassurance and allows families to identify early signs of change,” says Talaban. “When checking in, look for subtle shifts in mobility, such as walking more slowly than usual, using furniture for support, hesitation on stairs, or difficulty rising from a chair.” What are some signs that might suggest an older adult is becoming socially isolated? “Reduced phone use, declining invitations, withdrawn behaviour and a loss of interest in hobbies are common early signs,” says Talaban. “A noticeable quietness, becoming emotionally distant or a lack of enthusiasm in conversation can also indicate loneliness. “We recommend day clubs, community groups or companionship visits to help older adults stay engaged, warm and socially connected.” How can you get an elderly relative to open up without being confrontational? “Gentle curiosity works better than direct questioning,” advises Talaban. “Create a relaxed environment, perhaps during a shared cup of tea and ask open, non-judgemental questions.” What other practical things can family members or friends do to help an older adult who lives on their own this winter? Small, thoughtful actions can make a big difference. “Ensuring the home is warm, pathways are safe and cupboards are well stocked provides vital security during the colder months,” says Talaban. “Families can also offer support by arranging transport to appointments and planning regular social engagements.” It’s also a good idea to prepare for emergencies. “Make sure the home is winter-ready with a safely functioning heating system, working torches, extra blankets and a clearly displayed list of emergency contacts,” advises Talaban. “It’s also wise to keep a simple emergency kit on hand, stocked with essentials, to provide reassurance and support during unexpected weather disruptions or power cuts.” The following information is not intended for publication pa dpa coh

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As the year draws to a close, some of us will find ourselves overwhelmed with festivities. Is this break going to be one of all-out revelry or a more moderate approach that benefits your body and soul. London (PA Media/dpa) – Hitting the booze and festive food hard is often as much a part of Christmas as awkward work dos and Rudolf. But it doesn’t have to be that way. You can enjoy December without a perpetual hangover and a tin of chocolates constantly on the go – you might even have a better time. “A lot of people down tools on December 1 from a health and wellbeing perspective, then it’s like, ‘Right, January is the time to really kick on,’” says Andy Carr, master trainer and head of fitness for Snap Fitness UK & Ireland. “I don’t know if it’s a British thing, or a human thing, but we’re not particularly good at moderation.” So, in an effort to avoid a pigs-in-blanket-coma (not technically a medical condition…) and your mood dipping in line with the number of cocktails you knock back, here’s how to make the most of party season, without overdoing it and burning out… Go easy before big nights out If you know you’ve got your work bash coming up, plan your week accordingly and nail the basics. “Get a bit of rest, make sure you’re eating lots of nutrient-rich meals and have a balanced week, because we can all feel a bit of guilt when we go wild at social events,” says Carr. “You need to be looking after yourself and fuelling your body properly during the Christmas period to enjoy it,” agrees physiologist and nutritionist at Nuffield Health, Hannah Belsham. “You don’t want to be having colds and flu and feeling sluggish, bloated and tired.” Good nutrition and decent sleep can help ward those off. Earn the fun “It’s a difficult time of year to get yourself down to the gym because it’s darker in the evenings, but it’s really important for your mental health,” says Carr. “If you are going to be drinking on these nights out, it will affect your mentality, so making sure you’re exercising regularly, and you feel confident and happy in yourself will mean you make more mindful decisions on your night out, and you’ll have earned the fun you’re having.” Focus on fibre You don’t have to skip the cheese and chocolate, but mix in some good, fibre-rich stuff too, says Belsham. “Fibre slows down the tract of food throughout our gut, which means if we have sweets with a high glucose content, the glucose spikes we get are not as intense, and we’re not getting the crash afterwards. It also means we’re feeling fuller for longer, so we’re less likely to carry on snacking.” Luckily, there are so many good vegetables to enjoy at this time of year. “I’m such a nutritionist, my favourite part of Christmas dinner is the vegetables,” says Belsham. “I know that’s controversial, but I love a little honey-roasted parsnip, Brussels sprouts, and red cabbage.” And if you are maxing out on crisps and crackers, have them “with carrot sticks and cucumber to make each snack more mindful”. This can all help with gut health at Christmas too, reducing discomfort and bloating. Stay hydrated “Hydration on a night out is important. I have a glass of water between drinks – it is simple, but effective, and that helps me the following day so I don’t feel as tired and dehydrated,” says Carr. As well as alternating booze and water, you can ‘zebra-stripe’ with zero per cent alcohol or soft drinks. Mindful drinking expert and Breast Cancer UK ambassador, Camille Vidal says tactics like this help pace you. You can also try “starting with something alcohol free, and ending with something alcohol free to reduce how much you drink”. Reframe the role of booze “We have this narrative that alcohol is what makes the moment better, but feeling horrible and hungover on Christmas Day or Boxing Day isn’t a nice experience,” says Vidal. “It’s about celebrating in a way that feels good in the moment and the day after.” If you’re feeling pressure to drink, Vidal recommends saying: “‘I’m not drinking at the moment because I feel so much better when I don’t.’” Or if you’re working on a fitness goal, share that with loved ones to help them get onboard, or even join you and “keep each other accountable”. Pack the fridge with non-alcoholic options, even if you aren’t mindfully drinking yourself. “Other people might be, so when hosting parties, make sure there is an option for everyone and be more inclusive in the way you celebrate,” says Vidal. Stand up for yourself Setting boundaries might sound a bit therapy-speak, but having a sense of what you are and are not comfortable with is important. “It’s okay to say no,” says Carr. “You’re going to be around people that you either socialise regularly with, or potentially people that you don’t, and therefore you might feel a bit of pressure to stay out later than you usually would. Protect your own energy. It’s absolutely fine to enjoy yourself, but know the correct time to say no and get yourself home.” The same goes with alcohol, says Vidal. “You don’t have to say, ‘I’m not drinking’. Just go to the bar and ask for an alcohol-free option that will look exactly the same in the glass – you don’t have to justify yourself.” Get your rest post-party ‘Tis the season for burning the candle at both ends, but you do need to sleep. “Sleep is this odd thing we feel we can sacrifice when we need to. An hour or two here or there each night is something that surely we can get away with because it’s just a bit of sleep, but the reality is it is a little bit like stealing a few hours now, but paying for it later,” says Dr Jeff Foster of Manual.co. “A reduction in one or two hours of sleep per night for two weeks can have a significant impact on our hormone levels, including testosterone and cortisol. Doing this for longer periods can have a significant impact on our mental health and cardiovascular health risk.” Foster recommends “not staying out too late or trying to split your social events across different days or weeks to minimise the repeated impact of recurrent sleep deprivation”. “You could even try hosting a party that starts a bit earlier in the hope that it finishes earlier as well,” he adds. Take it easy – but still move your body You don’t have to subscribe to the ‘sweat it out’ philosophy after a big night out. “I don’t go all guns blazing,” says Carr. “For 48 hours afterwards, yes, but the day after your body is in recovery.” He prefers low-impact exercise. “Reformer Pilates gets me to reconnect with myself, get out of the mindset of a hangover, and gives me a boost if I’m feeling low on energy.” Otherwise, he swears by taking a long walk. “That freshens me up, and I feel a lot better.” Breathe deeply “Although it can be a really happy time, it can also be a really overwhelming season,” acknowledges Belsham. “Mindfulness or deep breathing can help reset your nervous system balance, and that can calm your heart rate, especially if you’re also suffering ‘hanxiety’. Alcohol can disrupt GABA, your calm hormone neurotransmitter, which means you’re more likely to feel anxious the next day. Box breathing can help balance everything out and improve those anxious feelings.” The following information is not intended for publication pa dpa coh

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To deliver that many presents, Santa Claus would be burned up at the sheer speed he would need to hit. But there is a way it's possible, one physicist has calculated. This theory also explains why Santa Claus is never seen. Munich (dpa) – Every year, Santa Claus races around the globe in a matter of hours to bring presents to children all over the world. This is how countless films and stories describe it – but scientists have always enjoyed calculating why this is actually impossible. Now, a physicist in Germany says Christmas does not have to be cancelled after all: All Santa needs to do is make use of modern quantum physics, Metin Tolan. For the calculations, the existence of Santa Claus is assumed to be certain, "because the whole world simply cannot be wrong," writes Tolan in a German-language book that translates as "Silent Night, Hasty Night." He recalls one of the first recorded stories in which the existence of Santa Claus was questioned: in 1897, 8-year-old Virginia O'Hanlon wrote a letter to the editor of the New York Sun with the words: "Please tell me the truth: is there a Santa Claus?' Air Force instead of Santa Claus Yes, was the response, couched in many poetic words – which is still one of the most frequently reprinted articles in English-language newspapers today. Another event in the US continues to have an impact to this day: On Christmas Eve 1955, the US Air Defence red telephone rang. Harry Shoup, a colonel in the United States Air Force, answered the phone, expecting an emergency – and a little girl asked: "Are you really Santa Claus?" Numerous other calls followed. A mail order company had published what it believed to be Santa Claus's number – but it was actually the Air Force's top-secret emergency number. "The colonel proved that he was also in control of this special situation and assigned a few men to answer the children's questions," the book says. This event is the basis for the tradition of the North American Aerospace Defence Command NORAD announcing Santa Claus's position every year. The project called NORAD Tracks Santa and can be viewed at www.noradsanta.org. 2,708 visits per second – is that possible? Tolan calculates how many households Santa Claus would have to visit according to a study on Christmas films – assuming that he only delivers to Christian children up to the age of 10 who have been good during the year. In 24 hours, he would have to make 2,708 visits per second to reach 234 million households. If he flew against the Earth's rotation, he would have a total of 32 hours – and thus "only" about 2,000 visits per second to complete. That is 40 times higher than the maximum frame rate that a human being can see – which is why we have no chance of observing him at work. However, Santa Claus would be dead anyway – burned up and crushed, as Tolan explains. He would have to cover a total distance of about 82 million kilometres with a sleigh weighing well over 200,000 tons, if every child received only one gift weighing about 1 kilogram. Reindeer after reindeer would incinerate To accelerate the sleigh to the required speed, Santa Claus would need more than six times the amount of energy consumed in Germany in an entire year, Tolan calculates. He explains the conditions under which one reindeer after another and then Santa Claus and his sleigh would evaporate in a fraction of a second, and why flying around corners also poses deadly risks. But survival is possible if quantum theory and the so-called energy-time uncertainty principle come into play, Tolan says. Quantum theory states that matter also has wave properties. "For Santa Claus, this means that he must be replaced by a matter wave that exists throughout space and describes all the states he can occupy at the same time." Instead of one Santa Claus, there is a whole Santa Claus wave consisting of superpositions of all his states. Quantum theory requires a radically different way of thinking "These individual states are then given by the fact that he delivers his presents to a specific house in each case." Santa Claus is therefore in all houses at the same time. Delivery, according to the rules of quantum theory, makes it impossible for Santa Claus to ever be seen, Tolan writes. A sighting would immediately lead to the collapse of the Santa Claus wave at that location – and thus to the end of the Santa Claus story.The theory of the Santa Claus wave ensures the survival of Santa Claus until the end of the universe, but it requires a radical rethinking Santa Claus doesn't just show up one night every year. "He has been on his way for an eternity of 20 octillion years." An octillion is a 1 followed by 48 zeros. Modern quantum physics is not only reshaping our understanding of reality, time and consciousness, but also making a valuable contribution to saving Santa Claus, Tolan concludes. Incidentally, the professor also calculates how long it takes to work off a single 100-gram chocolate Santa Claus. Unfortunately, that's six hours of walking – or two weeks of non-stop kissing. Ultimately, the book imparts completely useless knowledge, according to Tolan. "After reading it, you will realize that the new insights you have gained will not really help you in any situation in life." But: "You can now shine among your loved ones at Christmas with truly amazing facts and lighten up the contemplative festivities with scientifically sound remarks." The following information is not intended for publication dpa kll a3 xxde mew coh

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Washington (dpa) – At last, health researchers are giving us a reason to eat more, not less, cheese: Anyone fond of at least a couple of slices a day is likely helping their brain hold out against age-related decline. The same goes for those with a sweet tooth who enjoy the occasional dollop of cream with a piece of pie or a handful of strawberries, according to nutritionists at Sweden's Lund University. The researchers found that people who eat at least 50 grams, or two slices, of uncooked high-fat cheese a day appear to reduce their risk of developing dementia by 13%, while consuming 20 grams or more of cream a day is associated with a 16% reduction. Low-fat versions have little effect either way on dementia onset, according to the Lund team, which also found "no association" for other dairy items such as milk, butter and yoghurt. "For decades, the debate over high-fat versus low-fat diets has shaped health advice, sometimes even categorizing cheese as an unhealthy food to limit," said Lund’s Emily Sonestedt, whose team’s work on the subject was published by the American Academy of Neurology in December.  High-fat cheeses are those containing at least 20% fat, while for cream, anything below 30% is considered low-fat. The team looked at quarter-century-long health histories for almost 28,000 Swedes, 3,208 of whom developed dementia over the period. Participants kept track of what they ate and how they prepared their meals – information they passed on to the researchers. "Our study found that some high-fat dairy products may actually lower the risk of dementia, challenging some long-held assumptions about fat and brain health," Sonestedt added, calling for more research into the subject, particularly in countries such as the US where cheese is often eaten melted and with meat. The team said there was no reduction in vulnerability for people carrying the APOE e4 gene variant, which has been shown to be a "genetic risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease." The following information is not intended for publication dpa spr coh

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Sydney (dpa) – Ubiquitous and almost invisible, the tiny shards of plastic that are entering the human body through the food we eat could be damaging our brains in multiple ways, experts fear. A team of scientists have identified "five main pathways" along which so-called microplastics – shed from items such as plastic bottles, containers and cutting boards – may harm the brain and could be accelerating the development of neurodegenerative diseases. In apaper published in December in the journal Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry, researchers at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and Auburn University in Alabama warn that microplastics disrupt immune cell activity, impair mitochondria and damage neurons. "Microplastics actually weaken the blood–brain barrier, making it leaky. Once that happens, immune cells and inflammatory molecules are activated, which then causes even more damage to the barrier’s cells," said Kamal Dua of UTS. Although the human body expels most of the dinner plate-sized amount of plastic ingested each year, small amounts can accumulate in organs, Dua says. Because the body reacts to microplastics as “foreign intruders,” immune cells in the brain go on the offensive. But, according to Dua, "when the brain is stressed by factors like toxins or environmental pollutants this also causes oxidative stress." One of the chief concerns around microplastics remains unproven: that they could be contributing to Alzheimer's by triggering increased build-ups of beta-amyloid and tau while having a similar impact on Parkinson's onset by damaging neurons. However, the "persistent use of plastics in daily life" means there is "an urgent need for further research" into how they lead to "neurological outcomes," the researchers concluded in their paper, calling for efforts to clarify microplastics' role in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. In advice to consumers, co-author Keshav Raj Paudel said: "Steer clear of plastic containers and plastic cutting boards, don’t use the dryer, choose natural fibres instead of synthetic ones and eat less processed and packaged foods." The following information is not intended for publication dpa spr coh

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Brussels (dpa) –  Health officials in Europe are reporting a "significant" uptick in foodborne illness across the continent in the past five years, with listeria killing one in 12 of those infected in 2024. In a joint report covering almost 40 countries, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) found increasing incidences not only of listeria, but also of campylobacter, salmonella and E. coli. Eggs, meat and ready-to-eat meals were listed as "among the most frequent sources of infection," according to the agencies, with salmonella among farm birds given as another possible source. Most cases of the diseases covered in the report were likely preventable if people followed practices such as "keeping the fridge at 5°C or below" and ensuring food is cooked thoroughly and prepared hygienically, the two bodies said. According to the EFSA and ECDC, there were almost 170,000 cases of campylobacter, a diarrhoeal illness often caused by handling raw chicken, and around half that number of salmonella cases in 2024. But while salmonella and campylobacter were by far the most widespread of the diseases tracked, listeria, sometimes called listeriosis, is more serious than either, with around 70% of cases resulting in hospitalization. "Even though contamination is rare, listeria [bacteria] can cause severe illness, which makes it one of the most serious foodborne threats we monitor," said Ole Heuer of ECDC. "A significant number of EU countries failed to meet all the targets for reducing salmonella in poultry, with only 14 member states reaching full compliance," said Frank Verdonck, head of EFSA’s biological hazards unit. The following information is not intended for publication dpa spr coh

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Berlin (dpa) – Many children and young people grow up with insecurities that can weigh heavily on them. They worry about the future, and many develop fears and mental health issues. "That's precisely why they need secure anchors to help them navigate life," says health scientist Anne Kaman from Germany's University Medical Centre Hamburg-Eppendorf, where she is deputy head of the Child Public Health research section. How children develop strength and self-confidence What strengthens children and young people's mental health? Kaman lists these key points: Attention, stable caregivers and safe places: those who feel well cared for can talk about their fears and stresses and cope with them more easily. Social anchors in everyday life: friendships, family rituals and reliable structures provide support. And they help to develop social skills. Experiences of self-efficacy: children need opportunities to experience that "I can make a difference." This helps them not only to “endure” difficult situations, but to "actively deal with them," she says. Confidence: In times of crisis, many children and young people experience a loss of control so it is important to encourage them. "A positive outlook on the future can then provide guidance." How parents model coping with stress is also important. Kaman says "It's not about ignoring difficulties, but about experiencing them as surmountable." This promotes inner strength and self-confidence in children – and this attitude is a key protective factor, especially in times of crisis. What resilience means "Resilience does not mean thinking 'nothing can hurt me,' but rather being aware that you are not alone in a crisis," says communication scientist Anna Frey. In other words, knowing that "I can get help, I have people I can turn to, I know tools I can use." There may be local points of contact for children, young people and carers in your area, where anyone with questions can access free and anonymous information and advice. Check whether there are helplines or resources online that can support you. The following information is not intended for publication dpa/tmn lue neb xxde arw

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Frankfurt (dpa) – A heart attack is a medical emergency that requires an immediate call to the emergency services. However, there are sometimes warning signs that can show up weeks in advance that should prompt you to visit your doctor. Firstly, what exactly happens during a heart attack? A heart attack occurs when the vessels that supply the heart itself with oxygen and nutrients – known as coronary arteries – become blocked. One cause is calcium deposits building up in them, says the German Heart Foundation. As this is a gradual process, symptoms often appear before the blockage occurs, when the vessels are already narrowed in what is referred to as coronary heart disease. Symptoms that should be checked by a doctor A common symptom of coronary heart disease is angina pectoris. Sufferers feel pain and pressure or tightness in the chest, and it is difficult to breathe. If these symptoms occur during physical exertion and improve again at rest, do see a doctor. However, even milder symptoms can be precursors to a heart attack and should be medically investigated, says the German Heart Foundation. That could include if you have had problems climbing stairs for more than two weeks, feel weak, are experiencing unexplained shortness of breath or tire out quickly. When every minute counts It becomes critical when angina pectoris – pain, pressure or tightness and shortness of breath – suddenly occurs even at rest. This can indicate an imminent heart attack. This phase can last several weeks, but sometimes only a few hours. If you wake up at night with chest pain, you should call the emergency services immediately. In the event of a heart attack itself, every minute counts because there is a risk of permanent heart failure and cardiac arrest. Typical symptoms are: Sudden onset of severe pain in the chest or behind the breastbone that lasts longer than five minutes Pain that radiates to other parts of the body such as the arms (usually the left), upper abdomen, back, neck, jaw or shoulder blades Severe tightness and pressure in the chest – a feeling as if an elephant were sitting on your chest Severe burning in the chest, which may feel like heartburn Women's symptoms different But it is important to note that women often experience heart attacks differently. Women in particular sometimes experience non-specific symptoms such as pain in the upper abdomen, which can be confused with stomach ache, nausea or vomiting, dizziness, light-headedness or unexplained tiredness. Even professionals sometimes find it difficult to make the correct diagnosis immediately. But call the doctor if you are concerned as it is better to be safe than sorry. The following information is not intended for publication dpa/tmn hik tsn xxde arw

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When your nose is running and you have a sore throat, you may be tempted to head to the chemist. Some home remedies can help relieve your symptoms though. Our specialists checked out all the options. Berlin (dpa) – If your nose is starting to feel stuffed up, or your throat is scratchy no need to rush right to the chemist. There are home remedies you can try too. But will they work? We asked a range of specialists. Whether it's chicken soup, throat compresses or foot baths, there are countless remedies and methods for treating colds that have often been passed down through generations. "We often have scientific explanations for how home remedies work," says Dr Andreas Michalsen, chief physician at Immanuel Hospital Berlin and professor of naturopathy at Berlin's Charité hospital. Usually there are no classic studies as they do not get the funding necessary. But that is not the case for medicinal plants, whose effects have usually been well researched. Baths, wraps and more: the benefits of heat treatments A tub of warm water, a little mustard powder or ginger powder to stimulate blood circulation, and you have a foot bath that is said to strengthen the immune system. "We know that the temperature of the feet also determines the temperature of the mucous membranes in the mouth and throat," says Michalsen. This can make life harder for some nasty bacteria. "It actually has an immune-boosting effect," he says. But do not use more than 2 tablespoons of mustard powder and apply for a maximum of 5 to 10 minutes, otherwise you run the risk of skin irritation and burns. Neck wraps with potatoes or linseed have a similar effect. The classic onion bags on the ears are also said to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. And hot chicken soup? It can be beneficial for colds – especially as it provides the weakened body with additional energy. Lab tests even suggest that chicken soup has an anti-inflammatory effect, though this effectiveness has not yet been proven in humans, says the Health Knowledge Foundation. Why pungent substances help with colds Nasturtium, horseradish and ginger are the classic pungent substances used to fight colds. "There are studies that show that these pungent substances can shorten colds," says Michalsen. Pungent substances have antiviral and antibacterial effects. From oil to tea: how medicinal plants bring relief As essential oils, bath additives or teas: medicinal plants come in various forms. Mixing thyme and primrose root, which alleviates coughing and shortens the duration of the illness, is very helpful and well researched, says Dr Heidi Braunewell, board member of the German Society for Phytotherapy and seminar leader at the Academy for Healthy Living in Germany. Plants such as sage, peppermint, ribwort plantain, marshmallow, ivy, sarsaparilla root and fennel have also proven effective. "Almost all of these highly concentrated medicinal plants have an antiviral or antibacterial effect," says Michalsen. While ivy, for example, helps with bronchial infections and relieves spasmodic coughs, liquorice root has an anti-inflammatory and expectorant effect, Braunewell says. When it comes to effectiveness, do not place your hopes in thyme and other herbs from your own garden or from the supermarket. Food-grade peppermint tea is unlikely to have antiviral and antibacterial effects. Instead, use medicinal teas from the chemist or a health food shop. It is important to bear in mind that mint and other medicinal plants containing essential oils should not be used on children under two years of age, as they can cause respiratory arrest. Apart from that, however, medicinal plants rarely carry risks or side effects. "It's almost impossible to poison yourself with thyme and sage. In terms of effectiveness, medicinal plants are less potent than chemically synthesised drugs," says Michalsen. When it comes to ready-made medicines, you should follow the package insert. Honey as a secret weapon? Whether in tea or eaten straight from the spoon, honey has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral effects, says Michalsen. Honey can relieve coughing fits and promote better sleep, says the Health Knowledge Foundation. It does not have to be expensive Manuka honey – the claim that it is particularly effective "is mainly good marketing. Basically, all honey has the same properties. It is more important to make sure that it is not contaminated and, ideally, that it is organic," says Michalsen. Consider that children under 1 year of age should not consume honey because their intestinal flora is not yet fully developed and this can lead to poisoning from botulinum spores. When is it advisable to reduce fever? In Germany, calf compresses are the classic remedy for reducing fever. They are a traditional, naturopathic method for gentle fever reduction, involving wrapping the lower legs with lukewarm, damp cloths to help cool the body through evaporation. The cool compresses cause the body to release more heat, thereby reducing the fever, but there is no evidence to support this effect, says the Health Knowledge Foundation. Bear in mind you should not apply calf compresses if the patient has cold calves or chills, or if they have a urinary tract infection or circulatory problems. A gentler way to reduce fever is to drink teas made from lime blossom or hot elderberry juice. "They have an antiviral effect, slightly reduce fever and stimulate sweating," says Michalsen. In principle, a fever is not a bad thing. It is your body trying to fight viruses and bacteria by warming up. However, if the fever lasts for several days and remains above 39 degrees Celsius, doctors strongly advise you consult physician. Does your body need extra vitamin C? No. Although many medicinal products contain vitamin C, this does not generally improve a cold. "Of course, it's good to eat fresh food. However, vitamin C effervescent tablets or similar preparations are not necessary," says Michalsen. Instead, the doctor advises getting enough sleep and drinking plenty of fluids for all colds, the classic approach. The following information is not intended for publication dpa/tmn ada bzl nhr lue xxde arw

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