Look after yourself, shingles vaccinations are now available for over 50's
Shingles is a painful blistering rash which is caused by an infection of the nerve area by the varicella-zoster virus. Shingles is not uncommon and can affect anyone but is most common in people over 50.
The pain caused by shingles is most uncomfortable and can last after the rash has gone. Generally speaking the more severe the rash the more common this is - and older people are more susceptible to this condition known as PHN. It usually goes within 6 months but for some the pain can last for years.
Maintain your health - ask our ultrasound scanning service
Our non invasive ultrasound scanner allows us to look for two signs of atherosclerosis (furred arteries).
1. Increased CIMT - the thickness of the inner two layers of the carotid artery wall is called the carotid intima-media thickness (or CIMT). Having a high CIMT compared to others of your age will place you at a higher risk of heart attack and stroke.
2. Visible carotid plaque (a fatty build up within the wall of the artery) - the presence of such plaque places you in a higher risk category.
Flu Jabs from Sept 23
Having a flu injection ensures you are protected against catching flu and developing serious complications.
This is particularly important if you:
- are pregnant
- have chronic health problems such as asthma, heart failure, kidney failure or hepatitis
- have chronic neurological problems such as motor neurone disease or Parkinson's
- have diabetes
- are suffering with a weakened immune system
- have had your spleen removed
If you are the main carer for someone who is elderly or struggling with health issues you might also consider having a flu jab.