Living With a Convoluted Bowel: Where to Find Help, Advice and Support

Following our earlier That’s Health article about convoluted bowels, we wanted to look at another important question: where can people living with the condition turn for reliable information and support?

A convoluted bowel, also called a redundant or tortuous colon, means the large bowel is longer than usual and consequently has additional twists and loops. For some people it causes few difficulties. For others, constipation, bloating, abdominal discomfort and difficulty completely emptying the bowel can become recurring problems.

One difficulty is that you probably won't find a large UK charity devoted specifically to convoluted bowels. However, there are excellent organisations offering information about constipation and digestive health more generally.

Guts UK https://gutscharity.org.uk

Guts UK is the UK's national charity for the digestive system and is an excellent starting point.

Its website includes detailed information about constipation, its possible causes and available treatments. Importantly, it also points out that simply eating ever-increasing quantities of fibre isn't necessarily appropriate for everybody. With severe constipation, Guts UK advises consulting a doctor before continuing to increase fibre because doing so can sometimes make symptoms worse.

Guts UK also operates a helpline on 0300 102 4887, Monday-Friday, 10am-2pm, providing information, guidance and signposting for people affected by digestive conditions and symptoms.

There is also an excellent online Poo-Torial, designed to help people understand changes in the colour, consistency and frequency of their stools.

The NHS https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/constipation

The NHS constipation guide provides straightforward advice on managing constipation and, importantly, explains when you should speak to your GP.

The NHS recommends seeking medical advice if constipation isn't improving with treatment, keeps recurring, is accompanied by regular bloating or abdominal pain, or if there is blood in your poo, unexplained weight loss, persistent tiredness or a sudden change in bowel habits.

Long-term constipation can sometimes result in faecal impaction, so persistent problems shouldn't simply be accepted as something you have to live with.

Bladder & Bowel Community https://www.bladderandbowel.org

Another useful source is the Bladder & Bowel Community, which provides information, resources and support for people throughout the UK living with bowel and bladder conditions.

Keeping your own bowel diary

It can also be worth becoming your own detective.

Keep a simple diary recording bowel movements, stool consistency, constipation, bloating, pain, food and fluid intake, exercise and any laxatives or medicines taken. Over time, patterns may emerge, and the information could be extremely useful when talking to your GP, pharmacist, dietitian or gastroenterology team.

Don't automatically assume that what works for another constipation sufferer will work for you. Constipation can have different underlying mechanisms, including slow movement through the colon and problems with the pelvic-floor muscles involved in emptying the bowel.

And if you've been diagnosed with an unusually long or convoluted colon, make sure healthcare professionals know about it, particularly before future bowel investigations.

Perhaps the most important message is this: don't be embarrassed to talk about your bowels.

Constipation and bowel problems are extraordinarily common. Guts UK estimates constipation affects around one in seven otherwise healthy people.

Talking about poo might not be glamorous, but sometimes it's exactly what good healthcare requires.

That’s Health note: This article provides general information and isn't a substitute for individual medical advice. Persistent or worsening bowel symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Are Your Contact Lens Habits Putting Your Sight at Risk?

National Eye Health Week, taking place from 21–27 September, offers an important opportunity to examine how we care for our eyes. 

New research suggests many contact lens wearers may unknowingly be putting their sight at risk.

A survey of 300 UK contact lens wearers, commissioned by eye clinic Oculase, found that 88% had slept in their lenses. 

16% admitted doing so regularly, while over 70% had occasionally fallen asleep without removing them.

“Sleeping in contact lenses reduces oxygen to your cornea, leaving the surface stressed, slightly swollen and more fragile,” Oculase founder Tariq Ayoub explained to That's Health. 

“Without blinking, tears don’t refresh, so debris and microbes get trapped against the eye.”

This increases the risk of microbial keratitis, a potentially sight-threatening infection of the cornea.

However, sleeping in lenses was not the only concerning habit identified. The survey found 79% of respondents had worn contact lenses in the shower, 61% had worn them while swimming or using a hot tub, and 53% had rinsed lenses or storage cases with tap water.

Water can contain organisms that should never become trapped between a contact lens and the eye. Worryingly over 80% of those surveyed had never heard of acanthamoeba keratitis, a rare but serious infection particularly associated with exposing contact lenses to water.

The study also uncovered widespread discomfort. Over half of respondents reported dryness, redness or irritation, while 67% had stopped wearing their lenses at some point because of discomfort or an eye problem.

Contact lens wearer Andy, 46, discovered the risks after waking with a painful, red eye. An ophthalmologist subsequently confirmed that he had developed a contact lens infection.

There also appears to be confusion about the relative risks of contact lenses and laser eye surgery. Only 41% thought contact lenses carried the greater risk of serious infection. 

However, the risks are not directly comparable: contact lenses present a small but continuing risk when worn, while laser treatment is a medical procedure carrying its own short- and long-term considerations. Anyone contemplating surgery should seek independent clinical advice.

Most contact lens complications can be prevented. Always wash and dry your hands before handling lenses, keep them away from tap water, never swim or shower in them, and replace them according to the manufacturer’s or optometrist’s instructions.

Unless specifically prescribed for overnight use, remove lenses before sleeping. Even extended-wear lenses are not risk-free.

If you develop persistent redness, pain, blurred vision, discharge or unusual sensitivity to light, remove your lenses and seek urgent professional advice. When it comes to eye infections, prompt treatment could help protect your sight.

https://oculase.com

Excessive Sweating: Can Topical and Herbal Treatments Help?

Sweating is one of the body's natural cooling mechanisms, but for some people it goes well beyond what is needed to regulate temperature. 

Excessive sweating, medically known as hyperhidrosis, can affect the armpits, hands, feet, face, scalp or other areas of the body.

It can be uncomfortable, embarrassing and surprisingly disruptive. 

Fortunately, there are several treatments available, including conventional topical products and some traditional herbal remedies.

Start With Antiperspirants

There's an important difference between deodorants and antiperspirants. Deodorants primarily tackle odour, while antiperspirants actually reduce the amount of sweat reaching the skin.

Products containing aluminium salts, particularly aluminium chloride, are commonly used for excessive sweating. Stronger preparations are available from pharmacies and may be recommended by a GP.

They are usually applied to completely dry skin at night and washed off in the morning. Following the instructions carefully is important because stronger antiperspirants can cause skin irritation.

What About Sage?

Sage (Salvia officinalis) has a long history of traditional use for excessive perspiration, including sweating associated with the menopause.

Sage is available as tea, tablets, tinctures and other preparations. However, while there is some research into sage for menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes and sweating, evidence for treating hyperhidrosis itself is limited.

Herbal doesn't automatically mean harmless, either. Concentrated sage products can contain thujone, which may be harmful in excessive quantities. Anyone taking medicines, pregnant or breastfeeding, or living with a medical condition should check with a pharmacist or doctor before using herbal supplements.

Witch Hazel

Witch hazel is an astringent and is sometimes suggested as a topical treatment for sweaty skin. Applied to areas such as the feet or underarms, it may make the skin feel temporarily drier.

However, evidence that witch hazel actually treats hyperhidrosis is lacking, and frequent application can irritate sensitive skin. It should therefore be regarded as a possible comfort measure rather than a proven treatment.

Other Traditional Remedies

People sometimes recommend cooled black tea soaks for sweaty hands or feet because tea contains tannins with astringent properties. Again, scientific evidence for treating hyperhidrosis this way is limited.

Whatever remedy you try, avoid applying potentially irritating substances such as neat essential oils or strong acidic preparations to sensitive, broken or freshly shaved skin.

When Sweating Deserves a GP Appointment

Excessive sweating isn't always simply a nuisance. Sometimes it can be associated with another condition or with medication.

It's particularly worth seeking medical advice if excessive sweating starts suddenly, occurs predominantly at night, affects your whole body, is accompanied by unexplained weight loss, fever, palpitations or other symptoms, or represents a significant change from your normal pattern.

A GP may investigate possible underlying causes and discuss treatments ranging from prescription-strength antiperspirants and tablets to iontophoresis, botulinum toxin injections and specialist procedures.

The important message is that you don't necessarily have to put up with excessive sweating. Herbal and traditional remedies may provide some people with modest relief, but persistent or severe hyperhidrosis deserves proper assessment — and there are effective medical treatments available.

Glasses With Built-In Hearing Aids: A Clever Combination or a Compromise?

For millions of people, putting on glasses and hearing aids is simply part of getting ready each morning. So why not combine the two?

Glasses incorporating hearing technology aren't an entirely new idea, but modern electronics have made the concept considerably more practical. 

Some devices incorporate conventional hearing-aid components into the arms of the spectacles, while others use technologies such as directional microphones or bone conduction.

For somebody who needs both vision and hearing assistance, they can sound like an ideal two-in-one solution. But there are advantages and disadvantages worth considering.

The advantages

One device instead of two: Perhaps the most obvious benefit is convenience. Put your glasses on and your hearing assistance comes with them. This may be particularly useful for people who find handling tiny conventional hearing aids difficult because of arthritis, reduced dexterity or poor eyesight.

Less equipment around the ears: Wearing spectacles and behind-the-ear hearing aids simultaneously can sometimes feel crowded. The arms of the glasses, hearing aids and perhaps even a face mask can all compete for the same limited space.

They can be discreet: Hearing technology incorporated into spectacle frames can be less immediately noticeable than some conventional hearing aids. For people who feel self-conscious about wearing hearing aids, this might encourage them to use their hearing assistance more consistently.

Bone-conduction possibilities: Some hearing glasses transmit sound through vibrations in the skull rather than relying entirely on sound travelling through the ear canal. Bone-conduction technology can be useful for particular types of hearing loss, although it certainly isn't suitable for everybody.

Modern technology: Depending upon the model, hearing glasses may offer features such as rechargeable batteries, Bluetooth connectivity and smartphone controls.

But there are disadvantages

The biggest drawback is equally obvious: you cannot easily separate your glasses from your hearing assistance.

Take your spectacles off to clean them, change into prescription sunglasses or simply rest your eyes and you may also lose your hearing assistance. If either part of the combined device develops a fault, you could temporarily lose both.

Choice can also be more restricted. Conventional hearing aids are available in an enormous range of designs, power levels and configurations. Combining them with spectacles inevitably reduces your options, particularly when it comes to choosing frames.

There is also the question of upgrading. Your eyesight and hearing don't necessarily change at the same rate. You might need a new spectacle prescription while being perfectly happy with the hearing technology, or want newer hearing aids while your glasses remain perfectly adequate.

Cost should also be considered. Specialist hearing glasses can be relatively expensive, and repairs or replacement frames may be more complicated than taking ordinary spectacles to your local optician.

Most importantly, hearing loss varies enormously. A system that works brilliantly for one person could be completely inappropriate for another.

Are hearing glasses worth considering?

Absolutely, particularly if you already wear spectacles throughout the day and dislike managing separate hearing aids.

However, don't choose them simply because the two-in-one concept sounds convenient. Have your hearing properly assessed and discuss the different options with a qualified hearing professional or audiologist. It is also worth asking whether you can trial the technology before committing to an expensive purchase.

And remember that unexplained or sudden hearing loss, hearing loss affecting only one ear, persistent tinnitus, dizziness, pain or discharge from the ear should be medically investigated rather than simply addressed by purchasing a hearing device.

Glasses with built-in hearing assistance are unlikely to replace conventional hearing aids for everyone. But for the right person, combining clearer vision and better hearing in one familiar item could be an extremely useful solution.

That’s Health provides general information and does not replace individual medical advice. If you are concerned about changes to your hearing or eyesight, consult an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

Having tried spectacles with in-built hearing aids I found them to be very large and not what I would call fashionable. They are also very heavy to wear for any long period of time. 

Battery use is also an issue. They need frequent re-charging. Whilst I find it irritating to have to replace the batteries in my current hearing aids every couple of days, I'm not without my hearing aids at all as I carry some spare batteries with me.  

The Health Cupboard: Everyday Household Ingredients That May Help With Common Ailments

Long before we had a pharmacy on every high street, people turned to their kitchens and gardens when dealing with minor ailments. 

While modern medicine has transformed healthcare, some traditional remedies involving ordinary herbs, spices and household ingredients still have a useful place.

They aren't substitutes for proper medical treatment, but for minor, short-lived problems, you may already have something useful in the cupboard.

Ginger. Nausea and digestion

Ginger is probably one of the better-known traditional remedies with modern evidence behind it. Ginger tea, made by steeping slices of fresh ginger in hot water, may help relieve nausea and settle an uncomfortable stomach.

Ginger is particularly well known for helping some people experiencing pregnancy-related nausea, although anyone who is pregnant should discuss supplements and medicinal quantities with their healthcare professional.

Peppermint. Digestive discomfort

Peppermint has traditionally been used for indigestion, wind and digestive discomfort. A cup of peppermint tea after a meal is an easy way to try it.

Peppermint oil preparations are also sometimes used for symptoms associated with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), although concentrated essential oils shouldn't simply be swallowed from a household bottle.

Peppermint can aggravate heartburn or acid reflux in some people.

Honey. Coughs and sore throats

A spoonful of honey, or honey stirred into warm water with lemon, can soothe an irritated throat and may help reduce coughing.

However, honey must never be given to a child under 12 months old because of the risk of infant botulism.

Salt. Not just for seasoning

Too much salt in the diet can contribute to high blood pressure, so moderation is important. Used differently, however, ordinary salt has some useful applications.

Warm salty water can be used as a gargle for a sore throat. A salt-water mouth rinse can also sometimes soothe minor mouth irritation.

Saline solutions are widely used for nasal irrigation too, although this requires particular care. Don't simply mix tap water and salt and pour it into your nose. Properly prepared saline and suitably treated, sterile or previously boiled and cooled water should be used.

Turmeric. Interesting, but don't believe every claim

Turmeric and its component curcumin have attracted enormous attention for possible anti-inflammatory effects.

Adding turmeric to curries, soups, rice and other foods is perfectly reasonable, but claims that turmeric can "cure" serious diseases should be treated with considerable scepticism. Supplements can also interact with medicines and aren't automatically safe simply because they're natural.

Oats. Soothing itchy skin

Oats aren't only breakfast food. Colloidal oatmeal is used in skincare products because of its soothing and moisturising properties.

An oatmeal bath may provide temporary relief from dry, itchy or irritated skin. Persistent itching, unexplained rashes or signs of infection should, however, be assessed by a healthcare professional.

Baking soda. Useful, but use caution

Bicarbonate of soda has traditionally been used for several health-related purposes, including occasional indigestion because it can neutralise stomach acid.

However, regularly swallowing bicarbonate of soda isn't a good DIY treatment for persistent indigestion. It contains sodium and can interfere with medicines or cause problems when taken excessively.

Persistent heartburn deserves proper investigation rather than repeated treatment from the baking cupboard.

Chamomile. Relaxation and bedtime

Chamomile tea is a traditional bedtime drink and some people find its gentle aroma and warmth relaxing.

Don't expect it to act like a sleeping tablet, but incorporating a caffeine-free herbal drink into a regular bedtime routine may help you wind down.

People with certain plant allergies or those taking particular medicines should check whether chamomile is suitable for them.

Cloves. Toothache isn't something to ignore

Clove and clove oil have a long history of use for temporary relief of dental pain, and clove oil contains eugenol, which has local anaesthetic properties.

There is an important distinction between temporary relief and treatment, though. Toothache can indicate decay, infection or an abscess. Clove oil may also irritate or damage gums if used incorrectly.

Use appropriate pharmacy preparations according to their instructions. And arrange to see a dentist.

A bag of frozen peas. The surprisingly useful first-aid item

Not everything useful has to be eaten.

A bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel makes a remarkably convenient cold pack for minor bumps, sprains and swelling because it moulds around the affected area.

Never place frozen items directly against bare skin, and significant injuries need appropriate medical assessment.

Olive oil. A simple moisturiser?

Olive oil is sometimes suggested as a natural skin moisturiser, although it doesn't suit everybody and may irritate or worsen certain skin conditions.

For very dry or eczema-prone skin, established emollient products are generally a better option. If you experiment with household products on your skin, stop if irritation develops.

Garlic. Healthy food rather than miracle medicine

Garlic is an excellent ingredient and research has explored possible effects on cardiovascular health.

That doesn't make garlic a replacement for prescribed blood-pressure or cholesterol medication. Eating it as part of a varied diet is one thing; consuming large quantities or concentrated supplements medicinally is quite another, particularly for people taking blood-thinning medicines.

The most useful household remedy may be water

We sometimes overlook the simplest things.

Drinking enough fluid helps the body function normally and can be particularly important when dealing with constipation, hot weather or minor illnesses.

But even water isn't a universal treatment. Severe dehydration caused by prolonged vomiting or diarrhoea, for example, may require oral rehydration solution containing carefully balanced amounts of salts and glucose, and sometimes professional medical treatment.

Natural doesn't automatically mean safe

Perhaps the most important rule of the household medicine cupboard is that "natural" and "safe" aren't synonyms.

Herbs and spices contain biologically active substances. Some can interact with prescription medicines, affect blood clotting or blood pressure, trigger allergies or be unsuitable during pregnancy. Essential oils can be particularly concentrated and potentially harmful if swallowed.

Home remedies are most appropriate for minor, familiar and short-lived complaints.

Seek advice from a pharmacist, GP, NHS 111 or another qualified healthcare professional when symptoms are persistent, worsening, unexplained or severe. Call 999 for a life-threatening emergency.

Household remedies can sometimes make us feel a little better. They shouldn't prevent us seeking the medical care we need.

That’s Health note: This article is for general information and isn't intended to diagnose, treat or replace professional medical advice. If you take regular medication, are pregnant, have a long-term medical condition or are considering using herbal products medicinally, consult an appropriate healthcare professional first.

Why You Should Get Your Eyes Tested Before Autumn Arrives

More from That's Health on looking after your vision.

As summer draws to a close, many of us start thinking about preparing for autumn. 

We check the heating, dig out warmer clothes and perhaps start preparing the garden for colder weather.

But there's another check worth putting on your autumn list: your eyesight.

Having an eye examination before the darker months arrive can be particularly worthwhile, and it isn't simply about discovering whether you need new glasses.

The darker evenings are coming

During autumn, daylight hours rapidly shorten. That means more driving, walking and everyday activities taking place in lower light.

You might have perfectly adequate vision on a bright summer afternoon but discover that reading road signs or judging distances becomes noticeably more difficult after dusk.

Problems such as glare from headlights can also become more apparent when you're driving in darkness or wet weather. Or if you are walking glare from headlights causes you problems.

If you've noticed that night driving isn't as comfortable as it once was, don't simply put it down to getting older. Mention it during your eye examination.

An eye test can reveal more than poor eyesight

A comprehensive eye examination isn't simply about deciding whether you need glasses.

An optometrist examines the health of your eyes and can sometimes identify signs of conditions including cataracts and glaucoma. Eye examinations can also reveal changes that warrant further medical investigation.

That's particularly important because some eye diseases can develop without obvious symptoms during their earlier stages.

Has your prescription changed?

Eyesight can change gradually, which means we don't always notice it happening.

You may compensate by holding books further away, increasing the text size on your phone, sitting closer to the television or avoiding driving after dark.

A new prescription could make an enormous difference to everyday comfort.

And if your glasses are scratched, damaged or several years old, this is a good opportunity to have them checked too.

Think about screen use

Many of us now spend hours looking at computers, tablets and smartphones, particularly people working from home. Including bloggers!

Screens don't necessarily damage healthy eyes simply through normal use, but prolonged close work can contribute to tired, uncomfortable or dry eyes.

Remember the 20-20-20 rule: roughly every 20 minutes, look at something around 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Regular blinking and sensible breaks can help too.

Children need good vision for school

September is also an excellent time to think about children's eyesight.

A child may not realise that their vision is poorer than everybody else's because, to them, that's simply what the world looks like.

Difficulty reading a classroom board, headaches, eye strain, sitting very close to screens or struggling with schoolwork can sometimes be associated with an eyesight problem.

Regular eye examinations can therefore be an important part of children's health care.

Don't wait for your routine appointment if something is wrong

Routine eye examinations are important, but some symptoms shouldn't wait.

Seek urgent professional advice if you experience a sudden loss or significant change in vision, new flashes or a sudden increase in floaters, a dark curtain or shadow across your vision, severe eye pain, or a painful red eye accompanied by changes in vision.

Depending on the circumstances, contact an optometrist, NHS 111 or an appropriate urgent eye-care service. Serious or sudden symptoms may require emergency treatment.

Put an eye test on your autumn checklist

We routinely arrange MOTs for our cars and have boilers serviced before winter, yet it's surprisingly easy to neglect something as important as our eyesight.

So, before the clocks change and those long autumn evenings arrive, consider booking an eye examination.

Even if the result is simply "Everything looks fine, see you next time", that's reassuring news worth having.

And if something has changed, finding out now could make the darker months ahead considerably clearer.

That’s Health note: Eye examination frequency depends on your age, health, family history and individual risk factors. Follow the interval recommended by your optometrist, and seek professional advice sooner if you notice changes in your eyesight or eye health.

Buying Glasses for Less: Should You Take Your Prescription Somewhere Else?

You've had your eyes tested, been handed your new prescription and then started looking at frames, only to discover that the glasses you fancy could cost considerably more than you expected.

But here's something worth remembering: you don't have to buy your spectacles from the optician who tested your eyes.

In the UK, following your sight test, your optometrist must provide your prescription, and you're free to take it elsewhere. The NHS specifically advises you shouldn't feel obliged to buy your glasses from the practice that performed your eye examination.

That opens up several possibilities, including independent spectacle dispensers and online glasses retailers.

Shopping around could save money

Glasses can become expensive remarkably quickly.

Start with a frame, add prescription lenses, perhaps choose thinner lenses, anti-reflective coatings, photochromic lenses or varifocals, and the final bill can be very different from the price displayed beside the frame.

Taking your prescription elsewhere allows you to compare the complete price, rather than assuming your optometrist's practice is your only option.

An independent dispensing optician may offer frames and lenses at competitive prices while still providing face-to-face measurements, fitting and subsequent adjustments. Registered dispensing opticians are regulated healthcare professionals trained to advise on and fit spectacles according to an individual's visual and lifestyle requirements.

What about buying glasses online?

Online spectacle companies can be extremely tempting, particularly for straightforward single-vision prescriptions.

Advantages can include lower prices, huge frame selections, easy price comparisons and the convenience of ordering without leaving home.

For someone who knows the size and style of frame they like and has a relatively uncomplicated prescription, online glasses can potentially provide an inexpensive second pair, reading glasses or prescription sunglasses.

There is, however, a significant catch.

Your prescription isn't necessarily every measurement required to make your glasses properly.

For example, your pupillary distance, the measurement used to help position the lenses correctly in relation to your eyes, isn't legally required to appear on the prescription provided following your eye examination. Responsibility for properly centring the lenses rests with whoever supplies the spectacles.

Some online companies therefore ask customers to take measurements themselves.

When professional fitting becomes more important

The stronger or more complicated your prescription, the more cautious you should be about choosing glasses purely on price.

The Association of Optometrists particularly highlights high prescriptions, varifocals and substantial differences between the two eyes as situations where accurate measurements are important.

Varifocals are a good example. The positioning of the different viewing areas within the lenses needs to correspond properly with your eyes and the way the frame sits on your face.

There's evidence for exercising caution online. Research cited by the College of Optometrists found spectacles bought online were more likely to fail optical tolerance testing than those supplied through high-street practices. Participants nevertheless identified lower prices, convenience and clearer pricing among the attractions of buying online.

Don't forget the importance of fit

There's another difference that has nothing to do with your prescription.

A pair of glasses needs to fit your face.

Frames that constantly slide down your nose, pinch behind your ears or sit crookedly can become thoroughly irritating.

A good dispensing optician can adjust the sides, nose pads and general position of the frame and check how the spectacles sit once the finished lenses have been fitted.

That's harder to reproduce when your glasses arrive through the post.

Don't confuse buying glasses with having your eyes tested

Perhaps the most important point is that saving money on spectacles shouldn't mean skipping regular eye examinations.

An eye examination isn't merely a means of obtaining a prescription. It's also an opportunity for an optometrist to examine your eye health and identify changes which may need further investigation.

So by all means shop around after you've been properly examined.

The That's Health verdict

There's no single answer suitable for everybody.

For a straightforward prescription, an established online supplier could offer substantial convenience and savings. An independent spectacle fitter may provide an attractive middle ground: competitive prices combined with professional measuring, fitting and aftercare.

For high prescriptions, varifocals, unusual requirements or situations where accurate positioning is particularly important, the advantages of face-to-face professional dispensing become much greater.

And remember to compare like with like. Ask what lenses are included, what coatings you're getting, whether thinning is included, what happens if the glasses aren't right and whether adjustments and aftercare are provided.

Your eyesight is too important to choose glasses solely because they're cheap – but that doesn't mean you have to pay more than necessary.

That’s Health note: This article is intended as general information rather than individual optical or medical advice. Continue to have your eyes examined at the intervals recommended by your optometrist and seek professional advice if you experience changes in your vision.

One particularly useful point for readers receiving help with optical costs is that NHS optical vouchers can be taken to a supplier of their choice provided that supplier accepts them. 

https://www.nhs.uk/nhs-services/opticians/nhs-voucher-values-for-glasses-and-lenses

Convoluted Bowels. What they are, how to treat them

Being told that you have a “convoluted bowel” as I was some years ago, can sound rather alarming. In many cases, however, the term refers to a tortuous or redundant colon, a large bowel that is longer than usual and consequently has additional bends, twists or loops.

For some people it causes few problems. For others, the additional journey through the colon can be associated with slower movement of waste and recurrent constipation.

While you cannot change the basic shape of your bowel through diet, there are practical steps that may make constipation easier to manage.

Aim for consistency rather than crisis management

For someone who regularly experiences constipation, the objective should ideally be to keep stools comfortably soft and relatively easy to pass rather than waiting until severe constipation develops.

Adequate fluid intake is important, particularly when increasing dietary fibre. Regular physical activity can also help stimulate normal bowel function, and it doesn't necessarily mean vigorous exercise. Walking and simply avoiding very long periods of inactivity can be beneficial.

Fibre can help, but more isn't always better

Increasing fibre is standard advice for constipation, but it is worth doing gradually.

Good sources include oats, fruit, vegetables, wholegrain foods, pulses and linseed. Fruits such as kiwifruit, pears, plums and prunes can be particularly useful additions to the diet.

However, suddenly consuming large amounts of bran or other coarse fibre isn't necessarily helpful for everyone. It can sometimes result in considerably more wind, bloating and abdominal discomfort.

People with chronic constipation may therefore find it useful to experiment gradually rather than simply adding as much fibre as possible.

Make breakfast work for your bowel

Our digestive system has a useful mechanism called the gastrocolic reflex.

Eating causes the stomach to expand, which sends signals encouraging the colon to move its contents onwards. The response can be particularly noticeable after breakfast.

This makes the period shortly after breakfast a good opportunity to establish a regular toilet routine.

Try allowing yourself five or ten unhurried minutes on the toilet around 15–30 minutes after breakfast. Don't force things if nothing happens and avoid prolonged straining.

A small footstool can also help. Raising the feet so that the knees are slightly higher than the hips creates a more favourable position for opening the bowels. Leaning slightly forwards can help too.

And when the natural urge to open your bowels does arrive, try not to ignore it repeatedly.

What about laxatives?

Occasional constipation can often be managed through lifestyle measures or short-term treatment. Recurrent constipation is different.

If constipation is happening frequently, particularly when you have already been diagnosed with a tortuous or redundant bowel, it's worth discussing a long-term bowel-management plan with your GP or pharmacist.

There are several types of laxative.

Osmotic laxatives such as macrogol (polyethylene glycol or PEG) work by increasing the amount of water retained in the bowel, helping to produce softer stools. Other options include bulk-forming and stimulant laxatives.

Which treatment is most appropriate will depend on the individual, their symptoms, other health conditions and any medicines they are taking. Some commonly prescribed medicines can themselves contribute to constipation, so a medication review may also be worthwhile.

Keep a bowel diary

A simple diary for a couple of weeks can provide surprisingly useful information.

Record when you have a bowel movement, the consistency of the stool, whether you needed to strain, any bloating or abdominal discomfort, and any laxatives or other treatments you used.

The Bristol Stool Chart can make this particularly easy. Types 1 and 2 indicate hard stools associated with constipation, while types 3 and 4 are generally considered more desirable.

Taking this information to a GP can provide a much clearer picture than simply saying, “I get constipated quite often.”

Know when constipation needs medical attention

Although constipation is extremely common, persistent or changing bowel symptoms shouldn't automatically be blamed on a convoluted bowel.

Seek medical advice if constipation is recurrent or isn't improving, or if you experience symptoms such as blood in your stools, unexplained weight loss, persistent abdominal pain or bloating, unusual tiredness or a significant change in your normal bowel habits.

Severe or worsening abdominal pain and swelling accompanied by vomiting and an inability to pass either stools or wind requires urgent medical assessment, as these can be symptoms of a bowel obstruction.

For people living with recurrent constipation, perhaps the most useful conversation to have with a GP is a simple one:

“Can we develop a regular bowel-management plan that helps me prevent constipation rather than treating it once it has become severe?”

Living with a convoluted bowel may mean paying a little more attention to bowel habits than most people need to. But establishing a regular routine, finding the right balance of fibre and fluids, remaining active and getting appropriate medical support can make constipation much easier to manage.

That’s Health note: This article provides general health information and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Anyone experiencing persistent or concerning bowel symptoms should consult an appropriate healthcare professional.

Take A Breath Programme Reports Encouraging Wellbeing Results

A community wellbeing programme combining breathing exercises, movement, meditation and social connection has reported encouraging preliminary results following an event held at Kingsway Community Centre.

Take A Breath was delivered by MindBody Synergy CIC on 22 August 2026, with sponsorship from Tele-Therapies Ltd. 

The restorative programme brought together guided breathing practices, movement, dancing, chanting, sound bowl meditation, creative activities and opportunities for participants to connect with others.

Fourteen people completed an evaluation after the event. Across all six wellbeing measures, participants reported positive changes. Average self-reported stress fell from 2.9 before the session to 1.6 afterwards, while breath awareness rose from 2.3 to 4.2, the largest improvement recorded.

Participants also reported feeling calmer, with average scores rising from 3.1 to 4.3. Energy increased from 3.0 to 4.0, emotional wellbeing from 3.2 to 4.1, and connection with other people from 3.0 to 4.0.

The event received an average overall rating of 4.1 out of five stars. All 14 respondents said they would probably or definitely attend another session or recommend the programme to somebody else. Thirteen were attending Take A Breath for the first time, with one returning participant.

Sound Bowl Meditation was the most consistently highly rated activity and the one most frequently named as a favourite. Dancing Breath, Zumba, Guided Breath Codes and Chanting Breath Rhythm also received strong feedback.

Participants described feeling calmer and more relaxed, learning helpful breathing techniques and experiencing deep relaxation. Some also said they felt motivated to continue breathing, meditation or chanting practices at home.

The group included nine people aged 61 or over, four aged between 46 and 60, and one aged between 18 and 30.

Dr Devi Sundar, founder and director of MindBody Synergy CIC and Tele-Therapies Ltd, said the initial feedback was encouraging, particularly the changes in stress and breath awareness.

“These findings provide a useful basis for refining the programme and considering a more formally designed prospective feasibility study,” she told That's Health.

As this was a small community evaluation based on self-reported experiences, the findings should be viewed as preliminary rather than clinical proof of effectiveness. However, they provide useful guidance for developing future sessions.

MindBody Synergy CIC and Tele-Therapies Ltd now intend to strengthen the programme’s evaluation framework. Future research could examine recruitment, retention, acceptability, safety and changes in wellbeing outcomes over a longer period.

The initiative forms part of Dr Sundar’s wider work connecting respiratory health, psychology, behavioural science and person-centred approaches to mind-body wellbeing.

https://mindbodysynergycic.org

Foodsane Offers a Compassionate Alternative to Diet Culture

For many people, food can become tangled up with guilt, anxiety and an exhausting sense that they are somehow failing.

Restrictive diets, conflicting wellness advice and pressure to lose weight can make it increasingly difficult to recognise and respond to the body’s natural needs.

A new psychology-based wellness community aims to offer a gentler and more compassionate way forward.

Foodsane has been launched by Devon-based Dr Joanna North, a Chartered Researching Psychologist, Fellow of the British Psychological Society and Senior Accredited Psychotherapist with more than 40 years of clinical experience.

Rather than treating eating habits as a simple matter of willpower, Foodsane focuses on psychological safety, nervous-system regulation, body awareness and self-compassion.

Dr North has developed the RAFT framework, which stands for Right Amount, Right Food and Right Time. It is accompanied by a concept she calls Time Related Eating, or TRE, which encourages people to become more aware of how the timing of food may relate to their physical and emotional wellbeing.

Central to the approach is interoception, the ability to notice and understand signals from within the body. These can include hunger, fullness, tension, tiredness and changes in mood.

Foodsane is intended to offer a “middle way” for people who feel caught between restrictive diet culture, medicalised approaches to weight loss and potentially harmful or disordered eating patterns. Its message is not that people should simply try harder, but that eating is influenced by stress, emotions, habits and whether a person feels safe and settled.

“So much of the wellness industry treats eating as a willpower problem,” Dr North told That's Health.

“It isn’t. It’s a nervous system problem, a psychological safety problem. Foodsane exists to bring the evidence base and forty years of clinical experience to people who are tired of being told to try harder.”

The Foodsane initiative includes a paid online community in which members can follow Dr North’s daily Time Related Eating diary. They also receive a weekly newsletter summarising three key learning points.

Accessible guidance is shared through the FoodsaneJoanna accounts on Instagram and TikTok, while Dr North’s 2024 book, Foodsane, explores the complete framework.

No single approach will be right for everybody, and anyone experiencing an eating disorder or significant concerns about eating, weight or health should seek appropriately qualified professional help. Prescribed weight-loss medication should never be stopped or changed without consulting the clinician responsible for it.

Nevertheless, the compassionate thinking behind Foodsane may resonate with people who have spent years blaming themselves. Eating is not a moral test, and needing support is not a personal failure.

More information can be found at www.foodsane.co.uk.

Pub Manager Conquers Fear of Heights for Children’s Hospice

A South Manchester pub manager has overcome his fear of heights by completing an amazing 15,000-foot skydive and raising an impressive £4,568 for Francis House Children’s Hospice.

Martin Devlin, manager of the Hydes Brewery-owned Fletcher Moss in Didsbury, took the plunge above Lancaster after deciding he wanted to undertake a fresh fundraising challenge for the hospice.

Middlesbrough-born Martin has lived in Didsbury for more than 30 years and managed the popular community pub for the past 14. Fundraising is firmly embedded in life at the Fletcher Moss, where quiz nights, acoustic evenings and festive parties regularly support Francis House.

The hospice provides respite care and support for children and young people with life-limiting or life-threatening conditions, as well as their families.

Martin’s support has previously taken him down the side of the Trafford Palazzo Tower in an abseiling challenge. However, despite describing himself as frightened of heights, he decided that his next adventure should involve jumping from an aeroplane.

“I was on holiday, lying on a beach and thinking I need to do something this year for Francis House,” Martin explained to That's Health. “I looked to the sky and I thought: skydive.”

Although he was particularly worried about the freefall, it unexpectedly became his favourite part of the experience.

“The adrenaline took over from the nerves and the weather was lovely,” he said. “I was most scared about the freefall, but that’s the bit I enjoyed the most.”

Once the parachute opened, Martin was able to enjoy spectacular views stretching towards Blackpool Tower and the Lake District. He admitted that the nerves returned as the ground grew closer, but said he would happily repeat the experience for charity.

Customers, friends, relatives and local businesses rallied behind him. A fundraising raffle alone generated more than £700, with prizes donated by businesses including Gail’s Bakery, Little Pigs Butchers, The Cheese Hamlet and Rudy’s Pizza. Hydes Brewery, suppliers and customers also contributed prizes and generous sponsorship.

Over the years, Martin and the Fletcher Moss community have raised approximately £30,000 for Francis House. Having visited the hospice himself, he has seen the comforting, home-from-home environment it provides.

With the hospice costing around £5.8 million annually to operate, every fundraiser matters. Martin is therefore already considering his next challenge, possibly a wing walk?

“It’s about trying to push yourself all of the time,” he said.

To learn more about supporting Francis House through a skydive, visit Francis House Children’s Hospice https://www.francishouse.org.uk/get-involved/events/skydive

https://www.hydesbrewery.com/venue/fletcher-moss/

School Games National Finals Celebrates 20 Years of Inspiring Young Athletes

The School Games National Finals returns from 3–6 September 2026, marking 20 years of giving talented young athletes the opportunity to experience a major multi-sport competition.

First staged in Glasgow in 2006, the event has become an important launchpad for emerging sporting talent. 

Its anniversary feels especially significant following Glasgow’s recent hosting of the Commonwealth Games, bringing elite competition back to the city where the School Games story began.

Over two decades, thousands of young people have participated in the finals. Notable former competitors include Olympic and Paralympic champions Dina Asher-Smith, Adam Peaty, Ellie Simmonds, Alex Yee and Hannah Cockroft.

However, the 2026 event will emphasise that sporting success is not measured solely by medals. Competitors will be encouraged to recognise progress towards their own goals and appreciate the confidence, resilience, friendships and life skills that sport can provide.

Taking place at Loughborough University and delivered by the Youth Sport Trust, the four-day event will feature 3x3 basketball, athletics, BMX freestyle, BMX racing, cricket, hockey, modern pentathlon, netball, triathlon, wheelchair basketball and wheelchair tennis.

Every competitor will also experience the obstacle course discipline being introduced into modern pentathlon for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

This year’s approach draws upon findings from the Wired to Win report, which examined athletes’ experiences at the 2024 finals and identified barriers affecting participation, access and enjoyment.

A major addition is Elevate, a programme co-designed by Sport England, the Youth Sport Trust and Greenhouse Sports. It will welcome 45 promising athletes from under-resourced communities who currently sit outside traditional talent pathways.

During the three-day programme, participants will receive an inclusive development experience supported by leading coaches and athlete mentors. The initiative aims to reach young people who may otherwise miss opportunities because of financial pressures, limited networks, geographical barriers or their background.

Phil Smith, executive director of sporting systems at Sport England, said that while competition remains important, enjoyable experiences which do not necessarily end with a podium place can help young people develop a lifelong love of physical activity.

Youth Sport Trust chief executive Ali Oliver MBE added that supportive sporting environments can help create mentally stronger and more resilient athletes.

As it celebrates its remarkable alumni, the School Games National Finals is also looking forward. Its greatest achievement may be helping every participant leave Loughborough proud of their progress, inspired by the experience and ready to pursue their own sporting ambitions.

Further information is available from the School Games National Finals website https://www.youthsporttrust.org

Noctiva Health Launches Supplement Designed for Britain’s Night-Shift Workers

While most of Britain sleeps, more than three million people are still at work.

Nurses, carers, drivers, security officers, factory workers, cleaners, warehouse employees, bakers and emergency call handlers are among those keeping essential services and businesses running through the night. 

Yet products intended to support everyday wellbeing are rarely designed with their unusual routines in mind.

Noctiva Health hopes to address that oversight with Noctiva Reset, a new UK-made, once-daily food supplement formulated specifically for people who work nights.

“If you finish a shift at 7am, the whole world is telling you to wake up just as you are trying to switch off,” explained company founder Adi Jani, to That's Health. Adi (PICTURED) spent 16 years presenting live overnight television.

“We built Noctiva Reset for those hours, and we built it without the tricks.”

Transparency rather than extravagant promises

The company is making openness central to the new brand. Every active ingredient is disclosed to the milligram, with no proprietary blends or promises that go beyond the available evidence.

Noctiva Reset does not contain melatonin, which is a prescription-only medicine in the UK. It is also not promoted as a medicine, treatment or instant solution.

Instead, each tub provides a consistent 30-day supply.

A daily serving of three capsules contains 490mg of KSM-66® ashwagandha root extract, 175mg of magnesium as bisglycinate, 333mg of Griffonia simplicifolia seed extract providing 100mg of 5-HTP, and 102mg of green tea leaf extract providing 100mg of L-theanine.

Magnesium contributes to a reduction in tiredness and fatigue and supports the normal functioning of the nervous system.

The capsules are manufactured at a GMP-certified facility in the UK and use plant-derived HPMC shells. Each tub contains 90 capsules.

Night workers deserve recognition

No supplement can remove all the pressures associated with night work. It cannot replace adequate rest, proper breaks, nourishing food, supportive employers or access to healthcare. However, it is encouraging to see a company acknowledging people whose routines often receive too little consideration.

Night workers can miss family occasions, struggle to arrange appointments and find themselves trying to sleep while the rest of their household and neighbourhood are beginning their days. Their contribution deserves both respect and practical support.

“Nobody reads a supplement label and feels respected,” said Jani. “Our entire brand is the opposite bet. Name every ingredient, name every dose, say plainly what it is not, and treat the people who keep the country running at night like adults.”

Noctiva Reset costs £39.99 for one 90-capsule tub or £99.99 for a three-tub pack, with free UK delivery. It is available from noctivahealth.com and TikTok Shop UK.

Noctiva Reset is a food supplement and not a medicine. Supplements should not replace a varied, balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. The product is not suitable during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Anyone taking medication, living with a health condition or receiving medical supervision should consult a doctor before using it.

https://noctivahealth.com/