NHS Health Alerts

Bank holidays are all about relaxing and having fun. Unfortunately, there's nothing fun about spending your time off in casualty, while all your friends and family enjoy themselves!

You can try to keep accidents at bay by taking the necessary precautions, but sometimes you just can't prevent things happening.

If you find you need medical help when most places are closed this August bank holiday don't panic - there are still a number of NHS services available.

NHS Direct

Our website is crammed full of health information and the answers to common health questions and is available 24-hours a day. Plus, if you have Freeview or Sky Digital, you can get lots of information from your TV with NHS Direct Interactive.

To access the service on Freeview:

1. Go to ITV1, ITV2, ITV3, ITV4, Channel 4, E4 or More4.
2. Press 'text' on your remote control.
3. Select page 700.

Alternatively, go to Freeview channel 100 and press the blue button on your remote control.

To access the service on Sky Digital, press the 'INTERACTIVE' button on the remote control, and scroll down the menu to 'NHS Direct Interactive' and press the 'SELECT' button.

You can also phone NHS Direct on 0845 4647.

This is a 24-hour nurse advice and health information service, providing confidential information on what to do if you or your family are feeling ill, as well as information on diagnosed health conditions, local healthcare services and support organisations.

GPs and dentists

If you phone your GP or dentist outside their normal opening hours, a message will tell you how to get urgent or emergency treatment.

This service is only for urgent medical problems that cannot wait until the next day to be treated.

Walk-in centres

There are now many NHS walk-in centres throughout England. They offer fast and convenient access to healthcare advice and treatment for minor injuries and illnesses.
They are open from early morning to late evening, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

They are run by experienced NHS nurses, and you don't need to make an appointment. Call NHS Direct on 0845 4647 to find out the location of your nearest centre.

Minor injuries units

Minor injuries units are for people with less serious injuries, such as sprains, cuts and grazes. The waiting times are usually much shorter than those in A&E (accident and emergency).

Accident and emergency

Unless you need emergency medical attention, it's advisable to avoid local A&E departments. Doctors and nurses there are equipped to deal with serious cases of injury and illness, not routine and minor ailments.

Calling an ambulance won't necessarily mean you are seen any quicker at A&E, as the most serious cases will be dealt with first.

It's often very obvious when emergency care is needed for serious injury or illness. You should get medical attention by either taking the patient to the nearest accident and emergency (A&E) department or by phoning 999 for an emergency ambulance.

However, if you're in any doubt about whether someone else needs emergency medical help, you can phone NHS Direct on 0845 4647 for advice.

You can find your local A&E department signposted from major roads. Or you can visit www.nhs.uk or call NHS Direct for details.

First aid

Don't forget that you may be able to deal with the situation at home in some cases.

Many minor injuries and illnesses can be treated at home, such as colds and flu, and minor cuts and burns. Make sure you keep a well-stocked first aid kit handy.

The closest most of us get to competing in the Olympics is running for the bus or jumping the puddles in the Summer rain.

But you can get into the spirit of the games without the expense of a trip to China. Just try our office Olympics, and fit exercise in your working day.

The opening ceremony

Even during the summer months, it's tempting to jump your car and drive all the way to the front door of your office, or take the bus all the way into work.

But you can put a bit of exercise into your commute.

If you live near your job, leave the car at home and stroll into work. If you live too far away to walk, you could park the car further from the office, or get off the bus, or tube a stop early and walk the rest of the way.

Or why not beat the queues and cycle to work? Just make sure your bike is in good working order. It's also a good idea to wear a helmet - just in case.

Walking or cycling to work won't only save you money - getting active before work will make you feel more alert during the day, which is sure to impress your boss when you get more work done.

The preliminary events

When you get to work, use the stairs instead of the lift, and move around as much as you can during the day.

Try to avoid sending a lazy email or phoning a colleague - walk to see them instead. You can also walk to the furthest toilets, water dispenser and photocopier. A little bit of effort here and there will soon add up.

If you sit at a desk, trying holding your stomach muscles in, or doing buttock clenches as you work. You could also try leg raises under your desk - keep you legs straight, lift, and hold for a few seconds.

Remember to let your workmates know what you're doing if the strain is likely to show on your face!

Instead of sitting in the canteen or surfing the internet at lunchtime, go for a brisk walk around the block. You could also fit in some exercise during your lunch break, like a visit to the local gym, or a swim.

Training

To lower your risk of developing long-term conditions like heart disease and osteoporosis, the Department of Health recommends you should do around 30 minutes of exercise at least five times a week.

Any exercise you do at work can count towards your 30 minutes that day - you don't have to do it all in one go.

Exercise also helps control your weight.

Try a new discipline

If you want to get involved in a new sport get your work-mates together and try a new sport in your local area.

Football, netball and tennis matches are easy to set-up. Or you could enter a fun run and run for your company's favourite charity.

Not only will you burn off extra calories - doing an activity together will mean that your office will have a team spirit to rival the US basketball team.

The medals ceremony

When you do exercise, it's best to set yourself targets and reward yourself when you achieve them.

So why not set-up a points system with your work-mates?

That way, you can all exercise together, and motivate each other to continue the good work once the Olympics are over for another four years.

Further information:

• Common health questions about exercise
• Exercise
• Sports injuries
• Osteoporosis
• Calculate your Body Mass Index (BMI)
• Obesity

Glossary

Disease

A disease is an illness or condition that interferes with normal body functions.

Heart

The heart is a muscular organ that pumps blood around the body.

Wednesday 12 March is No Smoking Day. The campaign aims to help smokers who want to kick the habit once and for all!

So why not make March 2008 the year you quit the habit for good?

Quit today!

Once you've decided to quit you don't have to go it alone. Quitting smoking can be hard work, so make the most of the NHS quit smoking services to help you through.

You might prefer to speak with your GP first, or even your local pharmacist (chemist) for advice on giving up smoking.

Or how about calling the NHS Smoking Helpline on 0800 022 4 332. They will be able to give you details on support groups and one-to-one counselling services in your local area.

For all the latest methods to fight the nicotine see the treatment section of our health encyclopaedia topic on quitting smoking (listed in the 'further information' section below).

Reaping your health rewards

It's no secret that stubbing out the fags will benefit your overall health.

Not only will you dramatically reduce your chances of developing serious health problems, such as heart disease or lung cancer, but your family and friends will also benefit.

And imagine how proud your family and friends will feel once you have quit smoking.

Also, you can feel safe in the knowledge that you're setting the best example for your children.

Love life

You may not be aware of this next fact, but your new life as a non-smoker will improve your love life. This could either be by attracting a new partner, or improving an existing relationship.

Staying smoke free will increase your chances of getting noticed in a crowd. Having fresh breath and whiter teeth is bound to make you feel more confident and attractive when out on the town.

Quitting smoking also improves your skin and hair - smoking ages your skin prematurely and dries out your hair. So, quitting is the key to recovery. Stop smoking and both your hair and skin will begin to replenish itself naturally.

Pocket the pounds

Having a healthier bank balance has always been a strong incentive to kick the habit.

Why not put the money you would have spent on cigarettes into a savings account? If you quit a 20-a-day habit, you'll have over £1,800 to play with after a year of being smoke free.

You could go on that trip of a lifetime, or maybe make those well overdue improvements to your home. The possibilities are endless.

In short, leading a smoke free life makes financial sense.

Staying smoke free

Once you've quit the habit you may still need support to stay smoke free.

As you might already know, there are a wide variety of NHS services that you can use to quit smoking.

These include your local NHS Stop Smoking Services, your GP, and your local pharmacist (chemist). But these same services can help you stay a non-smoker.

Call the NHS Smoking Helpline on 0800 022 4 332 for more information.

Top tips

To help stay off the fags, try to follow a few simple tips:

Resist your cravings for nicotine by chewing on sugar-free gum.

Avoid temptation by steering clear of places or situations where you could be tested. For example, heading to the pub with friends who smoke.

At times of weakness think about the benefits to your health, especially your heart and lungs.

If you feel the urge for a fag why not dream about spending those saved pounds. Your dreams could easily become a reality if you stay strong and don't let your money go up in puffs of smoke.

And most importantly, remember to pat yourself on the back at the end of each day. Beating the addiction is tough, but will get easier with every day.

Glossary

Counselling

Counselling is guided discussion with an independent trained person, to help you find your own answers to a problem or issue.

Disease

A disease is an illness or condition that interferes with normal body functions.

Heart

The heart is a muscular organ that pumps blood around the body.

Lung

Lungs are a pair of organs in the chest that control breathing. They remove carbon dioxide from the blood and replace it with oxygen.

With purse strings tightening and the cost of foreign holidays on the rise, it's no surprise that camping is becoming more and more popular.

Camping is an enjoyable treat for the whole family. But you have to be prepared to put in the ground work beforehand.

Preparation

Firstly, buy a tent that is roomy enough for the whole family.

Tents range from one-man tents to huge 10, 12 and 16 berths that even have their own kitchen and lounge areas attached. Just remember to take the instructions with you otherwise you could end up fighting with rods and pegs for hours!

You should also write a list of the essential camping trip items including:

• enough food and water,
• extra clothing including rainwear,
• a torch (extra batteries and bulbs), and
• firelighters and matches.

Don't forget the all important first aid kit too.

Keeping cool

Tents can get hot in warm weather.

Try to spend as little time as possible inside the tent during the day. And ensure you have some shade if it's sunny - a large parasol will usually do the trick.

Wear the usual sun lotion with an SPF of at least 15 or above. Wide-brimmed hats and light, cotton clothing is also great for keeping safe and cool.

Too much heat can be a problem to young children, as their sweat glands are not fully developed. So make sure everyone drinks lots of water.

Exploring

If you want to go for a long hike, start out early and try to find shelter between 11am and 3pm - this is when the sun's at its strongest.

If you're in an unfamiliar area, tell your children not to wander off as there may be dangers you are unaware of, such as riverbanks or cliff edges.

Kids are notorious for climbing trees but they need to look out for dead branches and moss, which could cause a fall.

If your kids like to run off into the woods, get them to carry a whistle in their pocket. If they get lost, tell them to stay in a sheltered area and to blow the whistle three times in a row. This will help you to track them down more easily.

Another solution is for everyone to carry a mobile phone. But make sure that they're fully charged before you set out. And remember you might not have a phone signal in the depths of the countryside.

Insects

Avoid camping near water, as it'll be a haven for midges, mosquitoes and horseflies.

If you find insect bites are a problem, cover up exposed skin at night and avoid products with strong perfumes.

Remember to pack insect repellent in your first-aid kit. Painkillers and antihistamine tablets will also help if you do get bitten.

Make sure you wear shoes around your tent - you never know what's lurking in the grass.

It's also a good idea to pack food away in cooler and storage boxes, and regularly brush any crumbs out of your tent. This will help to stop any insects or little woodland creatures foraging for food in your tent in the middle of the night!

Fire risk

If you're planning on an open fire or barbecue, keep a bucket of water handy in case it gets out of control.

If you're cooking on open flames, remember that it can be hard to tell if the food's cooked properly. So avoid food poisoning by making sure meat is cooked thoroughly before you tuck in. Don't eat any pink meat.

Glossary

Antihistamine

Antihistamine medicine counteracts the action of histamine (a chemical released during an allergic reaction). For example loratadine, hydroxyzine.

Being pregnant is meant to give you a glow. But during this current climate, it could also be confused for sunburn!

As an expectant mum, you are bound to have hot flushes and be extra sensitive to temperature. Even with the naff reputation of our British summer, the rise in temperature can be enough to cause some mums with a bump to get into a grump.

It's important to keep your cool while carrying your little passenger. This can be easier said than done when you're feeling busy, clammy, and the baby is doing somersaults.

However, there are plenty of quick and easy ways to cool down, that won't only benefit you - your baby will appreciate it too.

Sun safety

Whether you're gardening, going for a stroll, or running your errands outside, make sure you stay in the shade and try to avoid being in the sun during the hottest part of the day. This is between 11am and 3pm.

During pregnancy, your hormone levels are on the up. This can cause all sorts of changes to your body, especially your skin. Pregnancy raises the amount of a skin pigment called melanin. This means you'll tan easier than before you were pregnant. However, it also means you'll burn easier, which can be damaging and lead to skin cancer in later life.

As your skin is more sensitive, it's important to protect it from the sun. Use a sun cream of factor 15 or above before going out in the sun, even if you're staying in the shade. Apply it several times during the day and remember to wear a hat and some loose clothing to stay cool and comfortable.

Some pregnant women develop a skin condition called chloasma, which causes some of the skin on the face to go darker. These dark patches can get even darker if you're exposed to the sun. These patches fade after birth, but it's still best to stay in the shade.

Swelling legs

As a pregnant lady, you will know that you don't have to do very much for your ankles to swell up. This happens because your body likes to retain fluid when you're pregnant, but this can feel uncomfortable, especially when the sun is shining and you can't fit into your shoes.

If your feet, ankles, or legs swell up, the best thing to do is sit down and put your feet up for half an hour. Another good way of easing your swollen feet and ankles is to bathe them in a bowl of cool water.

Be wary of any sudden swelling, as this can be a sign of pre-eclampsia. This can lead to serious complications for mother and baby. Keep an eye on the swelling and if it doesn't go down, speak with your GP or midwife.

If you go on holiday, take all of your maternity notes in case you need treatment while you're away. See your GP before you go, and check that the airline will allow you to travel.

Usually, the safest time to travel by plane is between the 12th and 25th week of pregnancy. When you're on a plane, try to walk around frequently. Flex your calf muscles, rotate your feet, and wear compression stockings.

Travelling by plane after 25 weeks increases the chance of high blood pressure, as well as the chance of giving birth prematurely due to stressful conditions or illness.

If you are thinking of travelling by plane after 25 weeks, you should speak to your GP. After 24 weeks, the airline may request a letter from your GP stating your expected delivery date.

Keep your cool

When it comes to staying cool and calm, the simple methods are the best. A cold flannel on your forehead or at the back of your neck can do wonders for cooling you down.

Some expectant mums also say running your wrists under cold water is a great way to cool down. You can also try chewing or sucking ice cubes, or putting a few in a bowl of water and soaking your feet in it.

You might benefit from having a fan to help circulate air and provide a breeze. If the heat is really getting to you, have a cool shower or bath to lower your body temperature and help you relax. You also need to drink plenty of water when you're pregnant, especially during the summer. So have 8-10 glasses a day to stay hydrated.

If going on holiday, check there's a hospital nearby just in case. The travel agent should be able to find out what is in the area.

Glossary

High blood pressure

Hypertension is when the pressure of the blood in your bloodstream is regularly above 140/90 mmHG.

Hot flushes

A hot flush (also known as a hot flash) is a temporary feeling of heat in the face, neck and upper body, causing the skin to become flushed and sweaty.

Wednesday 12 March is No Smoking Day. The campaign aims to help smokers who want to kick the habit once and for all!

So why not make March 2008 the year you quit the habit for good?

Quit today!

Once you've decided to quit you don't have to go it alone. Quitting smoking can be hard work, so make the most of the NHS quit smoking services to help you through.

You might prefer to speak with your GP first, or even your local pharmacist (chemist) for advice on giving up smoking.

Or how about calling the NHS Smoking Helpline on 0800 022 4 332. They will be able to give you details on support groups and one-to-one counselling services in your local area.

For all the latest methods to fight the nicotine see the treatment section of our health encyclopaedia topic on quitting smoking (listed in the 'further information' section below).

Reaping your health rewards

It's no secret that stubbing out the fags will benefit your overall health.

Not only will you dramatically reduce your chances of developing serious health problems, such as heart disease or lung cancer, but your family and friends will also benefit.

And imagine how proud your family and friends will feel once you have quit smoking.

Also, you can feel safe in the knowledge that you're setting the best example for your children.

Love life

You may not be aware of this next fact, but your new life as a non-smoker will improve your love life. This could either be by attracting a new partner, or improving an existing relationship.

Staying smoke free will increase your chances of getting noticed in a crowd. Having fresh breath and whiter teeth is bound to make you feel more confident and attractive when out on the town.

Quitting smoking also improves your skin and hair - smoking ages your skin prematurely and dries out your hair. So, quitting is the key to recovery. Stop smoking and both your hair and skin will begin to replenish itself naturally.

Pocket the pounds

Having a healthier bank balance has always been a strong incentive to kick the habit.

Why not put the money you would have spent on cigarettes into a savings account? If you quit a 20-a-day habit, you'll have over £1,800 to play with after a year of being smoke free.

You could go on that trip of a lifetime, or maybe make those well overdue improvements to your home. The possibilities are endless.

In short, leading a smoke free life makes financial sense.

Staying smoke free

Once you've quit the habit you may still need support to stay smoke free.

As you might already know, there are a wide variety of NHS services that you can use to quit smoking.

These include your local NHS Stop Smoking Services, your GP, and your local pharmacist (chemist). But these same services can help you stay a non-smoker.

Call the NHS Smoking Helpline on 0800 022 4 332 for more information.

Top tips

To help stay off the fags, try to follow a few simple tips:

Resist your cravings for nicotine by chewing on sugar-free gum.

Avoid temptation by steering clear of places or situations where you could be tested. For example, heading to the pub with friends who smoke.

At times of weakness think about the benefits to your health, especially your heart and lungs.

If you feel the urge for a fag why not dream about spending those saved pounds. Your dreams could easily become a reality if you stay strong and don't let your money go up in puffs of smoke.

And most importantly, remember to pat yourself on the back at the end of each day. Beating the addiction is tough, but will get easier with every day.

Glossary

Counselling

Counselling is guided discussion with an independent trained person, to help you find your own answers to a problem or issue.

Disease

A disease is an illness or condition that interferes with normal body functions.

Heart

The heart is a muscular organ that pumps blood around the body.

Lung

Lungs are a pair of organs in the chest that control breathing. They remove carbon dioxide from the blood and replace it with oxygen.

On 1 July 2007 it became illegal in England to smoke in any enclosed public spaces, including pubs and restaurants. It was a controversial decision, especially among smokers, but has it paid off?

England has now been smoke free for a year. The concept was introduced to protect workers from the damaging effects of passive smoking (breathing in 'second-hand' smoke).

Less passive smoking

There is no doubt that England becoming smoke free has been successful in reducing passive smoking. After-all, people who breathe in other people's smoke are at risk of getting the same diseases as smokers because they breathe in the same mixture of 4,000 toxic chemicals.

So, workers no longer risk their health through passive smoking. Plus, people with lung conditions are also benefiting. The British Lung Foundation has said that the smoking ban 'has helped to save the lives of people with breathing problems.'

Record number of quitters

Incredibly, recent research by Cancer Research UK and its partners has also shown that a whopping 400,000 people have quit in the last year. That's 22% more quitters than the year before and two billion fewer cigarettes smoked than in the previous year.

What a fantastic result. Well done to all of you quitters!

Experts predict that the drop in smokers will mean 40,000 less deaths over the next 10 years.

More positive changes

So as England continues to be smoke free, the Government is still working to find new ways to protect people from the effects of smoking.

Under-18s can no longer legally buy tobacco products. And there are proposals underway to prevent shops from having cigarettes on display.

Why quit?

Smoking is one of the biggest causes of death and serious illness in the UK. Every year, around 114,000 smokers die from smoking-related diseases, such as heart disease and lung cancer.

About 70% of smokers say that they want to stop smoking, but most believe they are unable to.

Help with quitting

If you want to quit but you're finding it hard, you're not alone. Smoking is highly addictive, and there can be physical and mental hurdles to get over when you're trying to quit.

But there is help out there. You are four times more likely to quit successfully if you use NHS support services and medicines designed to help you give up, such as patches or gum.

Visit www.gosmokefree.nhs.uk or call 0800 022 4332 for advice, and to find your local NHS stop smoking support services.

Further information:

• Smoking (quitting)
• Can passive smoking be harmful?
• How can I avoid putting on weight when I quit smoking?
• Is it safer to smoke pipes or cigars than cigarettes?
• What are the benefits of being a non smoker?
• What does the smoke-free law mean?
• Why shouldn't I smoke around my children?

Glossary

Disease

A disease is an illness or condition that interferes with normal body functions.

Lung

Lungs are a pair of organs in the chest that control breathing. They remove carbon dioxide from the blood and replace it with oxygen.

Being pregnant is meant to give you a glow. But during this current climate, it could also be confused for sunburn!

As an expectant mum, you are bound to have hot flushes and be extra sensitive to temperature. Even with the naff reputation of our British summer, the rise in temperature can be enough to cause some mums with a bump to get into a grump.

It's important to keep your cool while carrying your little passenger. This can be easier said than done when you're feeling busy, clammy, and the baby is doing somersaults.

However, there are plenty of quick and easy ways to cool down, that won't only benefit you - your baby will appreciate it too.

Sun safety

Whether you're gardening, going for a stroll, or running your errands outside, make sure you stay in the shade and try to avoid being in the sun during the hottest part of the day. This is between 11am and 3pm.

During pregnancy, your hormone levels are on the up. This can cause all sorts of changes to your body, especially your skin. Pregnancy raises the amount of a skin pigment called melanin. This means you'll tan easier than before you were pregnant. However, it also means you'll burn easier, which can be damaging and lead to skin cancer in later life.

As your skin is more sensitive, it's important to protect it from the sun. Use a sun cream of factor 15 or above before going out in the sun, even if you're staying in the shade. Apply it several times during the day and remember to wear a hat and some loose clothing to stay cool and comfortable.

Some pregnant women develop a skin condition called chloasma, which causes some of the skin on the face to go darker. These dark patches can get even darker if you're exposed to the sun. These patches fade after birth, but it's still best to stay in the shade.

Swelling legs

As a pregnant lady, you will know that you don't have to do very much for your ankles to swell up. This happens because your body likes to retain fluid when you're pregnant, but this can feel uncomfortable, especially when the sun is shining and you can't fit into your shoes.

If your feet, ankles, or legs swell up, the best thing to do is sit down and put your feet up for half an hour. Another good way of easing your swollen feet and ankles is to bathe them in a bowl of cool water.

Be wary of any sudden swelling, as this can be a sign of pre-eclampsia. This can lead to serious complications for mother and baby. Keep an eye on the swelling and if it doesn't go down, speak with your GP or midwife.

If you go on holiday, take all of your maternity notes in case you need treatment while you're away. See your GP before you go, and check that the airline will allow you to travel.

Usually, the safest time to travel by plane is between the 12th and 25th week of pregnancy. When you're on a plane, try to walk around frequently. Flex your calf muscles, rotate your feet, and wear compression stockings.

Travelling by plane after 25 weeks increases the chance of high blood pressure, as well as the chance of giving birth prematurely due to stressful conditions or illness.

If you are thinking of travelling by plane after 25 weeks, you should speak to your GP. After 24 weeks, the airline may request a letter from your GP stating your expected delivery date.

Keep your cool

When it comes to staying cool and calm, the simple methods are the best. A cold flannel on your forehead or at the back of your neck can do wonders for cooling you down.

Some expectant mums also say running your wrists under cold water is a great way to cool down. You can also try chewing or sucking ice cubes, or putting a few in a bowl of water and soaking your feet in it.

You might benefit from having a fan to help circulate air and provide a breeze. If the heat is really getting to you, have a cool shower or bath to lower your body temperature and help you relax. You also need to drink plenty of water when you're pregnant, especially during the summer. So have 8-10 glasses a day to stay hydrated.

If going on holiday, check there's a hospital nearby just in case. The travel agent should be able to find out what is in the area.

Glossary

High blood pressure

Hypertension is when the pressure of the blood in your bloodstream is regularly above 140/90 mmHG.

Hot flushes

A hot flush (also known as a hot flash) is a temporary feeling of heat in the face, neck and upper body, causing the skin to become flushed and sweaty.

The NHS turns 60 on Saturday 5 July.

But it's not ready for retirement just yet. In fact the NHS is showing no signs of slowing down!

Birth of the NHS

The National Health Service was introduced in 1948. It was part of a social welfare policy to help post-war Britain move forward.

The basic principles of the NHS remain unchanged to this day. That is, to provide universal access to health care that is free at the point of delivery.

Facts about the NHS

From its humble beginnings back in 1948 the new National Health Service took over 480,000 hospital beds in England and Wales. A staff of 125,000 nurses and 5,000 consultants looked after patients.

Today 1.3 million people work for the NHS in England and Wales. Of the entire workforce, around 30% are nurses and 77% of all NHS workers are female. The NHS workforce is so big it rivals the size of the Chinese army!

Other fantastic facts:

• Every month, 23 million people visit their GP practice.
• Community pharmacists dispense around 745 million prescription items every year.
• NHS chiropodists look at 150,000 pairs of feet every week.
• Every seven days, around 170,000 of us have an eye test.
• Emergency ambulance drivers respond to 50,000 emergency calls each week.

We must also mention that access to healthcare is now provided 24 hours a day, 365 days a year with the introduction of NHS walk-in centres and NHS Direct.

NHS Direct

The NHS Direct telephone service was set up in 1997 to provide advice and information 24 hours a day.

We currently receive around 20 calls per minute. And last Christmas over one million people called 0845 4647 or health advice during the festive period.

As well as the telephone helpline, NHS Direct also provide health information via the Internet here on this website. Our website receives over 3.5 million visits per month.

You can also view health information and current health news if you have access to digital television, either on Freeview or Sky television.

Freeview users can access the service on any of the ITV and Channel 4 channels by pressing the 'Text' button and going to page 700. Alternatively you can go to Freeview channel 100 and press the blue button to enter NHS Direct pages.

Sky users can access the service by pressing the 'Interactive' button, and using the arrow key to select NHS Direct Interactive and pressing 'Select'. The Sky service can also be viewed online at www.nhsdirect.tv.

What's changed in 60 years?

Back in 1948 a simple cataract operation would have seen you confined to bed for a week and have sandbags attached to your eyes. In 2008 a cataract operation takes 20 minutes and the majority of patients are out of hospital the same day.

In 1958, hip replacement operations were so unusual that patients were asked to return their replacement hip when they died! The NHS now carries out over 1,000 hip replacements every week.

Another first for the NHS was the very first heart transplant in the UK which took place on 3 May 1968 in London.

The NHS was also involved in the world's first 'test-tube baby' Louise Brown, who was born on July 25 1978. In the UK, 6,000 babies are born every year as a result of IVF (in vitro fertilisation).

And if that isn't enough, we now live on average 10 years longer that we would have in 1948.

So raise your glass and wish the NHS a very happy birthday!

Glossary

Heart

The heart is a muscular organ that pumps blood around the body.

Hip replacement

Hip replacement surgery is used to replace the original, damaged hip joint with a new, artificial hip made from plastic, ceramic or metal.

IVF

IVF stands for in vitro fertilisation. An egg is surgically removed from a woman and fertilised by a sperm outside of the body.

Being pregnant is meant to give you a glow. But during this current climate, it could also be confused for sunburn!

As an expectant mum, you are bound to have hot flushes and be extra sensitive to temperature. Even with the naff reputation of our British summer, the rise in temperature can be enough to cause some mums with a bump to get into a grump.

It's important to keep your cool while carrying your little passenger. This can be easier said than done when you're feeling busy, clammy, and the baby is doing somersaults.

However, there are plenty of quick and easy ways to cool down, that won't only benefit you - your baby will appreciate it too.

Sun safety

Whether you're gardening, going for a stroll, or running your errands outside, make sure you stay in the shade and try to avoid being in the sun during the hottest part of the day. This is between 11am and 3pm.

During pregnancy, your hormone levels are on the up. This can cause all sorts of changes to your body, especially your skin. Pregnancy raises the amount of a skin pigment called melanin. This means you'll tan easier than before you were pregnant. However, it also means you'll burn easier, which can be damaging and lead to skin cancer in later life.

As your skin is more sensitive, it's important to protect it from the sun. Use a sun cream of factor 15 or above before going out in the sun, even if you're staying in the shade. Apply it several times during the day and remember to wear a hat and some loose clothing to stay cool and comfortable.

Some pregnant women develop a skin condition called chloasma, which causes some of the skin on the face to go darker. These dark patches can get even darker if you're exposed to the sun. These patches fade after birth, but it's still best to stay in the shade.

Swelling legs

As a pregnant lady, you will know that you don't have to do very much for your ankles to swell up. This happens because your body likes to retain fluid when you're pregnant, but this can feel uncomfortable, especially when the sun is shining and you can't fit into your shoes.

If your feet, ankles, or legs swell up, the best thing to do is sit down and put your feet up for half an hour. Another good way of easing your swollen feet and ankles is to bathe them in a bowl of cool water.

Be wary of any sudden swelling, as this can be a sign of pre-eclampsia. This can lead to serious complications for mother and baby. Keep an eye on the swelling and if it doesn't go down, speak with your GP or midwife.

If you go on holiday, take all of your maternity notes in case you need treatment while you're away. See your GP before you go, and check that the airline will allow you to travel.

Usually, the safest time to travel by plane is between the 12th and 25th week of pregnancy. When you're on a plane, try to walk around frequently. Flex your calf muscles, rotate your feet, and wear compression stockings.

Travelling by plane after 25 weeks increases the chance of high blood pressure, as well as the chance of giving birth prematurely due to stressful conditions or illness.

If you are thinking of travelling by plane after 25 weeks, you should speak to your GP. After 24 weeks, the airline may request a letter from your GP stating your expected delivery date.

Keep your cool

When it comes to staying cool and calm, the simple methods are the best. A cold flannel on your forehead or at the back of your neck can do wonders for cooling you down.

Some expectant mums also say running your wrists under cold water is a great way to cool down. You can also try chewing or sucking ice cubes, or putting a few in a bowl of water and soaking your feet in it.

You might benefit from having a fan to help circulate air and provide a breeze. If the heat is really getting to you, have a cool shower or bath to lower your body temperature and help you relax. You also need to drink plenty of water when you're pregnant, especially during the summer. So have 8-10 glasses a day to stay hydrated.

If going on holiday, check there's a hospital nearby just in case. The travel agent should be able to find out what is in the area.

Glossary

High blood pressure

Hypertension is when the pressure of the blood in your bloodstream is regularly above 140/90 mmHG.

Hot flushes

A hot flush (also known as a hot flash) is a temporary feeling of heat in the face, neck and upper body, causing the skin to become flushed and sweaty.

The NHS turns 60 on Saturday 5 July.

But it's not ready for retirement just yet. In fact the NHS is showing no signs of slowing down!

Birth of the NHS

The National Health Service was introduced in 1948. It was part of a social welfare policy to help post-war Britain move forward.

The basic principles of the NHS remain unchanged to this day. That is, to provide universal access to health care that is free at the point of delivery.

Facts about the NHS

From its humble beginnings back in 1948 the new National Health Service took over 480,000 hospital beds in England and Wales. A staff of 125,000 nurses and 5,000 consultants looked after patients.

Today 1.3 million people work for the NHS in England and Wales. Of the entire workforce, around 30% are nurses and 77% of all NHS workers are female. The NHS workforce is so big it rivals the size of the Chinese army!

Other fantastic facts:

• Every month, 23 million people visit their GP practice.
• Community pharmacists dispense around 745 million prescription items every year.
• NHS chiropodists look at 150,000 pairs of feet every week.
• Every seven days, around 170,000 of us have an eye test.
• Emergency ambulance drivers respond to 50,000 emergency calls each week.

We must also mention that access to healthcare is now provided 24 hours a day, 365 days a year with the introduction of NHS walk-in centres and NHS Direct.

NHS Direct

The NHS Direct telephone service was set up in 1997 to provide advice and information 24 hours a day.

We currently receive around 20 calls per minute. And last Christmas over one million people called 0845 4647 or health advice during the festive period.

As well as the telephone helpline, NHS Direct also provide health information via the Internet here on this website. Our website receives over 3.5 million visits per month.

You can also view health information and current health news if you have access to digital television, either on Freeview or Sky television.

Freeview users can access the service on any of the ITV and Channel 4 channels by pressing the 'Text' button and going to page 700. Alternatively you can go to Freeview channel 100 and press the blue button to enter NHS Direct pages.

Sky users can access the service by pressing the 'Interactive' button, and using the arrow key to select NHS Direct Interactive and pressing 'Select'. The Sky service can also be viewed online at www.nhsdirect.tv.

What's changed in 60 years?

Back in 1948 a simple cataract operation would have seen you confined to bed for a week and have sandbags attached to your eyes. In 2008 a cataract operation takes 20 minutes and the majority of patients are out of hospital the same day.

In 1958, hip replacement operations were so unusual that patients were asked to return their replacement hip when they died! The NHS now carries out over 1,000 hip replacements every week.

Another first for the NHS was the very first heart transplant in the UK which took place on 3 May 1968 in London.

The NHS was also involved in the world's first 'test-tube baby' Louise Brown, who was born on July 25 1978. In the UK, 6,000 babies are born every year as a result of IVF (in vitro fertilisation).

And if that isn't enough, we now live on average 10 years longer that we would have in 1948.

So raise your glass and wish the NHS a very happy birthday!

Glossary

Heart

The heart is a muscular organ that pumps blood around the body.

Hip replacement

Hip replacement surgery is used to replace the original, damaged hip joint with a new, artificial hip made from plastic, ceramic or metal.

IVF

IVF stands for in vitro fertilisation. An egg is surgically removed from a woman and fertilised by a sperm outside of the body.