Avon Valley Practice

13/07/2026

Did you know that people of African, Caribbean or South Asian heritage are more likely to develop high blood pressure? 💙

High blood pressure (hypertension) often has no symptoms, which is why it’s sometimes called a “silent” condition ⚠️

If left untreated, it can increase the risk of serious health problems such as heart attacks, strokes and kidney disease ❤️

Research shows that people from African, Caribbean and South Asian backgrounds may have a higher risk of developing high blood pressure, so regular blood pressure checks are especially important 👍

Simple lifestyle changes can help lower your blood pressure and improve your overall health, including:
• eating a healthy balanced diet
• reducing salt intake
• staying active
• maintaining a healthy weight
• cutting down on alcohol 🚶

Checking your blood pressure regularly can help spot problems early and help you get the right support if needed 💫

Speak to your GP practice or pharmacist if you would like a blood pressure check or advice 💙

Find out more:
https://ow.ly/amuj50ZlyLO

10/07/2026

Binge drinking can have a serious impact on your physical and mental health 🍺
Binge drinking means drinking a large amount of alcohol in a short period of time.
Drinking too much alcohol can increase the risk of accidents, injuries, poor sleep, mental health difficulties, liver disease, high blood pressure and some cancers 💙
Keeping track of your units and having alcohol-free days can help you drink more safely 👍
Small changes can make a big difference to your health and wellbeing 🌟
Find out more:
https://alcoholchange.org.uk/blog/what-counts-as-binge-drinking

09/07/2026

Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis are forms of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that affect the digestive system.

Symptoms aren’t always visible, but they can have a significant impact on daily life.

If you’re experiencing ongoing symptoms like diarrhoea, abdominal pain or unexplained weight loss, it’s important to seek medical advice.

Support and information is available from https://www.crohnsandcolitis.org.uk/

08/07/2026

Helping children build healthy habits early can support their wellbeing now and in the future 💙

Healthy habits don’t have to mean big changes. Small steps each day can make a real difference 👍

Some simple ways to encourage healthy habits include:
• eating meals together as a family
• drinking more water instead of sugary drinks
• reducing screen time and encouraging active play
• getting enough sleep
• involving children in shopping and cooking 🍎

Children often learn by example, so positive role modelling can help encourage healthy eating, movement and balanced routines 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦

Healthy habits are about supporting overall wellbeing, confidence and long-term health rather than focusing on weight alone 💫

Good sleep is also important for growing children, helping with learning, mood and energy levels 😴

Remember, every family is different and small, realistic changes are often the easiest to maintain 💙

Find out more:
https://www.eufic.org/en/healthy-living
https://patient.info/healthy-living/obesity-overweight/childhood-obesity

06/07/2026

Summer is here – are you ready? ☀️

Warmer weather can bring a range of common health issues, from sunburn and hay fever to insect bites and travel sickness 🌍

Simple steps can help you stay safe and well this summer 👍

☀️ Protect your skin by:
• using sunscreen with at least SPF 30
• reapplying regularly
• spending time in the shade during the hottest part of the day
• wearing suitable clothing and sunglasses 😎

Even on cloudy days, UV rays can still damage your skin, so sun protection is important throughout the summer months 💙

If you need advice on managing summer symptoms such as hay fever, insect bites, stings or travel sickness, your pharmacist can help 💊

Stay safe, stay well and enjoy your summer 🌴

Find out more:
https://www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/sunscreen-and-sun-safety/

03/07/2026

Planning a trip abroad this summer? Don’t forget to check travel health advice and vaccinations before you go 🌍

Different countries can have different health risks, and some destinations may recommend or require vaccinations before travel 💉

Depending on where you’re travelling, you may need protection against illnesses such as hepatitis A, typhoid or yellow fever. It’s best to check as early as possible before your trip so you have enough time to arrange any vaccinations you may need 👍

Your pharmacist may also be able to provide travel health advice, vaccinations and support to help you stay well while you’re away ✈️

If you’re holidaying in the UK, it’s still important to stay safe in the summer sun and look after your health ☀️
Helpful tips include:
• wearing sunscreen and staying hydrated
• packing enough prescription medication
• carrying a basic first aid kit
• checking local weather and travel updates
• remembering insect bite protection if spending time outdoors 🦟

A little preparation can help make your holiday safer and more enjoyable for everyone 💙

Find out more about vaccines for an overseas holiday:
Travel vaccinations NHS: https://www.nhs.uk/vaccinations/travel-vaccinations/

02/07/2026

01/07/2026

Mpox (previously known as monkeypox) is a rare infection caused by a virus. It can spread through close physical contact with someone who has mpox symptoms, including rashes, blisters or scabs 🤝

Symptoms can include:
• a rash with blisters or sores
• fever
• headache
• muscle aches
• swollen glands
• tiredness 🤒

The rash can appear anywhere on the body, including the face, hands, mouth or ge***al area. Some people may only have a few spots, while others can develop more widespread symptoms 👀

Most people recover within a few weeks, but it’s important to avoid close contact with others if you think you may have mpox and seek medical advice 👍

Vaccines and treatments may be available for some people who are at higher risk or have been exposed to the virus 💉

If you develop symptoms or have been in close contact with someone who has mpox, contact a healthcare professional for advice 📞

Find out more:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/mpox/
https://patient.info/infections/monkeypox-virus

29/06/2026

Antibiotics are powerful medicines – but they don’t work for everything 💊

Antibiotic resistance happens when bacteria change and become resistant to the antibiotics used to treat them. This means infections can become harder to treat, last longer, and in some cases become more serious ⚠️

One of the biggest causes of antibiotic resistance is using antibiotics when they aren’t needed, such as for colds and flu, which are caused by viruses – not bacteria ❌

To help keep antibiotics working:
• Only take them if prescribed by a healthcare professional
• Always complete the full course
• Never share antibiotics or use leftovers

Antibiotic resistance is a growing global health concern, and we all have a role to play in protecting these important medicines for the future 🌍

Find out more:
Antibiotic resistance: https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/antibiotics/antibiotic-antimicrobial-resistance/

24/06/2026

Struggling with hay fever? You’re not alone 🌼

Hay fever is a common allergic reaction to pollen that can cause sneezing, a runny or blocked nose, itchy eyes and throat, and coughing 🤧

While there’s no cure, there are lots of ways to manage your symptoms and feel more comfortable 👍

Simple things that can help include:
• Keeping windows and doors closed when pollen levels are high
• Showering and changing clothes after being outdoors
• Wearing sunglasses to protect your eyes from pollen 🌤️

A pharmacist can also help by recommending treatments such as antihistamines, nasal sprays or eye drops to ease your symptoms 💊

If your symptoms are severe or not improving with treatment, it’s important to speak to your GP for further advice 👨‍⚕️

Find out more:
NHS hay fever: https://ow.ly/OIqk50ZeAbR
Hay fever treatments: https://ow.ly/bhlC50ZeAbK