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How to Spot an Infected Insect Bite

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Most of us have brushed off an insect bite at some point. A quick itch, a small red bump, and you move on. But sometimes, a bite does not heal as expected. It becomes more painful, inflamed, or just feels wrong. That is usually when concern sets in. In this guide, we explain how to spot an infected insect bite, which signs matter most, and when  it’s  time to seek advice. What Is an Infected Insect Bite? An  infected insect bite  happens when bacteria enter the skin through the bite wound, often after scratching. Not all painful or swollen bites are infected, as some are simply allergic reactions. While most bites heal within a few days, infection can slow healing and cause wider problems if ignored. Common Signs of an Infected Insect Bite Knowing the warning signs early can prevent complications. Here are the most common ones to look out for. Redness, Swelling, and Warmth That Get Worse It is normal for a fresh bite to look red and swollen, and some bites can be ver...

Earache: Common Causes and Quick Relief

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An earache has a way of stopping everything. Whether it is a toddler tugging at their ear at 2am or an adult dealing with a dull, throbbing pain, it can be worrying and uncomfortable. In this guide, we explain what causes earache, what symptoms to look out for, and how to get quick, safe relief. What Is an Earache, and Why Does It Happen? An   earache  is pain felt inside or around the ear, and it can affect one or both ears. It is especially common in young children because their ears are still developing. In many cases, the pain settles on its own within a few days, though some earaches may need medical advice. Common Causes of Earache Earache can have several causes, and it is not always due to an infection. The cause often becomes clearer when other symptoms appear. Middle Ear Infection A middle ear infection is a common cause of earache in children. Data shows most ear infections begin to improve within two to three days, even without antibiotics. Pain and mild hearing ch...

Flu Vaccination: The Protection You Might Be Missing

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Every winter, many people brush off the flu as “just a bad cold.” Life is busy, you feel  generally healthy , and getting vaccinated slips down the to-do list. But seasonal flu is far more serious than most of us realise. In this guide, we explain why flu vaccination matters, who it protects, and what you could be missing by skipping it. Why the Flu Is More Serious Than Many People Realise Flu is a viral infection that can cause high fever, severe aches, extreme tiredness, and chest complications. Each year, the flu leads to large numbers of GP visits and hospital admissions, especially during winter when the NHS is under pressure. Older adults, pregnant women, and people with long-term conditions are at higher risk of complications such as pneumonia. Even healthy adults can sometimes be left feeling unwell for weeks. How the Flu Vaccination Protects You and Others The flu vaccination  is one of the simplest ways to reduce the risk of serious illness during winter. It wo...