Advice and information | Healthwatch Medway

hypertension

You probably don’t know if you have high blood pressure

High blood pressure (which is also known as hypertension) rarely has noticeable symptoms; so if you have it, you’re unlikely to realise it. But if untreated, it increases your risk of serious problems such as heart attacks and strokes.

dementia

When is getting old, not just getting old?

So many of us put memory loss down to old age; but that’s not always true.

Fibromyalgia

Have you heard of Fibromyalgia?

Fibromyalgia is a long term condition that causes pain all over the body. It’s also known as fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS). It can be quite common – Lady Gaga has it!

cancer

How much do you know about Ovarian Cancer?

Here are some facts about ovarian cancer:

loneliness

9 million people in the UK are lonely right now. Are you one of them?

Everyone can feel lonely at some point in their life. Loneliness affects people of all ages and backgrounds. It can cause us real emotional pain and can impact on our physical and mental health.

deaf

We all know someone with hearing loss, but do you know how to help them?

Hearing loss is really common. But many people struggle when it could be treated.

stroke

Make May Purple for Stroke Awareness

Over 1 million people in England have had a stroke. For many people having a stroke is a life changing experience. May is Stroke Awareness Month so we are sharing everything you need to know.

parent

Where can I go for support for my mental health as a new parent?

It's so important that you feel supported as a new parent. Read the article below to find out where you can go to get the help you need.

Multiple Sclerosis : invisible & misunderstood

Multiple sclerosis (which is also known as MS), is a condition that can affect your brain and spinal cord, causing a wide range of potential symptoms, including problems with your vision, arm or leg movement, sensation or balance.

immunisation

Celebrating World Immunisation Week

As we adjust to a life of no Covid restrictions, we’re taking a moment in World Immunisation Week to recognise the power of vaccinations and the incredible vaccination programme that we’ve just witnessed across the UK.

covid 19

COVID-19 UPDATES

Vaccines: Spring boosters are now being offered to elderly people, care home residents and the most vulnerable.

what are your rights as a refugee?

What medical support are you entitled to if you’re new to the UK?

When people arrive in the UK for the first time, it can be confusing to know where to go if you need medical help. Here we outline your rights as a refugee, where you can access emergency help and how to register for a GP.