Getting to the bottom of niggling health problems

Just because it's the winter months does not mean that we should accept anything less than perfect health. Here's what can be done about irritating health complaints common to women

At this time of year it's common to feel a little below par, and it can sometimes lead to a feeling of resignation when it comes to addressing any health problems. While sometimes it's a case of riding it out a small virus such as a cold, there are other ailments common to women that we could and should be addressing with a few simple measures.

If health is high on your agenda for 2010, read on for handy tips and recommendations from London GP Dr Sophie Kefi and BCS The Chartered Institute for IT, who have teamed up to launch a Wellness campaign Savvy Citizens.

Feeling the burn

Urinary Tract Infections are common in women - with 25-30 % of us between the ages of 20-40 years of age experiencing them, most of which area caused by the bacterium E.Coli. Symptoms to watch-out for include increase in urinary frequency, a nasty, burning or stinging sensation on passing urine, and sometimes patients experience abdominal pains or high temperatures. If left untreated, it can turn in to a severe infection called Pyelonephritis.

If you are suffering from any of these symptoms, don't just put up with it - most urinary tract infections can be treated successfully with a course of antibiotics, so visit your local GP if you are suffering from any of the above symptoms, your body will thank you for it!

Combating the cramps

Over half of us who menstruate experience cramps during the first few days of their period, this is known as Dysmenorrhoea. The pain can be a dull ache, or sharp and intense, this is caused by a hormone called Prostaglandins, which is produced by the body just before the start of the period and during the first two days, this affects the tension of uterine muscles.

It's easy to accept these symptoms as an inevitable part of mother nature, but actually, there are some simple tricks that really do make a noticeable difference. Try placing a hot water bottle or a heated pad over the lower abdomen (it's cosy and comforting too!). Relaxation techniques such as massage on the lower abdomen, and deep breathing can often ease the pain.

As much as you may not feel like it - getting out and doing physical exercise improves the oxygen supply and blood circulation throughout the body and the pelvis too thus alleviating pain. Diet-wise, make sure you're getting your fair share of omega 3 fatty acids (from fresh fish or fish oil capsules) magnesium and calcium. (Try Bio-Fish Oil from Victoria Health).

Over-the-counter pain medications such as ibuprofen can give relief within thirty to sixty minutes, however, these should not be taken for prolonged periods, due to contra indication notes, so please do consult your doctor if you find problem persists or worsens, or if you find other menstrual problems interfere with normal daily life.