Harley Health Centre Blog

The New Year is always an excellent opportunity for a fresh start. If you want to make 2017 the year you get a handle on your health, we recommend starting with an MOT, a great gift to yourself or a loved one. Our seasonal special New Year MOT combines a thorough appointment with one of our experienced GPs and extensive blood testing that covers: Full haematology profile Full cholesterol screen Kidney function screen Liver function screen Calcium screen Potassium level Sodium level Iron profile Glucose level Vitamin D Thyroid Function Screen All the results of the blood testing will be…

For most of us the answer seems clear immediately – definitely more than we had in the last few months!  As the end of February is approaching, our bodies are using up the stores of the “sunshine vitamin” – the vitamin D we made during the summer. Reaction of the skin to sunlight (especially UVB radiation) is our basic source of vitamin D. In the UK, even on sunny days between October and February, there is not enough UVB radiation to facilitate vitamin D production. That’s why our body stores part of the vitamin produced in summer for winter time.…

The heart begins beating at 22 days after conception and works hard all through our lives. But our lifestyle greatly influences how well and how long our heart will function. There are approximately 2.6 million people in the UK living with Coronary Heart Disease and as many as 80% of them could be prevented. As we get older the risk of cardiovascular diseases increases. Our blood vessels may become narrowed by fatty material from the blood. This build-up, called atheroma, reduces the blood flow and the heart is then not receiving enough oxygen-rich blood. Atheroma can cause angina (chest pain…

The main holiday season of the year has finally arrived. Our minds are set to relax, recharge our batteries and leave everyday stress behind. Holidays, however, can also bring some less exciting memories. From heat exhaustion to minor injuries, there are plenty of occasions when a first-aid kit can be essential. Having said this, the emergency kit should never replace seeking the advice of a medical professional. So, what should your emergency kit include?   Antihistamines will help relieve the symptoms of any mild allergic reactions. They may be also helpful against general itching, skin rashes, insect bites and alleviating…