The United Kingdom may have a distinct culture, rich history and diverse population, but it still faces health challenges. Being aware of some of the most common illnesses is paramount for taking preventive measures and promoting better health.
In the UK, the NHS plays a pivotal role in managing and treating diseases. From chronic conditions to seasonal maladies, understanding these ailments can facilitate earlier diagnoses and effective interventions. So, what are the most common illnesses in the UK?
Cardiovascular Diseases
A cardiovascular disease is a type of illness that can impact the blood flow to your heart or your blood vessels. cardiovascular diseases are one of the leading causes of death in the UK. These illnesses are normally linked to:
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- High cholesterol
- Obesity
Adopting specific lifestyle changes can help to reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease. These changes involve:
- Adopting a healthier diet
- Engaging in regular exercise
- Reducing your alcohol consumption
- Giving up smoking
Another common cardiovascular disease in the UK is hypertension. This illness is used to describe anyone who has high blood pressure. It is a serious condition affecting a large percentage of the UK population. Often called the ‘silent killer’, hypertension typically presents no symptoms but can lead to severe complications like heart attacks and strokes if left unchecked.
Respiratory Disease
If you use cardiovascular disease to describe an illness that is linked to the heart and blood vessels, then respiratory disease can be used to describe any illness that relates to your lungs and surrounding airwaves. Of course, asthma is one of the most common forms of respiratory disease in the UK. Asthma is a chronic condition characterised by inflammation and narrowing of the airways, leading to difficulty in breathing. It affects people of all ages, though it often starts in childhood. Factors such as allergies, pollution, and genetics can contribute to the development of asthma. Proper management, which may include inhalers and lifestyle adjustments, is essential for controlling the condition.
There is another respiratory condition that you may be aware of. It is called Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. COPD is a group of lung conditions which include chronic bronchitis and emphysema, causing breathing difficulties. The main cause is smoking, although exposure to certain specks of dust and chemicals can also contribute. COPD is a progressive disease, but with the right treatment, the progression can be slowed down.
Mental Health Issues
Mental health issues are something that has been found to affect at least one in six people in the UK over the age of sixteen. These are any issues that impact your thought processes and mental performance. The main causes of mental health issues are chemical imbalances or environmental issues. Depression is characterised by persistent feelings of sadness, while anxiety involves excessive worry. Both can be debilitating and adversely affect one’s quality of life. Various treatments, such as counselling, medication, and lifestyle changes, are available.
You may also know about the degenerative brain disorder known as dementia. Alzheimer’s Data in revealed that around seven per cent of UK citizens over the age of sixty-five have exhibited signs of dementia before. Dementia is a collective term for a range of symptoms associated with a decline in brain function. It affects memory, thinking, behaviour, and the ability to perform everyday activities. Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. Early diagnosis and management can improve the quality of life for people living with dementia.
Cancer
Cancer Is a major health concern in the UK. It is characterised by any uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells. This abnormal growth can happen anywhere in the body; however, there are two main types of cancer that are more common in the UK.
The first is breast cancer. Researchers have estimated that over forty-six thousand people in the UK are diagnosed with breast cancer each year. Although this type of disease can appear in both men and women, Breast cancer is still the most common cancer among women in the UK. Regular screening and awareness of the signs and symptoms are crucial for early detection and treatment. The other major type of cancer in the UK is lung cancer, often associated with smoking. It is one of the deadliest forms of cancer because there are very few early signs of this type of cancer. Although, you should see your doctor if you have an ongoing cough lasting more than two weeks. The cessation of smoking and awareness of the symptoms can play a significant role in prevention and early detection.
Skin Conditions
Skin conditions in the UK can take many forms. What’s more, the causes of a skin condition come from many different places. It can be caused by an allergy, a genetic disorder, a sexually transmitted disease, stress, or something else entirely Some of the most common forms of skin conditions in the UK include:
- Eczema
- Dermatitis
- Hives
- Psoriasis
- Seasonal rashes
The most common way to treat any skin irritation is by ordering the right cream from an online pharmacy. Alternatively, you can prevent flare-ups by recognising and avoiding possible triggers.
Seasonal Illnesses
Like, a skin condition, a seasonal illness can have many possible triggers. However, your symptoms are more likely to appear during a certain time of the year or season. You may end up experiencing hay fever during spring because of the high pollen count, or you may catch a cold in the UK wintertime.
Seasonal flu and the common cold are viral infections that tend to occur more frequently during the winter months. They share similar symptoms, such as a sore throat, cough, and runny nose, but the flu can be more severe. Annual flu vaccinations are recommended for certain groups, such as the elderly and healthcare workers. A seasonal cold may also exacerbate underlying conditions like asthma. That is why you may also be offered a seasonal flu vaccination in the UK if you have one of these underlying health conditions.
Digestive Disorders
A digestive disorder is an illness that can affect your gut health or bowel. Some of these disorders are impacted by lifestyle or genetics. For example, IBS is a common disorder affecting the digestive system. The main symptoms include:
- Stomach cramps
- Bloating
- Diarrhoea
- Constipation
While the exact cause of IBS is unknown, stress and eating certain foods can trigger symptoms. Managing the condition often involves lifestyle changes and sometimes medication. However, you may also catch a digestive illness via bacterial infection or a virus.
Gastroenteritis, commonly known as stomach flu, is characterised by inflammation of the stomach and intestines. It is often caused by a viral or bacterial infection and is usually accompanied by diarrhoea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. You may also encounter gastroenteritis by eating poorly prepared food like raw chicken.
Conclusion
The common illnesses that prevail in the UK range from chronic diseases like heart disease and asthma to mental health issues and seasonal ailments. Awareness and understanding of these conditions are instrumental in promoting preventive measures and seeking timely treatment. Collaboration between healthcare professionals, government agencies, and individuals is key to improving the health and well-being of the UK population.
