A man was stabbed in the stomach when he opened his front door. The attacker, wearing a blue Hawaiian shirt, lunged forward with a 6in blade but caused only a shallow wound. The victim, 50, was in his flat in Arundel Court, Westdene, Brighton, just before
Those of you who are struggling to lose weight will understand exactly what I mean when I say you have a love-hate relationship with food. Your attraction to it is so strong you can't do without it and, at the same time, when you do over-indulge, you
It takes five years of training to become a fully-qualified pharmacist so there is clearly much more to the job than dishing out paracetomol and plasters. In fact, they can offer essential advice, information and support about a wide range of minor illnesses
As a sweeping generalisation, we seek pleasure and avoid pain. In other words, we tend to make life choices that will bring us satisfaction and we don't knowingly put ourselves in danger. Each of us defines pain and pleasure differently but that doesn't
Imagine a situation where there were no national standards.Where, for instance, no one agreed about the weight of a kilo. You could have Lewes insisting it was 1,000 grammes, while Manchester defined it as 1,200, or vice versa. Unthinkable. But there
Flood defences in parts of Lewes might not be modernised because the town does not score enough points on the Government's scale of at-risk communities. Campaigners have described the prospects of getting new defences to protect the areas west of Cliffe
Your temperature's rising. You're starting to get edgy. Then, the fear that someone might approach with: Can't you keep that child under control? But what can you do when you have no option but to take an unwilling four-year-old to the supermarket? First
"My child can count up to 20 and write her name and she's only three." Does this sound familiar? But for all you competitive parents, there are many more important lessons to be learned in the early years. Just as children learn to crawl before they can
Sir Steven Redgrave is our greatest Olympic hero and I am amazed to see him sharing his glory with Walkers crisps in their latest promotional blitz. After years of living on a shoestring, athletes deserve to cash in. But as the most bankable of them all
It may be summer time but staying away from junk food isnt easy. Fast food outlets specialise in catering for eyes, nose and taste buds. Therein lies the fastest route to your wallet. Fast food does not cater for your future well-being, say an hour after
Clients often ask whether their intake of calcium is adequate. Their concern is justified since calcium losses are associated with osteoporosis in one-in-three women and one-in-12 men. Other symptoms include muscle cramps, insomnia, tremors or spasms,
My other half informs me there is nothing remotely interesting to be said about the sweet potato. We'll see about that, shall we? Let me take you on a culinary journey. Prepare yourself for a fanfare of a feast, a celebration of the delicacies of er,
Do you want the best for your child? Of course you do. Yet, it seems once you set foot outside the front door, your influence ceases. But there's a group of individuals and organisations, all with different experiences and knowledge, who want your contribution
Imagine yourself in the position of Alice in Wonderland; reduced in size so all the everyday objects tables, chairs, cup - boards and most of all, people suddenly loom over you in a vast and frightening world. That's the experience of every little three
Vitamin C came in for another media bashing last week amid claims that high doses of the vitamin could increase the risk of cancer. Poor old vitamin C - allegations are constantly being made by medical science and sensationalised by the Press. Yet we
If you're a working parent, as I am, you probably get swamped by feelings of irrational guilt. Should you be with your child rather than earning a crust? Is your child missing out because you're not there at the school gates? Do they feel cornered into
Work is under way to give Brighton's Waitrose store a new look. The upgrade, expected to be finished in September, includes the introduction of the Quick Check self-scanning service, which allows customers to save time shopping. The store, in Western
Food giant Heinz has confirmed it has been forced to raise the price of top-selling lines such as baked beans and tomato ketchup. The company blames increases in the cost of raw materials, including a 30 per cent jump in world tomato paste prices. There
Employers who did little or nothing to make working conditions more bearable during the recent heatwave were attacked by union leaders yesterday. The TUC said workers should not have to endure "sweatshop" conditions if the heat returned. Unions received
Unemployed single parents are claiming free clothes, haircuts, manicures and facials on a new government scheme. The handouts, which include a budget of £75 for new outfits and £20 towards beauty treatments, are part of a project aiming to get out-of-work
I have finally found the man of my dreams and the fact that he owns a chocolate factory has everything to do with it. Chocolate factories, unlike cocoa beans, don't grow on trees and let's face it a girl needs to be practical about her obsessions. Chocolate
And now for another Party Political Broadcast on behalf of the D.I.N.N.E.R. Party ... Don't know who to vote for? The D.I.N.N.E.R.(Dishy Ingredients, No Nagging, Eat to Repair) Party is here to give you straight- forward, no-nonsense answers and pull
Every so often I need a good moan, so here goes. A young woman came to see me the other day. One of her symptoms was severe, chronic constipation which had eventually resulted in surgery to her back passage. As she was anaemic due to the loss of blood
If Hans Christian Andersen had not been dyslexic, he may never have created the tale of The Ugly Duckling. It is a classic story of the outsider 's struggle for acceptance, of an individual who doesn't quite fit in try as he might. Similar setbacks are
The sister of Shirine Harburn, the Sussex backpacker stabbed to death by robbers in China, has spoken of her pity for the men found guilty of her murder. Shirine, 30, from Langley Green, Crawley, was killed while on holiday three years ago. Lianne Harburn
Officially, the number of obese people has more than doubled in a decade and is on the increase. 17 per cent of males and 20 percent of females in the UK are obese and 50 per cent are overweight, subjecting themselves to huge health risks including heart
As silly adverts go, the one I heard on the radio the other day takes the oatcake. It ridicules people who eat healthy snacks and tells them to swallow a multi-vitamin instead. Pill popping, after all, has been the preferred medical treatment since pills
On my recent excursion to Israel, I frequently came across a relation of the green pea called the chickpea (or garbanzo). Chickpeas originated in the Middle East around 7,000 years ago and were one of the first legumes to be cultivated by man. Properly
According to many experts, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is God's gift to woman kind. As it replaces the levels of oestrogen and progesterone that naturally decline in a woman during and after the menopause, causing trouble-some symptoms such as hot
"You sound very laid back," said the ageing rock star, whose latest tour of regional venues made him worth my interviewing for 'whatever happened to them?' column in Sunday paper. The reason he thought I sounded very laid back (instead of my usually slightly
Lately, I seem to have been rather bogged down with rear-ends. Judging by readership response, it may be a good idea to go into more detail about how to make the digestive machinery function like clockwork or, at least, as regularly. In the world of nutrition
This week, you may be delighted to hear that you won't be regaled with what to eat and what not to eat. Hey, let's all relax, take a step back and chill out. Perhaps we are getting a tad obsessive we shop to drop, work-out to burn out and compete to defeat
One of the most irritating problems for parents as the new school year kicks off is the appearance of head lice in their offspring. The main difficulty with a condition such as head lice is that, in most cases, by the time a parent notices their child
Thirty years ago, smoking was seen as a social thing to do and there weren't many places where it was frowned upon to light up. But information about the health risks involved, not just for the smoker but for the people immediately around them, has led
At the age of 39, Sharon Charlton found herself able to see clearly for the first time in her life. Born with eyesight problems, Mrs Charlton, from Selsey, had to wait until the cataracts on both her eyes had fully developed before she was able to have
During National Foot Care Week, Siobhan Ryan looks at what steps need to be taken to give feet a clean bill of health In an average lifetime, most people's feet carry them the equivalent of five times around the earth. That's not bad going considering
After a lifetime of trusting old-fashioned remedies to ward off illnesses, aches and pains, Audrey Parcell thought her body had the healing power to cope with almost any disease. When she started to lose her appetite and feel exhausted all the time she
Not for one moment do I imagine that life is easy for our kids. Just consider the stress of being driven to school when you'd far rather walk, or having to put up with politically correct parenting and endless bewildering choices. Do I take up hula hoop
Dear Martina, I am in my early 30s and often suffer from digestive problems. I am bloated and windy most of the time and suffer from constipation and sometimes diarrhoea - there seems to be no particular pattern to this. Could it be due to something I
"I don't know what to do. I'm bored." The inevitable consequence of a school holiday, perhaps, but for a parent this refrain is almost the kiss of death. For working parents, who have to prise unwilling children out of bed when they are in holiday mood
An increasing number of people are favouring vegetable protein in their diets rather than relying solely on animal protein (meat, fish, eggs). You can find vegetable protein in whole grains, beans, pulses, seeds and nuts. Vegetarians should eat a mixture
Do you remember the first day you started school? I remember it well: The pain of feeling totally alone and the humiliation that comes from being observed crying. Well, times have changed now in that most children have learnt to broaden their horizon
Latter-day historians will tell you that I, Cleopatra, am no oil painting. And what do they expect from a mother of four with a busy career? It's hard enough fending off challenges to my throne and overseeing lazy Nubian slaves without having to be a
A growing number of people with near constant aches and pains are turning to a new type of alternative therapy to help them. Magnotherapy involves using a simple magnetic device which is believed to improve the bloodflow and relieve symptoms. Siobhan
One of the skills that distinguishes us from all other animals is our ability to communicate. There's no doubt that catching small children when they are already fired up to learn new ways of communicating improves dramatically their chances of reaching
Flaxseed (also called linseed) is one of the oldest cultivated plants on the planet and extremely versatile. Linen woven from the fibrous stalks of flax have been found in ancient Egyptian tombs and at sites in Switzerland dating back to 4000 BC. Its
This week we are continuing with the theme of personality types and patterns of behaviour. When dealing with a stressful or demanding situation, we become more vulnerable to other minor or major irritations. Problems tend not to come one at a time: When
The demand for trained medical herbalists has increased sharply in the past five years. There are now at least 15 in practice in Sussex, treating people who prefer to take natural remedies instead of conventional medicine. Siobhan Ryan looks at the growing
Say "childcare" to most parents and they'll think nurseries, childminders, playgroups. But that excludes the many and varied supervised activities taking place across the county for children. Increasing numbers of schools run out-of-school-hours learning
Since 1980, the number of obese adults and children has doubled in UK. I believe obesity is a result of an imbalanced body, mind and spirit. A number of factors are influential - dietary habits, exercise, mental state, emotional turmoil and spiritual
Picture Linford Christie in his glory days at the start of a race, totally focused on winning. Poised at the starting point, he was in another world, one in which there was no alternative but to succeed. Any parent will tell you that sort of self-belief
Around 400 BC, the Greek physician Hippocrates prescribed powder from the bark and leaves of the willow tree to relieve pain and fever. Much later, at the end of the 19th Century, the German company Bayer used the active ingredient from willow plants
Having had during the past two months three brief stays in the Royal Sussex County Hospital and being currently an outpatient, I write to pay tribute to the medical, technical and the other staff who have given me such special care and treatment. I include
For nearly nine months, Catherine Harwood's pulse beat to the rhythm of her baby daughter's tiny heart. She felt every move her daughter made and did everything she could to nurture her little body inside. Catherine fell in love with the baby girl's perfectly-formed
For far too many years childcare has been right at the bottom of the pile. This goes back as far as the 17th Century, when wealthy women farmed their children out to wet nurses rather than ruin their social lives and their bodies. Times have changed,
The skin disease psoriasis is not contagious, yet it feels like the social equivalent of leprosy. It is a common disorder characterised by unsightly, red, scaly patches produced by a pile-up of skin cells that have replicated too quickly. Little is known
The promise of more hot weather to come means thousands of families will flock to the South Coast this summer. With less than month to go before the summer holidays start, Siobhan Ryan looks at how parents can ensure their children and themselves don't
I totally disagree with Paul James' idea that Eastbourne needs to re-think its marketing strategy (The Argus, August 15). Comparing it with Brighton, there's no contest. It has beautiful gardens, clean streets, excellent entertainment and some very nice
Siobhan Ryan speaks to a woman who is using an old technique to help solve a modern problem. The number of people who spend a lot of their leisure time sitting in front of a computer playing games or surfing the Internet has rapidly increased in the last
It is about time I give my favourite food a plug as clients often ask for an alternative to gluten-containing grains. Wheat, oats, rye and barley are the most common food allergens in this country. Gluten contains a protein called gliadin, a common intestinal
It was all hilarious and well-managed with commendable camaraderie but the "loving and caring" Pride parade fell short in its attitude towards dogs. Brain-bashing bands were in full blast, with drums and whistles galore goading the enthusiastic, exotic
Thousands of people in the UK are forced to radically change their lifestyles and behaviour to cope with the fact they have a stammer. But having the problem does not always mean people have to restrict their lives. Siobhan Ryan speaks to a woman who
What can men do about PMS? "Frailty, thy name is woman!" said Shakespeare but I'm sure he had no idea what it is like to suffer from Premenstrual Syndrome. My spouse used to joke that he had a full six-minute window of opportunity to talk to me between
An opening stand of 137 between Andy Langworthy (67) and Steve Weller (60) set up a comfortable seven-wicket win for high-flyers Hurstpierpoint over Preston Nomads III. Earlier Nomads posted 203-5 with Dave Banfield (54) and Peter Gann (52) top scoring
Recent letters in The Argus highlight some of the issues facing the outpatient departments at the Royal Sussex County Hospital generally and the blood test department in particular. I would like to apologise unreservedly for the delays recently experienced
West Sussex League: West Chiltington maintained their slender three point lead at the top of division one with a five-wicket win at Hove Medina. Alan Hamper scored 35 for Hove in a 164-9 score after tight bowling by John Chaloner. Chilt replied with 170
Francesco Antonini, an Italian visitor, had his neck slashed with a razor blade late at night in Brighton. What was the problem he caused to the despicable bullies who left a 3in wound? He and a friend had been to a club and they were gay. A lot of effort
Findon captain Nigel Waller says his team will come fighting back after losing in the semi-finals of the National Village Cup. The Invitation League champions went out to holders Shipton-Under-Wychwood from Oxfordshire by just five runs in front of more
Stress can hit people at any age and is affecting a growing number of people in Sussex. Siobhan Ryan looks at how people's lifestyles affect their health and what they are trying to do to relax After a long and stressful day, most people will try to unwind
There is so much to do and remember these days, it is little wonder premature memory loss is not uncommon. Many of us find prolonged stress and too much work causing lack of concentration, memory loss and even personality changes. Dramatic alterations
When we think of food for health we conjure up visions of delicious dishes in our minds. We think of wholesome food as protein, calories, fats and vitamins to nourish our bodies. The other day, I was invited to join a group of Hindu elders to share ideas
The training of doctors in modern medicine gives them a solid foundation. This makes them unique in their understanding of the structure and functions of the human body. Doctors learn to treat their patients with medicines or surgery. The treatment of
The arrival of summer conjures up images of long evenings and sunshine. But for thousands of allergy sufferers, it can be an annual nightmare. Siobhan Ryan looks at what can be done to relieve the problem. Wasps and bees, nettle rash, prickly heat and
Once the clubbing teenage years are over, younger men and women are becoming more eager to adopt a healthier lifestyle. And to use natural ways to treat conditions such as stress, depression, premenstrual tension and acne. These are common conditions
Albion are poised to make new goal hero Leon Knight's loan move from Chelsea permanent. The Seagulls have agreed an undisclosed fee with the mega rich Londoners for the diminutive striker. Knight struck twice on his home debut against former club Queens
The City of Brighton and Hove probably has the largest number of complementary therapists in the country. That poses a number of problems Which therapist should you see for treatment of your condition? Who will advise you as to which therapy is suitable
Relaxing after my first American experience of a most exciting baseball match I found myself reading the book Just A Moment. Relaxing after my first American experience of a most exciting baseball match at the famous Fenway Park; Boston I found myself
A born-again Christian battered with an iron bar for his mobile phone said God gave him the strength to fight off his attacker. Sales assistant Greg Bethune, 18, from Lancing, was hit repeatedly on the head and needed 20 stitches after the assault on
Nearly 2.5 million people in the UK have psoriasis and one-in-eight suffers from eczema. A rise in the number of cases has led to a search for a natural way to treat these painful conditions. Siobhan Ryan speaks to those who think they may have found
Basking in the glorious sun on the beach in Florida with clear skies and temperatures soaring to 91 degrees is what we all desire as a fantastic holiday experience. Hundreds of holiday-makers from Britain will soon be heading off for sunny destinations
With summer in full swing, and elections out of the way, people are off on holiday ! Some will be travelling by car, some by rail, and some flying! Having a break and a great holiday is vital for sanity these days. But travelling in itself can be a bit
Police investigating a drive-by shooting which left a man fighting for life have found an abandoned motorcycle. The green motorcycle was discovered just outside Sedlescombe yesterday afternoon following the incident soon after 6.30am at Cripp's Corner
With the glorious sunshine,the sneezing, the stuffy, runny noses, runny eyes and muzzy heads have also arrived. The pollen count has been high and a lot of people have been suffering from their seasonal hay fever. The runny and congested nose and sinuses
Many people spend hours looking in the mirror worrying about frown or laughter lines appearing on their face. The usual reaction is to use face creams in a bid to get rid of them but there is a simpler and more effective solution available. Siobhan Ryan
People assume that the brittle bone disease osteoporosis only affects elderly people. But signs can show as early as in one's 20s. Siobhan Ryan looks at how tests for the condition are carried out and how people can stop it from developing further. Osteoporosis
Binge-drinking among young ladies, and among young people generally, has escalated, reported a recent television documentary. The idea of a good time these days, is to drink 20 units of alcohol in a night out, smoke, perhaps have drugs, dance away to
Sarah Ferguson's recent documentary on the television made us all aware of the growing problem of obesity and weight gain in the UK; particularly among children. The dangers to health and well-being and the physical, mental and emotional disorders that
'What I hate most about being single again after 3 years is shopping. Instead of the dulex shopping trolley model, I am back to carrying the sad, single basket. Panic sets in. Everyone will know that I am single. I hide and scurry through the aisles keeping
Spring still seems to be a long way off as people try and shake off the winter blues. Siobhan Ryan looks at how therapies such as acupuncture and shiatsu can help them stop feeling flat, burnt out and run down. At the moment there are many people who
The science of stress management and harnessing the life force of our natural health is called Pranayama. This literally means "to master or control the life force Prana". Ayurvedic medicine and yoga is the science of different forms of breathing exercises
One of the most difficult aspects of dealing with mental illness is coping with the stigma attached to the condition. Siobhan Ryan speaks to a group which works to overcome preconceptions and assumptions to help improve the health and wellbeing of the
Natural skin beauty can be affected by exposure to weather, pollution, direct sunlight, chemical sprays and repeated washing with soap and detergents. The vitality and suppleness of the skin depends on its ability to retain oil and moisture and over-exposure
The ancient Yogis lay great emphasis on the central role which proper breathing plays in our health. We all know that we cannot live without breathing. Our breathing and circulation of blood in the body are intimately connected and interactive. You will
People recovering from major heart surgery are usually advised to watch their diet and not to overdo things but the benefits of support from others can be limited. Siobhan Ryan speaks to a man who has had surgery and now spends his time helping others
One of the most common complaints I hear these days is: "Doctor, I cannot sleep. Can you give me something to help me sleep". Over recent years,the use of tranquillisers has shot up as doctors may not have anything else to offer. It is not easy to live
Diabetes Mellitus is a result of malfunction of the pancreas an organ in the stomach which produces insulin. Insulin controls the sugar level and its utilisation in the body. To understand why this happens and why diet is so important, knowledge of the
Many of you may have watched and heard actress Tracey Shaw; who spoke on TV about her agonising experience with anorexia or eating disorder - and more importantly how she got over it. We also saw how young girls of school age are affected by the body
Our life is a continuous exercise of interacting with others and with the environment around us. or coming to terms with ourselves, being at peace with ourselves. Nature has provided us with an in-built mechanism of survival which perceives everything
Cholesterol is a type of fat in he body. It deposits itself with other tissue on to he inner lining of our blood vessels and clogs them up, causing heart disease, angina, high blood pressure and stroke. Diet, stress and lack of exercise are the main causes
Little Leon Knight proved again that size does not matter as Albion came from behind to topple the title favourites. The mercurial marksman from Chelsea struck twice on his home debut against his old club to maintain the Seagulls' 100 per cent start to
The break up of a relationship is a traumatic time for the couple involved but the strains and stresses can also have an impact on the health and well-being of any children involved. Siobhan Ryan speaks to a team of workers who help young people get through
Physical health depends primarily on air, water and diet. Add to this a cheerful heart and a happy mind, and a discipline in life and you have a bouncing radiant health. Professor G T Gursahani has laid out very simple rules of a happy healthy life in
With the recent spate of virus infections, a lot of people have suffered from dizziness and vertigo and often buzzing in the ears. There are several causes of dizziness and vertigo. One of the common causes is infection of the inner ear by a virus called
Many of you may have watched the documentary on the television where Fredie Starr, the comedian, and other people talked about their depression. It was commented that 18 million prescriptions for antidepressants are written every year and that the rate
Every other person will probably suffer from piles (haemorrhoids) at some point in their lives. Piles are dilated veins just inside the back passage. They are harmless in themselves mostly you don't get any symptoms, but sometimes they can cause irritation
Sunshine brings cheer to the heart and light helps dispel depression. However, being slaves of habit, we often overdo things in summer and allow the heat and sunshine to spoil our enjoyment by damaging our health. Children and people with a fair complexion
Last Saturday, a very special young patient introduced me to the Alexander technique. I watched her expert Alexander teacher give her training and treatment, which has helped her almost cure her chronic back pain from a curvature in the spine. This gentle
A new organisation has been set up to research complementary therapies. The Foundation for Integrated Medicine will look into the integration of other medical systems such as Ayurvedic,Chinese and Western herbal medicine and complementary therapies like
I was delighted to attend a lecture on Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) recently given by a GP colleague who works in gynaecology. It was refreshing to hear the clinical evidence and feedback from women taking natural products containing phytoestrogens
Put yourself in the position of a small child visiting the doctor's surgery. First, there's the adult height desk with a computer and a strange person sitting at it. Then there's the couch and the battery of medical equipment. All very intimidating. But
Long and short sightedness are caused by aberrations of the lens of the eye and its muscles. Too much straining of eyes at minute objects and computer screens or fast-moving objects can cause fatigue of eye muscles, causing pain, headaches, redness of
Nutritionists have been telling people for years to take vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids but, according to the Food Standards Agency, we've got it all wrong. They tell us vitamins and minerals may have irreversible harmful effects. As I am
Parents fighting to save their children's school lobbied councillors and handed education bosses an open letter. Protesters from the Local Education Action Group stood outside Brighton and Hove City Council offices at King's House in Hove yesterday, handing
In Africa in the Seventies and Eighties, volunteer services distributing aid and health education to children in remote areas were caught by surprise. They were surprised to discover that someone else had got there before them. No matter how far flung
Be a child for a moment:take a dry sponge and weigh it; then, dip it in water and weigh it again. You will find it is now at least five times heavier. A small child's brain responds to stimulus in the same way a sponge reacts when placed in water. But
Are you on automatic pilot? It's my guess that by ten o'clock in the morning, you've already made 100 choices. Do I surprise you? Here are just some examples: To go back to sleep after the alarm rings or to get up. To exercise or not. To put the cap on
If you live in Brighton and Hove, you will probably have noticed a hitherto little-known style of yoga class appearing on fitness club and health centre timetables around the city. Julie Cuddihy moved to Brighton in February last year and brought with
Have you heard about the four-year-old who came home from playgroup, saying, "We had television time this afternoon?" The appalled mother rang up the manager and asked why she was paying good money to have her child parked in front of the television.
Obesity or weight gain is becoming an increasingly common health problem. This is as a result of modern lavish living with high consumption of fatty foods and alcohol. Many of us are born with a genetic tendency to weight gain. Ayurvedic medicine attributes
When you think about it, it's really strange so many people desperately want to lose weight yet those same people find it so hard to do. Most people with a modicum of motivation manage to move forward on a whole range of projects quite successfully. People
Albion are poised to make new goal hero Leon Knight's loan move from Chelsea permanent. The Seagulls have agreed an undisclosed fee with the mega rich Londoners for the diminutive striker. Knight struck twice on his home debut against former club Queens
The weather may be getting more spring like but the winter colds are still refusing to go away. Health reporter Siobhan Ryan speaks to someone who can offer something a little bit different to help The routine of work, study and socialising can all take
Police think a pair of gunmen who blasted a Sussex businessman in the head intended to leave them a message when they dumped their motorbike. Officers believe the "V1 LON" number plate on the motorbike used in the shooting was an attempt by the villains
Picture Linford Christie in his glory days at the start of a race, totally focused on winning. Poised at the starting point, he was in another world, one in which there was no alternative but to succeed. Any parent will tell you that sort of self-belief
Having had during the past two months three brief stays in the Royal Sussex County Hospital and being currently an outpatient, I write to pay tribute to the medical, technical and the other staff who have given me such special care and treatment. I include
For nearly nine months, Catherine Harwood's pulse beat to the rhythm of her baby daughter's tiny heart. She felt every move her daughter made and did everything she could to nurture her little body inside. Catherine fell in love with the baby girl's perfectly-formed
For far too many years childcare has been right at the bottom of the pile. This goes back as far as the 17th Century, when wealthy women farmed their children out to wet nurses rather than ruin their social lives and their bodies. Times have changed,
The skin disease psoriasis is not contagious, yet it feels like the social equivalent of leprosy. It is a common disorder characterised by unsightly, red, scaly patches produced by a pile-up of skin cells that have replicated too quickly. Little is known
Having just read the article on the subject of someone putting up a home-made speed camera on the A272 near Cowfold (The Argus, August 7), does Emma Rogers of the Sussex Safety Camera Partnership realise what she has said in her comment? I quote from
I totally disagree with Paul James' idea that Eastbourne needs to re-think its marketing strategy (The Argus, August 15). Comparing it with Brighton, there's no contest. It has beautiful gardens, clean streets, excellent entertainment and some very nice
It is about time I give my favourite food a plug as clients often ask for an alternative to gluten-containing grains. Wheat, oats, rye and barley are the most common food allergens in this country. Gluten contains a protein called gliadin, a common intestinal
An opening stand of 137 between Andy Langworthy (67) and Steve Weller (60) set up a comfortable seven-wicket win for high-flyers Hurstpierpoint over Preston Nomads III. Earlier Nomads posted 203-5 with Dave Banfield (54) and Peter Gann (52) top scoring
Maisie the border collie cannot walk after being left for dead in an accident. While she's been on the mend, she's found some of her best friends are kittens. Normally she would be expected to fight them like cat and dog. But if staff at the Celia Hammond
West Sussex League: West Chiltington maintained their slender three point lead at the top of division one with a five-wicket win at Hove Medina. Alan Hamper scored 35 for Hove in a 164-9 score after tight bowling by John Chaloner. Chilt replied with 170
The healing art of homoeopathy is not normally associated with sophisticated equipment or computer wizardry. But practitioners like Sussex-based Miranda Kingsley-Holt are now using cutting-edge technology to treat their patients in a natural way. Thanks
Locked into a place of meaningless noises, incomprehensible shapes and colours; exaggerated perceptions of touch, taste and smell, the world becomes a scary place to be. Children and adults suffering from autism can make little sense of normal codes of
Invitation League: Leaders Arundel boosted their chances of winning the title for only the second time after beating bottom side Clymping by 102 runs. Skipper Steve Mullen (96) and Richard Whitcomb (61) put on 167 for the first wicket and Richard Thompson
Francesco Antonini, an Italian visitor, had his neck slashed with a razor blade late at night in Brighton. What was the problem he caused to the despicable bullies who left a 3in wound? He and a friend had been to a club and they were gay. A lot of effort
Ivor Caplin's defence of the occupation of Iraq (Letters, July 26) is misleading. He speaks of a possible comeback by Saddam Hussein if coalition troops withdraw but this argument is being used to mask a brutal occupation of a country and has nothing
Findon captain Nigel Waller says his team will come fighting back after losing in the semi-finals of the National Village Cup. The Invitation League champions went out to holders Shipton-Under-Wychwood from Oxfordshire by just five runs in front of more
Men are poor at looking after themselves. They often postpone seeking medical help until things are quite bad. Problems with enlarged prostate and poor urinary flow are quite common. Frequency, urgency and incontinence of urine can make life very miserable
Stress can hit people at any age and is affecting a growing number of people in Sussex. Siobhan Ryan looks at how people's lifestyles affect their health and what they are trying to do to relax After a long and stressful day, most people will try to unwind
There is so much to do and remember these days, it is little wonder premature memory loss is not uncommon. Many of us find prolonged stress and too much work causing lack of concentration, memory loss and even personality changes. Dramatic alterations
People living near Norfolk Square in Brighton gave a collective sigh of relief when a ban on street drinking came into force earlier this month. But anyone passing the area since then will have seen the problem is still as bad as ever. Drunks congregate
"I retired after 27 years of service as a senior cardiologist because I wanted to do something about the nutrition of children in America,". said Dr Harvey Zarren, talking to our group of doctors and therapists. The noble work of this eminent cardiologist
Little Leon Knight proved again that size does not matter as Albion came from behind to topple the title favourites. The mercurial marksman from Chelsea struck twice on his home debut against his old club to maintain the Seagulls' 100 per cent start to
Albion are poised to make new goal hero Leon Knight's loan move from Chelsea permanent. The Seagulls have agreed an undisclosed fee with the mega rich Londoners for the diminutive striker. Knight struck twice on his home debut against former club Queens
The City of Brighton and Hove probably has the largest number of complementary therapists in the country. That poses a number of problems Which therapist should you see for treatment of your condition? Who will advise you as to which therapy is suitable
The use of herbs and vitamins to boost health and offer an alternative treatment for illness has always been popular and is continuing to rise. More and more herbal treatment are becoming available. Siobhan Ryan looks at the growing popularity of natural
Relaxing after my first American experience of a most exciting baseball match I found myself reading the book Just A Moment. Relaxing after my first American experience of a most exciting baseball match at the famous Fenway Park; Boston I found myself
A born-again Christian battered with an iron bar for his mobile phone said God gave him the strength to fight off his attacker. Sales assistant Greg Bethune, 18, from Lancing, was hit repeatedly on the head and needed 20 stitches after the assault on
Basking in the glorious sun on the beach in Florida with clear skies and temperatures soaring to 91 degrees is what we all desire as a fantastic holiday experience. Hundreds of holiday-makers from Britain will soon be heading off for sunny destinations
Owning a pet can be bad for your health if you are allergic to fur, leaving you with the choice of struggling against ill-health or being forced to get rid of the animal. Siobhan Ryan speaks to one couple who have managed to achieve the best of both worlds
Organisers of an annual festival have revealed plans for a city's first winter Pride. The Pride in Brighton and Hove Committee is already working on the event, which will run from November 23 to 30. Details of the week-long festival have been unveiled
Hundreds of people throughout Sussex are suffering from long-term niggling injuries that are not life threatening but severely curtail their quality of life. Siobhan Ryan speaks to one such person about the operation that helped to change his life. For
Is taking pills the answer to illness? Is that the best we can do to look after ourselves? For most people suffering from common illness or pain, conventional pills are an essential quick fix. Where is the time to take some exercise, or adopt a few yoga
Police think a pair of gunmen who blasted a Sussex businessman in the head intended to leave them a message when they dumped their motorbike. Officers believe the "V1 LON" number plate on the motorbike used in the shooting was an attempt by the villains
Foods as obscure as garlic or mushrooms could be stopping you losing weight or fighting off skin or sinus problems. Linsey Wynton tries out a new food intolerance test and wonders whether it is worthwhile. Have you ever wondered if the foods and drinks
Do you feel stuck in life? Do you feel unable to untangle yourself from the clutches of work or mental, physical and emotional tensions? Do you suffer from illness which requires more than just prescription of pills? The Art Of Living Foundation is a
While we are all concerned about the health of the nation, the very frontline soldiers who uphold the National Health Service are often forgotten in modern times. Doctors themselves forget that they are carers, therapists, counsellors. I believe that,
'What I hate most about being single again after 3 years is shopping. Instead of the dulex shopping trolley model, I am back to carrying the sad, single basket. Panic sets in. Everyone will know that I am single. I hide and scurry through the aisles keeping
Everyone who attended the Inter Faith Contact Group Meeting on April 18 at the Unitarian Church, Brighton was deeply moved by the talk given by Michael Henderson. He is a remarkable author and media presenter who has devoted his life to bringing to the
If there is one thing guaranteed to put a strain on any relationship, it is whether one of the couple snores, leaving the other to toss and turn all night. Siobhan Ryan speaks to one woman who says a special mouthwash is the answer. After 32 years of
Spring still seems to be a long way off as people try and shake off the winter blues. Siobhan Ryan looks at how therapies such as acupuncture and shiatsu can help them stop feeling flat, burnt out and run down. At the moment there are many people who
One of the most difficult aspects of dealing with mental illness is coping with the stigma attached to the condition. Siobhan Ryan speaks to a group which works to overcome preconceptions and assumptions to help improve the health and wellbeing of the
The ancient Yogis lay great emphasis on the central role which proper breathing plays in our health. We all know that we cannot live without breathing. Our breathing and circulation of blood in the body are intimately connected and interactive. You will
People recovering from major heart surgery are usually advised to watch their diet and not to overdo things but the benefits of support from others can be limited. Siobhan Ryan speaks to a man who has had surgery and now spends his time helping others
Coimbatore in the south of India is a unique place renowned for its authentic traditional ayurvedic medicine. The Arya Vaidya Hospital is particularly famous for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and chronic back problems with sciatica. The World Health
One of the most common complaints I hear these days is: "Doctor, I cannot sleep. Can you give me something to help me sleep". Over recent years,the use of tranquillisers has shot up as doctors may not have anything else to offer. It is not easy to live
Diabetes Mellitus is a result of malfunction of the pancreas an organ in the stomach which produces insulin. Insulin controls the sugar level and its utilisation in the body. To understand why this happens and why diet is so important, knowledge of the
With many celebrities and royalties going for Ayurvedic therapy and treatment, there is an increasing awareness and interest in Ayurveda. Ayurvedic medicine dates back to around 2500BC. The University of Taxilla in Northern India was the first university
Our life is a continuous exercise of interacting with others and with the environment around us. or coming to terms with ourselves, being at peace with ourselves. Nature has provided us with an in-built mechanism of survival which perceives everything
Cholesterol is a type of fat in he body. It deposits itself with other tissue on to he inner lining of our blood vessels and clogs them up, causing heart disease, angina, high blood pressure and stroke. Diet, stress and lack of exercise are the main causes
The break up of a relationship is a traumatic time for the couple involved but the strains and stresses can also have an impact on the health and well-being of any children involved. Siobhan Ryan speaks to a team of workers who help young people get through
Physical health depends primarily on air, water and diet. Add to this a cheerful heart and a happy mind, and a discipline in life and you have a bouncing radiant health. Professor G T Gursahani has laid out very simple rules of a happy healthy life in
With the recent spate of virus infections, a lot of people have suffered from dizziness and vertigo and often buzzing in the ears. There are several causes of dizziness and vertigo. One of the common causes is infection of the inner ear by a virus called
Every other person will probably suffer from piles (haemorrhoids) at some point in their lives. Piles are dilated veins just inside the back passage. They are harmless in themselves mostly you don't get any symptoms, but sometimes they can cause irritation
Last Saturday, a very special young patient introduced me to the Alexander technique. I watched her expert Alexander teacher give her training and treatment, which has helped her almost cure her chronic back pain from a curvature in the spine. This gentle
A new organisation has been set up to research complementary therapies. The Foundation for Integrated Medicine will look into the integration of other medical systems such as Ayurvedic,Chinese and Western herbal medicine and complementary therapies like
Natasha Morris is back in the saddle after being crushed by her horse in a riding accident. First aiders rushed to help the 12-year-old, who stopped breathing when she swallowed her tongue after being thrown from her horse when it failed to clear a jump
What is holistic health? The word holistic has been so used and abused that people have different perceptions of the meaning of the word. Even doctors misunderstand its implications. The word holistic is derived from the Greek word meaning whole. A holistic
Some things never change: the back-to-school notices in the shops; the panic to find the school blazer; the cries of "But you said I could have packed lunch!" But for some parents, this is a whole new ball game: their child is taking the first, hesitant
It's 8.15am, already the sun is pouring into the car and you are stuck in a traffic jam with two children under six squabbling in the back. One question is dominating your mind: how are you going to get Phoebe to the playgroup, six-year-old Thomas to
Smoking is probably one of the oldest recreational rituals. We all know by now that tobacco is a powerful drug, which weakens the nerves and the brain in the long run. It clogs up the small blood vessels in the brain, heart and other organs and causes
Long and short sightedness are caused by aberrations of the lens of the eye and its muscles. Too much straining of eyes at minute objects and computer screens or fast-moving objects can cause fatigue of eye muscles, causing pain, headaches, redness of
Hair dye has been around for a long time - historians believe henna has been used for at least 5,000 years in India, the Middle East and North Africa. The Queen of Sheba is said to have been decorated with henna, which is made from the dried leaves of
In Africa in the Seventies and Eighties, volunteer services distributing aid and health education to children in remote areas were caught by surprise. They were surprised to discover that someone else had got there before them. No matter how far flung
The excitement of anticipating the summer holidays can only be matched, and all too often exceeded, by excruciating boredom once they arrive. And while some might say children these days are overorganised and miss the luxury of boredom, my response is
Are you on automatic pilot? It's my guess that by ten o'clock in the morning, you've already made 100 choices. Do I surprise you? Here are just some examples: To go back to sleep after the alarm rings or to get up. To exercise or not. To put the cap on
Whether it is tending a window box, digging in the back garden or helping to manage woodland, many people get a great deal of pleasure out of gardening. But there is more to it than the satisfaction of watching things grow and develop. Gardening is increasingly
If you live in Brighton and Hove, you will probably have noticed a hitherto little-known style of yoga class appearing on fitness club and health centre timetables around the city. Julie Cuddihy moved to Brighton in February last year and brought with
People who want to lose weight come up with lots of excuses. Two completely contradictory ones come to mind. There are those who say they can't lose weight because they've got no time and others whose excuse is they've got too much time. I'd like to explore
The number of children classed as obese is continuing to rise. This has been partly blamed on sedentary lifestyles but poor diet is an important factor, with many young people living on fast food and ready meals and not eating enough fruit and vegetables
How do you stimulate a love of reading? Some might say that, in a technological age, the idea of reading for pleasure is laughable. But computer games do not exclude reading and, strangely, nor do story tapes. Both are wonderful play-things but neither
When you think about it, it's really strange so many people desperately want to lose weight yet those same people find it so hard to do. Most people with a modicum of motivation manage to move forward on a whole range of projects quite successfully. People
The weather may be getting more spring like but the winter colds are still refusing to go away. Health reporter Siobhan Ryan speaks to someone who can offer something a little bit different to help The routine of work, study and socialising can all take
A man was stabbed in the stomach when he opened his front door. The attacker, wearing a blue Hawaiian shirt, lunged forward with a 6in blade but caused only a shallow wound. The victim, 50, was in his flat in Arundel Court, Westdene, Brighton, just before
It takes five years of training to become a fully-qualified pharmacist so there is clearly much more to the job than dishing out paracetomol and plasters. In fact, they can offer essential advice, information and support about a wide range of minor illnesses
Your temperature's rising. You're starting to get edgy. Then, the fear that someone might approach with: Can't you keep that child under control? But what can you do when you have no option but to take an unwilling four-year-old to the supermarket? First
Shhh! You walk into the room and 15 small children, all sitting cross-legged in a circle, turn to look at you and then return to the matter at hand. Circle time, as it is known in playgroups and nurseries throughout the country, is an opportunity for
A happy childhood is the best present parents can give a child, but that depends on more than any one or even two individuals. As social animals, we thrive on the whole "busyness" of being, learning and sharing with others. This is even more true of three
Seeing is not necessarily believing in Camelford in Cornwall. Twenty tons of aluminium sulphate were accidentally tipped into the wrong tank in 1988, contaminating the water supply. When people complained of green hair, joint pain, sickness and memory
Over the past few years, I have enjoyed many a fine mackerel caught by a generous neighbour who fishes along the Sussex coast. Fish is good for us, we have known it since the Seventies when scientists discovered Eskimos had a far lower rate of heart disease
"What's in a name? that which we call a rose/ By any other name would smell as sweet," said Juliet to Romeo. Well names mean plenty in the bewildering range of care options for the under-fives. There's day nurseries, play-groups and pre-schools, parent
Clients often ask whether their intake of calcium is adequate. Their concern is justified since calcium losses are associated with osteoporosis in one-in-three women and one-in-12 men. Other symptoms include muscle cramps, insomnia, tremors or spasms,
Move over cholesterol, you have had your moment of fame. Since the early 20th Century, cholesterol has taken the rap for causing heart disease and strokes. Nowadays, most people assume that as long as they keep their cholesterol levels down, there is
I wish I had been genetically modified. A bit of Claudia Schiffer here and a bit of Jennifer Lopez there would be ideal. Vain perhaps, but it's only natural to want a perfect body and it's only human to want to eat perfect food such as potatoes with built-in
Vitamin C came in for another media bashing last week amid claims that high doses of the vitamin could increase the risk of cancer. Poor old vitamin C - allegations are constantly being made by medical science and sensationalised by the Press. Yet we
Work is under way to give Brighton's Waitrose store a new look. The upgrade, expected to be finished in September, includes the introduction of the Quick Check self-scanning service, which allows customers to save time shopping. The store, in Western
Food giant Heinz has confirmed it has been forced to raise the price of top-selling lines such as baked beans and tomato ketchup. The company blames increases in the cost of raw materials, including a 30 per cent jump in world tomato paste prices. There
When the boxer Muhammed Ali lit the Olympic flame in 1996, he proved to the world that you don't need to be perfect in order to be great. For some people, the sight of a champion ravaged by may have been disturbing but, for many, his courage and patience
Employers who did little or nothing to make working conditions more bearable during the recent heatwave were attacked by union leaders yesterday. The TUC said workers should not have to endure "sweatshop" conditions if the heat returned. Unions received
Sellers are regaining the upper hand in the housing market because so few properties are being put up for sale, a study showed today. The number of homes in England and Wales coming on to the market has stagnated as fears of a collapse in house prices
And now for another Party Political Broadcast on behalf of the D.I.N.N.E.R. Party ... Don't know who to vote for? The D.I.N.N.E.R.(Dishy Ingredients, No Nagging, Eat to Repair) Party is here to give you straight- forward, no-nonsense answers and pull
If Hans Christian Andersen had not been dyslexic, he may never have created the tale of The Ugly Duckling. It is a classic story of the outsider 's struggle for acceptance, of an individual who doesn't quite fit in try as he might. Similar setbacks are
Geography for four-year-olds? If that's what's meant by the Early Learning Goal relating to understanding of the world, then what are we coming to? But, of course, what's now going on in our nurseries and playgroups is almost literally worlds away (excuse
The sister of Shirine Harburn, the Sussex backpacker stabbed to death by robbers in China, has spoken of her pity for the men found guilty of her murder. Shirine, 30, from Langley Green, Crawley, was killed while on holiday three years ago. Lianne Harburn
Officially, the number of obese people has more than doubled in a decade and is on the increase. 17 per cent of males and 20 percent of females in the UK are obese and 50 per cent are overweight, subjecting themselves to huge health risks including heart
As silly adverts go, the one I heard on the radio the other day takes the oatcake. It ridicules people who eat healthy snacks and tells them to swallow a multi-vitamin instead. Pill popping, after all, has been the preferred medical treatment since pills
According to many experts, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is God's gift to woman kind. As it replaces the levels of oestrogen and progesterone that naturally decline in a woman during and after the menopause, causing trouble-some symptoms such as hot
The skin disease psoriasis is not contagious, yet it feels like the social equivalent of leprosy. It is a common disorder characterised by unsightly, red, scaly patches produced by a pile-up of skin cells that have replicated too quickly. Little is known
Lately, I seem to have been rather bogged down with rear-ends. Judging by readership response, it may be a good idea to go into more detail about how to make the digestive machinery function like clockwork or, at least, as regularly. In the world of nutrition
One of the dilemmas for parents is balancing work and family commitments. A particular test of this is the school run. While most parents can accommodate this historic mismatch of timing most of the time, even the best-laid plans can break down. Hence
This week, you may be delighted to hear that you won't be regaled with what to eat and what not to eat. Hey, let's all relax, take a step back and chill out. Perhaps we are getting a tad obsessive we shop to drop, work-out to burn out and compete to defeat
Thirty years ago, smoking was seen as a social thing to do and there weren't many places where it was frowned upon to light up. But information about the health risks involved, not just for the smoker but for the people immediately around them, has led
At the age of 39, Sharon Charlton found herself able to see clearly for the first time in her life. Born with eyesight problems, Mrs Charlton, from Selsey, had to wait until the cataracts on both her eyes had fully developed before she was able to have
During National Foot Care Week, Siobhan Ryan looks at what steps need to be taken to give feet a clean bill of health In an average lifetime, most people's feet carry them the equivalent of five times around the earth. That's not bad going considering
After a lifetime of trusting old-fashioned remedies to ward off illnesses, aches and pains, Audrey Parcell thought her body had the healing power to cope with almost any disease. When she started to lose her appetite and feel exhausted all the time she
Mention maths to most adults, and the chances are they'll smile and say, "Not one of my strengths." And the really alarming thing about that sort of defeatism, particularly if it's a parent speaking, is that it fosters the idea that maths is boring and
Not for one moment do I imagine that life is easy for our kids. Just consider the stress of being driven to school when you'd far rather walk, or having to put up with politically correct parenting and endless bewildering choices. Do I take up hula hoop
It sounds obvious and straightforward but, for many in Sussex, eating healthily to keep well is not being done. There are several reasons for this, including lack of time and financial constraints. But there is plenty now being done to help people change
A camper van was gutted after it caught fire on a busy road. Fire crews from Worthing were called at 12.45pm yesterday after receiving reports of the blazing Volkswagen on Goring Street bridge, near Goring station. Traffic piled up as the road linking
A growing number of people with near constant aches and pains are turning to a new type of alternative therapy to help them. Magnotherapy involves using a simple magnetic device which is believed to improve the bloodflow and relieve symptoms. Siobhan
One of the skills that distinguishes us from all other animals is our ability to communicate. There's no doubt that catching small children when they are already fired up to learn new ways of communicating improves dramatically their chances of reaching
Many of you may have heard a recent item on the radio which reported that some men get so upset if their football team loses a game, they suffer a heart attack. Such extreme feelings of disappointment, despair, shock or anger cause a sudden surge of adrenaline
Say "childcare" to most parents and they'll think nurseries, childminders, playgroups. But that excludes the many and varied supervised activities taking place across the county for children. Increasing numbers of schools run out-of-school-hours learning
On my 50th birthday, I want to send a message of love and compassion and prayers and condolences to those suffering the effects of war. Life ends for those families who have lost love ones. It does not matter what else happens in the world, they have
Eastbourne's economy was boosted by about £6 million thanks to the weekend's spectacular air show. More than 700,000 people from across the UK crammed into Eastbourne for the four-day Airbourne 2003, an increase of about 50,000 on last year. Restaurants
When trying to give up smoking, there are several factors to take into account. It is not just about deciding one day not to have a cigarette, getting help and support as you battle the cravings can make all the difference. National Stop-Smoking Centres
"I would like to develop my shoulders a little to get a more toned look without too much bulk. Any tips?" - Ms Donnelly, Storrington We need to focus in on your deltoids, especially the side deltoids. To work these, which will add shoulder width and give
Shhh! You walk into the room and 15 small children, all sitting cross-legged in a circle, turn to look at you and then return to the matter at hand. Circle time, as it is known in playgroups and nurseries throughout the country, is an opportunity for
A happy childhood is the best present parents can give a child, but that depends on more than any one or even two individuals. As social animals, we thrive on the whole "busyness" of being, learning and sharing with others. This is even more true of three
A collection of drawings, letters and books by renowned artist Eric Gill has been offered to the tiny museum in the Sussex village where he lived. When Gill died in 1940 he was an internationally acclaimed artist and sculptor, with commissions as far
Seeing is not necessarily believing in Camelford in Cornwall. Twenty tons of aluminium sulphate were accidentally tipped into the wrong tank in 1988, contaminating the water supply. When people complained of green hair, joint pain, sickness and memory
Over the past few years, I have enjoyed many a fine mackerel caught by a generous neighbour who fishes along the Sussex coast. Fish is good for us, we have known it since the Seventies when scientists discovered Eskimos had a far lower rate of heart disease
"What's in a name? that which we call a rose/ By any other name would smell as sweet," said Juliet to Romeo. Well names mean plenty in the bewildering range of care options for the under-fives. There's day nurseries, play-groups and pre-schools, parent
Architect Frank Gehry's first completed building in Britain is a world away from his next big project, the controversial King Alfred towers in Hove. The cancer centre in Dundee was designed by Mr Gehry as a tribute to Scots architect Maggie Jencks, who
We all want our children to be perfect: beautiful, loving and intelligent. Only the lucky few achieve all three but what if your much loved baby has special needs? What can you do? At one time,the only answer was a special school but then what happens
In 1972, anthropologist Colin Turnbull wrote an interesting book about an African tribe called the Ik. Originally nomadic hunters, the Ik were forcibly evacuated from their native hunting grounds in Uganda and driven en masse to barren, mountainous areas
For those working parents who have emerged, heads reeling from the latest survey into childcare; there must be as many nurseries and playgroups asking themselves: "What sort of places did the researchers visit?" It follows a survey conducted by the University
