Advice from the NHS
Advice from the NHS
When was your last visit to the dentist?
Regular check-ups at your dentist are important to maintain good oral health. They allow your dentist see if you have any dental problems and help you keep your mouth healthy. Leaving problems untreated could make it more difficult for them to be treated in the future, so it’s best to deal with the problem early, or, if possible, prevent them altogether.
To find an NHS dentist please call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 who will let you know which dentists are taking on new NHS patients in your area. They will let you know which dentists in your area have spaces and how to register with them.
Lung cancer – do you know the symptoms?
Northumberland has some of the highest death rates from lung cancer compared to other areas of the country and research has shown that a major factor in this is people delay visiting their GP when they suspect something is wrong.
| Lung cancer symptoms • Having a cough most of the time • A change in a cough you have had for a long time • Being short of breath • Coughing up phlegm (sputum) with signs of blood in it • An ache or pain when breathing or coughing • Loss of appetite • Fatigue • Losing weight |
If you have any concerns about your health please contact your GP. Further information about symptoms of cancer is available from the national NHS website, NHS Choices – www.nhs.uk.
Your NHS number
Everyone registered with the NHS in England has their own NHS number.
Your NHS number is unique to you and is used to help healthcare staff match you to your health records.
Each NHS number is a unique 10-digit number which is printed on your NHS medical card. An example of an NHS number is 450 557 7104.
You don’t have to know your NHS number to receive care but it’s handy to be aware of it.
If you want to know your NHS number simply contact your GP practice and ask them to look it up for you. To protect your privacy, they may ask you to show them a passport, driving license or some other proof of who you are.
If you are not currently registered with a GP contact the North East Family Health Services Agency on 0191 219 6200.
