I'M hoping to spend a lot of time on the beach in Scotland this summer with my young children, but I'm worried about jellyfish. What should we do to avoid being stung?

It is rare to be stung in the seas around the UK, but there are precautions you can take to avoid being stung, including:

• not touching or handling sea creatures that sting

• wearing protective clothing, such as a wetsuit or waterproof footwear

• scuffing your feet as you walk in shallow water to warn any sea creatures that you're approaching

It is also important to observe warning signs of the beach – authorities will often put up warning signs when there have been sightings of groups of jellyfish or other sea creatures in the area. And, if you are swimming in the sea, swim near a lifeguard if possible.

What happens if I fall ill when I am on holiday abroad. Do I have to pay for treatment?

It depends on which country you’re going to and why you’re there. When you visit a country in the European Economic Area or Switzerland, for example, on a holiday or business trip, an EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) entitles you to treatment at reduced cost or sometimes free.

If you move to an EEA country or Switzerland to live, work or study, the rules are different.

The UK has agreements with some countries outside the EEA to provide healthcare for visitors. Again, if you’re planning to live or work there, different rules may apply.

Different countries have different healthcare systems. Many countries expect patients to pay towards the cost of their treatment. Before you go, find out about the country you're visiting.

You should also take out travel insurance to ensure that you’re fully covered. You should do this even if you have an EHIC.

What is Gynaecomastia?

Gynaecomastia is a common condition in teenage boys where firm, tender breast tissue grows under the nipples. It is usually caused by an imbalance of hormones during puberty and usually disappears without treatment within a couple of years.

In rare cases, it could be due to taking anabolic steroids, taking certain medicines (prescription or over-the-counter) or using cannabis. Very occasionally, gynaecomastia is due to a tumour or disease.

If the condition occurs in an adult man, he may need tests to find out the cause of the problem. The problem may be linked to the pituitary gland, the liver or the testicles and treatment may be necessary. Treatment options include medication to reduce the extra breast tissue or, in rare cases, surgery.

Some men and boys have fat on their chests that makes it look like they have breasts. This is 'false gynecomastia' and is helped by losing weight. The best way to do this is with a combination of healthy eating and regular exercise.