I AM going on holiday and would prefer not to have my period while I'm away.

Can I delay it for a couple of weeks?

IF YOU take the combined oral contraceptive pill, depending on which pill you take, you can delay your period by taking two packets of pills back to back. Some pills are different so speak to your GP or your local pharmacist.

The lining of your womb continues to build up as you take the pills and you may experience side effects, such as breakthrough bleeding, bloating or stomach pains.

If you don't take a contraceptive pill, see your GP. They may be able to prescribe norethisterone to delay your period.

If you use another type of contraception, you may wish to start using the combined contraceptive pill.

However, you may need to start this pill several weeks before your holiday, and it is not suitable for everyone. Speak to your GP if you'd like more information.

I FIND it difficult to swallow pills. Can I crush medicines before taking them?

DON'T chew, crush or break tablets, pills or capsules unless a healthcare professional has told you to do so.

Medicines in tablet, pill or capsule form come in many different shapes and sizes.

Some are designed to release medicine into your body over a period of time. Some have a coating and will not work properly unless swallowed whole.

If you crush, chew or break your medicine without getting advice first, it could release all of the active ingredients into your body at once. This could be very dangerous.

If you find it difficult to swallow tablets, pills or capsules, tell your GP or the healthcare professional who is prescribing it.

There may be an alternative medicine available, such as a liquid medicine, which may be more suitable.

If you have concerns, read the medicine's patient information leaflet, and speak to your GP or pharmacist.

WATERING eyes is when tears are produced without obvious reason. It is caused when tears don't drain away properly (epiphora) or too many tears are produced (hypersecretion).

SYMPTOMS

If your tear ducts become blocked or narrowed, or you have an eye infection, excess tears can build.

DIAGNOSIS

The ophthalmologist will examine your eyes using local anaesthetic eye drops They will then check for tear duct blockages. Another test uses a dye. If there is a significant amount left in your eye after five minutes, the tear ducts may be blocked.

TREATMENT

If infective conjunctivitis is causing watering eyes, your GP may prescribe antibiotics. If due to allergic conjunctivitis, antihistamines may be prescribed. Foreign objects can be removed or you may need surgery if caused by an eyelid turning in or out.