THE Christmas adverts are making me feel lonely as my family live abroad. Is it normal to feel isolated at this time of year?

Many people feel lonely at this time of year and it can be hard to deal with, especially when everyone seems to be enjoying themselves.

In the run up to the festive season you may find it beneficial to let off a little steam and talk to someone about your feelings of isolation.

NHS 24 runs Breathing Space for anyone in Scotland experiencing low mood, depression or anxiety.

The advisors come from a range of mental health, counselling and social work backgrounds.

You can call free on 0800 838587.

AS the winter sets in my elderly neighbour has asked if I can pick up her prescription. Can I do that?

Yes. You can collect a repeat prescription for a friend or relative from the GP surgery.

You will usually be asked to confirm the name and address of the person you are collecting it for.

Your local pharmacy may offer a prescription collection service, which means that a pharmacist will collect your prescription from the GP surgery for you.

They need to be able to confirm their identity and prove that they are acting on your behalf and with your permission. You can also collect from a local pharmacy by completing part B of the prescription form (GP 10).

Sign and put a cross in the box to indicate that you are the patient's representative.

What is Pleurisy?

Pleurisy is a condition in which the double-layered covering of the lungs (the pleura), becomes inflamed.

The most common symptom of pleurisy is chest pain when breathing in and out. The pain is worse when breathing deeply, coughing, sneezing, moving or applying pressure to your chest. Other symptoms of the condition can include shortness of breath and a dry cough.

Your GP will ask you about your symptoms and recent medical history. They will use a stethoscope to listen to your chest. If you have pleurisy, your lungs will make a distinctive dry, crunching sound that is known as a friction rub. Further tests may be needed to identify the cause of the condition, these include: blood tests, chest x-rays, ultrasound scan and a CT scan.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen can be used to treat the chest pain commonly associated with the condition. If these are not effective, or you are unable to take them, your GP may prescribe a short course of steroid tablets (oral corticosteroids) to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.