Kiwi in Pregnancy: Benefits, Side Effects, and More

Bride Who Wet Herself On Wedding Day Says She Finally Feels 'normal' After Botox Jab

Sarah Stevenson, from Norfolk, says she was unable to jump on the trampoline and had to wear an adult nappy due to her incontinence. But she found a life-changing solution with a popular beauty product

Sarah Stevenson found a cure for her bed wetting (

Image: Kennedy News and Media)

A woman who wet herself on her wedding day due to her incontinence says she finally feels like a "normal person" after being injected with botox.

Sarah Stevenson, 34, from King's Lynn, Norfolk, suffered with the issue for her entire life and had to plan her day with regular toilet stops in mind. The business owner, who is married to Matthew Stevenson, 37, says her hayfever caused her to dribble urine due to constant sneezing.

She also struggled to jump or run without it triggering her incontinence. She said she had been put on tablets when she was younger but said nothing helped her. "The average person can hold around 600 to 700ml in their bladder and mine could only hold 200ml before I had to go to the toilet. I can only hold a third of the average person," she said.

Sarah felt embarassed on her wedding morning (

Image:

KennedyNews/RachelSlater)

Sarah, who owns a laundrette and dry-cleaning business, explained that after years of embarrassment, she has finally found some relief with the help of botox. She said: "I've always struggled with incontinence. I started going to an incontinence clinic when I was about 15 so I was quite young. I can remember being incontinent from about four years old. Even when I was 10, I was still wetting the bed and was having three or four accidents a week.

"I couldn't control it when I was awake. There was never any rhyme or reason. I went to the doctors because kids could be quite cruel. Every Friday, I used to go to the clinic and they found there was no reason why anything was happening. I went on some tablets and got a bit better but I was still going to the toilet around 14 or 15 times a day and you're meant to go around six times a day. At the worst of it I was probably having three accidents a day. I would always have a spare pair of clothing in my school bag."

Sarah described her incontinence issues as "soul-destroying" - often facing criticism for not growing out of the "baby phase". Sarah said: "I've lost control of my bladder walking down the road before and obviously didn't have a change of clothes with me. Sleepovers and school trips were always hard. I've had to wear adult nappies in the past if I knew I was going to be out for a full day and knew there weren't going to be available toilets. Sneezing, jumping, running all affect it. I was a big swimmer growing up but that was hard for me because I was losing control in the pool.

Sarah says she has a supportive partner (

Image:

Kennedy News and Media) Sarah had to take regular toilet stops (

Image:

Kennedy News and Media)

"I get really bad hayfever and every time I sneezed, there would be a dribble. I can't go on a trampoline unless I have a nappy on. I woke up on my wedding day in tears because I wet the bed. I only had four hours sleep and I still managed to wet the bed. I just burst into tears. My husband is very supportive. We would literally plan our day through toilet stops. It's so soul-destroying and life-consuming. Mentally it just knocks you for six."

Sarah began getting botox injections into her bladder seven years ago. She added: "The botox just stopped my bladder spasming randomly, which was causing accidents. Now my bladder can function basically like a normal person. I'm not worried about how much I'm able to drink, I'm not having any accidents. A big weight has been lifted off me. You know your body better than anyone else. It's finding the mental strength of knowing it won't be like this forever. It's nothing to be embarrassed about - there's so much help out there."

Sneezing And Chills Are Symptoms Of 5 Common Viruses

While these symptoms may seem minor, they are part of your body's response to fighting off viral invaders

When you experience sneezing and chills, it's easy to dismiss these symptoms as a common cold or seasonal allergies. However, these symptoms can be indicative of several viral infections that range from mild to severe. Understanding the potential causes behind sneezing and chills is crucial not only for your well-being but also for preventing the spread of these viruses to others. In this article, we will explore five common viruses that can cause sneezing and chills, shedding light on their characteristics, symptoms and preventive measures.

1. The common cold

Understanding the virusThe common cold is one of the most widespread illnesses globally, caused primarily by rhinoviruses. This virus thrives in the nasal passages, leading to the irritation that causes sneezing. While the cold itself is generally mild, the symptoms can be quite uncomfortable, particularly when they are accompanied by chills.

Symptoms and progressionThe onset of a common cold is usually gradual, with sneezing being one of the first symptoms. As the virus progresses, it may lead to additional symptoms such as a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat and mild fever. Chills — though less common — can occur, especially in the early stages or in response to fever.

Prevention and careWhile there is no cure for the common cold, preventive measures include frequent hand washing, avoiding close contact with infected individuals and maintaining a healthy immune system through proper diet and rest. Over-the-counter medications can alleviate symptoms, but rest and hydration remain the most effective remedies.

2. Influenza

Understanding the virusInfluenza — commonly known as the flu — is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Unlike the common cold, the flu can lead to severe complications, especially in vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children and those with chronic illnesses.

Symptoms and progressionFlu symptoms often appear suddenly and are more intense than those of a common cold. Sneezing and chills are early signs of influenza, often accompanied by high fever, body aches and fatigue. The chills associated with the flu can be particularly intense, often leaving the affected individual feeling weak and cold despite a high body temperature.

Prevention and careAnnual flu vaccinations are the most effective way to prevent influenza. Additionally, good hygiene practices — such as covering your mouth when sneezing or coughing and regularly sanitizing surfaces — can reduce the spread of the virus. If infected, antiviral medications may be prescribed to lessen the severity and duration of symptoms.

3. COVID-19

Understanding the virusCOVID-19 — caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus —has dramatically altered the global landscape since its emergence in late 2019. This virus spreads primarily through respiratory droplets and has a wide range of symptoms, making it particularly insidious.

Symptoms and progressionSneezing is not typically a primary symptom of COVID-19, but it can occur, especially in the presence of other respiratory symptoms. Chills — on the other hand — are more commonly associated with the virus, often accompanying fever and body aches. COVID-19 symptoms can range from mild to severe, with some individuals requiring hospitalization.

Prevention and careVaccination remains the most effective means of preventing severe illness from COVID-19. In addition, wearing masks in crowded or enclosed spaces, maintaining physical distance and regular hand washing are critical in reducing transmission. If you suspect you have COVID-19, self-isolation and testing are essential to prevent spreading the virus to others.

4. Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)

Understanding the virusRespiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common virus that affects the respiratory tract, particularly in infants and young children. Although it typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms, RSV can lead to more severe respiratory issues, especially in premature infants or those with weakened immune systems.

Symptoms and progressionSneezing and chills can be early indicators of RSV, especially in children. As the virus progresses, it may cause more severe symptoms such as wheezing, difficulty breathing and a persistent cough. In some cases, RSV can lead to bronchiolitis or pneumonia, requiring medical intervention.

Prevention and carePreventive measures for RSV include good hand hygiene, avoiding close contact with sick individuals and keeping infants away from crowded places during peak RSV season. For those at high risk, a preventive medication known as palivizumab may be recommended. Treatment typically focuses on relieving symptoms and ensuring adequate oxygen levels in severe cases.

5. Adenovirus

Understanding the virusAdenoviruses are a group of viruses that can cause a variety of illnesses, ranging from mild respiratory infections to severe pneumonia. These viruses are highly contagious and can affect individuals of all ages, though they are particularly prevalent in children.

Symptoms and progressionAdenovirus infections often begin with symptoms similar to those of a common cold, including sneezing and chills. As the virus progresses, it can cause more severe symptoms, such as conjunctivitis (pink eye), sore throat and gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea. In some cases, adenoviruses can lead to more serious complications, such as bronchitis or pneumonia.

Prevention and carePreventing adenovirus infections involves practicing good hygiene — such as frequent hand washing and avoiding touching the face. There is no specific treatment for adenovirus, so care focuses on relieving symptoms and preventing dehydration. In severe cases, medical attention may be required to manage complications.

Taking action against viral infections

Sneezing and chills — while common and often benign symptoms — should not be ignored. They can be early indicators of a viral infection that may require attention, particularly in vulnerable individuals. By understanding the viruses that cause these symptoms and taking preventive measures, you can protect yourself and others from potentially severe health complications.

It's important to recognize that while these symptoms may seem minor, they are part of your body's response to fighting off viral invaders. Staying informed about these common viruses and practicing good health habits can make a significant difference in your overall well-being. Remember, when in doubt, it's always best to consult with a health care professional to determine the best course of action for your symptoms.

By taking these steps, you can not only safeguard your own health but also contribute to the well-being of your community. Whether it's the common cold, influenza, COVID-19, RSV or adenovirus, being proactive in recognizing and addressing these symptoms can lead to quicker recovery and reduce the spread of these viruses.

This story was created using AI technology.

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