Winter health
Take a look at the advice below to prepare yourself this winter to make sure that you and your loved ones stay well.
Many of us get ill over winter, especially with coughs, colds and flu, but there are lots of things you can do to manage your winter illness yourself and help prevent catching it from others.
Use your local pharmacy
Pharmacists are experts in medicines and minor ailments. That means that you can drop in for advice and support on things such as coughs, colds and headaches without an appointment. Many pharmacies are in handy locations and are open evenings and weekends. You can find more information about pharmacies and what they can offer here. You can also use the NHS services finder to locate your nearest pharmacy.
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Look out for others
It is important to look out for elderly friends, neighbours and vulnerable people and check that they are safe and well through the winter. Make sure they are warm enough (especially at night) and have stocks of food and medicines so they do not need to go out in very cold weather. If you are worried about a relative or elderly neighbour, contact your local council, ring the Age UK helpline on 0800 009966 or contact social services on 01274 431704.
Think about which service is best
If you do need to visit an NHS service to keep well this winter, find an appropriate service here or use the NHS Symptom Checker which will help determine the right treatment for you.
If you need urgent medical attention but it is not an emergency, call NHS 111. One in four visitors to A&E could be treated elsewhere. Make sure you choose the right service so you get the right help, quickly.
Keep basic medicines at home
Did you know you can treat many winter illnesses at home with some basic medicines? Having a well-stocked medicine cabinet can make a big difference – make sure you have enough to last until your GP surgery or pharmacy is open again.
Here’s what a well-stocked medicine cabinet should include:
- pain relief such as paracetamol and aspirin (aspirin should not be given to under 16s or those who suffer with asthma)
- ibuprofen syrups for children
- mild laxative for constipation relief
- cold relief products
- rehydration mixes for those suffering from diarrhoea and vomiting
- indigestion remedy
- a thermometer to check for fever
- a range of bandages, plasters, non-absorbent cotton wool, and dressings for minor cuts, sprains and bruises
Remember to always follow the advice of your pharmacist, doctor or nurse when taking prescriptions and over the counter medicine. Read instructions carefully and only take the suggested dose.
Find local services
A - Z of health conditions
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