Spalding area doctor's tip to stay well this winter

If you have a long-term health condition it is really important that you look after yourself as winter approaches.

By planning ahead and taking a few simple steps, you can ensure you stay healthy and on top of your condition. No-one likes being ill or wants to spend time in hospital; so we all need to take responsibility and look after ourselves as best we can.

Here are just a few suggestions of how you can do that.

A flu jab can protect you all winter. If you have a long term health condition and you catch flu you’re at a greater risk of complications. The flu jab is quick and free for those with underlying health conditions as well as over 65s, pregnant women and carers. Contact your GP surgery to find out details of flu clinics or to book an appointment.

Your pharmacist will also give you advice on the best over the counter medication for common winter complaints, such as coughs and colds, that suit your condition and medication you may already be taking. They will also advise you about what remedies to keep in your medicine cabinet – from pain relief, to antiseptic cream and plasters for minor cuts and bruises. You can find out which pharmacies are close to you by visiting www.nhs.uk.

Almost everyone will have a cough or cold at some point this winter. Don’t spread your germs. Cough or sneeze into a tissue, put it in the bin and wash your hands to stop the spread of germs. It really is that simple. Use symptom relief from the pharmacy and take plenty of rest. Your GP won’t be able to prescribe anything to help.

Ccold weather provides the perfect excuse to eat well and wrap up warm. Keep warm inside and out, by keeping active and having regular hot drinks and nutritious meals. If you have breathing problems even a small change in temperature can affect you. So take extra care.

Make sure that you have enough medication to last when your GP surgery may be closed. It’s important that you book any routine appointments with your practice in plenty of time and ensure that you have enough medication to last you over these times.

It’s a good idea for those with a long term condition to have an up-to-date personalised care plan. A care plan will help you manage your condition better – especially during the cold weather. It will also help loved knows know what you to do if you do need medical attention. If you’re not sure if you have a Personalised Care Plan, contact your GP for more information.

A&E is meant for real emergencies and saving lives. We need to remember that A&E and 999 are emergency services that should only be used in the event of a serious injury, or when someone shows the symptoms of critical illness.

The right NHS services are everywhere – we just need to stop and think – and then choose the right one.