East Riding of Yorkshire Clinical Commissioning Group (ERYCCG) is supporting healthy independent living in this year’s ‘Self-Care week’ which runs from 17th to 23rd November and focuses on being healthy this winter.
Self-care includes eating properly and carrying out regular exercise. It is also about taking control of your health, recognising when to self-care, when to seek advice, and knowing where that advice should come from. The aim is for self-care to be embedded into everyday life so it becomes a lifelong habit for individuals, families and communities.
Preventing ill health is important during winter so choose lifestyle options that will impact positively on your physical health, mental wellbeing and self-esteem. To beat those winter blues and keep healthy make sure you eat well, drink in moderation, stop smoking and stay active.
If you have a long-term health condition, prepare for winter by ensuring you don’t run out of your medication, many pharmacists offer repeat prescription services without the need to see your GP. They can also give you advice on managing your medicines properly.
As well as pharmacy support, NHS Choices can provide helpful information on common winter ailments such as coughs, colds, sore throats and fever in children.
Generally, symptoms last longer than you might think, and it is helpful to know what is normal and what isn’t. It is also important to understand that antibiotics don’t work on colds or flu. Antibiotics only work on bacterial infections whereas colds and flu are caused by viruses.
Dr Gina Palumbo, Chair of the CCG and GP said: “With the arrival of cold, wet and windy weather, it is important that people are supported to look after themselves this winter.
“First and foremost, keep warm and eat well. Self-treat minor illnesses and injuries at home by keeping your medicine cabinet and first-aid kit well stocked. The main symptoms of winter bugs are coughing, sneezing, blocked nose, sore throat, headache and a slight temperature, with self-medication they will clear up in a few days.”
“Sometimes, however, a minor illness can get worse very quickly and could lead to you being admitted to the hospital for treatment.”
“This is more of a risk for individuals in our older population, the very young and those with a long term condition already. If you are concerned speak to your friends, family or carer as soon as possible.”
“You can also pop down to your local pharmacy for quick health advice on how to manage your symptoms and buy over-the-counter medicine, before you become worse.”
For more information on MIUs and alternatives to A&E please click here
