Content originally from NHS Mid and South Essex
As a nurse, I see first-hand the impact winter can have on our health. The colder weather makes it harder for our immune systems to fight off illnesses, and colds and flu spread more easily because we spend more time with people indoors.
Here are my top tips for looking after yourself and your loved ones this winter, including how to keep your medicine cabinet stocked with all the essentials and how to manage minor illnesses at home.
| Stocking your medicine cabinet |
| Ensure you have all the essentials to handle minor ailments like colds, coughs, and headaches. While it might sound obvious, having a well-stocked medicine cupboard means you can treat symptoms early and avoid unnecessary trips out in bad weather when you are feeling unwell. View list of essential items recommended by NHS to keep at home during the winter period |
| Visit your pharmacy first If you do feel under the weather this winter, your local pharmacy is the best first stop for non-urgent concerns. Pharmacists are experts in medicines and are well equipped to provide health and wellbeing advice to help people stay well. They are also experienced in spotting warning signs, otherwise known as red flag symptoms, that might need further attention. There are over 300 pharmacies across Essex and they can offer advice and treatment for a range of illnesses, without an appointment. Don’t wait for a condition to get worse before seeking help from a community pharmacist, nip an illness in the bud by popping in as soon as possible. And don’t worry, if they’re concerned about your symptoms, they’ll advise you to see your GP or head to A&E, depending on your circumstances. |
| Eat well and stay hydrated When the weather gets colder, you might turn to warm, hearty food for comfort. It’s important to eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated, to help boost your immune system or recover quickly from winter illnesses. There is plenty of advice online about staying hydrated and eating well. |
Keep yourself warm
Cold temperatures can weaken our immune system which is why we get more infections like flu and colds in the winter. Staying warm supports the body’s ability to fight off illnesses, but it is important to stay warm safely!
If, like me, you enjoy the warm comfort of a hot water bottle, please follow my tips for avoiding burns. Similarly, electric blankets can be a great, cost-effective way to keep warm and cosy during winter, but it’s important to use them with care to reduce the risk of fire. Essex County Fire and Rescue service have great advice about electric blankets, and can visit any home in Essex to check existing or fit new smoke alarms completely FREE of charge.
| Find more support |
| It’s not just your physical health that you need to look after this winter. If you need support with staying warm, managing energy bills and accessing food, the Essex Frontline website can connect you to local services. From bereavement and befriending support to mental health, housing, benefits advice and so much more. Find support on Essex Frontline. |
| Stay well, Samantha Advanced Nurse Practitioner |
SWF Health & Social Care Group 