BRIGG FOLK ASKED: ARE YOU READY FOR WINTER?

Brigg 's Coun Rob Waltham says: "We all get coughs, colds and sore throats from time to time, which can be treated at home so to make it easier we would suggest keeping basic medicines stocked up."

FROM KIRSTY WESTFIELD, NORTH LINCOLNSHIRE COUNCIL

With the clocks going back and the dark nights starting to draw in, now is the perfect time to get prepared for all your health needs with winter just around the corner.
Winter is often the worst time of year for illnesses and while colds and sore throats cannot be avoided - they can be treated. So it’s important to keep your medicine cabinet essentials stocked up and to order repeat prescriptions in plenty of time.
Many common winter illnesses such as coughs, colds and flu can't be treated with antibiotics so if you are otherwise fit and healthy there is no need to book an appointment with your GP. Instead most people can treat themselves successfully at home. Your pharmacist will be able to advise you about medicines you should have in stock to help get you and your family through the winter season.
If you are aged over 65 or have a long term health condition, you should seek immediate advice from your pharmacist if you start to feel unwell, even if it is just the start of a cough or cold. You can also visit www.nhs.uk/staywell/ for advice.
“Don’t wait until it gets worse, the sooner you get advice the better – your local pharmacist can give you lots of advice to help you stay well this winter,” said Dr Faisel Baig, local GP and unplanned care lead with North Lincolnshire clinical Commissioning Group. “A third of elderly people never or only occasionally socialise with family or friends. As a result, they can be slow to seek help and once ill, often get too unwell. Keeping an eye out for elderly relatives and neighbours and supporting them in the cold weather can help them stay well this winter.”
If you take regular medication, make sure you have ordered enough to last you through the festive period or ask your GP practice for a new prescription. Many GP practices now offer an online repeat prescription service, so speak to your practice to see what services they offer.
Lots of GP practices have links with pharmacies offering a repeat prescription service, meaning medication can be delivered or collected at your convenience.
It is also a good idea to check you have your medicine cabinet essentials now, including:

• Painkillers, such as aspirin, Paracetamol and ibuprofen (check with your pharmacist about which one is right for you) 
• Over-the-counter cough, cold, flu and indigestion remedies 
• Natural remedies 
• Plasters 
• Bandages 
• Antiseptic 
• Thermometer 

It is also advised that you get the flu vaccine *.
If you take prescribed medications regularly, plan ahead with prescriptions and don’t leave things until the last minute and risk the danger of running out of your medication.
Always check with your pharmacist about taking over-the-counter medication with prescribed medications if you take them. Your pharmacist will be able to best advise you on how to self-manage your illness.
If a viral infection such as a cold, cough or flu lasts longer than two weeks and you don’t feel any better, seek further medical advice but usually, your body will recover in its own time.
A lot of over-the-counter medicines such as cough and cold remedies contain other medicines such as Paracetamol and it’s important to check the ingredients so you do not accidentally take too much.
Always be aware, read the box and take as directed. Not all medication dosages are the same so it is important that you always check. Do not be tempted to take your next dosage before it is due even if you don’t feel that the medication is working.
If the recommended amount is exceeded it is vital that you seek medical advice; either call 111 (non-life threatening situations but in need of medical advice), call 999 for an ambulance or visit your local accident and emergency (A&E).
Coun Rob Waltham (Brigg & Wolds Ward), Cabinet Member for Health and Strategic Projects and also Deputy Leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: “You never know when you might fall ill so it’s always best to be prepared and have the essentials in your cupboards. We all get coughs, colds and sore throats from time to time, which can be treated at home so to make it easier we would suggest keeping basic medicines stocked up. Please ensure you follow the guidelines on how much medication to take though.
“It has never been easier to order your prescription with different services available through your GP. If you’re unable to go pick up your prescription you can arrange for a pharmacy to deliver your medication right to your door. Make sure you have this all in hand before the winter sets in as you don’t want to be caught short.”
* If you would like more information about keeping healthy over the winter months or information on the flu vaccine, and whether you are eligible for a free jab visit the councils health pages: www.northlincs.gov.uk/people-health-and-care/health-and-healthy-lifestyle/winter-health/.