When there are coughs, colds and flu ‘going around’, the best way you can prevent yourself from getting poorly is by regularly washing your hands to rid of germs (particularly in public places). Try to use and throw away disposable tissues instead of holding on to a fabric handkerchief, as this will only carry the germs with you.

It may seem like an obvious one, but one of the best ways to look after yourself in winter is by keeping warm. That means not only wrapping up in several layers when outside, but also heating your house to at least 18C, shutting your bedroom windows at night and staying cosy! The cold air outside can increase your risk of chest infections, and can also trigger asthma attacks. Keeping your body temperature up not only works to prevent colds and flu, but also is proven to help fight off heart attacks, strokes, pneumonia and mental health issues.

As we previously mentioned, asthma can be made worse in cold weather. Here at the pharmacy, we are always happy to help ensure that you’re using your inhaler properly and in the most effective way. Always carry your reliever inhaler when out and about, and use a preventative inhaler or tablet daily to keep those symptoms at bay. Wear a scarf loosely around your neck and lower face on cold, windy days!

Winter can make it a lot more difficult to get up, out and moving about. The dark mornings, shorter days, lack of sunlight and cold temperature can make people feel more down, depressed and stressed. This can make ailments such as arthritis and joint pain feel a lot worse, so it is important to do some light exercise every day in order to stay active and release ‘happy’ endorphins.

If you’re worried about how winter affects your physical and mental wellbeing, speak to us in the pharmacy! We can advise you on how best to prepare your body for the colder seasons and how to help prevent illness. We’ll also inform you on how to stock your medicine cabinet for winter, and talk you through how and when to use those medicines.

Here’s to a healthy, happy New Year!