Posts Tagged ‘self-care’
Prepare now for common ailments this winter
The NHS in North Yorkshire and York says residents can take steps to look after their own health if they succumb to a common winter illness like a cough or cold. By keeping a medicine cabinet at home containing simple remedies like paracetamol, ibuprofen and anti-diarrhoea tablets, NHS North Yorkshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) and…
Read MoreFamilies encouraged to think ‘Pharmacy First’ for head lice treatments
Families in North Yorkshire and York are being encouraged to visit their local pharmacy if their child picks up head lice or nits and needs treatment. Most young people are now back in the classroom after a prolonged period away from school because of the Covid-19 pandemic. With children in close proximity to their friends…
Read MoreNHS North Yorkshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) reminds patients that the NHS is still available for non Covid-19 related illnesses
NHS North Yorkshire Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) says it is concerned patients may be putting off using NHS services for illnesses not related to coronavirus (Covid-19) The CCG is reminding patients that GP services, pharmacies, NHS 111, out-of-hours services and emergency departments are all still available to patients. When accessing your GP surgery this is…
Read MoreHow to stay well over Christmas and New Year
Doctors in North Yorkshire are urging patients to check their stocks of repeat medication ahead of the Christmas period.
With most GP practices closed for Christmas Day and Boxing Day, other local NHS services often experience increased demand, with the NHS 111 telephone service receiving high volumes of calls from patients who have run out of their vital medication.
NHS Hambleton Richmondshire and Whitby, NHS Harrogate and Rural District and NHS Scarborough and Ryedale Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) are asking patients to check their repeat prescriptions to make sure they have enough medication to see them over the Christmas period.
Dr Charles Parker, the clinical lead for NHS Hambleton, Richmondshire and Whitby CCG, said: “While we do ask patients to only ‘order’ repeat prescriptions when necessary, it is really important people have enough to see them through periods when their GP practice is closed, such as the Christmas period.
“By ensuring they have enough of their prescription medication, patients will be doing their bit for the NHS by freeing up urgent care services for people with more serious health problems.”
Patients are also being asked to remember that their usual pharmacy may be closed at times over the Christmas period, though other local pharmacies may be available. You can find details of pharmacy opening times in your area on your local CCG website.
If patients feel they need urgent health care over the festive period, they should dial 111. If appropriate, patients may then get an appointment at one of the local urgent treatment centres.
If it’s an illness or injury that is serious or life threatening, patients should always call 999 for an ambulance or go to the nearest emergency department.
Read MoreGP advice on how to stay well this winter
With winter just around the corner, NHS Scarborough and Ryedale Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) are advising local residents on the best ways to stay well during the cold weather.
There are a number of effects the winter can have, and they are not just physical, the colder weather and shorter days can also affect your mental health.
NHS Scarborough and Ryedale CCG, Governing Body member and Local GP, Dr Peter Billingsly has a lot of useful tips to help you stay well this winter.
Be aware of norovirus
‘Norovirus outbreaks are more common this time of year, there is no specific treatment for norovirus, but you can take steps to ease your symptoms. If you’ve got sickness and diarrhoea, stay hydrated.
‘Don’t see your GP unless symptoms persist more than a few days, the best ways to avoid catching norovirus is wash your hands thoroughly after using the toilet. Last but not least, norovirus can leave you contagious 48 hours after the symptoms go, so please avoid hospitals and care homes.’
Get your flu vaccination
‘The best way to stay protected against the flu is to get the vaccination, the jab is free for pregnant women, over 65s and those with underlying health conditions. If you have a child ages 2 – 3 they are entitled to a free flu nasal spray to keep them protected.
‘If you are experiencing flu like symptoms, please seek advice from your pharmacist before it gets more serious. If you want to book a vaccination please contact your GP practice.’
Use the right service
‘If it is not an emergency, you can get medical advice 24/7 by using the NHS 111 service, they have trained medical professionals available who can direct you to the most appropriate medical care.
‘If you want to speak to someone face to face you don’t always have to wait for an appointment with your doctor. Your local pharmacy can provide clinical advice for minor health conditions common over the winter period such as coughs, colds, sore throats, tummy trouble and aches and pains.’
Keep a stock of useful medicines
‘It is important to keep a stock of over the counter medicines in your home over the Christmas period as your local surgery or pharmacy may not be open.
‘These remedies could include basic painkillers like aspirin, ibuprofen and paracetamol, cough syrup and antacids that are all available at your local supermarket.’
Look out for yourself and others
‘The colder weather and shorter days can affect your mental health, get out in the sunshine if you can, even short bursts can improve your mental wellbeing.
‘Older neighbours and relatives are more vulnerable in the winter months and may need a bit of extra help to stay well, make sure you keep in touch and check in on them when you can.’
There is further advice on self-care san be found here, you can also find details of GP and pharmacy opening times over the winter season.
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