Stay well this winter with Barnsley Hospital

Winter conditions can be bad for our health, especially for people aged 65 or over, and people with long-term conditions.

Common winter illnesses include colds, flu, sore throats and sickness viruses. The cold weather can also worsen existing conditions such as asthma.

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There are simple things you can do to help yourself stay well this winter.

Stay warm - check heating systems are in good working order and keep living rooms at 18°C (65°F) and bedrooms 21°C (70°F).

If you are leaving the house in bad weather make sure you are wrapped up in plenty of layers and wear appropriate footwear for the weather.

If you get cold or flu symptoms the best remedy is to rest at home, keep warm and drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration. You can take paracetamol or ibuprofen to lower a high temperature and relieve aches.

Eat well - food gives you energy, which helps to keep you warm. Try to have regular hot meals and drinks throughout the day.

Look out for elderly relatives and neighbours, make sure they are warm enough and have supplies of essential food items and medicines.

If you do fall ill please remember to choose the most appropriate treatment or service for your ailment to ensure you are treated quickly and effectively.

You can visit your local pharmacist, they are expert in many aspects of healthcare and can offer advice on a wide range of long-term conditions and common illnesses such as coughs, colds and stomach upsets.

Your GPs can assess, treat and manage a whole range of health problems. They also provide health education, give vaccinations and carry out simple surgical procedures. Your GP will arrange a referral to a hospital specialist should you need it.

A new service, i-Heart Barnsley, is offering more choice to access evening and weekend appointments with GPs and nurses. This NHS services is available to anyone registered with a GP practice in Barnsley. The i-Heart service has been set up to provide more appointments in the Barnsley area whilst offering different types of consultations.

Please remember that A&E is for life-threatening emergencies, such as loss of consciousness, suspected heart attacks, breathing difficulties, or severe bleeding that cannot be stopped.

If you’re not sure which NHS service you need, call 111. An adviser will ask you questions to assess your symptoms and then give you the advice you need, or direct you straightaway to the best service for you in your area.

For more information about staying well this winter and what NHS service is best for you visit Click here

For information about the i-Heart service, please call 01226 242429. Alternatively you can visit the website at Click here