People in the North West are being urged to protect their health as the first cold snap of the winter begins. NHS North West has issued advice to help people stay healthy and avoid injury during the colder months. With snow forecast for parts of the region, NHS England North West medical director, Dr Michael Gregory, has highlighted the importance of taking preventative measures to avoid illness and injury.
Dr Gregory said: "Making sure you stock up on some essentials that can help you and your family to cope with common complaints such as colds, coughs, stomach upsets, flu and earache, will mean that you are better prepared. "If you do need health advice you can visit your community pharmacy or use NHS 111 online at 111.nhs.
uk. "This will mean that A&E and 999 services have more time to deal with serious and life-threatening conditions, such as heart attacks, strokes, breathing problems and serious accidents. "The drop in temperature in winter means more chance of ice, snow and falling leaves.
"These can all increase the risk of a fall, so it’s important to be extra careful when going outside. "Spreading sand or salt on icy surfaces on your driveway, garden paths, and steps can help. "Make sure you are dressed for the cold weather – put on shoes that have a good grip and wear gloves to protect your hands in case you do fall.
" The NHS has also provided some basic winter health advice. This includes using paracetamol for temperatures caused by coughs, colds, and flu, as we.