Keep on top of winter health

People living with long-term respiratory conditions in Nottinghamshire are being urged to keep taking their medication to avoid a hospital admission as winter draws to an end.

Winter can have an impact on everyone’s health with a large number of common illnesses circulating at this time of year, but those living with chronic health conditions are at an even greater risk.

This is particularly the case for people with respiratory problems such as severe asthma, bronchitis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). During the winter months when there are periods of sustained cold weather, the weather can have an impact and make existing symptoms worse.

People with long-term health problems can take a few simple precautions to look after themselves and prevent their condition from becoming more serious. That includes ensuring they always take their regular medication as prescribed by their GP.

Dr Ken Deacon, medical director for NHS England in Derbyshire, said: “Symptoms of long-term respiratory conditions are often worse in winter, because of the cold weather and the fact that the common illnesses which circulate at this time of year can lead to complications.

“Symptoms of COPD in particular are often worse in winter – and that typically means increased breathlessness, persistent coughing, frequent chest infections and wheezing. It’s also common to have two or more flare-ups a year when symptoms are particularly bad and could result in a hospital admission.

“The weather remains changeable and the next cold snap could be just around the corner.”