Coughs and Colds

It’s that time of year again! We’ve noticed a considerable increase in patients coming to us with coughs and colds. Please look at these websites to help guide your decision making should you get symptoms. Of course, do reach out if you want a medical assessment.

https://www.nhs.uk/symptoms/cough/

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/common-cold/

Preventing respiratory infections

Flu and respiratory tract infections are often spread
through coughs and sneezes. To reduce the risk of
spreading infections:

• cover your mouth with a tissue when you cough or
sneeze (if you do not have a tissue, cough or sneeze
into the bend of your elbow, not into your hand)

• wash your hands regularly

• throw away used tissues immediately

Managing winter illness

If you do become unwell, you can manage symptoms by
staying warm, resting, drinking plenty of fluids, and eating
at least one hot meal a day to keep your energy levels up.
Many over-the-counter medicines, including paracetamol
and ibuprofen, can relieve symptoms of common winter
illnesses such as colds and earache.

Pharmacists can offer advice and treatments for a range
of illnesses, such as coughs, colds, sore throats, ear
infections and aches and pains.

Find your local pharmacy at nhs.uk/find-a-pharmacy.