Tips on how people in Leeds can stay well at winter - and when to visit a pharmacy for advice

The NHS has published comprehensive advice through its Stay Well campaign to help patients in Leeds choose the right care this winter.
Adeel Sawar, pharmacist at Roundhay Pharmacy in Leeds.Adeel Sawar, pharmacist at Roundhay Pharmacy in Leeds.
Adeel Sawar, pharmacist at Roundhay Pharmacy in Leeds.

Winter health series day one: Leeds A&E under pressure as doctors deal with thousands of extra patients- If you start to feel unwell, even if it is just a cough or cold, don’t wait until it gets worse and visit your pharmacist.

- For people who have been prescribed medication, don’t forget to pick up your prescription before the Christmas holidays start as many GP practices and pharmacies close over the holidays.

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- If you do need help over the holiday period when your GP surgery or pharmacy is closed, call NHS 111 for advice. People can find local services that are available during holiday periods at www.nhs.uk

Adeel Sawar, pharmacist at Roundhay Pharmacy in Leeds.Adeel Sawar, pharmacist at Roundhay Pharmacy in Leeds.
Adeel Sawar, pharmacist at Roundhay Pharmacy in Leeds.

- With long-term health conditions, like Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), bronchitis, emphysema, diabetes, heart or kidney disease, or those who have suffered a stroke, cold weather can make these issues much worse.

Winter health series day two: This pilot scheme could see a paramedic called out instead of a GP to your home in Leeds- If you start to feel unwell, at the first signs of winter respiratory illness, get advice from your pharmacist, before it gets more serious.

- Older neighbours, relatives or friends in the community are more vulnerable in the winter months and may need extra help. To ensure no-one is left out in the cold, keep in touch, check if they are feeling under the weather, help them stock up on food supplies and make sure they have the necessary medication before the Christmas holidays begin.

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Winter health series day three: This cafe is helping socially-isolated older people in Leeds as figures say 37,000 are 'lonely' in city- For patients who have had a cough for three weeks or more, they are advised to see their GP.

Click here for more Stay Well NHS tips this winterWhat can pharmacists give advice on?

Pharmacists may be able to help with the following health conditions:

- Mild skin conditions, such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, impetigo, athlete’s foot

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- Coughs and colds, including blocked nose, and sore throats

- Bruises, sunburn, and minor burns and scalds

- Constipation and piles or haemorrhoids

- Hay fever, dry eyes and allergies, including rashes, bites and stings

- Aches and pains, like earache, headache, migraine, back pain and toothache

- Vomiting, heartburn, indigestion, diarrhoea and threadworms

- Period pain, thrush and cystitis

- Head lice

- Conjunctivitis, cold sores and mouth ulcers

- Warts and verrucas

- Nappy rash and teething