Health chiefs have issued a warning as temperatures are set to plummet across the UK – including here in Greater Manchester. Temperatures in the region are expected to drop to as low as -4C later this week.
Now people have been urged to used NHS services wisely as pressure builds on urgent and emergency care following Christmas. Demand for primary care, hospital services, mental health, and emergency services is continuing to rise.
Hospitals across the region are currently seeing high numbers of patients including those with existing chronic respiratory conditions which are often made worse by cold weather.
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Cold health alerts have been issued for every part of England this week with a warning that in some areas there could be a ‘rise in deaths’ as a result of the weather conditions. With snow, high winds and heavy rain forecast across the country over New Year, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has issued the warnings which start at 9am on New Year’s Day.
Cold and icy weather is expected in the coming week -Credit:NurPhoto via Getty Images
All nine regions in England have been placed under a Yellow Alert due to the potential impact on the health of local populations.
However, areas in the North and the Midlands are likely to be worst hit according to the UKHSA. In these regions the agency has warned that ‘significant impacts’ are possible across health and social care services.
They include a rise in deaths particularly among the over-65s and people with health conditions. The weather conditions mean that it will be more difficult for vulnerable people to keep their homes warm.
Wear layers of clothes to guard against ill health in the coming cold snap -Credit:Sean Hansford | Manchester Evening News
Cold and icy weather brings extra risks for people with long term health conditions and people who are more vulnerable. The NHS is encouraging people across the region to use NHS 111 online as the first point of contact for non-urgent medical advice during the upcoming New Year period.
Last year, more than 86,000 people contacted North West Ambulance Service because of a fall and 40 percent of emergency call-outs to people who had fallen were during the colder winter months.
Alternative services like speaking to a pharmacist, attending urgent treatment centres, and self-care are available to ease pressures on emergency departments. In addition, appointments in general practice are also available. People should contact their practices in the usual way, and they will be signposted to the most appropriate service.
Hospitals in the region are anticipating extra pressure on beds during an expected cold snap -Credit:MEN Media
NHS England North West’s Regional Medical Director, Dr Michael Gregory, said: “We always see a rise in demand for NHS services after the Christmas break and we want to encourage people to use the most appropriate services for their needs over the coming weeks. NHS 111 online is a great first port of call for non-urgent issues and can help to signpost to appropriate NHS services.”
To reduce the risk of falling ill or being injured during periods of cold weather people can spread or salt on icy surfaces on driveways, garden paths, and steps can help and dress appropriately wearing layers, shoes that have a good grip and gloves to protect your hands in case falls do happen.
A small supply of basic medicines, such as paracetamol, plasters, and indigestion remedies, is another way to manage minor illnesses or injuries at home, with community pharmacy teams able to offer advice on what to have a home.
People looking for health advice are urged to use community pharmacies and NHS 111 online or you can call 111. You can find your nearest pharmacy here: Find a pharmacy – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Other advice to help stay healthy this winter includes:
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Heat your home to a temperature that’s comfortable for you. If you can, this should be at least 18°C in the rooms that you regularly use, such as your living room and bedroom.
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If you’re feeling cold, drink hot drinks regularly.
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Try not to sit still for more than one hour at a time. Moving even a little bit can help you to keep strength and mobility.
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Eating and drinking enough is also important. If you are finding it difficult to prepare and eat three big meals, try smaller ones throughout the day.
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* A good idea is to draw your curtains in the evenings to reduce heat loss through windows, and tuck long curtains behind radiators so that heat isn’t trapped. And make sure warm air can circulate by keeping radiators and heaters clear – don’t put furniture in front of them or dry washing on them.
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* As the winter months are drawing in, look after your mental health as well as your physical health go to Every Mind Matters for advice.
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For more information about self-care options for common complaints, search NHS seasonal advice or Age Concern UK.