With the cold weather still here, NHS Greater Manchester is urging anyone who has a long-term condition to make sure they take some extra steps to look after their health during the winter season.
It can be challenging to stay well during the winter, especially for people with long-term conditions. The damp and cold weather can lead to a flare up of certain conditions such as asthma attacks, arthritis pain, higher/increased blood pressure for people with heart conditions, make breathing harder for people with lung conditions like COPD, and increase the risk of strokes, heart attacks and flu.
In 2023/2024, hospital admissions for asthma in the UK increased by 117% in the winter compared to the summer and a study by the British Heart Foundation funded scientists found that heart attacks and strokes for people aged over 60 were more than twice as likely to happen during cold spells lasting at least four days.
Case Study
Asthma is one such long-term condition whose symptoms can worsen during the winter months. This anonymised case study highlights the importance of regular check-ups and properly managing asthma – showing how a mum’s symptoms improved after seeing her GP, adjusting her treatment, and using the NHS app for easier medication management…
Emily, a 33-year-old mother of two from Greater Manchester, had been experiencing worsening asthma symptoms over 4-6 weeks. Due to caring for her children and running a busy household, she had missed her regular asthma reviews and had been struggling with increasing breathlessness. The colder weather only made the symptoms worse, and she found herself relying on her reliever inhaler more frequently just to get through the day.
When Emily finally booked an appointment with her GP, the healthcare team reviewed her asthma management plan. They found that although she had been using her inhalers, a few simple adjustments to her technique could help her get more benefit from them.
During the consultation, Emily was shown how to use her inhalers correctly, and her treatment plan was simplified by switching to a single combination ‘green’ inhaler. This reduced the number of medications she needed – making it easier for her to stay on top of her symptoms.
The team also introduced Emily to the NHS app and demonstrated how she could use it to order her repeat prescriptions quickly and conveniently. This gave her peace of mind knowing she could manage her medication more efficiently without needing to visit the practice in person.
At the appointment, Emily was also encouraged to book her flu and COVID-19 vaccinations to protect herself and her family from serious respiratory illnesses during the winter.
With these changes in place, her symptoms significantly improved within weeks. Emily found herself breathing more easily and regained the energy to enjoy activities with her children, like playing in the park and walking them to school.
Tips To Stay Well
It’s because of cases like Emily’s that NHS Greater Manchester is encouraging anyone who does have a long-term condition to take the following extra small but highly effective actions to help them stay well during the cold winter months:
Say ‘Yes’ To Vaccinations
Vaccines are vital in winter, particularly for those with ongoing health conditions. They help make us less likely to be seriously ill from symptoms of flu, pneumonia, Covid and other illnesses. Make sure you’re up to date with all vaccines, including flu, shingles, measles, RSV and others where eligible.
If you’re not sure whether you are fully up to date, check with your GP practice or on the NHS app which is available to download at anytime.
Book Your Annual Check Up
Regular check-ups are crucial, especially in winter when symptoms can worsen. Make sure you attend appointments and let health and care professionals know about any changes to how you are feeling. Annual health checks for long-term conditions are crucial for staying on top of any changes in your health, allowing you to catch potential issues early and make sure your treatment plan is still right for you. To book your annual health check, simply contact your GP practice or use the NHS app to schedule an appointment at a time that works for you (if you have more than one long-term condition you may need to book separate health checks for each condition).
Learn To Love Fruit And Veg
A healthy diet supports your immune system. If you are struggling to access healthy food, you don’t have to manage alone. There are food banks across Greater Manchester that can help. Find out more here: Food – Greater Manchester Combined Authority.
Keep Moving
Stay active, even if it’s just a walk in the park or light chores at home. Movement is key to boosting energy, improving mood, and managing stress.
Keep Warm
Keep your home at least 18°C as staying warm helps reduce risks like heart attacks and strokes.
For advice on being more energy efficient or to find out if you can get any heating and housing grants visit the government’s website or call the government helpline on 0800 444 202.
Get Help With Breathing Difficulties
Cold weather can worsen lung conditions like COPD. For those with COPD, local pulmonary rehab sessions can make a big difference. These sessions, available in various locations across Greater Manchester, help individuals manage their symptoms, improve their lung function, and get back to doing the things they enjoy, whether that’s playing with grandchildren or going for a walk Find locations here: https://www.pulmonaryrehabgm.co.uk/where-to-go/.
Even if you haven’t been diagnosed with a lung condition, if you’re having trouble breathing, speak with your GP as soon as possible. Early intervention can prevent symptoms from worsening.
Take Your Medication
Make sure you’re following your prescribed treatment as advised to keep your condition under control. If you have questions, contact your GP.
Quit Smoking
Smoking worsens health. Within three days of stopping smoking you will notice the difference as your breathing will be easier and you’ll have more energy. NHS Greater Manchester can offer support and resources to quit. Find out more at Make Smoking History.
Taking small steps to look after your health can make a big difference this winter, so make sure to follow these tips and encourage your loved ones to do the same.
If you aren’t sure where to go for advice and support, visit Get to know where to go or NHS 111.
