Page updated: 11 Nov 2011
Self care to help ease pressure on NHS services
With Self Care Week 2011 upon us (14 to 20 November), Trafford residents are being encouraged to take control of their health and treat minor illnesses and injuries at home.
Many common winter ailments such as coughs, colds and flu, as well as minor cuts and sprains, can be treated at home with a well-stocked medicine cabinet, and don’t require a visit to the GP or accident and emergency.
Local pharmacists can also provide professional advice, as Asit Raja, owner of Lostock Pharmacy at Lostock Medical Centre on Barton Road, explained: “Pharmacists are highly-qualified and have in-depth knowledge about prescription and over-the-counter medicines.
“There is no need to make an appointment with the pharmacist, and we can offer confidential advice, even about symptoms that are personal,” Asit added, “but if we think someone needs to see a doctor, we will advise them accordingly.”
People are also reminded to ‘Choose Well’ this winter to help ease the pressure on local health services. Asit continued: “Winter is tough on all services, but if people look after themselves at home or use their pharmacist as a first port of call for advice, this will help free up GP appointments for those who need them.”
Make sure your medicine cabinet is stocked with the following to help you keep well this winter:
• Paracetamol
• Anti-diarrhoeal medicines
• Re-hydration mixture
• Indigestion remedies
• A thermometer.
To find a local pharmacy, visit www.nhs.uk, or text ‘pharmacy’ to 64746 to receive three free texts with details of your nearest pharmacies.
Winter sees an increase in the number of people who visit A&E, but one out of every four people who goes doesn’t need to be there. This is putting a strain on our emergency services, which need to be able to focus on caring for people with life-threatening and serious conditions, such as heart attacks, strokes, lung disease and serious accidents.