If your symptoms worsen, seek medical assistance early for quicker recovery.

Speak to your Respiratory Nurse, GP or Specialist Respiratory Team about developing a personalised self-management plan for early detection of changes of symptoms and early treatment of infective exacerbations. 

If symptoms worsen dramatically, call 999.

For people with asthma, make sure that your asthma management plan is up-to-date and refer to it to support you with what to do in an emergency.

Recommended room temperatures are 21 degrees during the day and 18 degrees for your bedroom. Here are some tips:

  • Wear warm nightclothes as body temperature drops during sleep
  • Close windows at night to reduce the risk of lung infections.

Concerned about heating costs? Learn more about help with heating costs.

  • Layer your clothing to trap heat
  • Keep blankets handy indoors
  • Consume hot drinks and meals throughout the day.

Before going out, consider:

  • Checking the weather forecast
  • Wear appropriate warm clothing
  • Carrying rescue medication. For COPD patients it is important to have an up to date rescue pack (antibiotics and steroids) and an in date bronchodilator (Salamol or Ventolin)
  • Wrap up warm when going out, wearing a snood or scarf over your mouth/nose can help to warm the cold air before it hits the lungs, especially for those with respiratory conditions.

Protect yourself through:

  • Winter vaccinations
  • Pneumococcal vaccines
  • Avoiding people with respiratory infections, e.g. the flu.

Find out more about winter vaccinations here. 

 

Physical activity is essential for both warmth and well-being.

Find NHS advice on getting active here.

Winter can significantly affect your mental health through Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), reduced Vitamin D levels, and increased isolation. To help you cope, consider light therapy for SAD and Vitamin D supplements after consulting a healthcare provider. Try to stay socially connected and maintain a regular exercise routine, even if it’s indoors. Keeping a balanced diet and stable sleep schedule can also help regulate mood and energy levels. If symptoms persist, seek professional advice. 

If someone is in a mental health crisis and needs urgent help, call 111 and select the mental health option. 

NHS Talking Therapies:

Talking therapies (psychological therapies) can be used to treat many different mental health problems. They involve talking to a trained professional about your thoughts, feelings and behaviours.

Find out more about NHS Talking Therapies and how to access them here.