For common, everyday complaints such as sore throats, coughs and colds, back ache, aches and pains, and stomach upsets, you need a well-stocked medicine cabinet and plenty of rest.

Some self care essentials:

• Paracetamol
• Anti-diarrhoeal medicines
• Re-hydration mixtures
• Indigestion remedies
• A thermometer

Your local chemist can give you advice on what to take for various illness and complaints – and can tell you about other local NHS services if you need them.

Your symptoms should begin to improve within a couple of days. If your condition suddenly gets worse, or you symptoms do not get better, then contact your GP.

Winter illness

Be prepared - don't forget your free flu jab from your GP if you are 65 or over, or have a long term condition.

Recover properly

If you do catch a cold or flu, make sure;

• You stay at home and rest
• Drink plenty of fluids
• Eat if you feel able to
• Let a friend know you are ill

Stay warm

• Keep room temperture warm and comfortable
• Wear lots of thick layers - and a hat, scarf and gloves if you go outside
• Have regular hot drinks and hot meals including fruit and vegetables
• Take regular gentle exercise to generate body heat

For further advice and support on keeping warm during the cold winter months visit: direct.gov.uk

Heatwave advice

• Listen to your local weather forecast so you know if a heatwave is on the way, and plan your day in a way that allows you to stay out of the heat.
• Avoid the sun between 11am and 3pm if you can, and if you must go out, stay in the shade, wear sunscreen with at least SPF15 and cover up with a t-shirt and a hat.
• Keep outdoor activities such as gardening or DIY for cooler parts of the day, such as early morning.
• Stay inside, in the coolest rooms in your home, as much as possible.
• Close the curtains in rooms that get a lot of sun.
• Take cool showers or baths, several times a day. Placing a damp scarf or cloth on the back of your neck will also help to cool you down.
• Drink regularly even if you do not feel thirsty. Water or fruit juice are best. Try to avoid tea, coffee or alcohol, as these will make dehydration worse.
• Eat as you normally would. Try to eat more cold foods, particularly salads and fruit, which contain water.
• Watch for cramp in your arms, legs or stomach, feelings of mild confusion, weakness or problems sleeping.
• If anyone you know is likely to be at risk during a heatwave, help them get the advice and support they need. Older people living on their own should be visited daily to make sure they are safe and well.