During Movember, thousands of men will grow a moustache to help raise awareness of men’s health issues and as we go into winter, NHS Lincolnshire ICB is encouraging men to take care of themselves and not to ignore concerns about their health, particularly as we are now in the winter bug season.

Of course, it’s important for all of us – not just men – to look after ourselves and our health, but men often tend to be more reluctant to talk about and to deal with health problems.

Feeling ill with winter ailments such as a sore throat or a chesty cough can get the best of us down.  However, if you are generally fit and healthy, you can usually manage cold or flu symptoms at home yourself without seeing a doctor.

Resting, drinking fluids to avoid dehydration, and avoiding strenuous activity are all part of looking after yourself if you are feeling ill or under the weather.  Your local pharmacist can help by providing advice on the best over the counter medications to relieve aches and pains.

However, there are some men who need to take extra care as they are more at risk of serious complications, such as pneumonia and bronchitis, particularly those men over 65 and anyone with underlying conditions, such as diabetes, asthma or chronic heart disease.

In this case the best protection is a free flu vaccination.  The flu jab is quick, effective and will protect you against the flu virus all winter.

Cold and flu symptoms can last 3-4 weeks, and generally get better in that time. If you continue to have symptoms after that, please see advice from 111, local pharmacy or GP.

Dr Sunil Hindocha, Interim Medical Director for NHS Lincolnshire ICB, said:

“Colds and flu are unfortunately an unpleasant part of winter.  No one likes to be ill so whether you are normally fit and well or you have an underlying health condition, it is important to take notice of what your body is telling you.

“If you are in an at-risk group of further complications from flu, the best protection is to get the flu jab as soon as possible. 

“If you come down with a cold, the best thing to do is to get plenty of rest and make sure you stay hydrated. You could also ask your pharmacist for advice on medication to relieve your symptoms.”

If you have an underlying medical condition such as COPD, please ask your GP if you should have pre-emptive medications such as steroids in the house.

If you have chest pain, cough blood, have a high fever such as 39 degs C or higher, you must seek advice from your GP,

You can also call NHS 111 for urgent medical advice 24 hours a day, seven days a week.  Just dial 111 to be put through to the NHS.

For more information on pharmacies and staying well this winter visit www.nhs.uk/staywell