Cold weather can make asthma symptoms worse, but a few simple steps can help you stay well this winter. 💙❄️

Breathing in cold, dry air can narrow your airways, making it harder to breathe and increasing symptoms such as coughing, wheezing and breathlessness. If you have asthma, it's important to be prepared before heading outside. 🌬️🫁

Here are some tips to help protect your lungs:
✅ Wear a scarf loosely over your nose and mouth to help warm the air you breathe.
✅ Try breathing through your nose rather than your mouth.
✅ Check the weather forecast before going out and limit your time outdoors during very cold weather if possible.
✅ Dress in several thin layers to stay warm.
✅ Continue taking your preventer inhaler exactly as prescribed, even if you're feeling well.

Know your asthma action plan and seek urgent medical help if your symptoms become severe. 🚑

Find out more about living with asthma:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/asthma/

Falls are one of the most common causes of injury, especially for older adults, but many can be prevented with a few simple changes at home. 💙🏡

One of the easiest ways to reduce your risk is by wearing the right footwear. Well-fitting slippers with a secure back and non-slip soles can help you stay steady on your feet, while worn-out, loose-fitting or backless slippers can increase the risk of slipping or tripping. 👣

You can also help prevent falls by:
• Wearing supportive shoes or slippers with good grip.
• Keeping floors clear of clutter and trailing cables.
• Cleaning up spills straight away.
• Making sure your home is well lit.
• Using handrails when going up or down stairs.
• Having your eyesight and hearing checked regularly.
• Staying active to improve strength, balance and mobility.

If someone does fall, stay calm and check for injuries before helping them move. If they have injured their head, neck, back or hip, or cannot get up, call 999 immediately. If they may have a less serious injury, NHS 111 can provide advice. 🚑☎️

Find out more about preventing falls:
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/falls/