I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but it’s got really, really cold!

It’s at times like these that everyone seems to be getting ill and sharing colds around; you’re lucky if you manage to dodge some type of illness. This could be one you’ve caught from a friend or an existing condition, such as a chest problem, which always makes an appearance during Winter.

When you’re working in the healthcare system, sickness can be quite a problem, but what if there was a way you could better your chances of staying well? We’ve been looking into this for you and have come up with some top tips.

Keeping Warm on the Go

Keeping warm sounds like such a simple and obvious statement, but it can be trickier than it sounds. We must have all found ourselves in a situation where we can’t warm up.

Rather than putting on a couple of chunky layers, try wearing multiple thin layers as they trap the heat better. This also means that you can take off or add layers depending on where you are and the temperature of the room. Additionally, make sure you remember your staple hat, scarf, gloves and if you’re feeling particularly cold- try some reusable hand warmers.

The shoes you wear can make another big difference. Wear shoes that cover your feet well and warm socks that go over your ankles as much as possible.

Keeping Warm at Home

The NHS recommends you keep your house at a minimum of 18C (65F). If you’re concerned about heating costs and don’t want to stray much over that 18C, there are lots of places who sell affordable fleecy pyjamas, socks and blankets. Never underestimate the power of a hot water bottle or heat pack either! This will also help with any joint pains you might get when it’s cold.

Curtains are designed to do more than just give you privacy, they’re actually really effective at keeping warmth in your house. This is the same with doors- ever heard the saying, ‘Were you born in a barn’? Keep your doors shut to keep the heat trapped in the room.

Other Handy Tips

Separately to keeping warm, here are some other options to aid fighting sickness:

• Stay active- wrap up and go for a walk/ run, go to the gym…
• Wash your hands often (something you’ll be doing anyway working in a healthcare profession!)
• Touch your hands and mouth as little as possible
• Sleep well
• Drink fresh orange juice and eat citrus fruits- they contain Vitamin C which helps to boost your immune system
• Eat honey- this also stimulates your immune system
• Other great things to eat and drink include ginger, lemon, garlic, green tea and more

If by some chance you still manage to get ill and you’ve followed these tips, see what advice we offer on what to do if you feel unwell (we know it says Christmas in the title, but our advice is great all year round!).