Page 43 - Real Rochdale - Autumn 2018

ABOUT THE
WRITER
Dr Chauhan is a
respected GP, health
and social care
campaigner, and
champion of social
justice and charity.
As a local GP, he
has become a
powerful advocate
for his patients and
introduced innovative
methods to improve
their care. His work
mentoring and
employing young
people has won
national recognition.

Don’t fall foul of lethargy and flu this autumn

older weather, coughs and sneezes spread- silence, please see your GP if any of these
C ing diseases and dark nights drawing in: symptoms manifest.
the changing of the season can have a huge
impact on our physical and mental health. From the end of August onward, weed pollens
and mould spores can trigger asthma, but it is the
However, from flu jabs to brisk walks, there are change to cold air that really makes the difference
steps you can take to ensure that autumn doesn’t for many. If you have the condition, ensure you
automatically mean that you become ill. have your annual asthma check, update your
asthma plan and have your reliever inhaler with
Shorter daylight hours and dipping temperatures you at all times (a scarf to cover your mouth is
tempt us to stay inside and be less active, which is another tip, particularly moving into winter).
so destructive for our health. Gentle exercise, as
NHS initiatives such as ‘Couch to 5K’ have demon- Those with chest complaints are also going to be
strated, can invigorate and have a hugely positive more in danger, with the rise of cold and flu. From
effect on our bodies. So, get lacing up those train- September, most surgeries will be offering free
ers and take a daily ten minute walk to boost your jabs to those with long-term health conditions and
health. It all counts towards your recommended crucially, those who care for them. Don’t hesitate,
150 minutes of weekly exercise - but make sure make that appointment. In my opinion, those
you can be seen when strolling, running or cycling. inoculations are the reason Britain hasn’t
succumbed to a major flu crisis, and please don’t
Darkness can have a detrimental impact on our demand antibiotics to clear up a cold or a bout of
mental wellbeing too. Seasonal Affective Disorder flu, they won’t work and might even make you more
(SAD) can result in persistent lower mood, feelings susceptible to a superbug.
of irritability and sometimes an unhealthy change
in diet, including carbohydrate cravings. We, as a If you have suffered poor health in previous
society, are beginning to open-up about mental autumns, make this season the time you exercise
health and everything from talking therapies to more, have your inoculations and change your own
light boxes are effective treatments. Don’t suffer in health for the better.

42 43