Page 39 - Real Rochdale Issue 21 Spring 2024

Spring in your step? Watch where you are walking

Longer days and warmer weather lead to better of antibiotics has meant that treating infected
physical and mental health, as cold and flu are insect bites is not as effective as it once was.
banished, and lethargy is swapped for energy.
Reduce the chances of getting Lyme disease
In fact, there is enough evidence out there to by staying on clear paths wherever possible.
suggest spring is a bright season for mental Developing a serious infection like this remains
health as dopamine – a neurotransmitter unlikely and there is advice on how to avoid
associated with motivation, attention, pleasure, a bite on the NHS web site. Search for Lyme
and mood – increases with more exposure to disease at www.nhs.uk
sunlight.
As I will expand upon in summer, long-sleeved
But for some, it isn’t yet the season for an end shirts and pants, a wide-brimmed hat, and
to the sniffles and whilst undoubtedly it does sunscreen with at least factor 15 protection,
you good, exercise comes with a health warning. can prevent skin-related conditions, including
cancer.
Careful off the blocks
Nothing to sniff at
You should be aiming at 150 minutes of
moderate-intensity physical activity every New research has shown that over 200 viruses
week. That could mean 30 minutes a day, five can cause colds and flu, so you are not out of
days a week. the woods when it comes to catching a chill,
even in spring. The old adage “coughs and
For those with underlying health issues, sneezes spread diseases” is so true. Cover your
particularly around the heart, overdoing nose and mouth if you are unlucky enough to
the exercise at first may lead to two major develop a spring cold; drink plenty of water and
problems. Firstly, you are more likely to give get some rest.
up, as the thought of intense exertion isn’t
always pleasant. And secondly, too much jolt Spring is also a time for healthy food choices
on the joints and organs could have serious including fruits, vegetables, wholegrains, lean
consequences, especially if you are carrying meats, and low-fat dairy products. Keeping
excess weight. If you are beginning a regime, try alcohol levels down remains a must.
the NHS Couch to 5K, which is safe, achievable
for most, and extremely popular. Become well sprung

Rambling is a beneficial pursuit many of us For all that I am advocating precautions, spring
enjoy. Being in the great outdoors boosts is a time for psychological and physical rebirth,
our vitamin D levels, improving our immune a brighter, optimistic opportunity to get out
systems, and can help us become fitter, but try there and exercise the winter blues away. All it
not to cross a tick at springtime! Our misuse takes is a little impetus – from you.

ABOUT THE WRITER
Dr Anita Sharma is a published women’s health expert, the founder
of the charity Endometriosis Awareness North and the president
of the Rochdale Inner Wheel club.
As a GP, she previously coordinated the NHS pessary service for
Greater Manchester. She also works closely with Rochdale medics
to reduce unnecessary antibiotic prescribing.

REAL ROCHDALE - SPRING 2024 38 39 REAL ROCHDALE - SPRING 2024