The good news is that winter need not derail your health. A bit of planning and a few proactive steps can keep your lungs in the clear this season, saving you a great deal of trouble later.
Get ahead of your triggers
Cold air is a common winter trigger that is hard to avoid, but the air in your home or workplace can be just as harsh. Here’s what helps:
• Keep your home well-ventilated by opening your windows just a little for some fresh air
• Try not to burn wood or paraffin indoors if you can help it
• Wash your bedding weekly in hot water
• Wrap up warmly with a scarf or mask covering your nose and mouth when you go outside
Don’t skip your meds
Treatment interruption is one of the most preventable causes of winter hospital admissions. Refill your prescription before you run low – set up reminders on your Personal Health Assistant on the Universal.one App now to avoid missing doses. Always take your regular medication and inhaler exactly as prescribed, even on days when you feel well, and keep your inhaler with you at all times if you have one.
CGMS covers chronic medication for asthma and COPD on all plans as part of the 27 Chronic Disease List (CDL) conditions. If you have other non-CDL respiratory conditions, check whether they are covered on your plan.
Know when something’s not right
Call your doctor or use uHealthChat™ available on the Universal.one App for CGMS members if:
• You’re using your inhaler more often than usual
• You’re waking at night, struggling to breathe or coughing
• You experience wheezing that won’t go away, or your chest feels tight for hours
• You have mucus that changes colour, thickens, or increases in volume
• You have a fever, or a cold or flu that’s moved to your chest
Get your free jabs
Your CGMS plan covers both annual flu and pneumococcal vaccinations under your preventative care benefit. These vaccinations significantly reduce the risk of serious respiratory infection. Speak to your GP or pharmacist about when to get vaccinated for maximum protection.
Don’t wait to get help
If you notice any of the above warning signs, do not wait. uHealthChat™ gives all CGMS members access to unlimited 24/7 professional nurse consultations. Simply tell them about your chronic condition, explain your symptoms, and they will help you take action from there.
The bottom line
Taking care of your lungs in winter doesn’t have to be difficult. Take your meds, avoid triggers, and get help early when you need it. Do these things now, and you’ll thank yourself come spring.