Last week, a busy dad of two, contacted our virtual clinical team at Doctor Care Anywhere. He’d suddenly developed fever, aches, a heavy cough and felt “completely wiped out.” Like many people in winter, he was worried it might be something serious. After a remote assessment with one of our Advanced Clinical Practitioners, it was clear he had a typical viral flu-like illness- uncomfortable, but self-limiting. With rest and a little pharmacy support, he was back on his feet in a few days.
Here's how to recognise winter illnesses and what you can safely do at home.
Common Winter Illnesses
Seasonal flu, colds, viral sore throats, sinus infections and tummy bugs circulate widely in the colder months. These are usually caused by viruses, which means:
- They typically settle within 7–10 days.
- Antibiotics are rarely needed.
- Most symptoms can be managed at home.
What You Can Do for Yourself
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Rest & Hydration
Simple but effective. Keeping fluids up and giving your body time to recover will speed up healing.
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Symptom Relief
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Paracetamol or ibuprofen for fever, aches and pains (ensure they’re safe for you if you have existing conditions).
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Honey and lemon, salt-water gargles, saline sprays and steam inhalation can ease sore throats and congestion.
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If You Have Sickness or Diarrhoea
Take small sips of fluid often. Oral rehydration solutions can help maintain electrolyte balance and get things back to normal for you faster.
Support From Your Local Pharmacy
Community pharmacists are an excellent first point of contact for winter illnesses and can recommend things that you can get without prescription:
- Cold & flu combination remedies
- Decongestants (short-term use only)
- Antihistamines for runny noses
- Throat lozenges
- Oral rehydration salts
They can also advise on safe use alongside your regular medications.
Prevention Tips
- Have your flu vaccine if eligible
- Wash hands regularly
- Keep shared spaces well ventilated
- Stay home if you’re unwell to reduce spread
At Doctor Care Anywhere, our online doctors are here to guide you through winter illnesses, helping you understand what’s safe to manage yourself and when to seek support.
When to seek in person Medical Advice
Get in touch with a GP, ACP or NHS 111 if you experience:
- Symptoms lasting more than a week without improvement
- Breathing difficulties, chest pain or coughing up blood
- A very high or persistent fever
- Severe sore throat or difficulty swallowing
- Signs of dehydration
- Worsening symptoms if you have chronic conditions such as asthma, COPD, diabetes or heart disease
- Concerns about infants or young children, especially if lethargic or drinking poorly
Seek urgent care if symptoms are severe or you feel unable to manage at home.
Watch Dr Anushka Mehrotra’s short video for practical advice on staying active and well during the colder months.
