In the midst of summer the change in temperature can bring along a range of health risks and NHS Lanarkshire is encouraging its patients to seek treatment in the right places.

The message is being highlighted to help reduce waiting times and to counter the potential spread of infections in emergency departments.

Gabe Docherty, director of public health for NHS Lanarkshire, said: “Patients can get appropriate medical help and advice from a range of other services such as GP’s, the out of hour’s service, pharmacists, dentists and opticians.”

“Hospitals are extremely busy all year round where staff are dealing with life threating emergencies like strokes and heart attacks”

Gabe added: “People suffering from summer symptoms such as dehydration, rashes, sunburn, bites and stings should be able to treat themselves at home or visit their local pharmacy. Although these conditions can be unpleasant they do not usually require to be seen in an emergency department.

“Pharmacists are available on your local high street and are trained clinicians who can provide expert advice and guidance on the best treatments.”

NHS Lanarkshire is also encouraging its patients to prepare for the hot weather, which can prevent you feeling unwell and keep you safe this summer by:
• Ensuring you wear cool clothing • Drink plenty of fluids regularly
• Try and stay out of the heat between the hours of 11am and 3pm
• Make sure you have a well -stocked medicine cabinet so you can self -treat if needed.