By February, a lot of people feel fed up of hearing the same thing “It’s just a winter bug.”

If you are still dealing with a lingering cough, chesty cold, sore throat, sinus pressure or that constant run down feeling, you are not imagining it. Winter illnesses often last longer than expected, especially once January has passed and everyone assumes they should be back to normal.

The reality is that February is one of the busiest months for pharmacies, because people finally reach the point where symptoms are not clearing on their own.

Why winter illnesses often drag on into February

Cold and flu viruses peak earlier in winter, but symptoms can linger for weeks. This is often due to a combination of factors rather than a single cause.

Repeated exposure to viruses, lack of sunlight, lower vitamin D levels, disrupted sleep, stress and simply trying to push through illness without proper support can all slow recovery. In some cases, symptoms improve slightly, then return again a week or two later.

Many people delay seeking advice because they feel their symptoms are not serious enough for a GP appointment. Unfortunately, waiting too long can mean symptoms become harder to shift.

What your pharmacist can assess and advise on

At Hayshine Pharmacy, our pharmacists regularly support patients with common winter illnesses and ongoing symptoms.

We can help assess and advise on

• Persistent coughs, including dry or chesty coughs
  
  
• Sinus congestion, facial pressure and blocked noses
  
  
• Sore throats that do not clear after a few days
  
  
• Cold and flu symptoms that keep returning
  
  
• Ear discomfort, blocked ears and mild ear pain
  
  
• Advice on suitable treatments and symptom relief
  
  

Pharmacists are trained to ask the right questions, spot warning signs and recommend treatments that are appropriate for your symptoms, age and medical history.

When seeing a pharmacist makes sense

A pharmacist consultation is often the best first step if your symptoms are

• Mild to moderate rather than severe
  
  
• Lingering rather than rapidly worsening
  
  
• Affecting your sleep, work or daily routine
  
  
• Something you have experienced before
  
  

We can also explain what is normal during recovery and what is not, which helps avoid unnecessary worry or delays.

If your symptoms suggest you need further medical input, we will always advise you clearly and promptly.

Pharmacy First and quicker access to care

Pharmacy First services mean that many common conditions can now be managed directly by your pharmacist. This helps patients access care faster while reducing pressure on GP surgeries.

For many people, this means same day advice, treatment and reassurance without the need to wait weeks for an appointment.

The danger of ignoring ongoing symptoms

Trying to push through illness without support can lead to longer recovery times, recurring infections and ongoing fatigue. February is not the time to ignore symptoms and hope they disappear on their own.

If something has been lingering for weeks, getting professional advice can help you recover properly rather than repeatedly starting from square one.

How Hayshine can help you feel better sooner

Our team takes the time to listen, assess and advise properly. Whether you need treatment, reassurance or guidance on next steps, we are here to support your health through the winter months and beyond.

Speak to Hayshine today

If you are still feeling unwell this winter, visit Hayshine Pharmacy in Welling or speak to our team for advice. No appointment is needed, and help is often available the same day.