Many conditions get better on their own and can be treated successfully at home. Your pharmacist will be pleased to advise about medicines you can buy over the counter. If you have a problem with your child click the separate link below.

 

Colds and flu

These usually start with a runny nose, cough,temperature and aching. They are caused by viruses and antibiotics are, unfortunately, of no help in their treatment. Treatment consists of taking recommended doses of regular paracetamol for the temperature and aches, and drinking plenty of fluids. Do not worry if you do not eat for a few days; you will come to no harm.

Diarrhoea and vomiting

In adults and older children, diarrhoea and vomiting will usually get better on their own. Treatment consists of replacing the fluid that you have lost and resting the digestive system by having nothing solid to eat for 24 hours. The diarrhoea can usually be eased by a medicine called Loperamide, available from the chemist. Consult your doctor if the symptoms persist for more than a few days.

Nose bleeds

Sit in a chair (leaning forwards with your mouth open) and pinch your nose just below the bone for at least 10 minutes by which time the bleeding should have stopped. Repeat once if necessary. If symptoms persist, contact the surgery.

Backache, Strains and Sprains

Most acute strains and sprains will respond to a few days' rest and paracetamol taken for the pain. Severe backache will usually be helped by 48 hours rest lying on a firm bed in a position of comfort. If the symptoms fail to improve, particularly if you have much pain down one leg, you should consult your doctor. For sprains, first apply a cold compress containing ice (e.g. a packet of frozen peas) for 15 to 30 minutes to reduce the swelling. Apply a firm crepe bandage and give a sprain plenty of rest until much of the discomfort has susbsided. Repeat the cold compress twice daily for 3 days.

Insect Bites and Stings

Anti-histamine tablets can be obtained from the chemist without prescription and will usually relieve most symptoms. Calamine lotion is also helpful.

Burns

Apply large quantities of cold water to the affected area as soon as possible and maintain this until the pain subsides. This may take as long as 10 minutes. If the skin is unbroken but blistered, apply a loose, dry dressing. If the burn is larger than 3 to 4 inches in diameter, or if the skin is broken, contact the surgery.