Self Care

Did you know that 10 of the most minor ailments seen by GPs can also be treated at home by yourself?

By doing this at home you could save a trip to the surgery and free up clinicians time to see patients with more serious health problems.

The most common health problems that are easily treated at home:

• Back pain
• Dermatitis
• Heartburn and indigestion
• Nasal congestion (blocked nose)
• Constipation
• Migraines
• Coughs
• Acne
• Sprains and strains
• Headaches

Visit the NHS Choices website for more information

Medicine Cabinet

Keeping a well-stocked medicine cabinet at home means you’re able to treat a wide range of minor illness`, such as coughs, colds and indigestion.

Recommendations of what you should keep:

• Paracetamol and Aspirin (under 16`s and asthmatic people should not take aspirin)
• Mild laxatives
• Anti-diarrhoeal medicines
• Rehydration mixture
• Indigestion remedy
• Travel sickness medication
• Sunscreen -SPF15 or higher
• Sunburn treatment
• Tweezers and sharp scissors
• Thermometer
• A selection of plaster, non-absorbent cotton wool, elastic bandages and dressings

Caution

• Please remember to keep these supplies secure and away from children
• Always read the instructions before use
• Check expiry dates
• Dispose of unwanted or expired medication via a pharmacy

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are used to treat or prevent some types of bacterial infection. They work by killing bacteria or preventing them from spreading. But they do NOT work for everything.

Many bacterial infections get better on their own without the use of antibiotics.

Antibiotics do NOT work for viral infections such as colds and flu, and most coughs and sore throats.

They are no longer routinely used to treat:

• Chest infections
• Ear infections in children
• Sore throats
• Antibiotics resistance is a big problem – taking them when they are not required can mean they will NOT work for you in the future.