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Self Help For Minor Ailments
 Antibiotics
First a note about these commonly prescribed and powerful medicines. They only work on bacteria and have no effect on viruses. Unfortunately this means that common infections like coughs, colds, flu, etc. will not be helped by them at all.
The correct treatments are the simple remedies outlined below and we only use antibiotics when they fail and we suspect there may be a secondary infection.
Overuse of antibiotics and failure to complete the course may lead to them not working in future and other complications like thrush, skin rashes, etc.
Back Pain
Because of the complex nature of the spine it is advisable to consult your Doctor if back pain persists for more than a few days. If pain has an obvious cause such as lifting heavy weights, be sensible and take things easy. Take care to sit upright as possible with support for the small of the back.
Aspirin or Paracetamol will not only relieve the pain but will relieve the inflammation. Your Doctor may well prescribe stronger drugs, gentle exercise and physiotherapy.
Colds And Sinus
Take plenty of fluids, Paracetamol or (if over 12 years of age) Aspirin. Inhalation with steam and menthol crystals can help to clear nasal passages. If they are very blocked you could ask the chemist to recommend a decongestant.
You should be improving after seven to ten days and be better in two weeks. We recommend you come to see us if the illness persists any longer than this.
Coughs
These can be soothed by a drink made with honey and fresh lemon juice in hot water. If particularly irritating, steam inhalations or your favourite cough medicine can be worthwhile.
If you bring up coloured phlegm and are feeling short of breath or have a wheeze, we may need to examine your chest.
A Child With A High Temperature
Children get a temperature because of infection. Most infections are mild and due to viruses so they do not need antibiotics. The following advice should help bring the temperature down:
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Always keep a supply of Paracetamol at home (e.g. Calpol). |
Do not give Aspirin to children under the age of 12.
| 2. |
Dress the child in loose clothing and cool the room down. |
| 2. |
Give plenty of cool drinks such as water or squash. |
| 4. |
If this does not work or if the child is particularly ill, contact the Doctor. |
Flu
If you have a temperature and are aching a lot, Paracetamol or Aspirin (if over 12 years of age), fluids and rest are the answer.
Sore Throats
If over 12 years of age gargle with Soluble Aspirin, otherwise Soluble Paracetamol, drink plenty of fluids and use lozenges or boiled sweets if they help.
Earache
Earache occurs fairly commonly in children. Give Paracetamol or Aspirin together with plenty of fluids. If the earache does not settle within 24 hours, contact your Doctor.
Diarrhoea And Vomiting
This usually settles after one to three days. Avoid all food for 12-24 hours, drink plenty of fluids frequently and in small amounts. Special fluids, e.g. Dioralyte will prevent dehydration and is available at chemists. Avoid milk, dairy products and fatty/spicy foods when you start eating again. Tummy colic can be eased by Paracetamol.
Burns
Apply large quantities of cold water to the effected area as soon as possible and maintain until the pain subsides, this may take up to 15 minutes. If the skin is unbroken but blistered apply a loose dry dressing. If the burn is larger than four to five inches in diameter or if the skin is broken, consult your Doctor as soon as possible.
Sunburn
Treat as other burns with cold water to remove the heat. Calamine Lotion will relieve the irritation. Paracetamol may also help. Children are particularly vulnerable to sunburn so put a hat on them, dress in lightweight clothing to cover arms and legs and use a sun barrier cream on exposed areas. Over exposure to the harmful effects of sunlight can cause cancer in later life.
Insect Bites And Stings
Antihistamine tablets can be obtained from the chemist without prescription and will usually relieve the symptoms. Note: Bee stings should be scraped away rather than “plucked” to avoid squeezing the contents of the venom sac into the wound.
Sprains
Firstly apply a cold compress, containing ice if possible (a bag of frozen peas kept for this purpose is ideal) for 15-20 minutes to reduce the swelling. Apply, firmly, a crepe bandage and give the sprain plenty of rest until all discomfort has subsided. Further strain will inevitably lead to further swelling and a longer recovery time.
Fits
Do not move, do not forcibly restrain and do not put anything in the mouth. Place in the recovery position - on his/her side and ensure he/she has a clear airway. Do not give anything to drink.
Unconsciousness
Do not move a patient who may have a broken neck or back. If this is not the case turn the patient carefully into the recovery position - on his/her side and ensure he/she has a clear airway, cover with a blanket to keep warm. Call an ambulance and your Doctor.
Nose Bleeds
Sit in a chair, lean forward with your mouth open and pinch your nose just below the bone for approximately 10 minutes, by which time the bleeding should have stopped. Avoid hot drinks or blowing your nose for 12 hours. If the symptoms persist consult your Doctor.
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