Many conditions get better without treatment or can be treated successfully at home with simple remedies bought from the chemist.

COLDS AND INFLUENZA

These usually start with a runny nose, cough, Temperature and aches and can last for up to two weeks. They are caused by viruses and do not respond to antibiotics. Treatment consists of taking recommended doses of paracetamol for the temperature and aching and drinking plenty of fluids. You will come to no harm if you do not eat for a few days.

EARACHE

It is not unusual for children to suffer some earache with a cold. This is best treated initially with paracetamol infant suspension obtainable from the chemist, but if it fails to settle by the following day you should seek medical advice.

DIARRHOEA AND VOMITING

In adults and older children, diarrhoea and vomiting will usually get better on its 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. Clear fluid in small quantities should be taken frequently. If the diarrhoea contains blood or there is severe pain or high fever, you should discuss the matter with your doctor. Diarrhoea and vomiting in small babies and young children should be treated with caution and your doctor will be happy to advise you over the ‘phone and arrange to see you if necessary. Elderly people and those with certain medical conditions, particularly diabetes, should consult a doctor.

BACKACHE AND STRAINS

Many acute strains will respond to a few days rest and Paracetamol taken for pain. Backache will usually respond to rest, attention to posture and pain killers. If the symptoms continue you should consult your Doctor.

SPRAINS

First apply a cold compress containing ice (e.g. a packet of frozen peas) for fifteen to thirty minutes to reduce the swelling. Apply a firm crepe bandage and give a sprain plenty of rest until the discomfort has subsided.

HEAD LICE

Head lice may affect anyone and are not a sign of poor hygiene. A leaflet is available from the surgery giving the Doctors’ recommendations for treatment.

NOSE BLEEDS

Sit upright in a chair (leaning forward with your mouth open) and pinch your nose just below the bone for about 10 minutes, by which time the bleeding usually stops. If the bleeding continues, consult your doctor.

STOMACH ACHE

Most attacks are not serious and are usually caused by dietary indiscretion, indigestion or wind. A hot water bottle (covered to avoid scalding) will often relieve symptoms and in the case of indigestion a dessertspoon of an antacid will help. If the pain becomes increasingly severe, you should consult your doctor.

CHILDREN WITH A TEMPERATURE

A high temperature occurs commonly with mild Infections. In small children it is important to stop the temperature rising too quickly. Children should be given paracetamol syrup regularly every four hours in the recommended dose This is obtainable from a chemist. They should also be given plenty of clear fluids. Clothing should be removed to allow cooling and if the child remains hot, gentle sponging with tepid water as in a bath or shower should be commenced. It is sometimes necessary to carry this on for twenty to thirty minutes at a time on more than one occasion to get results. If a temperature is very high and does not come down with the above treatment or the child appears very unwell with the temperature, you should consult your doctor. A child with a temperature will not come to any harm being brought in to the surgery.

WE WILL ALWAYS SEE CHILDREN AT SHORT NOTICE IF YOU ARE WORRIED ABOUT THEM.

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