Many common aches and pains or illnesses can be simply treated at home without the need to consult a doctor. To find out more please click on a link within the list below.
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| The Child With A Temperature | top |
| We are aware of how worrying it can be to have a sick child. If you are concerned we will always see him/her the same day at the surgery. We do ask that whenever possible you bring the child to the surgery rather than requesting a home visit. It is always wise to keep a supply of children’s paracetamol (Calpol or Disprol) at home. Paracetamol reduces a child’s temperature and should be given four to six hourly when the child has a temperature. In most minor illnesses this is the only treatment required but if you are still worried of if the child fails to improve within two to three days then please bring him/her to the surgery for a checkup. | |
| Colds | top |
| Even in this day and age there is no magic cure for the common cold. Go to bed and take plenty of drinks. Take aspirin or paracetamol if you have a headache of feel feverish. Do not take any antibiotics you may have in the house as these will have no affect. | |
| Coughs | top |
| Dry coughs usually cure themselves and can be eased by medicines from the chemist. However, if you are coughing dirty sputum than it would be advisable to see a doctor. | |
| Sore Throats | top |
| Most sore throats are caused by viral infections so antibiotics will be of no use. The best treatment for adults is to gargle with two soluble aspirin or paracetamol tablets four times a day.
Children should be given paracetamol syrup every four to six hours. With simple treatment the patient will normally get better within four to five days. |
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| Influenza | top |
| The symptoms of flu usually last a few days e.g. high temperature, aching muscles and tiredness. Go to bed and drink plenty of fluids.
Usually all that is needed is rest and paracetamol (two every six hours). If symptoms persist seek medical advice. |
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| Earache | top |
| Earache is a common complaint in children and is frequently the result of an ordinary cold. If often starts at night and if caused by catarrh will usually settle within 48 hours. The treatment is paracetamol every four hours but if the earache persists a visit to the doctor is needed. | |
| Vomiting and/or Diarrhea | top |
| Adults – Have nothing to eat and no milk for 24 hours. Sip small quantities of clear fluids on a frequent basis (e.g. water, squash).
Children and babies – Breast fed babies should continue breast feeding. Extra clear fluids may be required. Bottle fed babies should not have milk for 24 hours but be given clear fluids. Suitable fluid sachets are available from the chemist. If vomiting persists in adults or children consult your doctor. |
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| Back Pain | top |
| Back Pain cause 13 million working days to be lost in Britain each year. The spine supports the whole weight of the upper body so it is understandable that it sometimes goes wrong. Because of the complex nature of the spine it is advisable to consult your doctor if back pain persist for more than a few days. If, as is usual, the pain has been caused by abuse i.e. lifting too heavy weights etc., be sensible and take things easy. Take care to sit upright as possible with a support for the small of the back.
Take aspirin or paracetamol which will not only relieve the pain but will help to relieve inflammation. Your doctor may well prescribe stronger drug, heat treatment, gentle exercise or some kind of supportive corset. |
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| Sprains | top |
| Treat with a cold compress, containing ice if possible, for 15 to 30 minutes to reduce the swelling. Then apply, firmly, a crepe bandage and give the sprain plenty of rest until all discomfort has subsided.
Further strain will inevitable to further swelling and a longer recovery period. |
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| Nosebleeds | top |
| Sit in a chair, lean forward with your mouth open, and pinch your nose just below the bong approximately 10 minutes, by which time the bleeding should have stopped. Avoid hot drinks or hot food for 24 hours. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor. | |
| Sunburn | top |
| Treat as for other burns with cold water to remove the heat. Calamine lotion will relieve the irritation whilst paracetamol will also help.
Children are particularly susceptible to sunburn and great care should be taken to avoid overexposure to the harmful effects of the sun. |
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| Worms | top |
| These are very common in children. It is worth checking to see if others in the family are affected. | |
