Common Ailments

Many conditions get better on their own and can be treated successfully at home. Your pharmacist may be able to help you and advise about medicines you can buy over the counter.

Headlice

Remember these creatures prefer clean hair and are not a sign of poor hygiene. Medicated shampoos may be obtained from the chemist without prescription. Wet combing with a special headlice comb and conditioning daily are now recommended treatment. Advice may be obtained from our Healthcare Assistant.

Diarrhoea and Vomiting

In adults and older children, diarrhoea and vomiting will usually improve 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 at least 24 hours. Sachets of powder such as Dioralyte and Rehidrat, which can be made into a drink are available from the chemist.

If the diarrhoea contains blood or if there is severe pain or high fever, phone the Surgery and speak to the Practice Nurse or Emergency Doctor. If necessary they will make an appointment for you with the Doctor.

Diarrhoea and vomiting in small babies and young children should always be treated with caution and the Practice Nurse will be happy to advise you about this and arrange to see your child if necessary.

Nosebleeds

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

Flu (Influenza)

Real influenza is quite uncommon. Bed rest, liquids and aspirin or paracetamol are the best treatment. Aspirin should not be given to children under 12 years old. If you are prone to influenza and are advised to have a “flu-jab” you may be able to prevent “flu”.

If you are young and fit you should be able to get over “flu” without seeing the Doctor. Many people call a heavy or feverish cold “flu”. It isn’t, but the treatment is just the same. Antibiotics do not cure either condition.