Self test of common conditions
Minor illnesses and accidents should be treated at home without needing to see the doctor. Many common infections eg colds, sore throats are caused by a virus - antibiotics are not the treatment for viral infections and many will settle over a few days requiring only simple painkillers. However, if you are uncertain as to what to do or are worried, please ask us for advice.
Colds and flu
There is still no magic cure for these ailments. Go to bed and drink plenty of fluids. If you have a headache or are feverish, take paracetamol. If symptoms persist for more than 3 days, or if there is a known flu epidemic and you suffer from a chest condition or diabetes, contact your doctor.
Burns
Run cold water over the burnt area for at least 10 minutes. If the skin is unbroken but blistered, apply a loose dry dressing. If the skin is broken or the bum is extensive, contact the surgery.
Sunburn
Treat as for other burns with cold water. Oily calamine lotion will relieve irritation, and paracetamol will also help. Great care should be taken to avoid over exposure to the sun's harmful rays, particularly with children.
Cuts and grazes
Wash the wound thoroughly with water. Apply direct pressure to any bleeding point. Apply a clean firm dressing.
Diarrhoea and vomiting
This is most commonly caused by a virus and settles spontaneously in a few days. Do not take food or milk, but drink large quantities of water, diluted squash or soda water to counter the effects of dehydration. Babies can be given special sachets of sugar and salt crystals obtainable from your chemist. If vomiting persists for more than 24 hours, contact your doctor.
Back pain
Most cases caused by overuse are self-limiting. Rest, pain-killers and gentle heat will relieve the pain. Contact your doctor if symptoms persist for more than a few days.
Nose bleeds
Sit in a chair leaning forward with your mouth open and pinch your nose just below the nasal bone for 10 minutes, by which time the bleeding should have stopped. Do not blow your nose for 4 hours. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.
Insect bites and stings
Antihistamine tablets can be obtained from your chemist without prescription and will remove most symptoms in 48 hours.
Apply vinegar to neutralise a wasp sting, and sodium bicarbonate to a bee sting. Scrape away a bee sting to avoid squeezing the venom sac.
Bruising / joint sprains
Elevation and ice (pack of frozen peas) will reduce swelling and discomfort.
Advice on Childhood Problems
It is very worrying to have a sick child. If you are concerned about your child, we will see them on the same day at the surgery. We do ask that you bring your child to the surgery as it will cause no harm to do so.
It is wise to keep a supply of children's paracetamol, (CalpoI/Disprol), at home in a safe place. Infections can cause fever. Most cases are due to viral infection, which usually recover in a few days. Antibiotics will not help viral diseases.
Parents can treat children with paracetamol following the instructions on the bottle. If your child is alert, showing interest in toys and is attentive, you can generally continue to treat them until they recover in about three to four days. If your child is sleepy or not responsive, takes little notice of their surroundings, screams constantly and continues vomiting, they should be seen by a doctor.
Additional measures to cool a child include using a fan, light clothing and sponging with tepid (not cold) water, as well as an adequate fluid intake.
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