MINOR CUTS AND GRAZES

Wash and clean the wound thoroughly with water and preferably an antiseptic solution such as savlon. To stop bleeding apply a clean dressing or hankerchief to the wound with pressure for five to ten minutes. Cover with a clean dry dressing.

MINOR BURNS AND SCALDS

Minor burns and scalds cause reddening and discomfort to the skin. The immediate treatment is to hold the burnt area under a cold running tap for ten to fifteen minutes. If the skin is blistered or broken then attention from a Doctor or Nurse should be sought. Cover the area with clean dry dressing. Failure to heal within two to three days should again be brought to the attention of nursing or medical staff.

COLDS AND FLU

Even in 21st Century there is still no miracle remedy for colds or flu. In the vast majority of instances these are the results of viral infections for which antibiotics are of no help. Symptomatic treatment includes the use of paracetamol, rest, hot drinks and cough remedies are recommended by your pharmacist. Stuffy noses can be treated with steam and menthol inhalations. Please seek pharmacist advice if purchasing ‘over the counter’ decongestants as these may not be compatible with prescribed medication. Prolonged coughs and colds (more than ten days) should be brought to the attention of a nurse or doctor.

SORE THROATS

The vast majority of sore throats are caused by viruses and get better on their own and will not require antibiotic treatment. Symptomatic treatment includes plenty of soothing drinks, gargles, lozenges and pain relief such as Paracetamol or Aspirin (not for the under 12s). Your pharmacist should be able to offer good advice and treatment. Sore throats which are prolonged should be brought to the attention of a nurse or doctor. The presence of a very high temperature suggests the possibility of tonsillitis and early attention would be appropriate.

NOSE BLEEDS

Sit in a chair (leaning forward and breathing through your mouth) with an ice pack applied to the forehead should help. This should be done in conjunction with pinch your nose just below the bone, until the bleeding has stopped. Medical attention should be sought if the bleeding is continuous.

SPRAINS

Firstly apply a cold compress, such as an ice pack or frozen peas wrapped in a towel. Apply cold for fifteen to thirty minutes to reduce swelling. Elevating the limb will prevent swelling and relieve pain. Applying a crepe bandage firmly to the injured site can help but these should be used for a short period only and not at night. Failure to recover within four to five days should be brought to medical or nursing attention.

VOMITING AND/OR DIARRHOEA

Again most cases are due to viral infections and very rarely require antibiotic treatment. Treat with frequent small amounts of fluids, but avoid milk and fruit juices. Starving for 24 hours is also very helpful. As the stomach settles, then return to a very light diet such as dry biscuits or toast. Please consult the doctor if:

1 accompanied by severe (especially continuous) stomach pains
2 you have just returned from overseas
3 if symptoms persist longer that 3 days in an adult or child or if longer than 24 hours in a small baby or infant.
4 Blood in your stools

BACK PAIN

Back pain is an extremely common problem. In the vast majority of instances it is due to muscular pain and spasm. Most episodes of back pain will settle within a few days. Your pharmacist should be able to recommend an appropriate painkiller, it is advisable to remain as active as possible despite the pain. Your doctor will not mind if you approach a qualified physiotherapist or osteopath directly.
Pain that will not settle, or if the pain involves one or both legs, then medical attention should be sought.

HOW TO LOOK ATER A CHILD WITH A TEMPERATURE

Most childhood infections are caused by viruses and do not respond to antibiotics. The main aim of treatment is to bring down your child’s temperature and make him/her feel better:

1 give your child Paracetamol (Calpol, Disprol etc) at the dosage advised on the packaging
2 do not overdress. Cool clothes and light bedding is appropriate
3 give regular cool fluids
4 sponge your child down with luke-warm water (tepid). Do not place in a cold bath
5 if your child does not improve, or appears particularly ill, consult your Doctor

There is absolutely not risk in bringing a feverish child out of the house and to the surgery, often cooler, fresher air will make a feverish child feel more comfortable.