This section of our website explains a little about some of the common and minor ailments we are all likely to encounter at some stage.
All are self-treatable unless the symptoms worsen or persist for longer than you would expect, in which case you must visit your Nurse Practioner or GP.
Just follow the links above, but remember that the information is provided for general guidance only, if you are in any doubt then you should seek expert medical advice.
Medicine chest
Minor illnesses or accidents can happen at any time so it's worth being prepared. It makes sense to keep some first aid and simple remedies in a safe place to treat minor complaints and accidents.
- Paracetamol and aspirin (children under 12 and people with asthma should not take aspirin)
- Paracetamol (for example, Calpol) or ibuprofen syrups (or both) for children
- Mild laxatives
- Anti-diarrhoeal medicines
- Rehydration mixture
- Indigestion remedy (for example, antacids)
- Travel-sickness tablets
- Sunscreen - SPF15 or higher
- Sunburn treatment (for example, calamine)
- Tweezers and sharp scissors
- A Thermometer
- A selection of plasters, non-absorbent cotton wool, elastic bandages and dressings
Remember
- Keep the medicine chest in a secure, locked place, out of reach of small children.
- Always read the instructions and use the suggested dose.
- Watch expiry dates - don't keep or use medicines past their sell-by date.
- Take all unwanted and out-of-date medicines back to the pharmacy. this is to stop medicines getting into the water supply and the wrong people getting hold of medicines someone else has thrown away.
