Health services are very busy at the moment. Help us to help those most in need. Follow these steps to use the right treatment: 

Getting the right care, first time will ensure you receive the best possible treatment, leaving health services free for those who need them most.

how long till i'm likely to be better?

Children

All children get colds. This is a normal part of growing up and no medicines can prevent them. The best way to look after your child is to make sure they have plenty to drink and if they have a temperature some paracetamol will help. Most doctors don’t recommend cough medicines and antibiotics won’t help a cold.

For more information and health advice visit the NHS website: www.nhs.uk

Self care

You can treat most common ailments and illnesses at home by keeping a well-stocked medicine cabinet. This should include:

  • Pain relief e.g. paracetamol or ibuprofen
  • Children’s paracetamol oral suspension and ibuprofen syrups – free from pharmacy if you receive free prescriptions.
  • Mild laxatives to relieve constipation.
  • Cold relief products.
  • Rehydration mixtures to use if feeling dehydrated after a bout of sickness or diarrhoea.
  • Indigestion remedy.
  • A range of bandages, plasters, non-absorbent cotton wool, elastic bandages and dressings for minor cuts, sprains and bruises. 

Pharmacy

Many pharmacies are open early until late and on weekends and bank holidays. You don’t need an appointment, and can just pop in and get expert medical help from a qualified healthcare professional. Most pharmacies now have a private consultation area where you can discuss your issues and concerns without being overheard. 

NHS 111

NHS 111 offers confidential health advice and information by telephone. 

Ring 111 if you are ill and have questions about your health and where to get treatment. 

GP surgeries 

Make an appointment with your local GP if you have an illness or injury that will not go away. 

Advice and information about a range of common winter health complaints, including how long symptoms will last and how to relieve symptoms is also available from NHS website, where you can find an easy to use symptom checker, can search for your local services and use the interactive First Aid toolkit.

Call 111 when you need medical help fast but it’s not a 999 emergencyNHS ChoicesThis site is brought to you by My Surgery Website