MANAGEMENT OF COMMON AILMENTS Many conditions get better on their own and can be treated successfully at home. Your pharmacist may be able to help you with these and advise about medicines you can buy over the counter.
These usually start with a runny nose, cough, temperature and aches. They are caused by viruses and antibiotics are of no use in their treatment. Treatment consists of taking recommended doses of paracetamol for the temperature and aches, and drinking plenty of fluids. Do not worry if you do not eat for a few days; you will come to no harm.
In adults and older children, diarrhoea and vomiting will usually get better 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 24 hours. Plain water in small quantities should be taken frequently. If the diarrhoea contains blood or there is severe pain or high fever, you should discuss it with your doctor. Diarrhoea and vomiting in small babies and young children should be treated with caution, and your doctor will be happy to advise you about this over the phone and arrange to see you if necessary. Elderly people and those with medical conditions (e.g. diabetes) should consult a doctor.
Most acute strains and sprains will respond to a few days’ rest and paracetamol taken for the pain. Backache will usually respond to a few days spent lying on a firm flat bed on your back. If the symptoms continue, you should consult your doctor. For sprains, first apply a cold compress containing ice (e.g. a packet of frozen peas) for fifteen to thirty minutes to reduce the swelling. Apply a firm crepe bandage and give a sprain plenty of rest until all the discomfort has subsided.
Head lice may affect anyone and are not a sign of poor hygiene. Treatment recommended is apply conditioner and then combing using a fine toothed (nit) comb every 3-4 days. If unsuccessful, treatments can be obtained from the chemist without prescription.
Most of these need no treatment. Anti-histamine tablets can be obtained from the chemist without prescription and will relieve most symptoms.
Sit in a chair (leaning forwards with your mouth open) and pinch your nose just below the bone for about ten minutes by which time the bleeding usually stops. If the bleeding continues, consult your doctor.
Most attacks are not serious and are usually caused by indigestion and wind. In the case of indigestion a teaspoon of an antacid such as Milk of Magnesia will help. If the pain becomes increasingly severe, you should consult your doctor.