Self Treatment of Common Illnesses and Accidents

Many mild diseases and minor accidents can be treated at home and do not need a trip to the surgery.

Minor Ailment Service
 

	There is now a NHS minor ailment service available at our community pharmacy in Aviemore. Patients can receive treatment for a variety of minor ailments direct from the chemist and they do not need to see a GP or nurse. For more details, patients should contact the pharmacy direct. Pharmacy 01479 810259

Colds and Flu

There is still no cure for the common cold, and as it is caused by a virus, antibiotics are only of use if you have an infection as well. If you develop cold or flu symptoms, rest, take plenty of fluids and the recommended dose of paracetamol if you have a headache or feel feverish.

If you are elderly or have heart or lung disease, you should discuss, with your doctor or nurse, the
possibility of an annual flu injection and Pneumonia injection which is only required every ten years.
 

Diarrhoea and Vomiting

Diarrhoea and vomiting will usually get better on its own. Treatment consists of rest, and replacement  of fluids lost. This can be done by using rehydration mixtures (e.g. Electolade Rehidrat or Dioralyte, which are available from your pharmacist). Fluids only, followed by a light diet for 24 hours is usually all  that is needed.

Diarrhoea in babies and small children should be treated with caution. It is important that they do not become dehydrated. If in doubt, contact the Surgery.
 

Minor Burns and Scalds

Apply large amounts of cold water to the affected area to reduce the pain and prevent further damage.

Apply a loose light dressing and consult your doctor or nurse if the affected area is large or if the skin is broken.

Do not apply creams or ointments. For serious burns or scalds, contact your doctor.
 

Nosebleeds

Sit forward with your mouth open and breathe through your mouth. Pinch your nose for 10 minutes. Try not to blow your nose. If symptoms persist, contact your doctor.
 

Minor Cuts and Grazes

Wash the wound thoroughly and remove any debris. Stop any bleeding by applying a clean dressing firmly to the wound for five minutes.

Do not apply creams or ointments.
 

Sprains and Strains

Apply a cold compress for 15-30 minutes to help reduce pain and swelling. A cold compress can  be made from a polythene bag or ice pack of frozen peas wrapped in a wet cloth.
 

Sunburn

Try to avoid sunburn by avoiding over-exposure and using a high protection sun cream. If you do get burnt, apply after-sun cream or calamine lotion.
 

Insect Bites and Stings

Antihistamine is available from chemists either as a cream or a spray and will usually relieve the symptoms of bites and stings. If the sting is on the tongue or in the throat, you should consult a doctor immediately.
 

Infectious Diseases Common Amongst Schoolchildren

	Measles Incubation Period: One to two weeks. Infectious Period: Two to three days before rash appears until eight to ten days afterwards. Features: Fever, runny eyes and a dry cough, followed by a blotchy red rash which starts behind the ears, then spreads to the face and the rest of the body. White Koplik?s spots appear inside the mouth (Prevented by immunisation).
	Mumps Incubation Period: Two to three weeks. Infectious Period: Two to three days before the swelling appears until seven days afterwards. Features: Fever, pain around the area, swelling on one or both sides of the face in front of the ear. (Prevented by immunisation).
	German Measles (Rubella) Incubation Period: Two to three weeks. Infectious Period: Two days before the rash appears until seven days afterwards. Features: Fine pink rash which doesn?t itch, enlarged lymph nodes. Dangerous if caught during the very early weeks of pregnancy. (Prevented by immunisation).
	Chickenpox Incubation Period: Two to three weeks. Infectious Period: Two days before the spots appear until blisters become crusted and dry. Flat red spots that turn into watery blisters which later crust over. Features: Can be very itchy and scarring may occur as a result of scratching.

Pharmacy 01479 810259