Adults
In this section we will try to give some simple advice to help you cope with common illnesses. We cannot cover all situations and, if in doubt, contact a Doctor. Remember the surgery emergency number is answered 24 hours a day.
Fever
Take paracetamol, do not wrap yourself up. If necessary open a window.
Back Pain
Do take painkillers. Pain causes muscle spasm and this makes the pressure on the back worse. The safest tablets are paracetamol (no more than eight tablets in any 24 hours) but you could take Nurofen as well. Heat - a well wrapped up hot water bottle against the pain will help (do be careful not to burn yourself.) See a Doctor if the pain is too bad, if the pain goes down one leg or if not improved after two days. Have a sample of urine ready for the Doctor.
Stomach Pain
A simple painkiller, such as paracetamol, will often help, as might a hot water bottle. Drink small amounts of water frequently and take only very light food, if any. Stomach pain that is severe, if not in the centre of the stomach, or is worse when you move may be serious and you should consider seeing a Doctor (keep a sample of urine for the Doctor).
Diarrhoea
Drink small amounts of water frequently. Most diarrhoea is due to a virus and simple rest and frequent drinks are the best treatment, antibiotics usually do not help. Most diarrhoea will start to settle within 36 hours, if it does not, - see a Doctor.
Burns
Apply large amounts of cold water for at least 15 minutes. Seek help if the skin is broken, or if there is a large burn (over three inches in diameter).
Nose Bleeds
Lean forward and pinch the nose just below the boney part, preferably with something cold, and keep still for at least 10 minutes. It should settle within 30 minutes. Avoid hot drinks for 24 hours.
Insect Bites And Stings
Apply a soothing cream and, if necessary, get an antihistamine from the Chemist.
Colds And Coughs
Doctors can do little to help with coughs and colds. A soothing drink and a decongestant cough medicine from the Chemist may help. Do see a Doctor if you are short of breath, or if you cough up green or yellow phlegm during the day.
