Coping With Minor Ailments

Research shows that people cope with their own symptoms in eight out of ten cases. You probably already act as your own Doctor or Nurse most of the time. If you feel unwell you immediately try to work out why and take steps to make yourself feel better. This is diagnosis and treatment. When you can't solve it yourself that is when you go for medical help.
 
Self-care means recognising minor illnesses and being able to treat the symptoms, preventing health problems developing and knowing when to call for outside help. People often worry that any symptom is the sign of a serious illness when it is more likely to be something very simple.
 
People recover from most minor illnesses by themselves and don't need to see a Doctor. For instance, many illnesses, including colds and flu, are caused by a virus. There are thousands of difference viruses and there is no direct cure (antibiotics can't help). But there are often things you can do to ease the symptoms while your body gets on with overcoming the virus. Rest and take plenty of drinks (non-alcoholic). Paracetamol or aspirin may help relieve aches and fever, but don't give aspirin to children under 12.
 
Self-care does not mean dealing with health problems on your own. Your GP and the practice team are there to help with any problems or situations you cannot cope with. The pharmacist can also give you advice on treating minor illnesses. He can help you to stock your home medicine chest and can advise you on home remedies.

Back to top

Basic First Aid

Burns

Immediately cool down the affected area with lots of cold water and continue to do this for at least 10 minutes. If the burn is larger than 4-6 inches across, if it is on the face or if the skin is broken, see the GP as soon as possible. If the burn is deep, heavily blistered and very painful or if the skin has turned white or black go to the nearest A & E (Casualty) at your local hospital immediately.

Cuts

Try to stop the bleeding from minor cuts by pressing it with clean hands for a few minutes. Hold a cut arm or leg up high. If a cut bleeds freely, germs will normally be washed away by the blood. If it is a very deep cut and the edges cannot be pulled together, consult your GP surgery or go to the A & E Department at your hospital. Redness or swelling can be a sign of infection in a cut or graze and you should make an appointment to see your doctor. You may be advised to have a tetanus injection if you haven't had one in the last 10 years.

Sprains

Remember I-C-E
 
I - stands for ice. Immediately pack the strained area with ice or a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a cloth to reduce swelling and speed up the healing process. Keep this on for about 20 minutes.
 
C - means compression. Bind the injured area with an elastic bandage so it is well supported, but not so tight that it restricts the flow of blood. Re-tighten a few times a day.
 
E - means elevation. Rest the sprained area and keep it held high. For example, if you have sprained your ankle rest it on a stool/chair that is higher than the chair you are sat on.

Back to top