Self help

Colds & Coughs

Coughs and colds are usually caused by viruses, tiny germs that do not respond to antibiotic treatment. Our advice is to take paracetamol warm drinks and where possible rest. If symptoms persist for more than 3 days or if you have chest or other problems please contact practice for advice.

Sickness & diarrhoea

These symptoms are usually caused by viral infections of the stomach or large bowel. In fit adults and older children these are unpleasant but not usually serious. Dehydration is the main concern. To avoid this drink regular but small amounts of clear fluids, paracetamol is also useful if a fever is present. The under twos are more at risk of dehydration so be extra vigilant, if you are concerned contact the surgery.

Chickenpox

This viral illness is recognised by a rash of discrete red spots that then blister, the fluid in the blisters contains the virus. When they all have crusted over and are dry the child is no longer infectious, it should take about a week. Treatment consists of relieving symptoms with calpol, cool baths and calamine lotion.

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Travel Advice

If you are travelling abroad the following web site are useful
 
MASTA General travel information
http://www.masta.org
 
Fit for travel Specific advice for each destination
http://www.fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk
 
Foreign Office Political advice
http://www.fco.gov.uk/travel/default.asp
 
The Aviation Health Institute Advice on fitness to fly.
http://www.aviation-health.org/medical_centre.html

More information is available from

We intend to provide more links to health related sites in the future

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