Self treatment of minor illnesses and accidents

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Minor Illnesses

Many common complaints can be simply treated at home without the need to consult a doctor. Viral illnesses are unpleasant but self-limiting. Your doctor may advise that these illnesses almost always get better in time and will not always give you a prescription. If you receive medication, please give it a few days to work and do not despair!

Minor Burns

Immediately submerge in cold water until the pain subsides. This can take 10 or 15 minutes but is invaluable in diminishing the damage done. Unbroken blisters should be left alone, protected if necessary by a loose dry dressing. Large burns or those in which the skin is broken should be seen by the doctor or nurse.

Sprains 

A cold compression (e.g. crushed ice or a packet of frozen peas) is invaluable if applied as soon as possible for 15-20 minutes. Apply a firm crepe bandage and rest the sprain subsequently. Sprains may take several weeks so try not to provoke them during this period.

Nose Bleeds

Alarming but try to keep your cool. Firm pressure applied with fingers and thumb below the bone must be maintained without letting go for ten minutes. Be very gentle afterwards and do not dab or pick it! Vaseline can soften clots in a few days time as they harden.

Minor Cuts and Grazes

Clean the wound thoroughly with soap and water. Firm pressure for five minutes will stop most bleeding. A clean dry dressing can then be applied.

Sunburn

Small children burn easily and should not be left in the sun. There is concern about the development of skin cancer in dedicated sun worshippers. Always use a high factor sunscreen. If you get burnt, cool the skin in cold water, use aftersun. Paracetamol is also useful.

Diarrhoea and Vomiting

Adults- Vomiting- take nothing by mouth for 12 hours then try small frequent sips of water every 15-20 minutes, progressing to a light diet for the next day or two. Most cases settle within 24-48 hours. If not, contact the doctor. Diarrhoea- usually caused by a virus. Your body is doing its best to eliminate that virus so do not take diarrhoea remedies, as they may actually prolong the illness. A fluid or very light diet should be taken avoiding any greasy foods.

Children and babies- if your child is causing concern, please do not hesitate to contact your Health Visitor or doctor for advice.

Scrupulous cleanliness at home is necessary  to avoid passing on infection to your family. 

Fever in Small Children

It is usual for children to have high temperatures with minor illnesses. It may be that this is nature's way of doing some harm to the virus. You can try to cool the child down by 

However if concerned or if not settling and / or child drowsy or a rash appears consult a doctor.

Indigestion and Constipation

Indigestion is best treated with some antacid tablets or mixture from the chemist. If it persists make an appointment at the surgery. The chemist can supply a simple laxative treatment although it is a good idea to eat plenty of fibre to avoid constipation.

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Last modified:  29 April, 2005