A wide range of effective remedies are now available in the pharmacy without the need for a prescription.

The doctors in this surgery can recommend the following treatments for the common conditions mentioned.

• Acute sprains, muscle aches or period pain - Ibuprofen tablets
  
• Athlete's foot, nappy rash or thrush - Daktarin or Canesten cream
  
• Cold sores - Acyclovir (Zovirax) cream
  
• Hay fever, insect bites and allergies - Piriton and other antihistamines
  
• Skin irritations, contact dermatitis and eczema - 1% Hydrocortisone cream
  
• Mild to moderate pain and temperatures in children - Paracetamol syrup
      (Calpol or Disprol) or junior ibuprofen
  
• Vaginal thrush - Clotrimazole (Canesten) pessaries or 10% vaginal cream
  
  

For the treatment of many other common ailments such as threadworms, head lice, acne and tummy upsets, your pharmacist is trained to give advice.

If your condition does not clear up within a few days or you are uncertain about your diagnosis, then please consult your doctor.

2.  Self treatment of common illnesses and ailments

• Backache - Usually responds to a few days rest and paracetamol or ibuprofen.
   

• Burns - Apply large quantities of cold water to the affected area immediatelyand 
      maintain this until the pain subsides.

              If the burn is larger than 4-5 inches in diameter or the skin is broken, consult the Practice
              nurse. 

• Colds / Flu (adults) 
      There is no cure. Antibiotics will not help. Use decongestants (e.g. Sudafed) or inhalation
      steam (Friar's Balsam, Karvol, etc.). Suck soothing throat pastilles and take frequent
      drinks. If you are feverish take paracetamol or aspirin. 
  
• Cystitis
      Symptoms include passing urine frequently, burning and passing occasional blood.
      Drink as much water as possible. Some remedies are now available over the counter at  
      the pharmacy. If symptoms persist arrange an appointment with your doctor. 

• Diarrhoea
      In adults and older children, it usually settles on its own. Treatment consists of replacing
      lost fluid and resting the digestive system by having nothing solid to eat for 24 hours.
      Dioralyte or similar electrolyte solution can be obtained from the chemist without 
      prescription. 

3.  Contraceptive Advice

If you do not wish to, or have time to visit your GP for contraceptive advice, you can visit one of the local pharmacies who offer private consultations and speak with the Pharmacist, especially if you are in need of Emergency Contraception (Morning After Pill).