Colds and coughs | Fever | Diarrhoea and vomiting | Nose Bleeds | Minor cuts and grazes | Back Pain | Sunburn | Burns | Insect Bites | Verrucae and warts | Strains and Sprains

Colds and coughs

Colds are caused by viruses as are many coughs. Antibiotics do not cure viral infections and are, therefore, not prescribed by your doctor for these problems.

Paracetamol will help to relieve the symptoms of headaches and sore throats and will also help reduce a high temperature. Rest and drink plenty of fluids.

Decongestants may help a stuffy nose and simple cough mixtures may help an irritating cough. Steam inhalations help with catarrh. Menthol crystals can be added to the hot water if desired.

A high temperature is the body's natural response to infection. It makes the patient feel hot and cold, and shivery. They feel unwell, may have a headache and vomit. Ways to reduce a high temperature include; keeping the room cool, keeping clothing and bedding to a minimum, drinking plenty of cool fluids, taking regular paracetamol which lowers the temperature and tepid sponging with cool water.

Drink plenty of clear fluids (water or glucose drinks). Especially designed solutions such as Dioralyte or Rehydrat may be purchased if required. If vomiting is a problem then small sips of water should be taken every few minutes. It is advisable to avoid solids and milk for 24 hours to allow the bowel to settle down.

Pinch the soft part of the nose just below the bone for 10-15 minutes. Sit with the head forward over a bowl.

Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water. To stop bleeding apply firm pressure to the wound for 5 minutes with a clean handkerchief or dressing. Tetanus boosters may be required if none given in the previous 10 years.

Most backache is caused by muscular strain. Rest the back as much as possible by lying flat or sitting upright with a support for the small of your back. Paracetamol or Ibuprofen may be helpful.

Sunbathing is bad for the skin and should be avoided. If sunburn has occurred then cool the skin with water and apply calamine lotion. Painkillers such as paracetamol may help.

Immerse the affected area in cold water immediately. Maintain this for several minutes. If the burn is severe seek medical help.

Antihistamines or calamine help relieve irritation.

These are caused by viruses for which there is no cure. They will eventually disappear without treatment. If causing a lot of annoyance, see your doctor who may suggest treatment.

If possible, first apply a cold compress for 10-15 minutes (for example - a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel). This will minimise bruising and swelling. Rest and raise the injured joint, firmly apply a crepe bandage if possible. Take painkillers if required.

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