Colds, Coughs and Stuffy Noses
- These are caused by viruses and, even in this day and age there is no cure
- Antibiotics can only kill bacteria which are completely different organisms
- Paracetamol will relieve the headache, sore throat and aching muscles as well as bringing down the fever
- The illness will last 5-6 days but the cough may persist for several more days
- If you are coughing dirty sputum you should see the doctor
Fever (Raised Temperature)
- A fever is natural with most illnesses and simple measures to lower the temperature will make you feel much more comfortable
- Keep the room cool. Don’t wrap the patient up, even if the person says they feel cold
- Leave the body exposed to allow excess heat to escape from the body, especially children
- Take plenty of cold drinks. Take regular Paracetamol
- Sponge down with tepid fluid – leave patient damp and repeat when dry.
Vomiting and Diarrhoea
- Prevent dehydration – drink plenty of fluids
- Dioralyte or Rehydrat are available from your chemist and are useful for young children
- If vomiting is a problem take small sips of fluid every few minutes
- No milk or solids should be given for 24 hours
- Symptoms should settle in 24-48 hours
- If symptoms persist or if vomiting frequently, see your doctor
Chicken Pox
- Rash appears as small red patches with itchy blisters
- Rash will dry up and crust over in 4-5 days
- Child is infectious until the last crusts have dropped off
- Calamine lotion and cool baths will help the itch
- Phenergan medicine from the chemist can also help
Head Lice
- Found in clean hair as often as dirty hair
- Spread by head to head contact
- A medicated head lotion can be obtained from the chemist
- Treat all members of the family and notify the school
Thread Worms
- Small white worms seen in motion
- Suspect if there is scratching around the anus, especially at night
- Spread by eggs under the nails put into the mouth
- Medicine is available from the chemist
- All family members should be treated
Back Pain
- Usually begins as a strain caused by poor lifting technique
- Always bend your knees and keep your back straight
- Rest your back on a firm bed and maintain good posture when walking
- Painkillers and rest are usually all that is required
Cystitis
- Very common in women
- Causes a burning sensation in passing urine
- Drink plenty of fluids
- If your symptoms last more than 24 hours consult your doctor
Burns
- Immediately apply large quantities of cold water
- If skin is unbroken but blistered apply loose dressing
- If burn is large or skin broken contact the nurse
Sunburn
- Sunburn is bad for your skin
- Children are especially susceptible
- Cool the skin with cool water and apply Calamine Lotion
- Paracetamol and an antihistamine will reduce the reaction
- Use appropriate SPF’s to prevent
Help Yourself To Health
- Be a non smoker
- Take alcohol in moderation
- Be a reasonable weight
- Take regular exercise
- Eat a high fibre, low fat diet
- Reduce salt intake
- Avoid excessive exposure to the sun