BACK PAIN

Back pain is very common. It is usually caused by a spasm or cramping of the muscles, and is felt as stiffness. Unless the back pain passes down into your legs you should remain as active as possible and continue with normal daily activity. This speeds up recovery and leads to fewer problems in the long term and less time off work.

If your back pain is regular, see if you can trace a cause. It is possible that your back pain may be caused by the way you sit or stand.

If this simple treatment is not successful, then you should see the Doctor who may prescribe stronger painkillers, heat treatment, simple exercises or other treatment.

CHICKENPOX

On the first day a rash appears as small red patches about 3 4 mm across. Within a few hours of these developing, small blisters appear in the centre of these patches. During the next 3 or 4 days, further patches will appear and the earlier ones will turn 'crusty' and fall off.

Oily Calamine Lotion may be applied to soothe the often severe itching. Cool baths may also help. The most infectious period is from 2 or 3 days before the rash appears and up to 5 days after this date.

NB Please let the surgery know if someone in the family develops Chickenpox.

COLDS AND RUNNY NOSES

A cold is an infection caused by a virus. It starts with feeling unwell, sniffling, runny and/or blocked nose. There is overwhelming evidence that the vast majority of sore throats and colds get better on their own within 2 to 3 days with simple supportive measures (e.g. Paracetamol in children, Aspirin and salt water gargles in adults) AND DO NOT REQUIRE ANTIBIOTICS.

Keep the room well ventilated and sleep with the window open. Do not smoke. Medicines for relieving symptoms are obtainable from a pharmacy. If you are worried or especially ill (high temperature, have difficulty breathing, or the problem is persisting) you will of course be seen.

DIARRHOEA

Diarrhoea is caused by various viral infections (gastro enteritis) or by eating food that has gone off (food poisoning). Ensure that frequent drinks of clear fluid, very dilute squashes or apple juice are taken. As the diarrhoea lessens gradually try more solid food. Grated apple or carrots and lean meat are fine. Dry bread or crackers are also fine.

Wash your hands after you go to the toilet and clean the toilet often with disinfectant.

INSECT BITES AND STINGS

Antihistamine tablets can be obtained from the chemist without prescription and will usually relieve most symptoms.

MINOR CUTS AND GRAZES

Wash the wound thoroughly with water and a little soap. To stop bleeding, apply a clean handkerchief or dressing firmly to the wound for about 5 minutes. Cover with a clean, dry dressing. Adults If you have not had a tetanus injection in the last 10 years please contact our Practice Nurse for advice as you may require a booster dose.

NOSE BLEEDS

Sit in a chair (leaning forward with your mouth open) and pinch your nose just below the bone for approximately 10 minutes by the clock, by which time the bleeding should have stopped. Avoid hot drinks or hot food for 24 hours. If symptoms persist, consult your Doctor. Try not to blow the nose over the next few hours.

THE CHILD WITH A TEMPERATURE

We are aware of how worrying it can be to have a sick child. If you are concerned, we will always see your child the same day at the surgery.

We do ask that whenever possible, you bring your children to the Surgery rather than request a home visit. If wrapped up well, they will come to no harm being brought to the Surgery and can usually be seen sooner. Your co operation in this matter is greatly appreciated.

It is always wise to keep a supply of children's Paracetamol (Calpol or Disprol) at home. These can be bought over the counter at a chemist. Paracetamol reduces a child's temperature, so should be given 4 hourly whenever a child has a temperature. Sponge with cool water or use a fan and give plenty of fluids. In most minor illnesses in childhood, this is the only treatment required.

However, if you are worried about your child or if he/she fails to improve in 2 to 3 days, it is worth making an appointment with the doctor for a check