Patient Self Care

REMEMBER ANTIBIOTICS DO NOT HELP COMMON WINTER AILMENTS

Symptoms can last longer than you think.

• Ear Infection: at least 4 days

• Sore Throat: 1 week

• Cold: 1 1/2 weeks

• Flu: 2 weeks

• Nasal Congestion: 2 1/2 weeks

• Cough: up to 3 weeks

For minor illnesses and ailments self-care is the best choice. Many common illnesses and complaints such as aches and pains, coughs, colds, stomach upset and sore throats can be treated with plenty of rest and over the counter medicines. The following medicines are available to buy over the counter at your local supermarket or pharmacy.

Paracetamol, aspirin, ibuprofen, rehydration mixtures, indigestion remedies, antihistamines and throat lozenges.

Visit: www.treatyourselfbetter.co.uk for more advice and warning signs to look out for which may suggest you do need a GP appointment or medical attention.

For more information on self-care please visit the Self Care Forum wesite by clicking on the link below. The Self Care Forum website offers advice and information about many common ailments and long term medical conditions, such as managing asthma, diabetes, to stopping smoking and getting fit.

Do you have a sudden eye problem?

e.g. a red eye or painful eye

You can now get an appointment within 48 hours to have this assessed, and where appropriate, treated, at no cost through the NHS, with the following accredited Optometrists(Opticians) in the Armagh/ Dungannon area:

To arrange an appointment contact one of the above practices of your choice, although if the optometry practice (optician) that you usually attend is on the list you are encouraged to go there.

You must be registered with a GP in NI and remember to bring along your Health & Care number which should be on your medical card.