HEALTH INFO

Women's Health

Common Illness - How to treat it at home

More and more medicines are now available over the counter without a prescription, and there is a growing trend for people not to go to the doctor with a common illness, but to treat it themselves.

It is likely that if either you or a member of your family feels unwell, a pharmacy will be your first port of call. Before you buy any medicine, it is important that you receive the correct advice. If the pharmacist or sales assistant asks you questions before selling you any medicine, do not be offended - they need to know as much as possible about you and your illness in order to recommend the most appropriate treatment.

The pharmacist may suggest that:

• Your condition does not need any particular medicine.
  
• You try taking a particular non-prescription medicine.
  
• You should go to the doctor first before taking anything.
  

If your pharmacist recommends that you should see your doctor, it is important for you to follow that advice.

This section talks about common illnesses, their symptoms, and how your pharmacist can advise on appropriate home treatment. More importantly, it highlights when you should to the doctor. The following Golden Rules of Self Medication will help you treat minor ailments yourself - safely.

Remember, if you are at all anxious about your medicines or your illness, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

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The Golden Rules of Self Medication

1. Before buying a medicine, tell the pharmacist:

• Who it is for - if it is for a child, state the age.
  
• What the symptoms are.
  
• How long the symptoms have been present.
  
• What treatment, if any, has been tried already.
  
• What other medicines are being taken for any other ailment.
  
• If the patient is pregnant or breastfeeding.
  
• If the patient is sensitive or allergic to aspirin or any other medicines.
  
  

2. Before using a medicine:

• Read the label carefully. It tells you
  
• WHO the medicine is for;
  
• WHAT it is for;
  
• HOW MUCH to take;
  
• WHEN to take it; and
  
• HOW to take it.
  
• Check the expiry date. If you have had the medicine in your cupboard for some time and think it might be too old, speak to the pharmacist.
  
  

3. When using a medicine:

• Use it exactly as explained on the label.
  
• Don't try to crush of dissolve tablets or break up capsules, unless it is stated on the label.
  
• For liquid medicines, always use a special 5ml measure - not a teaspoon.
  
• Pay attention to special warnings, e.g., if the tablets could make you drowsy, don't drive.
  
  

4. Remember:

• Store medicine in a cool, dry place, safely locked away from children.
  
• If you are not better in two or three days, go to your doctor.
  
• If you are in any doubt about which medicine to choose or how to use it;
  
• Ask your pharmacist, you'll be taking good advice.
  
  

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Acne

Acne is the name for spots, usually on the face, neck or back - which are associated with puberty and adolescence. It is caused by the skin producing extra grease, which blocks the pores, causing bacteria to be trapped beneath the surface.

Although acne is not caused by dirt or eating greasy food, good skin care and eating a healthy diet are always helpful.

Acne sufferers should wash the affected area twice a day with soap and water. Avoid greasy, heavy make-up, and cleanse the skin thoroughly at night. Exposure to natural sunlight will help to reduce the greasiness. Fiddling with or squeezing the spots will only make matters worse, and may cause scarring.

How your pharmacist can help:

Acne is not serious but is very unpleasant for the sufferer. There are treatments which are available in the pharmacy - some only treat the surface of the skin and help to clear up the odd spot, but don't help acne. Ask your pharmacist to recommend a treatment which not only kills bacteria on the surface, but also penetrates the skin and unblocks the pores. You can also buy abrasive pads which are good for treating the back.

When to see the doctor:

• If your acne is severe.
  
• If there is no improvement after two months of self-treatment.
  
• Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics, or, if necessary, refer you to a specialist.
  
  

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Athlete's Foot

Athlete's foot is a fungal condition which thrives in warm, damp conditions and can be caught by anyone - not just athletes. It is very easy to catch and is generally associated with walking barefoot in public areas such as swimming pools, saunas, etc.

The infection is usually between the toes, but can also occur on the soles or upper part of the feet. The skin looks white and soggy, becoming inflamed, sore and itchy. In severe cases, the skin may blister and even bleed.

How your pharmacist can help:

Your pharmacist can recommend an anti-fungal cream, spray, powder or ointment for treating athlete's foot. This should be used for two weeks after the infection has cleared up, as the foot will become infected again if the treatment is stopped too soon.

During the treatment, you should change shoes and socks daily. Cotton socks are better than nylon. Wear leather shoes rather than trainers which make the feet sweat. Wash the feet regularly, dry them carefully, and don't share towels with the rest of the family.

When to see the doctor:

• If your own treatment does not clear up the infection, your doctor can prescribe an oral anti-fungal medicine to take by mouth if the infection is particularly nasty.
  
• Diabetics should take particular care of their feet. See a doctor or chiropodist for any foot problems.
  
  
  

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Burns and Scalds

A burn is an injury to the skin caused by dry heat, such as flames, hot objects, friction, chemicals or the sun. A scald is caused by steam, hot liquid or hot fat.

The most important thing to do in all cases is to cool the injury quickly. Get the burn or scald under cold water as soon as possible, and keep it there for at least ten minutes. Remove any jewellery, belts or shoes in case of swelling. Do all this while you are waiting for help to arrive.

Cover the burnt area with a sterile dressing or any clean non-fluffy material. A polythene bag or clingfilm makes a good temporary covering though, obviously, not on the face.

DO NOT break blisters or touch the burned area - and NEVER apply lotions, ointments, creams or fats to the injury.

When to see the doctor:

• Unless a burn is very minor, covering a small area, you should seek medical help.
  
• If a burn is severe, dial 999 immediately.
  
• Chemical or electrical burns, severe sunburn or injury to the eyes, should all be treated at hospital.
  
  
  

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Colds

There is no cure for the common cold, which is caused by a virus, but there are remedies available to combat the unpleasant symptoms such as a blocked or runny nose, sore throat or headache.

How your pharmacist can help:

A painkiller such as aspirin or paracetamol may help if you are aching or feverish. It is more important to drink plenty of fluids that to eat very much. If your nose is blocked, add a teaspoon of vapour rub or one or two menthol crystals to a pint of steaming hot water in a bowl. Lean over the bowl, with a towel over your head to trap the steam, and inhale. Do this for ten minutes three times a day.

If you are taking a cold remedy to help a blocked nose or stop a cough, check the list of ingredients. Many of the remedies contain a painkiller, such as paracetemol, so it will not be necessary to take any more. There have been cases of people overdosing unknowingly by taking combinations of cold remedies and painkillers.

Also, some cold remedies should not be taken by particular people - for instance, if you suffer from high blood pressure, heart problems or diabetes. Check with your pharmacist before taking anything.

If you have a bad cold, it is best to stay at home and keep warm - and keep the germs to yourself!

Warning:

Aspirin is no longer recommended for children under 16 because of the risk of Reye's Syndrome.

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Cold Sores

Cold sores are caused by the herpes virus and cannot be treated with antibiotics. They appear as painful raised blisters around the mouth and take up to ten days to form and heal. The virus is highly contagious and can be passed on by kissing or touching another person's mouth or other part of the body during oral sex. This can be prevented by careful attention to washing, especially the hands, not sharing towels, and by avoiding contact which might spread the virus to someone else.

Many people carry the cold sore virus without knowing it. It stays in the system, and then something activates it - for instance, you may have another infection or feel run down. Exposure to the sun can also trigger a cold sore.

How you pharmacist can help:

You can buy cold sore creams from your local pharmacy. If the right cream is used early enough - when you experience the tell-tale tingling sensation on your skin - it may prevent a blister forming, or help it to heal more quickly.

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Constipation

The usual case of constipation is a lack of dietary fibre or not drinking enough fluid. It can also be caused by taking certain medicines. The long term cure is a change of diet, which should include plenty of cereals, vegetables and fresh fruit. Exercise also encourages normal bowel activity.

How your pharmacist can help:

Your pharmacist will be able to recommend an appropriate laxative to ease the immediate problem.

When to see your doctor:

• If the laxatives do not work or the condition comes back.
  
• If you have lower abdominal pain.
  
• If you have other symptoms such as vomiting, weight gain or loss and tiredness.
  
• If going to the toilet is painful.
  
  
  

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Coughs

A cough is the most common symptom presented to the doctor.

Coughing is nature's way of protecting you by stopping food, dust and mucus going into your lungs, and by removing phlegm and infection.

How your pharmacist can help:

A dry, "tickly" cough without phlegm, which is more of a nuisance than a serious problem, can be helped by steam inhalation, or a cough suppressant if the cough is keeping you awake at night.

A tight, chesty cough should not be treated with a suppressant, as this could do more harm than good. Your pharmacist may recommend a cough mixture containing an expectorant.

When to see the doctor:

• If the cough continues for more than two weeks.
  
• If coughing produces a lot of yellow or green phlegm - this might be a sign of a chest infection.
  
• If breathing is difficult, or you have a pain in your chest.
  
• If you cough up blood.
  
• If you are at all worried about the cough.
  
• If cough becomes worse at night (may be asthma).
  
  
  

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Cystitis

Cystitis is a common but unpleasant bladder infection which generally affects women rather than men. Sufferers usually complain of an itching or burning sensation in the urethra, the tube which carries the urine from the bladder. There may be pain when passing water ad a desire to go to the toilet frequently. If the urine is cloudy and strong smelling, this is probably a sign of infection.

A woman's urethra is very short, and any germs around the anus can easily get into the bladder, causing infection. Sexual intercourse may also bring on an attack of cystitis, as the entrance to the urethra is just above the vaginal entrance. Perfumed toiletries, such as bubble bath or vaginal deodorants, can also cause problems.

How your pharmacist can help:

Your pharmacist can recommend products which will relieve the painful symptoms. Drink plenty of water or soft drinks, to flush the infection out of the bladder. When you go to the toilet, try to empty your bladder completely.

When to see your doctor:

• If a man or child has the symptoms
  
• If cystitis is accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, nausea, vaginal discharge or abdominal pain.
  
• If the condition lasts for more than two days or recurs.
  
• If you are pregnant.
  
• If you pass blood in the urine.
  
  
  

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Cuts and Grazes

Rinse a cut under cold, running water; allowing the blood to flow will wash out any dirt. Then, using a gauze or antiseptic wipes, clean around the cut, working outwards. Apply pressure to the wound for a couple of minutes to stop the bleeding, then dry the area carefully. Dress a small cut with sticking plasters to hold the sides together. Larger cuts should be covered with tape or a bandage. The pharmacist can supply special tapes if you are allergic to sticking plaster.

If you have a deep cut and are losing a lot of blood, you should apply pressure to stop the bleeding straight away, elevate the cut if possible and get help.

A graze should be cleaned thoroughly under running water. Make sure all dirt and grit is removed. It should then be left open to the air in order to heal.

When to see the doctor:

• If the cut is very deep, dirty or ragged. A tetanus jab may be needed.
  
• If you cannot stop the bleeding.
  
• If there could be a foreign body, such as a piece of glass, in the wound.
  
• If the wound is not starting to heal after two or three days, or if the areas around it is red or inflamed.
  
• If there is pus coming from the wound.
  
  
  

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Diarrhoea

Diarrhoea in adults is unpleasant but rarely dangerous. It may be caused by a change of diet, over indulgence or a bug in your food. In most cases, the treatment for adults is to go easy on the food for 24 hours, but drink plenty of fluids.

How your pharmacist can help:

In most cases, drugs should not be used. If it is essential to try and stop "the runs", you can try taking loperamide capsules or syrup, which slow down the gut movement. The disadvantage is that loperamide will also slow down the bugs leaving your system. Never use this in children without your doctor's supervision.

Diarrhoea in babies, children and the elderly is more serious, where the fluid and salt loss must be corrected quickly to avoid dehydration. Always make sure children drink plenty of clear fluids. You can buy rehydration sachets from your local pharmacy.

When to see the doctor:

• If the diarrhoea or pains do not settle within 24 hours.
  
• If there is continuous pain rather than separate bouts of cramps.
  
• If diarrhoea occurs in a baby under one year.
  
• If an attack comes shortly after a trip abroad.
  
• If there are repeated attacks of diarrhoea.
  
• If there is blood in the stools.
  
  
  

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Flu

A bout of 'flu (short for influenza) is caused by a virus and makes you feel much worse than the usual feverish cold.

Although 'flu can make you feel pretty unwell, and weak and depressed for a week or two after, for most healthy adults it is not serious. However, some people are more likely to get complications, such as a chest infection and even pneumonia. If you are in the 'at risk' category, ask your doctor about having the 'flu vaccination in the autumn, to reduce the chances of you catching it. The vaccination is recommended for adults and children:

• With long standing lung disease including asthma and bronchitis.
  
• With long standing heart disease.
  
• Suffering from kidney failure or diabetes.
  
• With reduced immunity due to disease or drug treatment.
  
• Everyone aged over 65.
  
• Frail, elderly people, especially those in residential or nursing homes, should also have the 'flu vaccination.
  

Those who should not have the 'flu jab are pregnant women (unless the doctor specifically advises otherwise), people with an allergy to eggs and those allergic to certain antibiotics.

If you do get 'flu, you should go to bed if you have a high temperature, take painkillers to reduce the fever and drink plenty of fluids.

When to see the doctor:

• If you have been taking aspirin or paracetamol for two or three days and you are not getting any better.
  
  
  

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Hay Fever

Hay fever, which is an allergic reaction to tree and grass pollens or mould spores in the air, can occur right through from April until September. A summer cold which refuses to go away, may in fact be hay fever. Symptoms include sneezing, runny nose, watery and itchy eyes, and are often worse when the pollen count is high. If these symptoms are present all year round, then they are likely to be caused by an allergy to house dust mites or the family cat or dog.

How your pharmacist can help:

Hay fever can be treated with various antihistamine tablets, nasal sprays and eye drops, which are available without a prescription. Some antihistamines can make you feel drowsy, so take care if you need to drive, or are taking exams. Your pharmacist will help you select the products suitable for your needs.

When to see the doctor:

• If you are suffering from hay fever symptoms for the first time.
  
• If the over the counter medication does not control your symptoms.
  
• If hay fever is accompanied by tightness of the chest, wheezing, coughing or shortness of breath.
  
  
  

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Insect Bites and Stings

A wasp sting is very painful, and a wasp is able to sting more than once. A bee can sting only once, and it usually leaves its actual sting behind. This must be removed carefully by scraping with a thumb nail or tweezers. Be careful not to squeeze the sting as this will force more venom into the flesh.

How your pharmacist can help:

The pain, itching and swelling can be relieved by special anti-sting cream and/or antihistamine tablets. In some cases the pharmacist may recommend a 1% hydrocortisone cream.

An irritating, itchy gnat bite can be soothed with calamine lotion or, provided the bite is not on the face, hydrocortisone cream.

When to see the doctor:

• Some people can have a rare but severe allergic reaction to stings, especially wasp stings. Symptoms include nausea, breathlessness and swelling. If this happens get medical help at once.
  
  
  

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Indigestion

Indigestion or dyspepsia, is caused by eating rushed meals, hot spicy food, or a particular food which disagrees with you, such as cucumber. Stress, worry, smoking or alcohol can also cause this problem. The symptoms include a pain behind the breastbone which may feel worse when you bend forward or down.

How your pharmacist can help:

There are several indigestion remedies available in the pharmacy, and they work in different ways. Antacids, available in liquid or tablet form, neutralise the excess acid and ease the symptoms. There are other products which prevent the stomach from producing too much acid in the first place. Describe your symptoms to the pharmacist who will suggest a product he or she feels is right for you.

If you are pregnant, have heart trouble, high blood pressure or kidney disease, tell your pharmacist before taking anything.

When to see the doctor:

• If the medicine you have bought doesn't relieve your symptoms.
  
• If you are over 45 and are suffering for the first time.
  
• If you have any other symptoms such as weight loss, vomiting, black stools.
  
• If your chest pain is brought on by exercise.
  
• If you find swallowing difficult and feel as if the food is sticking in your chest.
  
  
  

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Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome, or IBS, is a common disorder of the gut which is not serious, but can cause great discomfort and inconvenience. The symptoms are varied and will include:

• recurrent abdominal pain and discomfort,
  
• diarrhoea and/or constipation,
  
• bloated abdomen,
  
• flatulence (wind).
  

No one really knows the cause of IBS, but it is linked to stress and a lack of fibre in the diet. It is a problem which affects twice as many women as men.

How your pharmacist can help:

There are medicines available from your pharmacy, containing a drug which relaxes the gut wall, stopping the spasms and reducing the pain. It is a good idea to look at your lifestyle. Try and reduce any stress, and increase your intake of fibre. Gentle, relaxing exercises will also help.

When to see the doctor:

• If you have rectal bleeding.
  
• If you have severe weight loss.
  
• If you are over 40 and the symptoms are new.
  
• If symptoms persist.
  
  
  

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Piles/Haemorrhoids

Piles are swollen veins which protrude into the anal canal. They produce symptoms which include itching, burning, pain and discomfort, and sometimes, rectal bleeding.

Constipation commonly causes piles, or makes them worse. This is because of the straining associated with constipation, and the pressure put on the blood vessels in and around the anus. It may be necessary to change your diet to include more fibre and fluids.

How your pharmacist can help:

Your pharmacist can advise you on the use of soothing creams or suppositories which relieve the pain, stop itching and promote healing.

A cream containing hydrocortisone is available without a prescription, which helps reduce inflammation and swelling, and also gives relief against itching, irritation and pain. The cream is only available from pharmacies.

When to see the doctor:

• If you have had piles for longer than three weeks.
  
• If you are passing blood in your stools.
  
• If there is an obvious change to your usual bowel habits.
  
• If you have other symptoms, including abdominal pain and/or vomiting.
  
• If you are pregnant.
  
  
  

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Scabies

Scabies mites burrow down into the skin. Their presence causes intense itching which is worse at night. The burrows can sometimes be seen as small, thread-like grey lines, about 5-10mm long on the skin. The most common places to find scabies are in between the fingers and toes, wrists, armpits, buttocks and genital area. The mite is transferred from one person to another by physical contact.

How your pharmacist can help:

There are different lotions available for adults and children which are effective, but only if used correctly, so it is important to follow the instructions. Your pharmacist will explain how and where to apply the lotion, and whether a second application will be necessary.

When to see the doctor:

• If a baby or young child is affected.
  
• If scratching has led to infection; if there is a weeping yellow discharge or crusts on the affected area.
  
• If the non-prescription medication has not worked.
  
• If you are unsure that you have scabies.
  
  
  

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Sunburn

Too much sun, too quickly, causes the skin to turn red and tender, and in some cases, blister. Severe sunburn may be accompanied by nausea and headache.

How your pharmacist can help:

Calamine lotion or a sunburn cream should be applied to burnt skin, which must then be protected from the sun until it is healed. A painkiller will help with the soreness.

Skin which reddens or burns easily in the sun should be protected by a sunscreen lotion, oil or cream, with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) number. The higher the number, the greater the protection.

Certain medication, including some antibiotics and the pill, may make your skin more sensitive to the sun. Check with your pharmacist if this applies to you.

When to see the doctor:

• If the sunburn is severe.
  
• If a child or baby is badly burned.
  
  
  

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Vaginal Thrush

Thrush is caused by a yeast-like fungus. Symptoms include soreness, itching and swelling of the vagina, often with a white discharge which can be very unpleasant. It is the most common vaginal infection. Wearing tights, tight trousers or underwear, especially nylon, can create the ideal warm, moist conditions for the infection to flourish. The use of perfumed bath foam and soap may also lead to problems. Someone taking an antibiotic or the contraceptive pill may be more vulnerable to an attack of thrush.

How your pharmacist can help:

There are many products available from your pharmacist to treat vaginal thrush, including a medicine taken by mouth, as well as creams and pessaries. They must be used with care, and if you have symptoms for the first time, you should go to the doctor first.

Your pharmacist will need to ask you some questions about your symptoms before recommending a suitable treatment, so be prepared for this, and ask for somewhere quiet to talk, if necessary.

Anti-fungal creams or pessaries are inserted into the vagina using a special applicator, to fight the infection. The pessaries dissolve at body temperature. Other products can be used externally to help relieve the itching around the opening of the vagina. Your partner should use the cream on his penis at the same to avoid him catching the infection, or reinfecting you.

It is important to remember that some treatments will reduce the effectiveness of condoms and diaphragms. Ask your pharmacist about this.

When to see the doctor:

• If you have thrush for the first time.
  
• If you have had more than two attacks in six months.
  
• If you are pregnant.
  
• If you are under 16 or over 60.
  
• If there is a blood-stained vaginal discharge.
  
• If you have other symptoms such as abdominal pain, sickness or fever.
  
• If you have ulcers or blisters on the vagina.
  
• If you think you may have a sexually transmitted infection.
  
• If you are no better in seven days.
  
• If you have used these medicines before and are sensitive to them.
  
  

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Vomiting

As with diarrhoea, vomiting or being sick, is not usually a sign of anything dangerous. It is generally caused by a bug, something you've eaten, or just too much food or alcohol. Very often you first feel nauseous, cold and sweaty, with stomach cramps.

You should have nothing to eat at all until the sickness has completely stopped. BUT, you must drink water, little and often, even if it does not stay down for long, as this will stop you from getting dehydrated. Do not take any painkillers.

The sickness should stop within 24 hours, and then you can try introducing soft drinks. If these stay down, then eat a little easily digestible food. Do not overload your stomach too soon.

Vomiting can be a sign that something else is wrong, especially if there are other symptoms, such as a severe headache, or severe abdominal pain.

How your pharmacist can help:

Some medicines may cause sickness as a side effect. If you think this may be a problem, check with your pharmacist.

When to see the doctor:

• If you vomit repeatedly for more than 24 hours.
  
• If other symptoms develop, such as severe headache or abdominal pain or back pain.
  
• If you vomit up red blood, or dark brown/black matter.
  
• If you have a very high temperature.
  
• If you have had a head injury in the preceding 24 hours.
  
• If you have severe pain in your neck when bending your head.
  
• If bright light bothers you, and you feel drowsy or confused.
  
  
  

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Painkillers

There are several different types of painkiller available without a prescription. Find out which one suits you. Your pharmacist can help if you tell him/her about yourself, exactly what is wrong, and if you are already taking any other medicines.

• Aspirin: For use by adults and children over 16 - good for headaches, colds, sore throats and inflammation. New advice: Aspirin is no longer recommended for children under 16 because of the risk of Reye's Syndrome, a rare but dangerous illness.
  

• Paracetamol: Good for relieving pain and fever in children under 16. Also good for adults to relieve headaches, toothaches etc.
  

• Ibuprofen: This painkiller also reduces swelling/inflammation and is good for backache, period pain, muscle strain etc. A syrup is available for children over 6 months.
  

If aspirin or paracetamol on their own are not effective in dealing with your pain, your pharmacist may recommend a stronger combination of painkiller, containing codeine or dihydrocodeine.
For muscular aches and pains, creams and gels containing painkillers such as ibuprofen are available. These should not be given to children under 12 years.

Caution:

Some people may have to avoid a particular painkiller - for instance, asthma sufferers or people with stomach ulcers should not take aspirin or ibuprofen. People with liver problems should avoid paracetamol. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if there is anything you should not have. And never take more than the maximum daily dose stated on the pack.

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