Self Care

Self Care

Illnesses like coughs and colds and minor accidents can happen at any time, so it is a good idea to have a small supply of simple remedies in your home. For example:

• A selection of plasters, cotton wool, bandages and dressings.
• Paracetamol or ibuprofen for pain relief and control of high temperature.
• Paracetamol or ibuprofen syrup (preferably sugar free) for young people.  (Never give aspirin to young people under 16 years of age)
• Something for stuffy noses e.g. nasal decongestant.
• Thermometer.
• Sachets of oral re-hydration solution to prevent dehydration which may arise from diarrhoea or vomiting.
• Antacids.
• Antiseptic solution.
• Anti-histamine - tablets or medicine.

Keep your medicines out of sight in a locked cabinet that is out of reach of children or anyone who might take anything by mistake. Keep medicines in their original labelled container and don’t store medicines which are past their expiry date. Your local pharmacist can dispose of them safely. Prescribed medication should only be taken by the person for who they have been prescribed.

For advice on self care contact your GP practice, Pharmacist or NHS.

NHS Wales can be contacted via phone: 0845 46 47 or their website: NHS Wales