Back pain causes 13 million working days to be lost in Britain each year. The spine being made up of 24 fragile bones and associated cartilage and tendons supports the whole weight of the upper body and therefore it is understandable that it sometimes goes wrong. Because of the complex nature of the spine it is advisable to consult your Doctor if back pain persists for more than two days. If as is usual, the pain has been caused by abuse i.e. lifting too heavy weights etc, be sensible and take things easy. Take aspirin or paracetamol, which will not only relieve the pain but will help to relieve the inflammation.

Apply large quantities of cold water or ice cubes to the affected area as soon as possible and maintain this until the pain subsides. This may take as long as 15 minutes! If the skin is unbroken but blistered, apply a loose dry dressing.

If the burn is larger than 4-5 inches in diameter or if the skin is broken, consult your Doctor as soon as possible.

These creatures, contrary to popular belief, prefer clean hair and are therefore not a sign of poor hygiene. Medicated head lotion can be obtained from the chemist without prescription.

Colds and flu are viral infections and anti-biotics do not work. Take plenty of fluids, if you have a headache or fever, take paracetamol.

Flu vaccinations are available at this surgery between the end of September to the end of January.

Treatment for the infection is not usually necessary as most of these infections are caused by viruses. Antibiotics are not effective against viral gastro-enteritis. If you have symptoms you should try to drink plenty of fluids.

Symptoms of viral gastro-enteritis are vomiting and diarrhoea, but other symptoms can occur including stomach and muscle pains, headaches, chills, and fever. Symptoms usually last one to three days.

Preventing the spread of infection – Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after using the toilet, before meals and before handling food and drink. If you have had symptoms do not visit others until 48 hrs after your symptoms have disappeared. Avoid handling or preparing food/drink for others. If you need to do this for work you must let your employer know about your infection.

Wash soiled laundry separately on the hottest wash cycle suitable for that item of clothing. Wash all used crockery and cutlery thoroughly.
For children under 5 years old always consult your GP for advice.
If you are concerned make arrangements to see a GP.

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

Note: Bee stings should be scraped away rather than plucked in order to avoid squeezing the content of the venom sac into the wound.