Fever: Cool by undressing, fanning or sponging down with tepid water. Drink plenty of fluids. Give Paracetamol as directed. It is particularly important not to wrap children up when they have a fever as this will increase their temperature.

Sore throats and coughs: These usually need only symptomatic treatment. Most sore throats and coughs are caused by viruses, and will not respond to antibiotics, and will start to improve within 3-5 days. Cough medicines do not speed up recovery, the symptoms of a dry irritating cough may be helped by a cough suppressant such as Pholcodine linctus. Catarrhal coughs may be helped by decongestant cough medicines such as Sudafed. Steam inhalations are also a very effective treatment. There is no need to add anything to the steam – just hot water will do.

Earaches: Symptoms are usually helped by Paracetamol. We are always happy to see earaches at the next surgery and assess whether any antibiotics are necessary. If your child complains of earache during the day, please do not leave it until the middle of the next night before seeking advice.

Diarrhoea:
Adult: Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and loss of essential salts. Eat no food for 24 hours after the last bout and drink no milk for 3-4 days.
Infant: If bottle fed use Dioralyte solution for the first 24 hours. Gradually re-introduce milk, starting with quarter strength feed and increasing to full strength over the next 24 hours. Breast fed babies should keep feeding and Dioralyte may also be used. If you are at all worried about your child, do not hesitate to seek advice.

Nose bleeds: Sit forward and breathe through the mouth. Pinch below the bridge of the nose, and if it does not stop within half an hour consult your doctor or visit the Accident and Emergency Department at the Alexandra Hospital.

Cuts: Stop the bleeding by direct compression and cover as appropriate. If you think it needs stitching visit the Accident and Emergency Department at the Alexandra Hospital.

Burns and Scalds: Immediately cool the affected part in cold running water for several minutes. Minor scalds can be left uncovered but where the skin is broken or blistered, seek medical advice from the doctor or practice nurse or visit the Accident and Emergency Department at the Alexandra Hospital.

Other Problems: For advice and information on any other problems, the PatientUK, NHSdirect and NHSchoices websites have a whole wealth of useful information. Click their icon to visit the websites.