Flu and Swine Flu                                                                       Flu and flu-like illnesses typically cause a high temperature, muscle aches, a cough, and various other symptoms. Most people with Flu and Swine Flu recover fully within a few days, even without treatment, but serious complications develop in some people.                    more>> (Swine Flu)                                                                        more>> (Flu like illness)                                                          more>> (Health Protection Agency - Latest Government Updates)                                                                                                  Coughs & Colds.
Most coughs are caused by viral infections, and usually soon go. This LINK gives some tips on what to do, and the symptoms to look out for which may indicate a more serious illness.
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‘Flu Flu and flu-like illnesses cause a high temperature, muscle aches, and various other symptoms. Most people fully recover, but complications such as a chest infection or pneumonia develop in some cases. If you are at increased risk of developing complications (diabetes, heart disease, COPD, over 65 yrs old) you should be immunised against flu each autumn.
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Earache.
 Earache is a common symptom, and is not always caused by an ear infection. If a child has earache, but is otherwise well, an ear infection is unlikely. A common cause of mild earache is a build up mucus in the middle ear after a cold. This usually clears in a few days. Antibiotics are not usually needed but are prescribed in some cases.
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Headaches.
Tension-type headache is the most common form of headache. Painkillers taken 'as required' work well in most cases. Attention to lifestyle factors such as stress, posture, and exercise may help to prevent headaches. Migraines are also common. See us if your headaches are not easily controlled.
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Back Pain.
About 3 in 4 people have one or more bouts of back pain. Most bouts soon ease and are not due to serious back problems. In most cases the usual advice is to keep active, and do normal activities as much as possible. Painkillers are helpful until the pain eases. Chronic (persistent) pain develops in some cases, and further treatment may then be needed. You can refer yourself for a Physiotherapy assessment at Paignton Hospital by phoning 547117 on weekdays between 8.15-11.15 (appointments will be within 3 working days!)  Read more here:
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Cystitis.
Cystitis means inflammation of the bladder. It is usually caused by a urine infection. Typical symptoms are pain when you pass urine, and passing urine frequently. You may also have pain in your lower abdomen, blood in your urine, and fever (high temperature). It’s usually a “one-off” but follow this link if you are getting recurrent bouts
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Diarrhoea & Vomiting.
Diarrhoea & Vomiting is usually caused by infection in your gut. Drink plenty of fluids & take paracetomol for any fever or pain. To find out more about prevention & treatment click below.
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Conjunctivitis.
 With infective conjunctivitis one or both eyes become red or pink, they may be sticky or watery and may have surface irritation. Most cases soon clear. Antibiotic drops or ointments are common treatments but are not always needed. Some cases are due to allergy.
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Vaginal Thrush.
Many women have an occasional bout of Thrush & treatment from the Pharmacist is usually easy & effective. However, recurrent Thrush can be more difficult to manage. Follow this link for treatment tips.
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Hay Fever and Allergies/Intolerances.                                     These are a real pain! Most cases of hay fever can be helped by simple remedies from a helpful pharmacist, such as anti-histamine tablets. You're welcome to check out these links - the allergy one has got loads of interesting stuff in it which may help you identify if you have, for example, a food intolerance.                                                 more> (Hay Fever)  Allergy UK

Ear wax.
A build up of ear wax can cause dulled hearing. Wax can usually be easily removed
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Bites / Stings.
Biting insects which are common in the UK include midges, gnats, mosquitoes, flies, fleas, mites, ticks, and bedbugs. They can cause small itchy lumps to appear under the skin.
If you are stung by a wasp, bee or hornet, scrape out the sting left in the skin as quickly as possible. Use the edge of a knife, the edge of a credit card, a fingernail, or anything similar, but don’t pluck it out!
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Burns/Scalds.
Cool a burnt or scalded area immediately with cool water (preferably running water) for at least 20 minutes. This link is good for Sun Burn too.
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Chickenpox.
Chickenpox causes a rash which eventually blisters & and can make you feel generally unwell.
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Constipation.
A common cause of constipation is not eating enough fibre. Less common causes include a side-effect from medicines, and certain medical conditions. In many cases the cause is not clear. Find out more below.
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Nose Bleeds.
The source is usually some fragile blood vessels just inside the entrance of the nostril.
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Sprains.
A sprain is an injury to a ligament. 'RICE' (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation) is commonly advised for the first two days after injury. Painkillers may be needed. Most sprains heal over a few weeks. More serious sprains may need a physiotherapy referral.
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Sunburn.                                                                   
Keep children out of hot sun, particularly between 11am and 3pm. When out in the sun remember: Slip, Slap, Slop - Slip on a shirt, Slap on a hat, and Slop on some High Protection Sunscreen (AT LEAST FACTOR 15)                                                                          more>> (burns & scalds)

Head lice.
Head lice are common & can usually be cleared by regular hair washing, conditioning & combing. They are not a sign of dirty hair or poor hygiene.
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Warts & Verrucas.
Warts & Verrucas are usually harmless, but may be unsightly. Verrucas (warts on the feet) are sometimes painful. Warts usually clear in time without treatment. If required, they can often be cleared more quickly by applying salicylic acid, or by freezing with liquid nitrogen.
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