Central Gateshead Medical Group
Advice is available form NHS Direct, the Department of Health 24 hour advice line on 0845 4647. Your pharmacist should also be able to give useful advice for common problems.
Antibiotics
Antibiotics only work on bacteria, but do not have an effect on common virus infections. This means that most coughs , colds, sore throats, earache and flu symptoms will not be helped by antibiotics. Using too many antibiotics leads to problems of side effects and allows germs to become resistant to antibiotics, so that they may not be effective for more serious infections.
‘Colds’ and sinus symptoms
Take plenty of fluids and paracetamol. Inhaling steam and Kavol, Olbas oil or similar decongestants can help clear congestion. Decongestants like Sudafed (available from pharmacies) may also help. Symptoms can last 7-10 days, and sholuld usually be better within 2 weeks. You should see a doctor straight away if cold or flu symptoms are accompanied by severe headache, vomiting or rash.
Coughs
These can be helped by drinking plenty of fluids. If particularly irritating, steam inhalations may be useful, or taking your favourite cough medicine. If you feel breathless or have chest pain, or suffer from asthma or bronchitis, we may need to check your chest. For sore throats try gargling with soluble paracetamol or asprin (if you are over 12 and don’t have stomach problems). Drink plenty of fluids and use lozenages if you find them helpful. Most sore throats will settle in 3-5 days. We should check your throat if your symptoms persist or you are having great difficulty swallowing. Flu causes symptoms of temperature and aches and pains. Paracetamol (or Asprin), fluids and rest are the answer. You should contact a doctor straight away if cold or flu symptoms are accompanied by severe headache, vomiting or rash.
Temperature
Children often get temperatures with coughs and colds. Use Paracetamol (Calpol/Disprol), remove their clothes down to vest and pants and if necessary sponge them down with lukewarm water. If there is no improvement after 48 hours we will need to see them. You should contact a doctor straight away if a temperature is accompanied by severe headache, vomiting or rash.
Diarrhoea and vomiting
This usually settles in 2-3 days. It is best to avoid all food for 12-24 hours, but take plenty of clear fluids in small amounts. When able to eat again, begin with simple foods: toast, thin soups, etc. If diarrhoea and vomiting persists contact the surgery.
Childhood rashes
If your child is basically well but has a rash, this is usually due to a virus and will settle in a few days. Children who are ill with a rash should be seen by a doctor.