Self Help & Care
As well as the care we provide at our practice, there are many other local NHS services you can contact for free health advice, information or treatment.
Before you do, remember that you can treat many minor ailments such as colds, coughs and indigestion by keeping a well-stocked medicine cabinet at home.
If you are unsure about your symptoms or how to treat yourself, you can visit the NHS 111 website and use the NHS 111 symptom checker for advice on conditions, treatment, and further prevention. This will ensure you are seen at the right place first time.
Self Help & Referrals
Further resources and information about patient self help and care, including Mental Health Support, Minor Ailments treatment and Smoking Support are also available.
The NHS now also accepts a number of self referrals directly from the patient, without the need for a consultation with your GP surgery. These include direct referrals into the Welsh Eyecare Service, Physiotherapy and Podiatry.
Medications to keep at home
Be prepared for common health problems by keeping a well-stocked medicine cabinet at home. We suggest you keep the following medications at home for treatment of your minor ailments:
- Paracetamol and aspirin (children under 16 and people with asthma should not take aspirin)
- Mild laxatives
- Anti-diarrhoeal medicines
- Rehydration mixture
- Indigestion remedy (for example, antacids)
- Travel sickness tablets
- Sunscreen – SPF15 or higher
- Sunburn treatment (for example, calamine)
- Tweezers and sharp scissors
- A thermometer
- A selection of plasters, non-absorbent cotton wool, elastic bandages and dressings
Remember:
- Keep the medicine chest in a secure, locked place out of reach of small children
- Always read the instructions and use the suggested dose
- Watch expiry dates – don’t keep or use medicines past their sell-by date
- Take all unwanted and out-of-date medicines back to the pharmacy