Self help

As well as our practice, there are many other local NHS services you can contact for health advice, information or treatment. Self-help is available through NHS 111 Wales website.  Click NHS 111 Wales for symptom checker and further advice.  Don’t forget that most Pharmacies now offer a minor ailment service where they are able to provide some prescription medication without seeing a GP and without charge.

Before you do contact the surgery, remember that you can treat many minor ailments such as colds, coughs and indigestion by keeping a well-stocked medicine cabinet at home.

We suggest you keep the following:

  • 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  • Take all unwanted and out-of-date medicines back to the pharmacy

Date published: 8th October, 2014
Date last updated: 25th March, 2023