Self-care is basically the little things you can do to look after your own physical and mental health. It’s about trying to listen to how you are feeling and understanding what you need, even if it’s difficult, so you can look after yourself, family, friends, and people you care for.
As a part of this, there are a lot of minor ailments that do not require a visit with the GP and can be treated with medicines that are available over-the-counter.
The NHS has been spending around £136 million a year on prescriptions for medicines that can be bought from a pharmacy or supermarket.
By reducing the amount the local NHS spends on over-the-counter medicines, we can give priority to treatments for people with more serious conditions, such as cancer, diabetes and mental health problems.
Reducing prescribing for over the counter medicines in Mid and South Essex would also significantly free up GP appointment times.
Your GP, nurse or pharmacist will not generally give you a prescription for over-the-counter medicines for a range of minor health concerns. Instead, over-the-counter medicines are available to buy in a pharmacy or supermarket in your local community.
The Self-Care Forum has published several Fact Sheets and a few for common ailments listed below –
Self-Care Forum – Common Cold Fact Sheet
Self-Care Forum – Adult Cough Fact Sheet
Self-Care Forum – Fever In Children Fact Sheet
Self-Care Forum – Acute Sinusitis Fact Sheet
Self-Care Forum – Sore Throat Fact Sheet
For more information on Self-Care and Over-The Counter (OTC) medications please click on the links below :