Do you know about Self-Care?
During the winter months it’s common for people to get coughs and colds and to want to see a trained health professional for advice.
We want everyone to be able to access care when they need it and self-care is about better understanding when you can look after yourself, when a pharmacist can help, and when to get advice from your GP or another health professional. Self-care is recommended when you have a minor condition which doesn’t normally need medical care (from a doctor or nurse) or any treatment in order to get better. In practice this means you manage your illness without seeing a doctor
Your local pharmacy - the NHS on the high street, no appointment needed
Local pharmacies can help you manage many short term, minor illnesses and conditions and stock over the counter products including:
- cough and cold remedies
- sore throat sprays and lozenges
- painkillers (such as paracetamol)
- anti-inflammatories (such as ibuprofen)
- skin creams and washes
- antifungal treatments
- treatment for bites and stings
- diarrhoea treatments
- hay fever treatments, including tablets and nasal sprays
- indigestion remedies
- laxatives
GP surgeries do not routinely prescribe readily available medication like paracetamol for minor conditions.
These items are widely available from pharmacies, supermarkets, and some high street retailers at a range of prices.
Self-care is about looking after your health, recognising, or treating minor conditions and illnesses, or knowing who to ask for help when you are not sure.
Did you know
You do not need a prescription to get self-care products or over-the-counter medicines.
We are delighted to announce that we now have a dedicated Bexley Wellbeing Partnership website where you can find out about support services that are available for residents at the Bexley Wellbeing Partnership website.