Seven conditions which mean you can skip long GP queues and get treatment straight away
by Elaine Blackburne, Neil Shaw · ChronicleLiveWith warnings of a 'tripledemic' of cold, flu and Covid this winter, millions could avoid lengthy GP queues and access the medication and guidance they need. Medical professionals are bracing themselves for a surge in patients as Christmas approaches, yet for those affected by seven specific health issues, consulting with a local pharmacist could be a quicker alternative.
George Sandhu, deputy superintendent at Well Pharmacy, advised: "Now that the cold nights are already upon us, to help both yourself and the NHS, it is worth being aware of these seven conditions that you can speak to your local pharmacist about, just as easily or potentially even easier than getting an appointment to see your GP."
Data from August showed more than six million people in line for treatment, with average waits lasting 14 weeks. To ease the burden on the strained NHS, England launched the Pharmacy First scheme in January, following Scotland's lead from 2020.
The initiative enables pharmacists to diagnose and provide treatments for seven prevalent conditions, with over 10,000 pharmacies in England participating to offer widespread access to the service. George highlighted the pressures that GPs face during the colder months, stating: "In the winter GP's will face a vast amount of people seeking help for their sniffles and sore throats. People might be unaware that through the Pharmacy First service we are able to treat them directly at the point of contact in the pharmacy."
He noted: "There is no need to phone up for a GP appointment, if suffering from any of the seven ailments visit your local Pharmacy and speak with our team who will help find the right course of treatment for you.", reports Bristol Live.
Ear infection
If you're having trouble hearing, experiencing pain inside the ear, or even feeling nauseous, it's possible you have an ear infection. Other signs to watch out for include discharge leaking from the ear.
Ear infections tend to spike during the winter months as colder weather sets in, particularly among children. Treatment typically involves ear drops provided by a pharmacist, and antibiotics may be prescribed if there is discharge.
It's also advised against inserting cotton buds or fingers into your ears, and using ear plugs while swimming is recommended.
Sinusitis
Experiencing a diminished sense of smell or hearing issues could be indicative of sinusitis. Symptoms often include a blocked or runny nose and a loss of smell, which can occur simultaneously or at different times.
Frequently following a cold or flu, sinusitis may present with green or yellow nasal mucus or a fever. Additional symptoms can encompass headaches, toothaches, bad breath, and a sensation of pressure or fullness in your ears.
Pharmacists can provide advice on medicines such as decongestant nasal sprays or drops that aim to clear a blocked nose. They can also supply salt water nasal sprays to cleanse the inside of your nose.
If you're running a high temperature or feel too unwell to carry out your usual activities, it's best to stay at home and avoid contact until you're feeling better.
Sore Throat
Sore throats can often be treated at home, but some may necessitate a trip to the pharmacy. Pharmacists can suggest various methods to alleviate pain and discomfort, including paracetamol or ibuprofen.
Medicated lozenges containing a local anaesthetic, antiseptic or anti-inflammatory can help soothe symptoms. Antibiotics may also be prescribed if deemed necessary.
Impetigo
Impetigo is a contagious skin infection that isn't typically serious and can affect anyone, though it's more common in young children. With treatment, it usually improves within a few days.
The infection starts with sores and blisters which quickly burst, leaving crusty golden-brown patches on the skin. However, a pharmacist can prescribe treatment once they've identified the condition.
Hydrogen peroxide cream would be prescribed if the infection is localised, and an antibiotic cream if the sores are more widespread.
Infected insect bites
Winter in the UK may mean fewer creepy crawlies, but holidaymakers can still suffer from insect bites. Pharmacists offer a range of treatments for infected bites, including oral medicines such as antihistamines, steroid creams and painkillers.
These not only relieve itching but also reduce rash redness, aiding full recovery.
Shingles
Shingles is a frequently painful infection often identified by a rash.
Initial symptoms include a tingling or painful sensation on the skin, sometimes accompanied by a headache or general malaise, with the rash appearing a few days later. The infection can last up to four weeks, but pharmacists can provide quick treatment to alleviate patient discomfort.
Treatment options depend on symptom severity or complication risk. Mild shingles may require no treatment, while severe cases may necessitate antiviral tablets to expedite recovery, particularly for those with weakened immune systems.
Painkillers and steroid tablets can also be prescribed at the pharmacy.
Uncomplicated urinary tract infections
Uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs) typically occur when faecal bacteria enter the urinary tract via the urethra, the tube that carries urine out of the body.
Women, having a shorter urethra than men, are more susceptible to bacteria reaching their bladder or kidneys. Pharmacists can provide advice on how to best manage these infections, including the most effective painkillers to take.
They can also guide patients on when it's necessary to consult a GP about their symptoms. UTIs can be prevented by adhering to certain advice that pharmacists may offer, such as maintaining cleanliness and dryness in the genital area.
It's also advised to stay well-hydrated throughout the day, primarily with water, to ensure regular urination and avoid thirst.
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