Self Care: Looking After Yourself at Home

Self-care is often the best first step when dealing with minor illnesses and injuries. Many common conditions can be safely managed at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Knowing when to treat yourself and when to seek help is key to staying healthy and using NHS services wisely.

Be Prepared: Your Home Medicine Cabinet

Keep a well-stocked medicine cabinet with essentials such as:

  • Paracetamol and ibuprofen – for pain and fever
  • Antihistamines – for allergies and hay fever
  • Antacids – for indigestion
  • Oral rehydration salts – for diarrhoea
  • Cough and cold remedies
  • Plasters, antiseptic cream, and bandages – for minor cuts and grazes
  • Thermometer – to monitor fever
  • Children’s medicines – if you have young ones at home

Common Conditions You Can Treat at Home

Colds and Flu

  • Rest, stay hydrated, and use over-the-counter cold and flu remedies.
  • Most symptoms improve within 7–10 days.
  • Contact your GP if symptoms worsen or persist beyond 10 days, or if you are in a high-risk group (e.g., elderly, pregnant, or have a chronic condition).

Sore Throats and Coughs

  • Often caused by viruses and resolve on their own.
  • Gargling salt water, throat lozenges, and warm drinks can help.
  • Seek advice if you have difficulty breathing, a persistent high fever, or symptoms lasting more than a week.

Minor Cuts and Bleeding

  • Clean the wound with water, apply pressure to stop bleeding, and cover with a sterile dressing.
  • See a healthcare professional if the wound is deep, will not stop bleeding, or shows signs of infection (redness, swelling, pus).

Diarrhoea and Vomiting

  • Usually caused by a virus and clears up in a few days.
  • Stay hydrated and rest.
  • Contact your GP if symptoms last more than 48 hours, or if you notice blood in your stool or signs of dehydration.

Minor Burns and Scalds

  • Cool the area under running water for at least 20 minutes.
  • Cover with a clean, non-fluffy cloth or cling film.
  • Seek urgent care if the burn is large, deep, or on the face, hands, or genitals.

Headaches and Migraines

  • Rest in a quiet, dark room and take pain relief if needed.
  • See your GP if headaches are frequent, severe, or accompanied by other symptoms like vision changes or nausea.

Skin Rashes and Irritations

  • Use emollients or antihistamines for itching.
  • Seek advice if the rash is widespread, painful, or accompanied by fever.

When to Contact Other Services

  • Pharmacist: For expert advice on minor ailments and medicines – no appointment needed.
  • GP: If symptoms persist, worsen, or you’re unsure about your condition.
  • NHS 111: For urgent medical advice when your GP is unavailable.
  • A&E or 999: For serious injuries or life-threatening conditions such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, or severe bleeding.