What advice would you give on how people can boost their immune systems in winter?
Follow a healthy diet; try to get plenty of sleep. If you are a smoker, think about quitting; and build some exercise into your daily routine. Vitamins and supplements shouldn’t be needed if you have a healthy diet but speak to your community pharmacist for advice.
What other tips have you for reducing the risk of catching colds and flus?
- Get the flu vaccine; this is particularly important if you are in an at-risk group, or a member of front line health care staff.
- Wash your hands regularly with warm water and soap.
- Be aware of early signs such as an itchy feeling at the back of the throat. At this stage you may benefit from a nose or throat spray which can help reduce the severity of symptoms.
- If a virus does take hold, rest and drink plenty of fluids, and ask your community pharmacy team for advice on suitable products to help ease your symptoms.
Do pharmacies offer the flu vaccine? If so, who for and what is the cost?
Some pharmacies offer the flu vaccine as a private service – ask at your pharmacy for more information.
How long can I expect my cold, cough, sore throat symptoms to last?
They can last a week or two and can be managed through self-care.
When should I go to the doctor to get an antibiotic?
A cold is a viral infection so antibiotics are no use – antibiotics are only effective against bacterial infections. A cold usually clears up by itself within a couple of weeks. You should only see your GP if symptoms last longer than three weeks, suddenly worsen, or if you develop breathing difficulties or other complications, such as chest pain. Some people are more at risk from complications – for example, babies, the elderly or someone living with a long term condition.
What is the difference between a dry and chesty cough?
A dry/tickly cough doesn’t produce any phlegm (thick mucus); a chesty cough does. Most coughs clear up within three weeks, but if a cough is persistent, see your GP.
Should I stock up on over-the-counter medicines at home to respond quickly to winter ailments?
This can be useful; however it is important that the medicines you choose are right for you. For example, cold and flu products may contain a decongestant which is not suitable for people with high blood pressure or asthma. When taking any type of medication it’s important to speak to a health professional – such as a community pharmacist!
Some medicines are not suitable for children, babies and pregnant women. People should to be aware that many over-the-counter medicines contain paracetamol, an overdose of which is dangerous – so don't exceed the stated dose.
What should be in a parents first-aid kit this winter?
It may be helpful to have pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen; oral rehydration sachets to prevent dehydration if suffering from a fever, vomiting or diarrhoea. Any medication should be safely stored at home away from children.
Can pharmacists help in diagnosing common childhood illnesses such as chickenpox?
Yes, we are trained to diagnose such conditions and can advise how they should be treated and managed. If a pharmacist is concerned about a child’s condition, they will advise you to see the GP, but more often than not they are able to advise and treat in the pharmacy.
What is your advice if a person get the norovirus this winter?
Stay at home until you feel better. Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration. Take paracetamol for any fever, aches or pains. Get plenty of rest. Eat plain foods if you feel like eating, such as soup, pasta, bread. Norovirus can spread very easily so wash your hands regularly and stay off work/school until at least 48 hours after the symptoms have cleared.
Do pharmacies provide asthma reviews/advice on using inhalers?
Yes. Pharmacists are medicines experts and can advise on any medicines including inhalers. Many pharmacies also offer medicines-use reviews for patients with asthma, which helps people understand their medicines better.
What illnesses are covered by the minor ailment scheme that pharmacies can prescribe?
The minor ailments scheme covers cold sores, ear wax, mouth ulcers, oral thrush, athlete’s foot, dhobie itch, diarrhoea, head lice, threadworms and vaginal thrush. Speak to your pharmacist for advice on any of these conditions.
- Ask Your Pharmacist Week takes place form November 6-13
