Simple steps to help you treat minor illnesses at home
Self-care is often the best approach if your condition is something you will be able to treat at home, such as minor coughs, colds or common childhood illnesses.
In fact, for some illnesses, home is the best place for you.
Home medicine cabinet
You can plan ahead by stocking up on healthcare essentials you might need, like paracetamol – ask your pharmacist for advice on stocking your home medicines cabinet.
What should you have in your home medicine cabinet?
Painkillers such as paracetamol, aspirin and ibuprofen
Antacids for indigestion
Antihistamine tablets or cream, for allergy relief
Sore throat and cough lozenges
Anti-diarrhoea tablets and rehydration salts
A first aid kit.
You should always make sure medicines are stored in a safe place, out of reach of children.
Video: Pharmacist Simon Harris discusses what to put in your home medicine cabinet.
You can also download the NHS HANDi App for parents. It’s designed by paediatric specialists and provides simple and straightforward advice, for the following common conditions:
diarrhoea and vomiting
high temperature
‘chesty baby’ illnesses, such as bronchiolitis, asthma and croup
‘chesty child’ illnesses, such as wheezing and asthma
