Warwickshire health chiefs highlight where to go for help over Christmas - The Stratford Observer

Warwickshire health chiefs highlight where to go for help over Christmas

Stratford Editorial 23rd Dec, 2015 Updated: 28th Oct, 2016   0

HEALTH chiefs are encouraging people to choose their health services wisely over the festive period.

The NHS South Warwickshire Clinical Commissioning Group want to remind people local pharmacies will be open over Christmas and New Year and are are the best place to get the right advice and treatment for coughs, colds and flu, along with many other illnesses.

If you are unsure how to treat an urgent condition when you cannot get help from your GP or pharmacist, dial 111 –  the free 24-hour NHS helpline for an assessment and advice. They can also direct you to an appropriate local service that is open.

Warwickshire health leaders have drawn up the following list to help people decide where to go, depending on the health problem:




– Cold and flu: Self-care at home.

If you’re feeling a little run down after too many late nights, you may be more susceptible to a cold. Take pain-relieving paracetamol, stay well hydrated and rest.


– An itchy rash: Pharmacy.

Allergic reaction to that new aftershave you got for Christmas?  Pharmacists will be able to assess a rash and provide you with medication to help alleviate your symptoms.

– Stomach ache: GP.

Over-indulgence and eating lots of rich food over the festive period may lead to indigestion.  Your pharmacist will be able to provide indigestion remedies, but if your stomach ache persists, your GP will be able to advise you of the best course of treatment.

– A cut finger: Walk-in centre or Urgent Care Centre.

Be extra careful using a very sharp knife to carve your Christmas roast, but if you do cut yourself and it is fairly deep and bleeding, visit your walk-in centre, urgent care centre or minor injuries unit where they will be able to advise and treat you, if necessary.

– Sprains and strains: Walk-in centre, self-care at home or GP.

Rushing around on icy pavements to do your last-minute Christmas shopping can lead to slips and trips. Take care and wear supportive, flat boots or shoes if you venture out in ice or snow. If you do fall and sprain your ankle or wrist, you can visit a walk-in centre for assessment, rest at home, or make an appointment to see your GP.

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