Clinical problems and conditions are classed as minor illness when either they can be self treated or are uncomplicated thus not requiring further investigation. They include the following conditions:
Sore Throat
Earache
Cough
Chest Infections
Constipation
Thrush
Cold Sores
Insect Stings
High Temperature
Sticky Eye
Hay Fever
COPD
Asthma
Rashes
Impetigo
Urinary Tract Infections
“Minor Illness” is a medical term but this does not mean it is unimportant. We appreciate from a patient’s point of view many such instances will not feel ‘minor’ in any sense. However it is important we try as a practice to support our patients who have complex medical problems and use all the doctors time as appropriately as possible.
If you are unsure you can treat yourself have a look at the self-care advice below talk to your local pharmacy who can give advice on a lot of minor health problems.
Information on Treatments
Self-care is the best choice to treat minor illnesses and injuries. A large range of common illnesses and injuries can be treated at home simply with over-the-counter medicines and plenty of rest. The pages on the Manchester Choose Well website have lots more information on which illnesses and injuries can be safely managed at home, how to do it and what signs to look out for that tell you it’s time to get help from NHS services in your area or at hospital in an emergency. It also has a good list of medications to keep in your cupboard at home and a downloadable card to fill in important contact numbers to keep in your wallet.
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Pharmacists play a key role in providing quality healthcare. They are experts in medicines and will use their clinical expertise, together with their practical knowledge, to ensure the safe supply and use of medicines by the public.
They offer advice on common problems such as coughs, colds, aches and pains, as well as healthy eating and stopping smoking. They can also help you decide whether you need to see a doctor.
You can talk to your pharmacist in confidence, even about the most personal symptoms, and you don’t need to make an appointment. It is possible to walk into any community pharmacy and ask to speak with the pharmacist.
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Minor Injuries Units are for less serious injuries, such deep cuts, eye injury, broken bones, severe sprains, minor head injury, minor burns and scalds.
Church Street Practice will be able to deal with the majority of minor injuries such as minor burns or cuts. However, if you feel that you need an x-ray or stitches it may be better to go to a Minor Injury unit to be assessed. When you ring up our receptionists have been trained to clarify whether our Nurses can manage your problem or whether you need to attend the Abingdon Minor Injury Unit.
Our local services are available seven days a week, 10.00am to 10.30pm at:
Abingdon Community Hospital, Marcham Road, Abingdon OX14 1AG
Tel: 01865 903476
Witney Community Hospital,, Welch Way, Witney, Oxfordshire OX28 6JJ
Tel: 01865 903841
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