Stock up on remedies before Christmas, NHS Highland warns
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People across the region are being encouraged to check they have basic home remedies in stock ahead of the Christmas and New Year holidays to avoid having to find a pharmacy on a bank holiday.
Jackie Agnew, NHS Highland’s associate director of pharmacy, said most seasonal illnesses can be looked after at home with self-care and things like paracetamol.
“Christmas is a fun but hectic time for most people,” she said.
“It’s easy to get swept up in the festive atmosphere and forget that health should be on your priority list.
“Making sure you have home remedies for common ailments will save you time and help you focus on the celebrations. NHS 24’s 111 service is there to help if you need urgent healthcare support, but we know that roughly 30 per cent of people who call 111 need self-help advice on common illnesses and conditions that can normally be managed at home.
“Avoiding the need to call 111 means the service can help those who need urgent help more quickly, and also save you the time of trying to find a local pharmacy.”
Jackie continued: “I would recommend you have pain relief such as paracetamol or ibuprofen at home. For children get age-appropriate pain remedies which you can also get in liquid form. In the case of fevers, a thermometer is also a good idea as it means you can monitor temperatures accurately.
“To cover accidents, I’d recommend reviewing your first-aid kit and make sure it is stocked with things like plasters, antiseptic and bandages. For common conditions such as rashes, tummy upsets and earaches, the NHS Inform website has lots of information on how to treat these at home and when to seek medical help.”
