If in pain please take painkillers: You will not hide a serious illness. Do not take more than it says on the label.

High temperature: - is a normal body defence. It is the main way a body kills a bug. You only need to worry about high temperatures in children under 4.

Ear ache: - most ear infections are caused by viruses and research shows that antibiotics do not help. Take pain killers and if they do not work contact your doctor.

Colds and flu: - are caused by a virus so antibiotics do not work. You may have a cough, runny nose and general aches that can last about a week. Drink plenty of fluids and take pain relief. Do not worry if you do not want to eat for a few days.

Head lice: - to prevent head lice, brush hair daily and comb with a nit comb once a week.

Diarrhoea and sickness: - normally caused by viruses and treatment is to replace fluids. Take sips of water as large amounts can make you sick . Take extra care with small children.

Insect bites: - most bites do not need treatment. Anti-histamine cream or tablets from the chemist can help.

Burns: - apply lots of cold water as soon as possible and don't stop until the pain eases. This may take at least 15 minutes. If the skin is unbroken apply a loose, dry dressing. If the burn is larger than 4 or 5 inches across or the skin is broken please seek medical help.

Nose bleeds: - sit up in a chair, lean forward a bit with mouth open, pinch the nose just below the bone for about 10 minutes and the bleeding should stop.

Back pain: - keep moving and take pain relief. Take both paracetamol and Ibuprofen (see medicine chest). Also use heat and massage, but be careful about lifting.

Sprain: - apply a cold compress for 15-30 minutes and raise limb above your heart when possible. A firm crepe bandage will also help when and where possible.

Minor cuts and grazes: - wash the wound with water and antiseptic. To stop bleeding apply direct pressure for about 5 minutes. Cover with a clean, dry dressing.

Medicine chest: - Medicines to keep at home, locked away; Always read the label:

Paracetamol tablets & syrup

For children and adults for basic pain relief

Ibuprofen (Nurofen)

For children and adults. Can be taken with Paracetamol for pain relief. Care must be taken if you have asthma or indigestion.

Calamine lotion

For cooling the skin

Cough linctus

For dry or tickly cough

Menthol crystals

Add to hot water and inhale to help catarrh or coughs

Vapour rub

To rub in for colds and coughs or mix with hot water for steam inhalation

Antiseptic solution

To clean cuts and grazes

Cotton wool

For cleaning cuts and grazes

Dressings, tapes and plasters

For minor cuts

3" wide crepe bandage

To keep dressings in place and support sprains

Thermometer

For children under 4

Tweezers

For removing splinters

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