Self Help & Care

Do you really need a doctor’s appointment?

Before you make an appointment, you must consider what type of health issue you are dealing with. If you are experiencing minor aches and pains, it may be possible to self-treat at home.

For example, taking a hot shower, using a heating pad, or applying a cold compress can help alleviate the symptoms.

Over-the-counter medications such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can also help. If you feel that home treatment is not enough, then you should consider making an appointment with your doctor. However, if you are dealing with a minor condition, such as a cold or a mild headache, you may want to consider visiting your local pharmacy first.

NHS 111 provides a simple online symptom checker – this can be used in the first instance to see if you can take steps to help yourself at home.