A lot of minor illnesses you will suffer get better by themselves and do not need to be seen by a doctor. Most sore throats, earaches and coughs are caused by viruses and do not need antibiotics. Please try to treat these at home with painkillers, fluids and simple remedies from a pharmacy.
Pharmacies are good sources of advice and can provide free medications under the 'minor ailments scheme'. Please use this service to obtain paracetamol and ibuprofen for children to avoid having to see a doctor for this.
To access 24 hour health and symptom advice the following services are available.
You can access NHS services via your browser without having to download anything.
SIGNPOSTING: Access NHS Services Online
Access NHS Services via your browser
You can also access the NHS App using your smartphone or tablet using the apps available on the Apple App Store, or Google Play Store for Android-based devices. The direct links to download them can be found by following the signposting below.
SIGNPOSTING: Information about the NHS App
Find out more about the NHS App
SIGNPOSTING: Access NHS 111 Online
Get help for your symptoms
Find out about conditions, symptoms, tests and treatments, and medicines, including what to do and when to get help
SIGNPOSTING
Visit the NHS Conditions A to Z Service