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- Treat coughs, colds and flu by keeping warm, resting and drinking plenty of non-alcoholic fluids.
- Paracetemol or ibuprofen can reduce high temperatures and ease aches and pains.
- Most people recover from viral infections like cold and flu in 4–7 days.
- Antibiotics won’t help with flu, colds and most coughs and sore throats.
- Don't visit friends or relatives in hospital if you are ill, particularly if you are suffering vomiting and/or diarrhoea.
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- Advice on common complaints including coughs and colds, sore throats, stomach upsets, head lice and athletes foot.
- Minor Ailments Service for patients exempt from prescription charges - free advice and supply of medicine without having to see a GP.
- Check pharmacy opening times over the festive season.
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- Community opticians (optometrists) can provide treatment and advice for a range of minor eye conditions such as red eye, sudden changes in vision, and any kind of pain in and around the eyes.
- Many opticians are open Saturday and Sunday.
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- For more serious illnesses, make a routine appointment with your GP.
- GP surgeries will be closed for two blocks of four days: 24–27 December and 31 December–3 January. They are open 28–30 December.
- Cancel your appointment if things change and you no longer need it.
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- For urgent medical advice when your GP surgery is closed, contact NHS 24 on 08454 24 24 24.
If required, you will see a GP, nurse or paramedic from the Lanarkshire Out Of Hours Service.
- NHS 24 can advise on dental emergencies if you are not registered with a dentist. For registered patients, call your own dentist.
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- For accidents and serious emergencies go to A&E at Wishaw General, Monklands or Hairmyres hospitals or call 999. They are open throughout the festive period, including public holidays.
- Call NHS 24 if you are unsure what to do.
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