HOME HELP FOR SOME PROBLEMS
Fever
Aspirin sensitivity is common, so avoid it. Use paracetamol BP to reduce fever. It is well tolerated by people with allergies and sensitivities, and reduces high fever effectively. Most allergies tolerate ordinary Paracetamol BP tablets well.
If you are very sensitive, you may perhaps react to powders used in tabletting the paracetamol. Your doctor can prescribe for you pure paracetamol powder which has no other constituents. It is bitter and does not dissolve well, so is difficult to take; but it may suit you better.
If your baby or child reacts to the paracetamol liquids made for children, the cause may be colourings or flavourings. High fever in an infant or young child can be dangerous; take your doctor’s advice about alternatives to liquid paracetamol for babies and children.
Head Lice
Most proprietary treatments for head lice use very strong and troublesome chemicals. To prevent head lice infestation, shampoo hair frequently with hot water and brush regularly. This can damage young insects before they become established and prevent them laying eggs.
There is no natural remedy for head lice. Some treatments are made up in a water-based (aqueous) solution. These are better tolerated than those made up with alcohol.
Indigestion Relief
For indigestion, dissolve a teaspoon of sodium bicarbonate in a glass of water and drink. Take not more than three times a day, and not for prolonged periods. Consult your doctor if you are on a low-salt diet.
Persistent indigestion may be a symptom of food intolerance or allergy.
You can also take Boots Cream of Magnesia liquid for indigestion relief.
Inflammation of Joints
For an inflamed joint, you can apply a Kaolin poultice. Ask your pharmacist for instructions. You can also apply an ice pack, or a hot water bottle or hot cloths to ease joint inflammation. Do this gently at first.
Insect Repellent
Unless you are sensitive to plant terpenes, try using lavender oil, dabbed on heels, ankles, throat, and inner elbows to deter insects. Citronella can also be effective, but again take care if you are sensitive to plant oils.
Insect Stings
Bee stings are relieved by alkali solutions; wasp stings by acid solutions. Therefore, apply a solution of sodium bicarbonate to bee stings; apply vinegar or lemon juice to wasp stings, unless you react to these; in which case, you should use a weak solution of boric acid.
If your skin reacts badly to mosquito and other insect bites, dab on Boots Cream of Magnesia Liquid and allow to dry. This will soothe and reduce swelling.
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