Christmas hangover, diarrhoea/vomiting, indigestion, colds - what to do

If you have diarrhoea and vomiting give the stomach a rest and abstain from food and alcohol. Drink plenty of fluids to
prevent dehydration. A rehydration agent or flat coke or lemonade is ideal, as this replaces the salts and sugars lost with
prolonged diarrhoea and vomiting. For diarrhoea take an anti-diarrhoeal agent.


It will not hurt a child to go without food as long as they drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.


Hangover


Avoid alcohol for 24 hours. Drink plenty of water - alcohol dehydrates the body and this is partly why the 'hangover' occurs.
Take Paracetamol, Soluble Aspirin or Ibuprofen to help the headache.


Indigestion


With all the rich foods and sometimes over-indulgence at Christmas, indigestion can be a problem. Try not to overeat.
Indigestion remedies such as Gaviscon and Rennies may help.


Colds and 'Flu


Take regular Paracetamol or Aspirin and lots of warm drinks. Use a decongestant if the nose/sinuses are blocked. Antibiotics
will not help colds or 'flu and the symptoms will improve with time and home remedies.


For children with colds or 'flu, soluble Paracetamol or Paracetamol syrup can be given as directed. If the child has a
temperature, give regular Paracetamol and keep cool.


Useful medicines to keep in stock :


-- Paracetamol/Soluble Aspirin/Ibuprofen.


-- Paracetamol syrup for babies and young children


-- Decongestant to add to hot water, eg menthol


-- Oral rehydration solution (flat coke or lemonade can be used)


-- Anti-diarrhoeal agents


-- Indigestion remedies eg antacid.


Other useful items :


-- Thermometer


-- Selection of plasters and sterile dressings


-- Triangular bandage


-- Cotton wool, tweezers, scissors, crepe bandage/tubigrip, sterile eyepad


-- Antiseptic solution

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