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Going away this summer?…

Remember to think ahead and plan in good time. Below are some top tips about how to get the most out of your summer, while considering your health. We recommend people pack a good first aid kit when they travel.

Sun cream: remember to check the use by date as it can get less effective the longer it has been open. Check your bottles and replace them if unsure. Ideally use factor 30+ factor and reapply often. Check out the NHS website for more tips. 

Hayfever: often causes troublesome symptoms in to the summer months, stock up on antihistamines, nasal steroid sprays and eye drops from your local pharmacy.

Insect bites: these are common and generally improve within a few days, there are remedies you can buy from the pharmacy (creams and tablets). Repellants can be helpful depending on where you are travelling. If you are concerned about an infected insect bite, pharmacies can now offer antibiotics where appropriate via the Pharmacy First scheme.

Vaccinations: If you are travelling further afield and may need immunisations do considering booking in early to discuss your requirements. You can get country specific advice here and find more information on the Travel Clinic section of our website.

High temperatures: while the weather this summer hasn’t been too hot as yet, it is important to remember that high temperatures can affect your health. During a heat wave, try to stay indoors, drink plenty of fluids and avoid alcohol.

Repeat Medications: be sure to pack all your regular repeat medications, and order these in good time if you need extra supply due to a longer trip. We are not able to issue any medication for longer then 3 months, if you are travelling longer than this, you will need to access medication in the country you are travelling to. We also cannot prescribe NHS prescriptions in this case for exacerbations of pre-existing illnesses or concern over illness and infections when abroad. Always seek medical attention in the country you are staying in if you become unwell.

You should also be aware that some drugs commonly prescribed in the UK may be illegal in certain countries and you should check with that country’s embassy before you travel. If you need to take controlled drugs in to another country, please check the regulations in this country before travel. We can only supply 28 days of controlled medications.

Medication to delay periods: we are happy to prescribe this medication for appropriate patients (Provera or Northisterone), you require a routine appointment to discuss how to use the medication and the risks/benefits. Please be aware there is around a 4-6 week wait for a routine appointment so request this in good time. If you wish to access this medication more urgently you can seek this privately at a reasonable cost. There are online pharmacies offering this service eg Superdrug, Asda and many more. Another simple option in some people is to take the combined oral contraceptive pill back to back. If you wish to discuss starting the pill, our nurses and the community pharmacists can both help advise and offer this treatment.