NHS Pharmacy First

Conditions we assess

Seven common conditions our pharmacists can assess and treat without a GP appointment. Choose a condition to see how we can help.

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) in women

A urinary tract infection (UTI) is an infection in any part of the urinary system - most often the bladder. In women it usually causes cystitis: a burning feeling when passing urine, needing to go more often than usual, and urgency.

Shingles

Shingles is an infection caused by the same virus as chickenpox. After a chickenpox infection the virus stays asleep in your nerves and can wake up years later as shingles, usually on one side of the body.

Impetigo

Impetigo is a very contagious skin infection, most common in young children but adults get it too. It often starts around the nose and mouth, but can appear anywhere skin has been broken - a cut, graze, insect bite or eczema flare.

Infected insect bites

Most insect bites settle within a day or two with simple care. Sometimes a bite becomes infected - usually because bacteria on the skin get in through the bite mark.

Sore throat

A sore throat is one of the most common reasons people seek help. Most are caused by cold and flu viruses and settle on their own within a week, but some are bacterial and benefit from antibiotics.

Sinusitis

Sinusitis is inflammation of the sinuses - the small air-filled spaces behind your cheekbones, forehead and eyes. It usually follows a cold, when the sinuses fill with mucus and become blocked.

Earache

Earache is common in children and adults alike. It can come from an infection inside the ear, an infection of the ear canal, a build-up of wax, or pressure from a cold or sinus problem.