NHS West Hampshire is taking steps to support you to manage your own mild to moderate pain. We are raising the awareness of mild to moderate pain and the steps you can take to help manage your symptoms.
No two people will experience pain in the same way.
Pain can be an intermittent pain that doesn’t interfere with your daily activities.
Or pain can be persistent or a worsening progressive pain that interferes significantly with your daily living activities.
What can you do yourself to get better – now and in the future?
There are self-care leaflets to help you manage your back pain, headache or a strain or sprain.
When should I seek medical help?
If your symptoms don’t start to improve within three days, or if your pain recurs regularly for more than six weeks, seek immediate medical advice or contact your GP surgery.
Refer to the ‘when should I seek medical’ help section on the self-care leaflets for more information.
The following symptoms may suggest an emergency:
- Unusual sensations You feel numb or notice ‘pins and needles’ in the area around your bottom (the ‘saddle area’), your genitals, or both of your legs.
- Urine problems You can’t keep your urine in.
- Bowel problems You lose your bowel control.
What treatments can I buy to help my pain?
Speak to a local pharmacist to get advice on the best treatment for you and always read the patient information leaflet that is included with the medicine.
Where can I find more information?
NHS Website
Choose Well
Use the Right Service
Remember that your pharmacist can also help you with assessing your symptoms