When we get sick or have a sudden health problem, our first instinct might be waiting it out to see if we get better on our own. If we don’t notice an improvement, the next step could be making visiting the nearest healthcare clinic or hospital – or waiting weeks, or even months, to see your family doctor. Then come the long hours spent in a waiting room for a minor condition that we have experienced before, or we know has an easy fix.
What many people don’t realize is that your pharmacist can help with much more than just filling prescriptions. Pharmacists are highly trained and authorized to assess and treat a range of common health conditions, so you don’t have to spend hours, days, or even weeks worrying while you wait to see your doctor. For those minor health concerns, pharmacies can provide fast and effective care right when you need it.
Here are just a few common ailments that pharmacists can help you with:
Colds and the Flu
For dealing with those nasty cold or flu symptoms, your pharmacist can recommend over-the-counter treatments and assess whether you need antiviral medication. They can also provide flu shots and other vaccinations throughout the year to keep you well-protected.
Acid Reflux
For recurring heartburn or acid reflux, your pharmacy team can suggest medications and provide advice on lifestyle changes. In some cases, they may prescribe long-term solutions to help ease your discomfort.
Coughs and Sore Throats
Recovering from a nagging cough or sore throat can feel like an eternity – so can the waiting room at the doctor’s office. Pharmacists can determine whether your symptoms are viral, bacterial, or caused by an allergy to recommend the remedies you need to feel better.
Ear Infections
Mild ear infections are a real pain, but can thankfully they can be treated at the pharmacy level. Your pharmacist can prescribe ear drops or other treatments to help alleviate your symptoms.
Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye)
Pink eye is a common and easily recognizable condition (it’s called pink eye for a reason!) that most of us would like dealt with sooner than later. Pharmacists can often assess the cause (again: viral, bacterial, or allergic) and prescribe the necessary eye drops on the spot.
Skin Rashes
Allergic reactions, eczema, dermatitis, oh my! Your pharmacist can evaluate many skin conditions and provide topical or oral treatments to clear up your skin rash, so you’ll be in and out of the pharmacy in no time.
Cold Sores and Canker Sores
Dealing with cold sores or mouth ulcers is painful and frustrating, but thankfully it is manageable. Pharmacists can suggest treatments to reduce pain and speed up the healing process, in some cases prescribing antiviral medication.
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs)
Your pharmacist is authorized to prescribe antibiotics for uncomplicated UTIs, especially in women who have had them before and recognize the symptoms. This can provide quick relief without the need for a visit to the doctor.
Hemorrhoids
This condition can cause pain, discomfort, and feel embarrassing to talk about, but it’s a common one and simple to treat. After assessing the severity of your condition, your pharmacy team can recommend the best treatment options, including over-the-counter creams, ointments, and suppositories.
If you're wondering whether other conditions can be treated at the pharmacy, just ask your ARTARx pharmacist! We’re here to support your health and answer any questions you may have, so you can get back to feeling your best.