Self-Help

Preconception Advice Leaflet - Get advice on preparing for a pregnancy (DOCX, 447KB).

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Self-Care For Eyes

Dry or Sore Eyes

Dry eyes are a common condition when eyes don't make enough tears or tears evaporate too quickly
Most cases of sore eyes can resolve themselves
These can both be managed by having good self-care measure in place such as good eyelid hygiene and avoidance of environmental factors alongside treatment
Mild to moderate cases of dry eye syndrome or sore tired eyes can usually be treated using lubricant eye treatments that consist of a range of drops, gels and ointments that can be easily be purchased over the counter

Conjunctivitis

Treatment isn't usually needed for conjunctivitis as the symptoms usually clear within a week, there are several self-care measures that may help with symptoms
If treatment is needed, then treatment is dependent on the cause:

Irritant conjunctivitis will clear up as soon, as whatever is causing it is removed
Allergic conjunctivitis can usually be treated with antiallergy medications. The substance that caused the allergy should be avoided
In severe bacterial cases, antibiotic eye drops & eye ointments can be used

Treatments for conjunctivitis can be purchased over the counter however almost half of all simple cases of conjunctivitis clear up within ten days without any treatment.
Public Health England (PHE) advises that children with infective conjunctivitis do not need to be excluded from school, nursery or child minders, and it does not state any requirement for treatment with topical antibiotics.

Self-Care For Hayfever

Hayfever

Common condition affecting 1 in 5 people (UK)
Often runs in the family and more likely to affect asthma and eczema sufferers
Allergic condition where the body overreacts to harmless substances (e.g. pollen) causing a release of histamine which causes inflammation
Some people suffer all year round, their allergens may be house dust mites, pets or indoor moulds
Symptoms include: Sneezing, blocked or runny nose, itchy throat, headaches and sinus pain, fatigue and red, itchy, puffy or watery eyes

Avoiding Triggers/Lifestyle Changes

Keep house and car windows closed, especially when the pollen count is high (early morning between 7am to 9am and evenings between 5.00pm and 7.00pm)
Avoid large grassy areas, woodland, cutting the grass, pollutants and car fumes
Wear wrap-around sunglasses
When you get in from outside wash your hands, face, hair, rinse your eyes and change your clothes
If possible stay indoors when the pollen count is high
Use petroleum jelly inside your nose to block inhalation of pollen
Keep your house clean and wear a mask and glasses when doing house work
Don't dry washing outside to avoid pollen sticking to your clothes
You could buy a pollen filter for the air vents in the car

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