Coughs & Colds is one of the everyday conditions our pharmacists treat through our free NHS minor illness service — advice and treatment without a GP appointment.
Speak to our pharmacist in the private consultation room. Where appropriate we can supply treatment free of charge under the local NHS minor ailments scheme, or recommend the best over-the-counter option.
Free NHS treatment is available if you are registered with a participating local GP and do not pay for prescriptions; everyone else can still get expert advice and low-cost treatment. Use our one-minute eligibility checker and our pharmacist will be in touch to arrange your consultation — or just walk in.
What it is, what to look out for, and what actually helps — from the pharmacists who treat it every day.
Colds are viral infections of the nose and throat, and the cough that often tags along is your airway clearing mucus and irritation. Adults average two to four colds a year, children many more — and because well over 200 viruses cause them, immunity to one doesn't protect you from the next.
Antibiotics don't work on colds and most coughs, but the right pharmacy treatment makes the week or so of symptoms far more bearable. Our pharmacists can recommend the best combination for your symptoms, check anything that's lingering, and spot the chest infections and red flags that need more than self-care.
Written by our pharmacy team — practical detail on treatment, timing and when to get help.
Acute Cough is covered by the NHS Minor Ailments Scheme. If you are exempt from prescription charges and registered with a Black Country GP, our pharmacist can supply the medicine free of charge — no GP appointment needed.
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