Understanding Minor Ailments: What They Are and How Your Pharmacist Can Help

What Are Minor Ailments? Minor ailments are non-serious health conditions that can be effectively managed with self-care, over-the-counter products, or prescription medications. These conditions do not require extensive medical testing or procedures for diagnosis.

Examples of minor ailments include:

• Allergic rhinitis (seasonal allergies)
• Acne
• Urinary tract infections (uncomplicated)
• Cold sores (herpes labialis)
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Tick bites requiring post-exposure prophylaxis

Why Pharmacists Are Key in Managing Minor Ailments Pharmacists are highly trained healthcare professionals with the expertise to assess, diagnose, and prescribe treatments for minor ailments. By visiting your pharmacist, you can:

1. Receive care without needing a doctor’s appointment.
2. Get timely treatment for your condition.
3. Access expert advice on medication use and lifestyle modifications.

This approach not only saves time but also reduces the burden on emergency rooms and family doctors.

The 19 Minor Ailments Ontario Pharmacists Can Prescribe For Here is the full list of minor ailments that pharmacists in Ontario can now treat:

1. Acne
2. Allergic rhinitis
3. Aphthous ulcers (canker sores)
4. Candidal stomatitis (oral thrush)
5. Conjunctivitis (bacterial, allergic, and viral)
6. Dermatitis (atopic, eczema, allergic, and contact)
7. Diaper dermatitis
8. Dysmenorrhea
9. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
10. Hemorrhoids
11. Herpes labialis (cold sores)
12. Impetigo
13. Insect bites and urticaria (hives)
14. Tick bites (post-exposure prophylaxis for Lyme disease)
15. Musculoskeletal sprains and strains
16. Nausea and vomiting of pregnancy
17. Pinworms and threadworms
18. Urinary tract infections (uncomplicated)
19. Vulvovaginal candidiasis (yeast infection)

When to See Your Pharmacist If you experience any symptoms related to these minor ailments, your pharmacist can provide:

• A thorough assessment of your condition.
• Recommendations for over-the-counter or prescription treatments.
• Guidance on symptom management and prevention.

You don’t need an appointment to consult your pharmacist, making it a convenient option for busy individuals and families.

Understanding and managing minor ailments doesn’t have to be complicated. Your pharmacist is a trusted partner in your healthcare journey, offering professional advice and effective treatments. Take advantage of this expanded scope of practice to address your health concerns quickly and efficiently.

If you’re dealing with a minor ailment, visit our pharmacy today for expert care and treatment. Our team is here to help you feel better, faster!