In Finland, aches, pains, or raised temperature are not good reasons for seeing a doctor immediately. First, take a painkiller.

Painkillers

You can buy painkillers at the pharmacy. You will not need a doctor’s written prescription. Painkillers are on their own shelves, under signs such as SÄRKY. If you can’t find the right shelf, ask the pharmacist for advice. A pharmacist will instruct you on how to use the medicine.

Usual painkillers in Finland include:

• medicines containing paracetamol such as Paramax, Panadol, and Pamol
• medicines containing ibuprofen such as Ibumax, Burana, and Ibusal.

Read the instructions on the packaging of the painkiller carefully. The instructions will tell you, for example, how much and how often you can take the medicine. Usually, you can take one tablet at a time and up to three tablets daily.

If you are taking any other medicines, ask your pharmacist if you can take a painkiller.

Young children have their own pain medication. Ask the pharmacist what medicine is suitable for your child.

If the pain or fever persists

If the pain or fever persists for more than three days and the painkiller does not help, book an appointment to see a doctor.

If the temperature drops but then rises again after a few days, call 116 117 or on weekdays call your health center.