The Doc Replies Our expert answers your medical questions

How can you tell if you’ve broken a bone? Is it necessary to go to hospital?

The most common signs of a fracture are pain, swelling and deformity, but you can’t always tell, particularly if there is no deformity. Other clues are that you might hear or feel a snap or a lot of bruising and tenderness.

If a leg or foot is involved, not being able to walk may indicate a break.

If you have any of these signs you must go to hospital. If you don’t you could be left with a deformity or problems with your joint. You need the bone to be properly aligned with a cast or a splint.

You can either go to a minor injuries unit or, if it is a break to something major like a hip or neck, you should dial 999.

In this instance do not eat or drink in case you need an anaesthetic.

Be especially alert with the elderly who may have the bone condition osteoporosis when they may break a bone spontaneously or with minimal trauma, particularly in the hip or spine.

I cut my toe with a garden tool. Do I need a tetanus jab?

If you have had a full course of tetanus – which is five doses throughout life – you should be covered. But even if you are fully vaccinated, if you have a tetanus-prone wound you need to go to A&E where you can be treated with immunoglobulin.

A gardening wound would be classed as tetanus-prone, particularly where manure is being used, as are deep animal bites, anything where dirt and germs are involved.

Can I take paracetamol and ibuprofen together?

Adults can take paracetamol and ibuprofen at the same time or spaced apart, but it’s generally best to give one at a time in children, adding the other type if needed before the next dose is due. Ibuprofen is best taken with food or on a full stomach. Take your medicines as directed on the label or leaflet to make sure you don’t take too much of either. If you need further advice, speak to your pharmacist or GP.

The Doc Replies

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