Dr Rupert See of the Raffles Medical Group recalled a patient who consulted him after a week of self-medicating with Po Chai Pills and Panadol did not relieve her stomach pains.

Her 'stomach ache' turned out to be acute appendicitis - her appendix had even perforated due to the delay. While she eventually made a full recovery, her hospital stay was prolonged due to complications from the perforation.

Another patient who had taken antacids for hiccups for two weeks, actually had a rare type of food poisoning contracted from eating seafood.

He said that, as a guide, one should not self-medicate for more than a week, especially if the symptoms persist.

Madam Ng and Ms Tang both agree on the need to consult a medical professional if the drugs do not work.

Ms Tang said: 'I already know my usual ailments very well, but if it's something new or I feel like it's quite serious, I will go to the doctor.'

This article was first published in The Sunday Times.