Every family needs to put together a medicine cabinet for common emergencies. At the same time, over 50 percent of medicine cabinets are found to be inadequate. People simply don’t have the information needed to equip themselves with medical supplies properly.
Once you make your cabinet choice like the functional Robern medicine cabinets, it’s time to start thinking what to stock up on. Here are a few of the key essentials.
Bandages
Common household emergencies contribute to open wounds and cuts, which is why you need a thorough selection of bandages in your medicine cabinet. According to the American Red Cross, the types of bandages to have at all times include assorted adhesive bandages (sold in packs), at least 10 sterile gauze pads, roller bandages (at least two) and absorbent compress dressings.
Pain Relief Medications
Headaches, back aches, tooth problems – all of them can contribute to serious pain you can address through the use of the right pain relief medications. Aspirin, ibuprofen and paracetamol are an essential medicine cabinet ingredient. Keep in mind that kids under the age of 16 should not be given aspirin, which is why you need to have at least one child-friendly pain relief option.
Antihistamines
Allergic reactions can be life-threatening, if you don’t have the medications to address the situation. Zyrtec, Claritin and Benadryl are all common options you can use to address a wide array of allergic reactions, including hay fever. An antihistamine ointment is also a good choice for hives and insect bites.
Thermometer
Can you tell whether you or a member of the family has fever? Can you tell how high it is and whether urgent measures are required? Since we can’t tell when fever gets dangerously high, we all need to have at least one digital thermometer in the medicine cabinet.
Anti-Diarrhea Medications
Upset stomach is another very common issue, whether it’s caused by a bug or by the food a member of the family has consumed. Diarrhea has to be addressed in a quick and efficient manner because it can quickly contribute to serious dehydration. Anti-diarrhea medications offer quick relief and they stop the loss of fluids. Apart from featuring at least one such medicine in your cabinet, it’s also a good idea to have electrolyte drinks that replenish the body after a bout of diarrhea.
Antacids
Speaking of upset stomach, acid reflux is another pretty common condition that can be exasperated by the types of meals you consume on a regular basis and by your weight. Antacids offer quick relief from heartburn by regulating the production of stomach acid or by coating the lining of the stomach. There are numerous over the counter solutions you can feature in your family medicine cabinet.
Sunscreen
While it isn’t a medical essential, sunscreen can prevent serious burns in the summer. Hence, you need to have sunscreen properly stocked in the medicine cabinet. You need to have a factor with SPF of at least 20 (higher for young children and for face application). Good products offer protection against both UVA and UVB rays.
Anti-Bug Products
Mosquito and other insect bites can quickly escalate in a big issue, especially if you have a young child or an older family member. Bug repellents are readily available and they’re an absolute essential during the summer. Keep in mind that bugs like the mosquito carry infections and diseases, which is why you should consider some sort of reliable protection. While essential oils and other natural remedies may be somewhat effective, bug repellent is the best choice.
These are just a few of the top choices to feature in your medicine cabinet. People who already have a diagnosed medical condition should also consider the essentials required to control the situation.
