It always pays to be prepared – especially over the winter period when the weather can prevent us getting out and about.
That’s why the advice from NHS Milton Keynes Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) is to have a well-stocked medicine cabinet for times when you or your family are feeling under the weather.
Dr Nicola Smith, from NHS Milton Keynes CCG, said: “Having some medicines at home means peace of mind, and self-care is often the best remedy in many instances. Common ailments such as colds, sore throats and coughs do not always need to be treated with a visit to the GP.
“Instead, the best cure is plenty of rest, keeping warm and a having a good medicine cabinet.”
Stock up now with the following:
- Pain relief – paracetamol and ibuprofen are the most common painkillers and are available in tablet and liquid form. Ibuprofen also reduced inflammation.
- Anti-diarrhoea medicine – make sure you drink plenty of non-alcoholic liquid for the first 24 hours when symptoms appear in order to keep hydrated. Your pharmacist can also recommend rehydration drinks.
- Sore throat remedies – ask your pharmacist about sprays to ease soreness. Adults can also gargle with soluble aspirin to ease the pain.
- Cough remedies – ask your pharmacist about different types of linctus which will aid different types of coughs, i.e. dry and tickly or loose.
- Plasters and bandages – it always pays to be well-stocked in the event of minor cuts and scrapes. Ask your pharmacist about anti-allergy plasters.
- Thermometer – this can be useful if someone in the family develops a cold or if a young child becomes ill. As a general rule a temperature of over 37.5 (99.5F) is a fever.
- Antihistamines – these are useful for allergies and runny noses. Ask your pharmacist about the types available. Some antihistamines cause drowsiness and are not recommended if you are driving or operating machinery.
- Antiseptic cream – this is a medicine cabinet essential in the event or cuts and scrapes, as well as bites and stings (which are rarer in winter but can still occur.)
- Laxatives – constipation can occur at any time. Ask your pharmacist about the types available (tablets or sachets) and which ones are suitable for children or the elderly.
- Children’s medicines – there is a huge variety available to treat a whole range of minor illnesses and conditions. Ask your pharmacist about sugar-free varieties if your child is taking one regularly.
Local pharmacy opening hours over the Christmas and New Year period for Milton Keynes are available here.
