A GP has explained the medicine cupboard essentials we should all be stocking up on as flu, cold, Covid and RSV cases soar in the UK, with a fear of even more cases after Christmas and New Year parties and as people return to work and school.
NHS GP and spokesperson for Olbas, Dr Roger Henderson said we shoulkd stock up now as the Royal College of General Practitioners is predicting an increase of flu rates in January, and as hospitals become overwhelmed with patients. He said it is essential people are stocked up with the key treatments that ease symptoms at home.
A selection of nasal decongestants
Having a selection of nasal decongestants is always a good idea. Nasal congestion can last up to 10 days and for most, a blocked nose won’t stop us in our day-to-day lives, so it is important to have suitable products for all the family.
A nasal spray is a great option for when you are on the go, it is easy to use and a quick solution to offer nasal relief. When you are in the comforts of your own home, a decongestant oil is great as it can be popped onto a hanky to be inhaled or placed in various out-of-reach areas to benefit the little ones, allowing the room to fill with the relieving menthol vapour. Menthol is a popular ingredient because of its antibacterial and relieving effects, an ingredient that can be found in many over-the-counter nasal decongestant products.
Pain relivers
When suffering with a cold, often your body will ache, never mind the headache associated with congestion. Being prepared with painkillers like paracetamol, ibuprofen or aspirin are highly effective at helping to combat general pain so it’s definitely worth stocking up on light pain relief.
Thermometer
When faced with an infection or virus, our body temperature will go up to help fight the virus as the warmer we are, the less favourable the environment for the bacteria to flourish. Having a digital thermometer in your first-aid box is helpful in detecting illness, especially with little ones who might not be able to communicate how they are feeling.
Natural remedies
When a cold strikes, you needn’t always reach for medicine, simple traditional remedies can be effective in relieving symptoms such as honey and lemon and salt water. Although these aren’t cures, they are all effective in easing the symptoms. Honey is very soothing when mixed in a hot drink and some even suggest that it acts as a mild cough suppressant. Saltwater can draw excess fluid from inflamed tissues in the throat, which in turn makes them hurt less by helping to loosen the thick mucus that is sat in the throat.