5 Essential Items to Have in Your Medicine Cabinet at All Times

Stay healthy and pain-free all year long with these bathroom basics.

When it comes to stocking your medicine chest, consider the old military phrase K.I.S.S.: Keep It Simple, Silly. It can be tempting to prepare for every possible medical situation, but you’re better off not buying just-in-case remedies for obscure or unlikely ailments. Opt instead to keep the basics on hand for pain, fever, digestion, itch, sting, minor cut and congestion relief.

1. Care for Cuts and Scrapes

Alcohol wipes and hydrogen peroxide are great for disinfecting minor cuts and scrapes. Stop light bleeding and protect abrasions with flexible bandages. Gauze pads and medical tape keep larger yet still minor cuts in check. If in doubt or if bleeding isn’t contained with bandages or gauze, see a doctor.

2. Anti-Itch Treatments

Treat itchiness with hydrocortisone cream. Calamine lotion is best for poison ivy, poison oak, or bug bites and stings; insect repellent stops those pesky pests from attacking in the first place. Antihistamines can help you stay sane during allergy season. Aloe Vera gel and antibiotic creams are good for minor burns, while sunscreen and sunburn ointment are musts for keeping warm-weather activities fun.

3. Meds for Aches and Pains

Keep headaches from ruining your day by picking up ibuprofen or aspirin. If you’re sensitive to or intolerant of the salicylate in these treatments, try acetaminophen instead. Seek treatment for swelling or other bad reactions to this ingredient. A word of caution, though: alcohol and acetaminophen don’t always mix.

4. Tummy Treatments

Bismuth subsalicylate, also known as Pepto Bismol, helps with upset stomachs. Ginger root isn’t just great for cooking; it eases nausea and motion sickness. Anti-diarrheals can be helpful, but be wary of over-reliance on this type of medicine. See a healthcare professional for chronic diarrhea and other digestive issues.

5. Cures for the Common Cold and Flu

We all know there’s no actual cure for the common cold, but a little symptom relief goes a long way while you recover. A long-lasting cough syrup, throat lozenges and a non-drowsy decongestant will help you get through the day. A nighttime acetaminophen-containing cold medicine allows for a good night’s sleep, and a flu elixir can lower your temperature and provide some comfort.

If these medicines don’t take care of your symptoms, head to your doctor’s office or the nearest prompt-care clinic. Integra Urgent Care provides fast, effective care to patients in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Contact us for an appointment, or reach out to us with any questions.