You can prepare for many illnesses by keeping a small supply of paracetamol and over-the-counter remedies at home. These medicines can help you with many common illnesses and minor ailments like colds and flu, coughs, sore throats, toothache and headache. If symptoms persist or worsen you should contact NHS Direct or your GP.
Self-care
Self-care is the best option for treating very minor illnesses or injuries. A well stocked medicine cabinet will help you treat many everyday illnesses at home.
Essential items that you should include in your medicine cabinet include:
- Paracetamol or aspirin (children under sixteen or people with asthma should not take aspirin
- Paracetamol (for example Calpol) or ibuprofen syrups for children
- Mild laxatives
- Anti-diarrhoea medicines
- Rehydration mixture
- Indigestion remedy
- Travel sickness tablets
- Tweezers and sharp scissors
- A thermometer
- A selection of plasters
- Non-absorbent cotton wool
- Elastic bandages and dressings
Remember to keep the medicine cabinet in a secure, locked place out of reach of small children, always read the instructions and use the suggested dose. Watch expiry dates, don't keep or use medicines past their sell-by date.
Minor illnesses or accidents can happen at any time, so it's worth being prepared.
Last reviewed: 04/08/2010
