A few simple medicines kept at home will help you with most common illnesses. Essential items should include:

 

• Paracetamol or aspirin for adults (children under 16 or people with asthma should not take aspirin)
• Paracetamol or ibuprofen syrups for children (for example Calpol or Nurofen
  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 for expiry dates, don’t keep medicines past their sell-by date.

Keeping Warm

In cold weather you can help yourself to stay well by keeping warm.  Wear several layers, rather than one thick layer.  Eating well is also important.  Eat a mixed diet that includes fruit and vegetables and avoid getting dehydrated by taking plenty of fluids, including hot drinks on cold days.  Eat at least one hot meal a day and have a hot drink before bed.

Moving around generates extra body heat, so any kind of exercise or activity will help you to keep warm.  Don’t sit still for long periods and spread chores out through the day so you can alternate between rest and activity.

Keep your home warm and if you can, keep the temperature at 21ºC in all the rooms you use during the day.  If this is not possible, keep your living room warm during the day and heat your bedroom and bed before going to sleep.  Keep your bedroom window closed at night. 

If you drink alcohol, do so sensibly and in moderation. If you do drink, don’t drive.