162 FAMILY ILLNESS
Home medicine chest
It is a good idea to keep a small supply of instruments and medicines at home for everyday aches and pains and first-aid emergencies. Many people now take complementary remedies as well as traditional medicines; recommendations for both are given here. All supplies should be kept in their original containers with the manufacturer’ s instructions and stored in a locked cabinet out of children’ s reach.
CONVENTIONAL MEDICINES
DIGITAL THERMOMETER Use this type of thermometer for taking a temperature by mouth or armpit
PAIN RELIEF FOR ADULTS Acetaminophen, aspirin, and ibuprofen give relief from pain and inflammation
PAIN RELIEF FOR CHILDREN Liquid acetaminophen or liquid ibuprofen provide relief from pain, fever, and inflammation
AURAL THERMOMETER These are used in the ear and are ideal for young children
ORAL SYRINGE A syringe or dropper is convenient for giving liquid medicines to young children
ANTACID MEDICATION Liquid or tablet antacids can help relieve the symptoms of indigestion and heartburn
1 % HYDROCORTISONE CREAM Use this cream to soothe itchy or inflamed skin
SUNSCREEN Creams and oils protect skin from sun damage
COLD REMEDIES Decongestants and lozenges can relieve cold symptoms
COUGH REMEDIES Use cough mixtures or lozenges to soothe dry or chesty coughs
ALLERGY MEDICATION Antihistamines help control hay fever, allergic conjunctivitis, and bites
ORAL REHYDRATION DRINK This fruit-flavoured drink prevents dehydration
MOTION SICKNESS PILLS Taking these pills prior to travel can help prevent motion sickness
LAXATIVE Pills help relieve constipation