Sniffling, sneezing, and runny nose season is upon us, and the last thing anybody feels like doing when cold or flu symptoms start to hit is walking through a crowded drug store, looking for the things you need to feel better. Luckily, you can prepare by stocking your bathroom with the proper accouterments. Let’s take a look!
Thermometer
One of the most telling symptoms of a cold or flu is whether you have a fever. This is also vital information for your doctor, so it’s best to ensure you have a working thermometer in your bathroom for when symptoms hit.
Throat Lozenges
Few things are worse than a dry, scratchy throat. Make sure to have a bag of throat lozenges on hand to tackle it as soon as it starts.
OTC Pain Relief
An over-the-counter pain reliever can help alleviate muscle aches, headaches, and fever. Tylenol, Aleve, and Advil are all options, but it’s always best to talk to your doctor and see what they recommend depending on your age and health status.
Nasal Strips
Nasal strips fit over your nose and increase airflow into the nasal passages, easing congestion while sleeping.
Vitamins and Supplements
Vitamin C and zinc can do a lot for a cold, from alleviating symptoms to shortening their duration. Always talk to your doctor first, but it’s not a bad idea to have a solid vitamin and supplement regimen down before cold and flu season arrives.
Humidifier
A humidifier will help with that dry winter air that makes sore throats and coughs even worse. In a pinch, you can also take a steamy shower.
Tissues (and Lots of Them!)
Inevitably, you’ll be blowing your nose a lot, so it’s never a bad idea to start stocking up on tissues, preferably the ones with aloe, so they don’t completely tear up your nose. Keep a travel pack in your car, in your bag, and stashed away in a drawer at work.
Nyquil
Nyquil contains a decongestant, a sedating antihistamine, a cough suppressant, and acetaminophen, which covers all of the bases for a good night’s sleep. Just make sure you take Nyquil when you know you’re in for the night, about 30 minutes before you want to drift off.