The last thing you want to do when you’re sick is head out to the store. Not only is it difficult when you’re feeling under the weather, you shouldn’t expose your germs to the public if you don’t have to. Avoid the grocery store next time you come down with a cold by having a sickness kit on hand. Keep all the usual necessities for illness in your house at all times.
- A Thermometer
While a thermometer isn’t going to make you feel better if you become sick, it’s vital to have one in your home. It’s hard to gauge how ill you are or if your situation requires medical attention without a thermometer. Keeping a thermometer and using it to check your temperature regularly when sick will help you keep track of how bad your illness is. If you have a fever that will not come down with fever reducers, it’s time to head to the doctor.
- Cough Drops and Syrup
Some people prefer cough drops, others like cough syrup, or you may like having both in your home. But whatever your preference, buy your favorite cough relief products and keep them in a designated drawer in your house. If you have an actual box for all your sick kit items, even better, keep your cough products in your illness box.
- Gatorade or Pedialyte
It’s difficult to keep down food when sick but it’s vital for you to continue to consume electrolytes. While you should sip on water consistently when you’re ill, adding an occasional gatorade will give you the electrolytes you need to stay hydrated. It’s not just water you need for hydration but also a little sodium. Sodium helps your body hold onto the liquid you provide it. After every couple glasses of water, have an electrolyte drink.
- Tissues
You never know how many tissues you’re going to end up going through when sick. Even if you regularly keep tissues in your bathroom, it doesn’t hurt to have a few extra boxes for your sick kit.
- Saltine Crackers and Canned Soup
When you do inevitably add food back into your diet when you’re ill, you’ll want light and bland foods to start with. A can of chicken noodle soup or a box of saltine crackers are perfect for your sick kit. Especially if your illness has made you nauseated, saltine crackers are great food to quell stomach upset.
- Straws
If you’re very ill, you might be experiencing vertigo every time you lift yourself up in bed. Having straws will make it easier to get the liquids you need. You can drink from a straw even while laying down without spilling.
- Vapor Rub
Vapor rub is another awesome cough reliever. All you have to do is rub it on your chest and allow the smell to soothe your throat. It may also relieve some of the aches and pain you’re experiencing in your chest and shoulders.
Don’t wait until the next time you’re sick to get supplies to feel better. Do yourself a favor and buy everything you know you need when you’re ill before you ever get sick.
