What’s in your cold and flu toolkit this season?

(NC) When we’re sick, how we take care of ourselves makes a big difference to how quickly we get better. It’s why practicing self-care is such an important skill—in fact, it’s one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways Canadians can feel better faster. 

One practice that can help you through cold and flu season is by building a treatment kit in advance. That way, you already have everything you need to recover right at home. The self-care experts at Haleon have some tips on what to include:

• Thermometer. Using a thermometer can help you verify if that tickle in your throat is also causing a fever, which will direct your next decisions.
• Fever and pain medication. These are basic but essential tools during cold and flu season. Managing pain and fevers effectively can make a big difference in how quickly you recover from illness. There are options with cough and cold formulations—just make sure you follow the label.  
• Decongestants. Congestion is more than just annoying. It can impact your recovery by interfering with sleep, which is why dealing with it is a priority.
• Tissues. Never assume you have enough—you’ll always surprise yourself with how many you go through while recovering from a cold.
• Electrolytes. Your body needs to be hydrated to properly fight off an illness. Include a couple of bottles of fluids with electrolytes in your kit, such as sports drinks. You can also use packets of electrolyte powder and mix them into water.
• Cough drops or syrup. Coughing can help if it’s productive—bringing up mucus or phlegm—but it can also put a strain on your body. Managing the symptom can make a real difference, so make sure you’re prepared with cough suppressants.

It's much easier to prepare to be sick than to scramble for something when you need it. With a bit of planning, your kit can help you manage your sickness more easily, and possibly even save you a trip to the doctor. You can learn more at getwellstaywell.ca.