Experts Urge Households to Stock Essential Medicinesโ for Emergencies
Madrid, Spain – September 25, 2024 – As autumn โapproaches and teh potential for seasonal illnesses rises, health professionals are emphasizing the importance of maintaining aโข well-stockedโ home medicine cabinet to address common ailments and unexpected health events. Experts recommendโ specific quantities of essential medicationsโ to ensure families are prepared for emergencies, minimizing delays in treatment and potential complications.
A preparedโฃ home pharmacy isn’t about self-diagnosis or replacing professional medical care, but rather about having readily available solutions for minor injuries and illnesses while awaiting medical attention or during situations where immediate access to healthcare is limited. The Spanish Society of General practitioners and โคFamily Doctors (SEMG) recently outlined recommended quantities,acknowledging that individual needs vary based on family size,pre-existing conditions,and typical health concerns.Failure to have basic supplies can lead to discomfort, prolonged illness, and unnecessary strain on already burdened healthcare systems.
the SEMG advises households to have on hand analgesics and antipyreticsโ (pain relieversโ and fever reducers) like paracetamol and ibuprofen, โwith sufficient quantities to cover several days for โallโ familyโฃ members. Specifically, โขthey โฃsuggest at least 20 tablets of each, adjusted โfor children’s dosages. Additionally, antiseptic solutions – such as povidone-iodine orโ chlorhexidine – are crucial for cleaning wounds, alongside sterile gauze, bandages, and โadhesive tape. the association recommends a minimum of one bottle of โขantiseptic and a thoroughโ first-aid kit.
Beyond basic first aid, experts also highlight theโข importance of including oral rehydration salts toโ combat dehydration caused by vomiting or diarrhea, particularly vital for children and the elderly. Antacids for heartburn and indigestion, antihistamines for allergic reactions, and a โฃdigital thermometer are also considered essential components โof a home medical supply.The SEMG stresses the importance of regularly checking expiration dates and โproperly storing medications according to package instructions, keeping themโ out of reach of children.
This advice comes as healthcare โคsystems globally continue โฃto face challenges, includingโ potential surges in demand during flu season and other public health events. Havingโ a basic supply of medications at home can empower individuals to manage minor health issues effectively, โfreeing up medical resources for those with more serious conditions. The โคSEMG encourages individuals to consult โคwith their family doctor or pharmacist forโ personalized advice on building a home medicine cabinet tailored to theirโ specific needs.