Flu Must-Haves and Must-Haves You Need to Buy Before You Get Sick

It seems like everyone has a case of the sniffles these days.

Americans are currently grappling with a “quadmic” like mix of three respiratory viruses and an insect-like stomach upset that is wreaking havoc across the country.

The smartest move: Don’t wait until you’re coughing up a lung or huddled by the toilet to stock up on cold and flu essentials. The post spoke to the experts to get the lowdown on what you need to have on hand to get through the season.

In the pharmacy center

If you want to avoid blurring relief when illness strikes, there are some over-the-counter lifesavers you’ll want in your medicine cabinet.

“Cough medicine with dextromethorphan can calm coughs, while guaifenesin helps loosen mucus,” said Dr. Neil Bhavsar, an emergency medicine physician at Columbia & Cornell, the integrated medicine residency of emergency at New York Presbyterian, at the Post. “Also stock up on fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.”

If sinus problems hit hard, nasal sprays with phenylephrine or oxymetazoline can help clear congestion, said Christopher Gold, an internal medicine specialist at Mount Sinai Doctors-Ansonia.

But here’s the catch: you don’t want to overdo it. Gold recommended limiting use of the nasal spray to just three days to avoid a feared rebound effect, which he warns could trigger a cycle of overuse.

For more severe sinus congestion or a head cold, Gold said oral decongestant pills containing pseudoephedrine might help, but with caution.

“Pseudoephedrine has the potential to slightly elevate blood pressure, especially for people with existing hypertension, or causes agitation or elevated heart rate, so that is something to consider,” he said. -he explained.

When purchasing decongestants, Gold advised staying away from those that contain phenylephrine. “Recent evidence concludes that it generally does not provide much benefit and may cause similar side effects,” he said.

For a sore throat, lozenges are your best friend. Gold said they will help soothe the pain and ease that persistent post-viral cough that many patients complain about. Some cough drops even contain menthol to help clear the airways.

An important note: “Many over-the-counter medications contain multiple active ingredients, so it’s prudent to look at the medications they contain to make sure you’re not doubling up on certain ingredients,” Gold cautioned.

Don’t Skip Supplements

While it’s smart to remain skeptical about the effectiveness of certain supplements, experts say there are a few that might actually help you fend off illness and start feeling better faster.

“Regularly taking vitamin C could reduce the severity and duration of a cold,” Bhavsar explained. “Zinc lozenges can also help if taken early, but avoid taking too much to avoid stomach problems.”

Gold also gave zinc the thumbs-up, although he said it seems to work best when taken at the first sign of symptoms.

“Echinacea and elderberry are often considered to help shorten the duration of the flu or relieve symptoms, although the evidence is mixed,” Gold said.

To prevent infections, Bhavsar suggested immune-boosting probiotics and vitamin D if you’re underactive.

In the kitchen

Feeling better doesn’t just come in a bottle – there are plenty of home remedies that can also provide comfort.

“Honey is not only soothing, but also contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory components that can be helpful for a cough or sore throat,” Gold said. “It can sometimes be as effective as over-the-counter cough syrups.”

Bhavsar agreed on Honey’s benefits but offered a crucial warning: “It can be toxic to children under one year old because they are not developed enough to process it.”

Your pantry contains another weapon: salt.

“Salt water gargles can be soothing for a sore throat and also help loosen secretions,” Gold said.

If congestion has you down, Gold suggested trying a sinus rinse. You can make one at home using non-iodized salt, baking soda, and distilled water. Simply grab a neti pot or saline bottle (available at most drugstores) to clear nasal passages.

And don’t forget the fluids. “Focus on liquids to stay hydrated — water, tea or broth work great,” Bhavsar said. “Chicken soup is also a classic for a reason; it’s soothing and can reduce congestion.”

Additionally, foods packed with vitamins, like fruits, vegetables and lean proteins, can help speed recovery, Bhavsar said.

Essential tools

Some gadgets aren’t just for convenience – they’re essential for monitoring and managing your symptoms.

“Having a thermometer at home is always recommended,” Gold said. “While types and accuracy may vary, the best thermometer depends on what is easier to use.”

For example, a digital or oral thermometer is quick and easy for adults, while an eardrum thermometer, which is inserted into the ear, may be more convenient for infants.

For those with serious underlying health conditions like heart disease or lung problems, Gold suggested using a pulse oximeter to check your oxygen levels. “If low, it could potentially mean a worsening lung infection or development of pneumonia.”

You might also consider getting a humidifier. Although the evidence for the benefits of humidified air or cool mist is inconsistent, Gold said many patients report symptomatic relief when using them.