Spring Allergy Meds, Pain Relievers + First Aid Kit Supplies Everyone Should Have On Hand

Spring has sprung, people!

And that means everything that comes with it has arrived, too.

All the good — the fresh grass, the flowers, the long walks and the scenic bike rides — and the, er, less than pleasant: the gardening nicks, the outdoor adventure scratches, and yes, the capital A allergies!

Lucky for us, our good friend Dr. Ian Smith was kind enough to open his medicine cabinet and first-aid kit to us, so we can stock up on everything we need to survive the season.

Let's go!

KEEP ALLERGY MEDS HANDY

To combat the least likable thing about the season — allergy aggravation — Dr. Ian says you'll want one of two things in your medicine cabinet: antihistamine or diphenhydramine. You can take one or the other; it really comes down to what works best for you.

Can allergy medications make you drowsy?

Diphenhydramine does cause drowsiness, so if that's a concern, opt for an antihistamine instead, Dr. Ian says.

KNOW YOUR PAIN RELIEVERS

There's a big uptick in injuries between winter and spring because people are coming out of hibernation. (Especially this year.) We were all sedentary, and now we're outside and active. Be prepared in the event of any potential injuries by having aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen on hand.

What's the difference between aspirin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen?

• Aspirin is good for minor pain and inflammation. But keep in mind, it's also a blood thinner, so certain people can't take it, Dr. Ian says.
• Ibuprofen is an NSAID and helps most with discomfort that comes with inflammation (i.e. redness, swelling, heat, pain, and loss of function at the site). That makes it an especially good pick for back and neck pain, earaches, and muscle sprains, according to the doc.
• Finally, Acetaminophen is an analgesic, meaning it reduces pain signals within the nervous system, as opposed to the site itself. That makes it a good choice for headaches, joint pain and sore throats, Dr. Ian says.

As everyone is unique, you can see which one (or ones) work best for you and keep them handy.

REFRESH YOUR FIRST-AID KIT

Here's Dr. Ian's shortlist of what to keep in your first-aid kit, which, the more you go outside, the more you'll be grateful for a fully stocked kit!

Basics to have in your first aid kit:

• Bandages
• Gauze
• Self-adhesive wrap
• Scissors
• Tweezers
• Antiseptic wipes