Every year more than 3 million Canadians end up in an ER because of an injury, but many of those visits are unnecessary because the injuries may be minor. Writer Michelle Villett checked with leading experts to find out what the essentials are about some of the basic remedies for a family first-aid kit.
For minor cuts and scrapes: Try Polysporin, Bactroban or Ozonol. These topical ointments contain antibiotic ingredients and treat against minor infections.
For minor burns/sunburns: Try Aspirin, Advil, Aleve or Tylenol. Each have different active ingredients but all work by temporarily blocking the body’s production of protaglandins, which activate pain and fever.
For insect stings and minor skin irritations: Try Life Calamine Lotion with Antihistamine, Benadryl Itch Stopping Cream, Cortoderm Ointment. These relieve symptoms of local inflammation.
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