senior care services to take some of the burden

Posted on: 2 September 2021

There is no substitute for good health. The best way to stay healthy is to give your body the things it needs, especially when you're feeling sick. Fortunately, you can find most of the health care supplies you need at your local drug store. Drug stores offer over-the-counter medications, pharmacy services, and more. Here are some products and services offered at drug stores that can help you stay healthy:

1. Oral Rehydration Solution

Many people suffer from mild dehydration on a regular basis as a result of not drinking enough water. However, dehydration can quickly become deadly if it gets severe. Stomach bugs can lead to dehydration, especially if a person is suffering from diarrhea and vomiting. Fevers can likewise cause dehydration. In cases of serious dehydration, drinking plain water may not be adequate to rehydrate a person. That's where oral rehydration solutions come in. These special solutions contain water and electrolytes, the salts that human bodies need in order to maintain regular function. They're also typically flavored to make them more palatable. You can stock up on oral rehydration solutions at your local drug store.

2. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

NSAIDs are a category of drugs that includes ibuprofen, acetaminophen, and naproxen, among others. NSAIDs are over-the-counter pain relievers that can also reduce inflammation. Many people take NSAIDs on a daily basis to relieve their headaches and soothe body aches. NSAIDs can also be used to treat fevers. Although fevers are the body's way of fighting off infections, high fevers can be dangerous, and even mild fevers can make a person feel sick and uncomfortable. Using an over-the-counter fever reducer is a safe way to lower your temperature when you're fighting an illness.

3. Cold Remedies

Everyone gets sick sometimes. The rhinovirus is one of the most common illnesses that affect people, especially during the winter. There is no cure for the common cold, but you can treat your symptoms using over-the-counter drugs. Drug stores sell every type of over-the-counter medication that you might need to make it through your illness. You can find nasal decongestants to clear a stuffy nose, lozenges to soothe sore throats, and antihistamines to treat itchy eyes and noses. If you're unsure which cold remedies are right for you, a pharmacy technician can advise you.

4. Pharmacy Services

Most drug stores also contain pharmacies. Pharmacies fill prescriptions written by doctors, allowing patients to access types of medications that they wouldn't be able to purchase over-the-counter. At a pharmacy, patients can obtain antidepressants, prescription pain medication, blood pressure medication, birth control pills, and more. Pharmacies are staffed by pharmacy technicians who fill prescriptions and offer patient education. Pharmacists are often more knowledgeable about drugs than doctors, according to The Healthy, so you should take the time to talk to a pharmacist when picking up your prescription. This is especially true if you're unsure about how to take your new medication. Pharmacists can tell patients about potential side effects, as well as any drug interactions they should watch out for.

5. Vaccinations

Finally, many drug store pharmacies offer vaccination services to the general public. If you still haven't gotten your COVID-19 vaccine or you're due for your flu shot, you can stop at your local drug store for your shot. Getting vaccinated at a drug store is safe and easy. Many people find it more convenient to get vaccinated at a pharmacy than to make an appointment at their regular doctor's office. During your appointment, you will be asked to provide your doctor's contact information. This will allow the pharmacy to send your vaccination information to your primary care physician so they can update your records.