Doctor reveals: These are the essentials your medicine cabinet should contain

During the summer, many people spend more time outdoors, increasing the risk of minor cuts, insect bites, and discomfort caused by the sun and heat.

For that reason, it is a good idea to be prepared, according to Yle, as reported by News55.

A well-stocked medicine cabinet can make it easier to deal with minor injuries and common summer ailments before they become more serious.

Common summer health problems

According to Yle, intense sunshine and high temperatures can lead to sunburn and heatstroke.

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Frequent swimming can also cause irritation or infections of the ear canal, which can often be treated with over-the-counter ear drops.

Tick bites are also common during the summer.

Yle advises that you should contact a doctor if a red rash more than five centimetres in diameter develops around the bite site one to four weeks after a tick bite, as this may be a sign of Lyme disease.

People with allergies may benefit from antihistamines, while hydrocortisone cream can help relieve itching caused by mosquito bites and other insect bites.

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Adder bites are rare but should always be assessed by a doctor, as they can cause severe swelling and pain.

What should you always have on hand?

Yle recommends keeping adhesive bandages, wound dressings, disinfectant, pain relief medication, antihistamines, hydrocortisone cream, antibacterial ointment, medication for constipation or diarrhoea, a tick remover, and sunscreen at home.

According to general practitioner Jan Selenius, however, medication is not the most important factor.

He told Yle that common sense and prevention provide the best protection.

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This includes protecting yourself from the sun, paying attention to your body's warning signs, and being prepared for the most common health challenges of the summer season.

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