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Pain specialist Paul J. Christo, M.D., M.B.A. and host of Aches &
Gain radio show, offers some easy tips to help overhaul your
medicine cabinet as you get older and ensure necessary products are
properly stored, easily accessible and on hand at home:
1. Update first aid kit essentials: Do you have the staples for
pain, fevers, stomach aches, allergies, cuts and burns? A first aid
kit should always contain items to handle these minor emergencies.
And don't forget other important items such as hearing aid
batteries, blood pressure monitoring equipment and extra eyeglasses.
2. Mitigate minor aches and pains: Muscle and joint pain becomes a
bigger problem as you age. Nearly one in five adults, or 46 million
Americans, suffer from arthritis, which is characterized by sudden
onsets of pain or swelling in the joints. Consider an alternative to
pills that can take time before relief sets in. Break the grip and
try an over-the-counter topical solution to relieve pain. Topical
medicines for arthritis can also be a good choice if you have had
stomach ulcers, bleeding from the gastrointestinal tract, or kidney
problems. Odorless and fast-acting, Aspercreme(R) is clinically
proven to provide temporary relief of minor muscle and joint pain
with its targeted, maximum strength formula.
3. Stock up on seasonal must-haves: Each season poses different
health hurdles. During winter, cold and flu medication should be
nearby. Spring brings gardening, so have an effective, targeted pain
solution in the cabinet to keep you going for hours. Summer brings
more sunlight, so protect aging skin by stashing a strong sunscreen
on your shelves. And no matter what the season, purchase only as
much as you will use to avoid throwing out expired products next
year.
4. Toss expired items: When assessing the items in your medicine
cabinet, take note of their expiration date. Properly dispose of
outdated over-the-counter pills and prescribed medications. If you
are unsure of what you should toss, check with a pharmacist. Purge
personal care products that have changed in appearance, smell or
texture. Products like toothpaste and deodorant that are beyond
their shelf life may lose potency and effectiveness.
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 5. Keep a list nearby: Remembering what needs to be replaced,
replenished or refilled is a difficult task. Simplify the situation
by keeping a piece of paper taped to the inside of the medicine
cabinet. When you notice that something is running low, simply jot a
reminder on the paper so you'll see it the next time you open the
cabinet.
6. Create a safe storage system: Make sure the products you use most
frequently are easily accessible and within an arm's reach. Place
items that treat similar symptoms on the same shelf to help keep a
cabinet organized. For example, store bandages, gauze and medical
tape together. Always keep products in their original packaging to
avoid losing important information, and store medications in a cool,
dry place since heat and moisture can alter their effectiveness.
"As you age, it's important to take stock of the supplies in your
medicine cabinet since your health can change. Cleaning out your
medicine cabinet will help prevent medication mix-ups, ensure your
medications are current, and provide peace of mind that you have
essential items to tackle life's little medical emergencies," said
Dr. Christo.
For more information about Aspercreme's targeted pain relief
solutions, visit www.aspercreme.com.
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