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Ibd Sufferers: You Can End the Struggle

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Ibd Sufferers: You Can End the Struggle

I was diagnosed with ulcerative colitis eight years ago, and I was told that I would likely struggle with flare-ups for the rest of my life. I heard stories of other sufferers who had to eventually have their colons removed, and I became determined to not become part of this statistic. I was prescribed a daily medication that helps manage my condition, and although I don't like taking pills, I realize I need it to keep my colon healthy. I still experienced flares, so I began an elimination diet recommended by my doctor and found my "trigger" foods. I have now been flare-free for two years! I created this blog to help remind others with IBD that there is hope. You can end the constant struggle if you work with your doctor to try different methods of controlling your disease.

The Do's And Don'Ts Of Making A First Aid Kit For A Family Vacation

22 March 2017
 Categories: Health & Medical , Blog

Family road trips can be an exciting time to explore new lands (or at least new cities). They give you a chance to listen to tunes, sing along with them, and occasionally test the limits of togetherness in closed spaces. Mostly, they're a time for fun and family bonding.

The last thing you need is a small accident to escalate into a big problem because you don't have a first aid kit on hand. It's important to have the right first aid supplies on hand for the exact moment they're needed. Follow these do's and don'ts when you are creating a first aid kit for your next family vacation.

Do Make a List of Any Special Concerns of Family Members

The top consideration with the creation of any kit is whether any family members may need emergency first aid supplies. For example, a diabetic who has Type 1 diabetes needs to have insulin on hand. Before choosing traditional first aid supplies, be sure that the most pressing potential needs of your family will be met in case an emergency occurs on the road. That includes packing extra prescription medications.

Don't Skimp on the Supplies to Save Space

Sometimes it can be tempting to simply choose a few primary first aid kit items. Perhaps a bandage and some antibiotic cream will suffice if someone gets a small scrape, but you never know what will happen. The extra room in the glove compartment won't be worth it if someone gets hurt. Be sure to get more than the basics. Among the first aid supplies you may want to include are a first aid manual, sterile gauze pads, adhesive bandages of various sizes, a splint, soap, tweezers, safety pins, disposable heating and cooling pads, and a CPR mouthpiece (if you are trained in CPR).

Do Check Expiration Dates and Throw Out Anything That's in Doubt

Not every supply in your first aid kit will have an expiration date, but some will. Bacteria can multiply on some items with age, and never try to reuse anything in a first aid kit that's been open unless it's ointment or other item that won't be kept for a long amount of time. If you are not sure whether something should be thrown out, it's better to be safe than sorry.

Finally, keep in mind that your family's health may depend on having a well-stocked, adequately planned first aid kit. Take the time to make sure that your first aid kit for your family vacation includes all the basics that your family may need to help aid in small injuries or emergency situations.