A Message from our Medical Confidence Team of Nurses

We have seen a lot of recommendations on how to avoid getting coronavirus such as handwashing, social distance and self-isolation.   We are being encouraged to “Be prepared”.

Yes, it is important that we have the essentials to ensure we have the nutrition we need, and for some reason plenty of paper products, but we cannot forget to have those essentials on hand to see us through and manage the symptoms of seasonal allergies, common cold, influenza or coronavirus.

Suggested Medications to have on hand to manage your symptoms

1. Over the counter fever and pain reducing medication:

Stories have been circulating online suggesting it is dangerous to take common fever and pain reduction medications such as ibuprofen if you have coronavirus.  False messages alongside genuine medical advice creates confusion.  To help you discern fact from fiction and make better decisions for your health we hope you will find this helpful.

• Both ibuprofen (Advil) and acetaminophen (Tylenol) are used to treat aches, pain and fever, and are often sold in combination with other mediations, such as many cold medications
• Currently, there is no strong evidence that ibuprofen can make coronavirus worse, and authorities around the world continue to suggest taking it to treat symptoms, unless your health practitioner has told you it is not suitable for you.
• Consider adult and children strength, to manage symptoms and use as directed.
• Always check the label and make sure you are not doubling up on acetaminophen or ibuprofen as they are contained in many of the over the counter medications.

Please be aware over the counter medicines can have harmful interactions.

It is important that you consult with your pharmacist or healthcare provider regarding medication interactions.

For example: If you are on blood thinners, Advil/Ibuprofen/Motrin should not be used by you. If you are on blood pressure medication, it is best to speak with your pharmacist before taking any over the counter cough/cold medicine.

Additionally, this link provides medication interactions: www.rxlist.com/drug-interaction-checker.htm

2. Existing prescriptions

• Inhalers and medications

If you have a history of lung conditions and have prescription inhalers, make sure the ones you have are not expired, refill or get new ones, if required.

It’s always a good idea to keep a supply of pre-existing prescriptions on hand.  We encourage you to consider having up to a month of medications – to help conserve healthcare resources and any potential supply chain delays.

If you have a pre-existing lung condition (COPD, emphysema, lung cancer) or are on immunosuppressants, now is a great time to talk to your primary care provider or specialist about what they would like you to do if you get sick. They might have plans to get you admitted and bypass the hospital emergency entirely.  

Additional tips when dealing with coronavirus

3. Mom’s essential remedy -Vick’s VapoRub for chest congestion
4. A working thermometer to check your temperature. As a reminder a normal temperature is 37 degrees Celsius
5. A humidifier might be helpful for sinus and chest congestion OR you may also just turn the shower on hot and sit in the bathroom breathing in the steam
6. Meal prep, cook extra and freeze to have on hand
7. Drink plenty of CLEAR fluids! Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate
8. Take this time to rest lots and let your body recover.
9. This is a time when we need to care about reach other -check in with family/neighbours/friends who live alone

Remember

*** Avoid leaving your house when possible. If you require a medical visit, call ahead for instructions and to make sure they are open.

Our health services are trying to maintain capacity for those who truly need it.  Each province’s criteria vary, but tend to require that people have a combination of symptoms before being tested.  So, unless you have a cough and fever over 38, or recent out of country travel or close contact with a probable/confirmed case, a compromised immune system or a pre-existing condition that increases your risk of severe symptoms – you will currently not need to be tested.

Prior to setting out to be tested, please verify with your local resources that you are a match based on your provincial testing criteria.

You do not need to go to the emergency room unless you are having trouble breathing or your fever is very high and unmanaged with medication. The majority of healthy cases thus far have been managed at home with basic rest/hydration/over-the-counter medication. Remember though, don’t try to be a hero – If you are unsure, scared or anxious about what to do, please contact your primary health provider.

The entire world is united in a time of caution and uncertainty and in these times, please remember to be kind and care for each other.

Your Medical Confidence Nursing Team
Learn more at https://medicalconfidence.com/about-us/

Disclaimer

Please note that Medical Confidence is not your healthcare provider and cannot provide you with specific medical advice, make a diagnosis or recommend treatment.  Always consult with your primary health provider.