what every #sickchick should keep in her bag

If you have an autoimmune disease, you know that body flare-ups are no joke. They take over us, no matter where we are or what we are doing–on a flight with no hospital in reach, or in the middle of a meeting in which you are speaking (all eyes on YOU). Although we have no control over how our bodies react, we do have a choice of how our minds can react.

Here are some things you NEED with you at all times in order to handle the embarrassing, unexpected flare-up with grace. The great thing about these items is that they are super compact and accessible at any drugstore or corner store, if you are on the go and don’t have a lot of room in your purse.

1. Extra Strength Tylenol

This pretty much goes without saying. We all have encountered a random, sudden headache every now and then. I always make sure I have one of these travel sized tubes and pop one right at the onset of a headache so I can avoid a migraine at all costs, within minutes.

2. Emergen-C

Since our immune systems are compromised and don’t take care of us as well as everyone else’s, it makes sense to add more vitamin C to our diet–either in multivitamin form or this nifty vitamin C packet. The morning after a long night of clubbing, being at a crowded concert, or a congested airport, I drink this mixed in a bottle of water to aid my body in fighting off any possible viruses that were in the air around me.

3. Walgreens Ice & Cold Compress

The box is bulky, but once you take it out and tuck it away in your bag, you’re good. This is perfect for sudden headaches, muscle spasms, and leg cramps. It can be microwaved or frozen, and it stays in place whenever you secure it with the velcro pouch. I personally love to wrap it around my head frozen so it can constrict the blood flow to my head temporarily (if I feel a migraine coming on).

4. Eos Lip Balm

This minty smooth balm is small, convenient, and only 3 bucks. It’s super moisturizing, too.

5. Johnson’s Baby Powder

For me, sweating and quick “hot flashes” come with no warning…and often. So I like to keep something like this on hand at all times. It will absorb the extra sweat on your back or underarms and have you smelling like a baby at the same time.

6. Nyx Shine Killer

This gloss goes on my shiny skin and leaves a matte finish, mimicking a concealer or foundation. I love it.