Are you feeling sick, but don’t know why? It may be because of your medications. It’s easy to forget that you’re becoming sick from your medications because often, the symptoms are subtle and don’t start until after you’ve been on the medication for a while. Here are some silent signs that you may be becoming sick from your medications. Take a look and see if any of them sound familiar to you. If so, talk to your doctor about whether or not you need a different medication.
The Medication List Is Not Up To Date
Maintaining a record of medicines taken may be time-consuming, but it is the only way that healthcare providers can assist in preventing drug interactions or other adverse reactions. Missing or inaccurate information may lead to unnecessary side effects, complications, or even death for the patient.
Keeping a record of all-natural treatments, supplements, vitamins, and medications are taken, as well as any over-the-counter medicines is critical. If you find that you can’t keep track of your medications or the list is always changing, ask your healthcare provider to help you create and stick to a medication schedule.
Beginning A New Prescription, Supplement Or Vitamin Routine
Medicines can activate side effects at any time; even if you have been taking the same medicine for years. When starting a new prescription, supplement, or vitamin routine, be sure to read all of the instructions and warnings. There are a few medications like antibiotics that could result in nausea after the first dose. It is critical that you let your healthcare provider know if any of these symptoms occur to prevent possible hospitalization or death.
Do not take yourself off the medication without speaking with your doctor first, as this could also be dangerous. If you are not sure how to take a new supplement or vitamin, ask your pharmacist or doctor for help.
Taking Medicine Known For Certain Side Effects
Every medication has negative effects that are linked to it. Some people knowingly take medications that have known side effects because the benefits of the medication outweigh the risks. For example, patients with high blood pressure often take a drug called Hydrochlorothiazide even though it may cause them to feel tired or nauseated.
However, if you are starting a new medication and develop any new symptoms, it is important to speak with your doctor immediately. Do not stop taking the medication without talking to your doctor first, as this could also be dangerous.
Missing Doses Or Not Taking Them On Time
Oftentimes, an individual will not think that they are taking the wrong medicine or that they should see a doctor because they feel fine. In some cases, missing one dose of medication could cause you to have the same side effects as those from another prescription. If this occurs, speak with your pharmacist or doctor about how the treatment is working for you.
Additionally, taking medication at the wrong time or not taking it as prescribed can also cause problems. Make sure to take all of your medicines as directed and to ask your pharmacist or doctor if you have any questions about how to take them.
Forgetting Over The Counter Medications
Many individuals don’t realize that it can be dangerous to take over-the-counter medications or supplements with prescription medication. Some OTC products like Tylenol, cold medicine, allergy medication, and St. John’s Wort could cause serious problems when taken together because they deplete the body of certain vitamins and minerals needed to process the prescription medicine.
Speak with your pharmacist or doctor to see if there are any interactions between the medicines you are taking and to get advice on how to take them together safely.
Herbal Remedies, Supplements And Vitamins Could Mean Trouble
Just as over-the-counter medications can interact dangerously with prescription drugs, the same is true for herbal remedies, supplements, and vitamins. Some of these products can thin your blood and lead to uncontrolled bleeding while others can affect how a particular drug is processed in your body. Always speak with your healthcare provider before taking any type of supplement and let your doctor be aware of any vitamins or herbal remedies that you are taking.
Be Aware Of The Side Effects Of Your Medication
As you can see, it is important to be aware of the many ways that you can inadvertently become sick from your medications. If you are ever in doubt about how to take a new medication or supplement, be sure to ask your pharmacist or doctor for help. It is also crucial that you let your healthcare provider know if you experience any new or unexpected side effects from the medication so you can get the help that you need.