Senior Health
Over the Counter Medications Pose Risks

Written by Sky Taylor, Diet Bites

Doctor's Common Prescription: Take 2 Aspirins & Don't Call Me in the Morning

The amount of drugs commonly found in the average medicine cabinet these days is down-right frightening.

We've got a cure for all ills - from tummy woes to tootsie aches. But are we really making our bodies healthier with quick-fixes or are we suffering from drug overload?

From ointments to lotions - everything that we put onto our skin enters the bloodstream.

A pill, a cream, a lotion or a silver bullet for constipation may bring temporary relief but it's important to get to the root of our physical woes.

When we experience frequent physical pain, it's time for a quick trip to the doctor's office - but even this brings about the issue of over-medicating.

Many doctors prescribe a barrage of pills for a common tummy ache that could be cured with a shift in the daily diet.

Health Risks Associated With Over the Counter Medications & Prescription Drugs

And have you ever read those warning sheets that accompany prescription medicines? Risks may range from any of the following, depending upon the medication and the personal reaction or side effect.

1. Digestive issues which include a vast range of symptoms. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, bloating, and abdominal ache.

2. All medicines have the risk of causing reactions when combined with particular foods OR other medications.

3. Urinary track reactions - from difficultly urinating to blood in the urine, to kidney damage.

4. Allergic reactions which often include skin swelling, rash, blotches, itching, watery eyes, hives, difficulty breathing and yes, even death.

5. Serious reactions, even to simply over the counter medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs can cause stroke, heart-related issues, kidney issues or death.

Yes - there are times when our bodies require the healing hand of our physician, but perhaps it is time for us to rethink our use of handy medicines that provide temporary relief.

At one time, many of our current over-the-counter medications were available only by prescription.

Rethinking Medications

The next time that you get a mild headache before you run to your medicine cabinet and guzzle down a tablet with a glass of water, consider the risks.

What is your pain level? Is there something that you can do which won't increase health risks or potential side effects associated with medications?

Whether it's your head that's in pain or another area of your body, ask yourself these questions.

What about a quick massage? Warmth or cold applied to the area? Breathing exercises?

And of course, if the pain is intense you should contact your doctor.

In Conclusion

There are times when over the counter medications can assist in making us feel better. However, NONE cure common ills. They can block nerves, easing the pain and they can help us have a temporary break from pain - not always, though.

If you have persisting pain which keep reoccurring, it's vital to your health to determine the root cause. It's the first step in becoming pain free going forward.

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