REVIEW: Many people have a childlike faith in drugs and medicines. They take them for every conceivable ailment. But using big-gun medicines for flyswatter problems, or for problems that should be solved by lifestyle measures, can leave you tired, depleted, and depressed. Use medications--both prescription and over-the-counter drugs--sparingly and with care.
Pain as Warning
Too many people run to the medicine cabinet whenever they feel the slightest ache or pain. They don’t realize that pain often acts as a warning system telling us something is wrong.
We may be eating too much, drinking too much, smoking too much, or taking on obligations beyond our capacities. When pain is blocked by drugs, we ignore these causes rather than changing the behaviors that are causing the pain in the first place. This kind of neglect sets the stage for more serious diseases.
Two Categories of Drugs
Some drugs attack the cause of a problem; others mainly relieve symptoms. If you take any medications, list them in the spaces below. Write a C next to those that attack the cause of the problem. Put an S by those that simply help relieve symptoms.
Your Challenge
Don’t go running to the medicine cabinet for every little ache and pain. The “cure” is often worse than the problem. When you must take a drug, be sure you ask the right questions from your healthcare professional.
You won’t have the answers if you don’t ask the questions. These are the questions you need to ask:
• What is the full name and strength of the medication?
• How will the medicine help me?
• What are the risks?
• What side effects can I expect?
• How, when, and for how long do I take it?
• What should I do if I miss a dose?
• Is there written information I can take with me?
• Is there a non-drug alternative for my problem?