Another easy thing to do is to take the time to actually read the medical handout that comes with every prescription. Most pharmacies now attach their own information sheet that addresses many of these issues, but it can be dense information and it's easy to set it aside to read it later. I know I'm guilty of it.
It seems "silly" to detail a list of everything you take to a doctor, but it isn't. Even aspirin or ibuprofen or acetiminophen can interact with some prescriptions. And with today's availability of supplements and herbal remedies, the list of things you are taking is surely as individual as you are.
I think some people are shy about admitting to a doctor that they take herbal supplements, for instance. Maybe they fear being told that the supplement won't do anything for them, or that it's a waste of money. Maybe they worry that they'll be asked to explain why they're taking it, and that their explanation won't sound educated or informed.
However, the cost could be enormous if the body takes in substances that overwhelm its ability to process them correctly. Don't be afraid to be honest. If it's easier, just write everything you take on a piece of paper and keep it in your wallet. When the time comes to talk about them, you'll look -- and, more importantly, feel -- more informed. And your doctor will appreciate it.
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Great points, Alison.
Another easy thing to do is to take the time to actually read the medical handout that comes with every prescription. Most pharmacies now attach their own information sheet that addresses many of these issues, but it can be dense information and it's easy to set it aside to read it later. I know I'm guilty of it.
It seems "silly" to detail a list of everything you take to a doctor, but it isn't. Even aspirin or ibuprofen or acetiminophen can interact with some prescriptions. And with today's availability of supplements and herbal remedies, the list of things you are taking is surely as individual as you are.
I think some people are shy about admitting to a doctor that they take herbal supplements, for instance. Maybe they fear being told that the supplement won't do anything for them, or that it's a waste of money. Maybe they worry that they'll be asked to explain why they're taking it, and that their explanation won't sound educated or informed.
However, the cost could be enormous if the body takes in substances that overwhelm its ability to process them correctly. Don't be afraid to be honest. If it's easier, just write everything you take on a piece of paper and keep it in your wallet. When the time comes to talk about them, you'll look -- and, more importantly, feel -- more informed. And your doctor will appreciate it.
November 7, 2008 - 10:16amThis Comment
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