How do we get from eating an apple a day to keep the doctor away to needing a pill organizer for all of our medications so quickly? “Someday” comes faster than we anticipate!
To combat pain and the effects of aging, multiple prescriptions, along with over-the-counter medications, can be common. However, juggling the medications we’re prescribed may not only feel daunting but can sometimes prove to be dangerous.
Remember that you have a voice as a medical patient or a pharmacy customer. Sometimes, medications prescribed to help us can do more harm than good. When in doubt, always check it out!
Medication Safety Tips:
- If possible, use the same pharmacy and doctor (pharmacy or doctor hopping can increase your risk for adverse reactions to medications prescribed to you).
- Follow your prescription instructions; never take more medication than prescribed.
- Keep a current list of all over-the-counter medications and supplements you use.
- Store your medications in a safe place and dispose of them with the help of your local pharmacy when they’re no longer needed or expired.
- Watch for medications that look unfamiliar in size or color or if the number of pills you need to take has changed (if you experience an unexpected hospital stay, don’t recognize the pills being given, or are unaware of what’s being provided, ask).
Common Side Effects from Multiple Medications:
- Blurred Vision
- Bleeding
- Bruising
- Cognitive Impairment
- Confusion
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Dry Mouth
- Falls
- Headaches
- Indigestion
- Loss of Balance
- Skin Rash
- Sleep disturbances (insomnia or sleepiness)
Make the Most of Medical Appointments:
- See your medical providers as often as recommended or as new needs occur. During your appointment, discuss your medications.
- At your doctor’s visit, inform them of any new health issues and all medications you’re taking.
- Tell your doctor if you’re experiencing medication side effects or are concerned before starting new prescriptions.
- If you struggle to recall important information during medical appointments, bring someone with you to help communicate, or write a list of questions and concerns to bring with you.
- Following a medical appointment, you may request a patient summary to be printed or emailed.
- Ask for a printed medication list following an appointment to review the information and be sure it’s accurate.
- Keep a current medication list (including supplements, vitamins, and over-the-counter meds) handy for appts.
- If you’re seen in the ER or hospitalized, follow up with your primary care provider or ask your medical team to inform them of any new findings, procedures, or prescriptions.
- Tell your doctor about any allergies you have (if appropriate, wear medical jewelry).
- As a patient, you are at the center of the team; remember that YOU call the shots.
- If managing your healthcare needs is taxing and confusing or you don’t feel you can do it independently, appoint a trusted healthcare decision-maker to help.
Additional Tips:
As a patient, you can refuse treatment and seek second or third opinions if necessary. Be consistent in reporting your needs and concerns, and always be forthcoming about your medications. Consistency is key to managing your healthcare needs and staying safe when taking prescriptions. If you should find yourself struggling to manage your medications or have a new health condition, find out if you’re eligible for home health services.
Medicare typically covers home health services, and sometimes, having a little extra help to get used to dealing with a new medical issue can go a long way, especially if you live alone. Living alone, you may not recognize a medication’s side effects or be able to manage a life-threatening side effect on your own.
Home healthcare services can offer a nurse to visit your home to help you understand your condition, manage your medications, and monitor your vitals to ensure your health. They can also recommend helpful services and safety interventions to keep your home a safe place to be.
If you’d like to learn more, contact CaringEdge at info@caringedge.com.
