If you've been diagnosed with heart disease, you're aware that it’s critical to take your medications correctly. But what specifically does that mean? Here are a few helpful heart disease medication tips from Effraim Home Care, the Abington area home care experts:
- Be aware of what medicines you’re taking. Learn their generic and brand names and make sure you understand what each one does. Thoroughly read the patient leaflet so you’re informed about potential side effects.
- Take your medicine at the same time every day. When you work with Effraim Home Care, your caregiver can help remind you when it’s time to take your next dose. Never stop or alter any medicine without first talking to the doctor.
- Make a list of all of your medications. Include the daily dose of each one. Keep a copy at home and one in your purse or wallet.
- If you’re having a difficult time covering the cost for your medications, ask the doctor for recommendations. Don’t skimp on doses to try to save money. Doing this could harm your health.
- Check with your doctor prior to taking any over-the-counter medicines or herbal remedies. Some could aggravate heart failure symptoms. These include antihistamines (like Benadryl), antacids and NSAIDS (such as Motrin or Advil).
- Refill your prescription before running out of medicine. If you struggle with getting to the pharmacy, a caregiver can assist you in picking up the medication.
- Take your medicines with you when you travel and continue to take them on your normal schedule. If you’ll be away from home for a long time, take an extra week’s supply. Be sure to bring a copy of your prescriptions with you in the event that you need a refill.
- At times, ACE inhibitors may make you cough. If you are coughing excessively and can’t sleep or take care of your daily activities, call the doctor.
- If you take diuretics (also known as water pills), you’ll likely have to go to the restroom more frequently. If you’re advised to take one dose of a diuretic every day, take it in the morning. If you need to take two doses, be sure to take the second one by late afternoon to prevent additional trips to the bathroom overnight.
- Watch for signs of dehydration when taking diuretics. These may include intense thirst, dry mouth, darker-colored urine or lower urine output, constipation and feeling dizzy. If any of these symptoms occur, check with your doctor before making any changes to medication or fluid intake.
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