Wednesday, Sep 1, 2010Consider Alternative Medicine Choices

Pharmaceutical medicines are big business and are prescribed to cure illnesses, as a preventative against sickness, or to help tolerate a long term medical condition. However, there is also a community which promotes the use of alternative medicine, such as herbal remedies, as an alternative healing source. Metaphysical healing using mind power is a third alternative.

Beginning in the eleventh century, medical texts were very rare.  It wasn’t until the fourteenth century when they began to appear and were used as reference by apothecaries. And doesn’t this make you wonder what people did to cope with their illnesses prior to the medical education for doctors? I believe the world of alternative medicine runs parallel to the world of pharmaceuticals, and it might be wise to investigate both.

You can buy medicines over the counter (OTC) and via prescription.  It’s important to have a doctor’s authorization to be sure your medications are not competing with one another. Your doctor or your pharmacist are both capable of knowing the compatibility of your medications so be sure to discuss this before you take them. They will want to know:

• What pills you’re currently taking, including OTC pills
• What dosage you are taking
• Have there been any problems or reactions
• Are you pregnant?

It’s wise to educate yourself so that your own understanding parallels the education of the doctor or the pharmacist, if you are going to follow the route of prescriptives.  You can learn a lot through asking questions of your doctor or pharmacist. Don’t hesitate to ask, and if you are not receiving satisfying answers, ask another medical professional or ask a different question.  Here are some examples of data you might want to know:

• How can this medication help me?
• Within what time frame can I expect it to work?
• Is there an alternative medicine that would help me?
• What would happen to me if I don’t take this medication?
• Should I take it on an empty or a full stomach?
• When and how many per day should I take?
• What are the side effects?
• Should I avoid drinks when I take this medication?

Observe carefully your reaction to taking the medication.  Let your doctor know if you develop worse symptoms. IF you have an allergic reaction or you have shortness of breath, quit taking the medication and talk to your physician immediately.  Sometimes food or drink can affect you when you take certain medications, alcohol being just one. Be sure to let your doctor know about all reactions you observe.

If you are taking water pills, birth control pills or antacids, let your doctor know because they can cause nutritional deficiencies over a period of time. You can correct these imbalances with nutrition and you need to be aware this can happen over a period of time.

Alternatively, many people praise the raw food regimen which they tout as healing many illnesses like high blood pressure and diabetes. Again, it is wise to inform your doctor if you are going to use an alternative healing regimen.

It’s better to be safe than to be sorry.  Be sure your doctor or pharmacist has a list of every medication that has been prescribed for you. Be diligent about telling your doctor(s) about any negative reactions. Only take medication that is absolutely necessary. Make sure OTC medications are still sealed.  If you’re unsure about the use of an OTC medication, ask the pharmacist. Don’t take anyone else’s prescription.  If you have unused medication, dispose of it in a way that does not contaminate the water supply.  Keep medications out of the reach of children.

Alternative medical remedies abound.  Be sure to investigate them thoroughly, and if you are in a critical health situation, inform your doctor before you experiment with an alternative remedy. Using alternative medicine, prescriptions, alternative healing herbal remedies, OTC medications or metaphysical healing requires understanding of the chosen method. Your health is your most important commodity.  Guard it wisely.