Introduction:
At some point in our lives, many of us find ourselves having to manage one form of chronic medication or another. Conditions like hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia (cholesterol), osteoarthritis, sickle cell disease, and asthma are just a few examples from the extensive list. Despite our positive attitudes, some individuals may face challenges in adhering to their prescribed medications. Adherence, in this context, refers to consistently taking the correct dosage at the right time.
There are various reasons including the following, why adherence can be difficult, but it is crucial to acknowledge these challenges and find practical solutions.
- The prospect of taking medication for the rest of one’s life can impose a significant psychological burden on individuals.
- You feel great or normal even when you don’t take your medicine. some may mistakenly believe that they feel perfectly fine even without taking their prescribed medicine.
- Moreover, The complexity of managing multiple medications with different dosages may also be overwhelming and lead to confusion or forgetfulness.
- The medicines may be too expensive. Financial constraints might pose a barrier to obtaining medications.
- The medicine has unpleasant side effects
It is essential to recognize that all these feelings are valid and should not be underestimated or dismissed.
Overcoming Adherence Challenges
Instead of succumbing to these challenges or outright refusal to take medications, there are several helpful tips to enhance adherence and improve overall well-being:
- Take It One Day at a Time: Rather than dwelling on the endless days of medication ahead, focus on taking it one day at a time. View it as a positive action you take for yourself, a step towards a healthier future. Don’t hesitate to talk to a friend, partner, or healthcare provider about your struggles; sharing your burden can make it lighter.
- Talk to your physicians. Get to know why you are taking your medications and what they are trying to prevent. Depending on feelings alone is a risky way to monitor your general well-being
- Seek Help and Set Reminders: Leverage technology by setting reminders on your phone or using labelled weekly medication dispensers to help you remember whether you have taken your medications. Additionally, inquire about combination pills; some of your medications might be available in a single convenient pill.
- Affordability and Alternatives: Discuss medication costs with your physicians and pharmacists to explore more affordable alternatives without compromising efficacy. If necessary, explore the possibility of switching to different medications.
- Open Dialogue: Don’t be embarrassed to share unpleasant side effects. Remember that, at the end of the day, your health giver has your holistic health in mind. Dialogue helps to prioritise goals and for you to come to an acceptable middle ground.
Although managing chronic medications may feel burdensome at times, adherence (consistent, correct dosage at the correct time) is the key to unlocking the best quality of life available to you.
At Nyaho Medical Centre, we understand the complexities of managing chronic conditions and the importance of patient support. Our team of compassionate healthcare professionals is here to guide you through your healthcare journey, providing expertise, understanding, and personalized care. Together, we can work towards achieving optimal health and well-being.
