Could Your Medication Be Causing These Symptoms?
A medication may be prescribed to treat a specific condition, but it can affect other parts of the body as well. These effects can sometimes lead to symptoms you may not immediately connect to your medication.
Several factors can influence whether you experience side effects and how noticeable they are. These include the medication and dose, your age, other health conditions and how your body processes the medication. The kidneys and liver play an important role in clearing many medications from the body, and changes in how these organs function can affect how medications work.
Taking multiple medications can also increase the chance of side effects or interactions. For this reason, it is important to keep your provider and pharmacist informed about everything you take, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and supplements.
Experiencing a side effect does not necessarily mean you need to stop taking the medication. Talk with your provider about what you’re experiencing. They can help determine whether the medication may be causing your symptoms and whether an adjustment or another option may be appropriate.
Symptoms You May Not Connect to Your Medication
Dizziness or Lightheadedness
Blood pressure medications, diuretics, sedatives and some antidepressants can cause dizziness or lightheadedness, particularly when standing up. These side effects can increase the risk of falls, especially for older adults. Standing up slowly may help, but if dizziness or balance problems continue, talk with your provider. They may be able to adjust your medication or recommend additional ways to manage the symptom.
Fatigue and Drowsiness
Some medications, including antihistamines, muscle relaxants, beta blockers and certain pain medications, may cause tiredness or drowsiness during the day. This may improve as your body adjusts to the medication, but if it continues or starts affecting your daily routine, talk with your provider. Use caution when driving or performing other tasks that require alertness.
Constipation and Digestive Changes
Opioids, iron supplements, some antacids and certain blood pressure medications can cause digestive side effects such as constipation, nausea or an upset stomach. Drinking plenty of water and getting enough fiber may help with constipation. For nausea or stomach upset, follow the directions for taking your medication, including any instructions about taking it with food.
If symptoms continue, get worse or become difficult to manage, talk with your provider. They may be able to adjust your medication or recommend ways to help manage the side effects.
If you’re experiencing abdominal pain, learn more about when symptoms may need medical attention in our guide to abdominal pain and when it becomes an emergency.
Dry Mouth
Antihistamines, antidepressants, diuretics and some medications for overactive bladder can cause dry mouth. Saliva helps protect your teeth and gums, so ongoing dry mouth can increase the risk of cavities and other oral health problems. Sipping water throughout the day and using sugar-free gum or lozenges may help. If dry mouth continues, talk with your provider and mention it to your dentist at your next visit.
Confusion or Memory Changes
Sleep aids, sedatives and some bladder and allergy medications can affect alertness, concentration or memory, particularly in adults over 65. If you or a family member notices new or worsening confusion, forgetfulness or difficulty concentrating, talk with your provider. They can review your medications and help determine whether a medication or another health issue may be contributing.
Unexplained Weight, Mood or Sleep Changes
Steroids, some antidepressants and thyroid medications can affect appetite, mood or sleep. If you notice changes in your weight, mood or sleep after starting a new medication or changing a dose, talk with your provider. They can help determine whether your medication may be contributing and whether any changes are needed.
When to Get Help for a Medication Side Effect
Some medication reactions require immediate medical attention. Call 911 or seek emergency care for symptoms such as:
- Trouble breathing
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat
- Chest pain
- Fainting or loss of consciousness
- Sudden or severe confusion
Other side effects may not be emergencies but should still be discussed with your provider, especially if they continue, get worse or interfere with your daily activities. These may include:
- Ongoing dizziness or fatigue
- Constipation or other digestive changes that don’t improve
- Persistent dry mouth
- A new or worsening rash
- Changes in mood or sleep
Do not stop taking a prescription medication without first talking with your provider. Some medications need to be reduced gradually, and your provider can help determine the safest next step.
How to Track Symptoms and Prepare for Your Appointment
Keeping track of your symptoms can help your provider better understand what may be causing them. Note what you’re experiencing, when it happens and whether it occurs before or after taking a medication. Bring an updated list of all prescription medications, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins and supplements to your appointment.
Review your medications with your provider regularly, particularly if you take several medications or have had recent changes. Your pharmacist is also a valuable resource for questions about side effects, interactions and how to take your medications safely.
Medication side effects can be frustrating, but you do not have to manage them alone. If you notice a new or unexpected symptom, talk with your provider or pharmacist about what you’re experiencing and what options may be available.
Primary Care and Medication Reviews at Wood County Hospital
A primary care provider can review your complete medication list, discuss possible side effects and interactions and determine whether any changes may be appropriate. Regular medication reviews are especially important if you take several medications, see multiple specialists or have recently started a new prescription.
Wood County Hospital offers primary care at locations throughout the area. To get started, find a provider or contact our team.