If you have been diagnosed with heart disease, you know it is critical to take your heart disease meds properly so you can live life to the fullest. But what specifically does that mean? Here are some heart disease medication tips from Golden Harmony which will help you get the most from your medications:
- Know which medicines you’re taking. Find out their generic and brand names and make sure you comprehend what each one does. Go over the patient leaflet so you’re aware of potential side effects.
- Be sure to take your meds at the same time every day. When you work with Golden Harmony, your home care companion can remind you when it’s time to take your doses. Don’t stop or change any medicine without talking it over with the doctor first.
- Create a list of all of your medications. Include the daily dosage of each one. Maintain a copy at home as well as one in your purse or wallet.
- If you’re having a difficult time covering the cost for your medications, ask the physician for advice. Don’t skimp on doses to try to save money. This could harm your health.
- Speak with your doctor before taking non-prescription meds or herbal remedies. Some may exacerbate heart failure symptoms. These include antihistamines (like Benadryl), antacids and NSAIDS (like Motrin or Advil).
- Refill your prescription prior to running out of medicine. If you have trouble getting to the pharmacy, a home care companion can assist you in picking up the medication.
- Take your medications with you when you travel and continue to take them according to your normal routine. If you’ll be away from home for an extended period of 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 can make you cough. If you are coughing too much and are not able to sleep or take care of your daily activities, call your doctor.
- If you take diuretics (also referred to as water pills), you will probably have to go to the restroom more frequently. If you’re told to take one dose of a diuretic each day, take it in the morning. If you take two doses, be sure to take the second dose by late afternoon to prevent extra trips to the bathroom overnight.
- Be alert for indications of dehydration whenever taking diuretics. These may include intense thirst, dry mouth, darker-colored urine or reduced urine output, constipation and dizziness. If any of these red flags occur, seek advice from your doctor prior to making any modifications in medication or fluid intake.
By following these heart disease medication tips, you can minimize risk and stay healthy. Professional in-home caregivers from Golden Harmony can make life with heart disease easier to manage. We can assist with everyday activities, prepare healthy meals, offer medication reminders, take you to doctors’ appointments and the pharmacy, and help you live a life of purpose. Call 919-426-7522 to learn more about our companion care in Raleigh, NC and surrounding areas.