Medication side effects Archive

Diagnosing hypothyroidism can be tricky because typical symptoms (such as fatigue and trouble losing weight) have many other possible causes. Some people treated for hypothyroidism may be able to safely stop treatment with close medical monitoring.

Sudafed can nudge blood pressure higher, especially in people with hypertension. See why labels matter and when to talk with your doctor.

Discover how steroid creams, hormones, thyroid issues, and other conditions might drive new hair growth and when to seek a doctor’s advice.

Some prescription and over-the-counter drugs produce side effects that resemble problems tied to aging, such as memory lapses, balance issues, or fatigue. Older adults are more sensitive to medication side effects because their body composition and metabolism change.

People’s energy levels typically decrease later in life as a result of aging, illness, or other factors. Fortunately, a healthier lifestyle can boost energy. That involves eating a diet low in added sugars and processed foods, getting seven to nine hours of sleep each night, managing stress, getting lots of aerobic exercise, and strengthening the muscles. Using physical energy frugally is another useful strategy. For example, it helps to perform activities at a slow, steady pace instead of a fast pace; to break activities into small tasks instead of one large job; and to rest between tasks.

Originally a prostate drug, Flomax is also used off label to ease the passage of fragmented kidney stones in both men and women.

Momentary dizziness after a walk or rising from kneeling can signal blood pressure shifts, medications, heart disease, or low blood sugar. It merits a checkup.

Many common medications can affect oral health, causing issues like dry mouth, taste changes, gum swelling, mouth sores, or thrush. Patients should check side effects on medication labels, report persistent symptoms, review medications annually, and keep up with regular dental visits.

Low libido can include both less desire for and less satisfaction with sex. A variety of medications can dampen sex drive by altering hormone levels or nerve signals, dulling sensation in the genitals, or triggering fatigue or mood changes. They include some antidepressants, cardiovascular drugs, antihistamines, antiseizure drugs, opioids, chemotherapy, hormone blockers, oral contraceptives, and fertility drugs. People whose medications affect their libido can ask their doctor to adjust the dose or timing or substitute another drug without sexual side effects.

MRI contrast dye is widely used and considered safe. It helps highlight blood vessels, tumors, and other structures to improve diagnostic accuracy. Rarely, contrast dye can trigger a serious condition called nephrogenic systemic fibrosis in people with advanced kidney disease.