For those chronic conditions which cannot be treated with lifestyle remedies, medications are often prescribed.   Many people are actually on multiple medications for these conditions.  Each medication has its own side effects so in combination, some medications may interact with one another, causing other, unexpected side effects.  

Two of the most common chronic diseases which people are medicated for are heart disease and diabetes. Let’s explore how being on medications for these diseases could be affecting you, and not just by treating your disease.   

Diabetes
Diabetes is a leading cause of heart disease and stroke and is the seventh leading cause of death in the U.S.  Depending on the type of diabetes, the treatment plan will differ; however, all will begin with lifestyle changes such as weight loss, physical activity, healthy diet and monitoring blood sugar levels.  If these are not effective, sulfonylureas are often the first line of medication. 

Side effects often include hypoglycemia, nausea, skin reactions, sensitivity to sunlight, and abnormal liver function.  Metformin is often used as the next medication and side effects include diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, flatulence, and muscle weakness.  Insulin is often the last line of medication and can be injected when needed or can be injected via a pump automatically.  Side effects can include low blood sugar, reaction at the injection site, seizures and confusion.

Heart Disease
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in both men and women. Aspirin is the most commonly used medication for primary and secondary prevention of heart disease.  The most common side effect associated with aspirin is an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding as this medication can eat away at your stomach lining.

Statins are used to aid in high cholesterol patients and carry side effects such as liver dysfunction, muscle toxicity, kidney dysfunction and issues with metabolizing glucose.  Unfortunately for some people this can also lead to diabetes.

Hypertension on the other hand can be treated by a few medications like ACE inhibitors, diuretics, calcium channel blockers and beta-blockers, all of which have their own side effects which you may not be aware of.  ACE inhibitor can cause weakness, dizziness, high plasma potassium concentration, and a dry cough.  Diuretics are associated with low blood sodium, dizziness, headaches, increased thirst, muscle cramps, increased cholesterol, gout, and impotence.  Calcium channel blockers have been known to cause constipation, headache, rapid heartbeat, and dizziness.  Lastly, beta-blockers carry the possible side effects of fatigue, headache, upset stomach, constipation, diarrhea, and dizziness.

Doctor’s Orders

If you are on one or more medications, be sure to check with your doctor and discuss any drug interactions.  Make sure to strictly adhere to the instructions on your medication, taking it when you are supposed to be and at the recommended dosage.  Similarly, if you have an unexpected reaction, call your doctor immediately to see if this is normal or if you need to stop your medication.