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"I found out that I suffered from hypertension through a routine medical checkup, and the diagnosis was then confirmed during follow-up appointments. At first, the doctor said I didn't need medication yet but should adjust my lifestyle.
I went on a low-salt diet and quit smoking as advised, but also researched online. I learned about natural treatments like garlic and artichoke. They didn't do enough to bring my blood pressure down to a normal level — something I could follow, because I purchased a blood pressure monitor for home use."
This woman is now on high blood pressure meds, but though the doctor prescribed the drugs she is using, she chose them herself. She explains: "I looked into the benefits and risks of different kinds of medications. I knew I didn't want beta-blockers, because I suffer from Raynaud's Syndrome and beta-blockers usually make that worse. I found the hypertension drugs that seemed most suitable for me through the internet and suggested my family doctor put me on those. He said, 'all right then' and that was that."
As you can see from this lady's story, going through the medication and treatments for the condition you have been diagnosed can sometimes pay off. Your doctor may not have the time to research the very best options for you, despite having access to your medical file, and will probably welcome a discussion about the possibilities and your personal preferences. If they don't, that's a great sign to look for another doctor!
Where can you find the right information about medications? Look for reliable sources like the site of the American Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or manufacturers' sites to read package inserts. When you are looking for non-medical treatment options and want to know about different types of operations for example, SteadyHealth and Google Scholar can be your friends.
Making Positive Lifestyle Changes
Of course, improving one's health is not reserved for those who have actual diagnoses, or people who are ill. Everyone benefits from adopting a healthier lifestyle, and there is always room for improvement! Do you know what I personally love best about SteadyHealth? The exercise videos! I'm a homeschooling mom of two fairly young kids, and that means I don't have long, uninterrupted periods to myself. I learned to do many body weight exercises with the help of these videos, which allow me to get in quick workouts when I have time. Thanks, co-workers!
All the great information about nutrition (there's some great recipes here, folks!), weight loss, mental health (like coping with stress and worry) and alternative remedies can do a lot to inspire people who didn't even know they would benefit. By reading health sites, you get the inspiration you never even knew you needed!
Finally, the peer support SteadyHealth members gain from the discussion boards is invaluable for patients. Whether you need an answer to a current problem, want a shoulder to cry on, or want to exchange experiences with others who understand exactly what you are talking about — the SteadyHealth discussion boards are always open, and prepared to meet your needs! The SteadyHealth team has been working very hard to provide you with the best information for a whole decade now, but we'd be nowhere without the committed discussion board members that help so many others. So, happy birthday to you, too!
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