If it’s unnecessary, avoid consuming it.
Growing up as the offspring of a physician, there was typically a consistent stock of non-prescription medications present in our household. Naturally, owing to my father’s profession, he was diligent in explaining the significance of safe and appropriate dosages to me, so I refrained from using those substances unless absolutely necessary. This conduct has persisted into my adult life and is something I adhere to diligently.
Similar to my childhood routine, I maintain a supply of basic pain relievers such as Advil and Tylenol beneath the bathroom cabinet, and when I experience any sort of discomfort, I will ingest one. However, each time I do so, I always make it a point to review the dosage instructions and keep track of the time to prevent any possibility of overdose. Most importantly, if I’m experiencing only minor discomfort, I opt to endure it, recognizing the risks of excessive reliance on pain relievers.
The reason it is crucial to adhere strictly to dosage instructions is that many pain relievers can turn harmful to your system if consumed in excessive amounts. Overdosing can lead to significant gastrointestinal complications, compelling your body to expel the toxins to eliminate the source of harm. In rare and extreme situations, overdosing on pain relievers can inflict severe and irreversible harm on your liver as it struggles to process the surplus medication. While the possibility of fatality exists in such cases, fortunately, it is even more uncommon; swift identification of an overdose permits the implementation of remedial actions.
By no means do I intend to dissuade you from utilizing over-the-counter medication. Occasionally, pain can become unbearable, necessitating a measure to alleviate it. However, it is essential to realize that if your pain persists even after a day or two of medication, the underlying issue may require a solution beyond pills.