Have you recently been diagnosed with a new illness? Do you already have an underlying diagnosis and this just complicates issues even further? It can be overwhelming to juggle therapies, doctor appointments and how and when to take your medications so they work effectively. Here are a few ways to start regaining your health and trying to be the best you that you can be every day.
Juggling Medications
One of the biggest obstacles of being hospitalized and then going home with many medications is sorting them all out. Taking certain ones with meals or others at specific times can be a very big challenge. Not only that, identifying medications and getting them mixed up with others can be frightening, especially if some fall on the floor or out of the bottle. Having a pill identifier on hand is a good way to be able to quickly identify a pill by its number, shape, color, and name. This can save you from the dangerous side effects that can occur should you accidentally take the same pill twice or accidentally over medicate yourself. You should also establish a good, comfortable relationship with your doctor’s office. This means when you call in to ask questions about meds, the process can flow a lot smoother. You can also talk to your pharmacist. He will be able to quickly glance over your medical history to help identify any potential medication interactions or risk factors. He will also be able to go over any side effects that result from the new medications as well as mixing them with the meds that you currently take.
So Many Doctors, So Little Time
Getting a new diagnosis of a major disease is something that will ultimately affect your life for a long time, if not for the rest of your life. Whether it’s an acute condition or a long-term illness, it’s still important to find one doctor to oversee most of your general care. For example, if you were diagnosed with cancer, you would see your oncologist to help with treatment. If you were previously diagnosed with heart disease and see a cardiologist, you’ll want to inform them of your new diagnosis and medications, as well as any treatment plans. Try to find a doctor in the same network of doctors if at all possible. This will make it easier to coordinate care and make sure that you’re getting attention in regards to each medical concern. Doctors in the same network also refer out to the same network of physicians, making it easier to keep track of your overall health.
Create a New Daily Routine
Even if you’ve been diagnosed with multiple, serious diseases, you should still try to stay in the best health possible. This starts with eating a balanced diet. Any food that you eat will affect your overall health, regardless of disease type. This means that you should create your diet based on foods from all of the basic groups, including:
- Whole wheats
- Dairy
- Vegetables and beans
- Lean meats
- Fruits
From there, try to avoid deep fried items and processed foods. Exercise is also very important. Most adults should strive for at least 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity on a daily basis. Putting forth a healthy diet and a consistent exercise routine can help your overall health. Be sure to ask your doctor before changing your diet and starting an exercise regimen. This will help your body stay as healthy as possible and fight off disease and harmful contributors to poor health.
Take a Mental Health Break
Part of getting a diagnosis that is going to change your lifestyle drastically is the emotional stress that comes along with it. That’s why it’s important to take a mental health break for yourself. This includes pampering yourself with spa days or splurging to do something that brings you joy. If you’re really struggling with the emotional toll that your health condition is having on you, seek professional help. Start with your primary doctor. He will be able to do a simple depression test that will determine if he should refer you to a psychologist or mental health professional for treatment.
Juggling a new diagnosis and everything that comes along with it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Reaching out to others and seeking help is the best way to get the upper hand on your new lifestyle.
