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This blog is another opportunity to feel grateful. Thank you, dear Universe, you continue to bless me with recovery and health.
It was traumatic to discover, that what was once available at free will needed vigilance. I was asked to measure and consume water as per my prescription.
Out of the blue, my Neurologist asked me a very weird question!
”How much water should you drink with your pile of pills”? I thought it was a simple question with no specific answer.
At times, we even stumble upon our self-awareness of common wisdom.
I thought, why digress? Were we losing our plot in our conversation on medicine management?
But was it so?
Water is a vehicle that aids movement. It helps the tablet reach from your mouth to the stomach and reduces the risk of a blockage. Also, not drinking enough water could cause stomach ulcers.
With this in mind, we should ensure to drink enough water with our medicines.
My Story
In 2016, I was diagnosed with a rare disease called Isaacs’ Syndrome. Isaacs’ is a neuromuscular health condition that stems from muscle hyperactivity. In the process, I also discovered that I had Lyme disease. Lyme is a bacterial illness that gets transmitted through ticks.
Glaucoma also accompanied me. Glaucoma is an eye-related disease that damages the optic nerves. And Membranous Glomerulonephritis is a progressive kidney disease. I faced tremendous issues with my gut, stomach acid, and digestive enzymes. During my journey, I also developed Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS), Diabetes, Frozen Shoulder, Eczema and Blood Pressure.
My prescription was a huge list with a daily of 42 pills. It included medicines for Isaacs’ Syndrome, other Chronic diseases, Diabetes, and Blood Pressure. Also, acute problems with my Gut, stomach acid, and digestive enzymes:
- It included painkillers, immunosuppressants, steroids, and sleeping pills.
- I was also given some oral and intravenous antibiotics and anticonvulsant medication.
- Insulin, blood thinners, statins, and beta blockers.
- Corticosteroids and Diuretics.
- For Gut issues, some probiotics.
- IVIG and Plasma exchange therapy from time to time.
- Food Supplements.
- I was also on Homeopathic and Ayurvedic medicines.
A brief understanding of the role of water in the absorption of medicines
When wet the shell of a pill swells and releases its contents. The medicines then get dissolved and absorbed depending on various factors. Including the size, Chemical composition, and properties of the drug particles. The absorption happens faster for capsules filled with liquid.
Water being solvent can dissolve many substances, including medicines. When a drug dissolves with water the rate and extent of absorption are easier and faster.
Therefore, inadequate water intake can indeed slow and hamper the absorption process. It could ultimately reduce the effectiveness of the drug.
Enhancing the effect of my Medicines through Hydration
I was recommended to stay hydrated to increase the effectiveness of my medicines. I was told that staying hydrated could reduce further risk of health complications.
Staying hydrated becomes crucial especially when taking medications.
Certain medical conditions mean you need to drink more water. My set of health conditions especially Membranous Glomerulonephritis needed me to be extra cautious of dehydration. My prescription also had medicines that acted as diuretics which could lose more body fluid.
Overhydration could lead to a drop in sodium levels which could inflate neurological conditions. Dehydration is associated with disturbances in the neurological system. Therefore, the best way for me was to follow medically recommended guidelines.
Drinking adequate water with medicines is important. It ensures that the drug is transported to the intended areas of the body. Not having enough water could ultimately cause stomach ulcers. I was recommended to have at least a glass of water with my medicines.
Preventing Potential Side Effects of My Prescription
Medicines are chemicals that are used for various health-related issues. These medicines have side effects.
My prescription was loaded with drugs that caused severe physical and mental side effects. The side effects ranged from mild to severe undesirable effects and allergies. My Blood Pressure and Diabetes were medically induced. Even Glaucoma and vision-related problems which later became acute were medically induced. I often complained of stomach problems, dizziness, weight gain, drowsiness, irritability, etc.
Drinking water with medicines helps the breakdown of toxins and assists in transporting it through waste. Sweating, urination, and passing stool are all ways by which the toxins get expelled from the body. It helps cut the byproducts of medicines, reducing the risk of unwanted reactions. Drinking water could help dilute the concentration of medicines in the body.
Tips that helped: Proper Water Intake with Medications
Before discussing it with my doctor, I was usually tempted to swallow pills without water. Somewhere I knew that dry swallowing of pills could pose choking and other problems. However, at times, it is easier to indulge in wrong practices.
Getting aware of the nuances of water intake with medicines I started to follow my doctor’s advice to:
- Some of my Symptoms might occur when there is not enough water in the system. Have water when the intensity of symptoms like muscle cramps and fasciculations increase. Also, when tiredness, dryness in the mouth, and no sweat prevails.
- Prefer at least a glass of water at room temperature with the set of medicines.
- Avoid beverages like cold drinks or coffee as they might interact with medicines. It could result in drug reactions.
- There are other ways to meet fluid needs and stay hydrated. It includes a large portion of what we eat (fruits and vegetables), juices, herbal teas, milk, etc.
- Carrying a water bottle when out is a physical reminder and prompts to consume water.
- It is always advisable to listen to your body and consume water in moderation.
A sense of extra care:
- In case of dehydration, my Blood Pressure medicines were capable of causing further damage to the kidneys.
- My Diabetes insulin and oral medicines needed water to process sugar. They could cause problems if the body lacks water content.
I encourage readers to carry a water bottle and make it easily accessible throughout the day.
To Conclude
When wet the shell of a pill swells and releases its contents. The medicines then get dissolved and absorbed depending on various factors. Water being solvent can dissolve many substances, including medicines. When a drug dissolves with water the rate and extent of absorption are easier and faster.
I implemented my learnings and made sure to handle my medicines with the utmost care. I set reminders to take them on time and have adequate water.
The rules are extremely simple. They can change the way you feel throughout the day. I encourage my readers to prioritize proper intake of water with their medicines. It could maximize the benefits of your medications. It is always recommended to consult your doctor for advice on water intake and medication management.
DISCLAIMER
The views expressed above in this article are the author’s own and do not represent any kind of medical advice.
