Caregivers La Costa CA : What You Should Be Aware of
Antihistamines
Antihistamines are a godsend for seniors who have allergies and need relief from itching and a runny nose in order to sleep. However, antihistamines can cause drowsiness, which to many people, many not be an issue if taken before bedtime. However, many seniors tend to get up in the middle of the night, and the sleepiness can lead to falls. It’s recommended to take a long-acting alternative that won’t cause drowsiness.
Acetaminophen
The biggest problem with acetaminophen is that it is found in numerous medications, so it’s easy to overdose. Use it for arthritis, a headache and then a cold and you’re looking at a total consumption of well over the recommended 4,000 mg limit. An excessive amount of acetaminophen can damage the liver, and the effects can be exacerbated if the client drinks alcohol on top of it. To avoid an overdose – which may be hard to recognize because it mimics the flu – read labels carefully and take the smallest amount possible.
Decongestants
While decongestants such as Dimetapp and Triaminic are lifesavers to seniors who are just downright miserable due to a stuffy nose, they are not without risks. Decongestants raise blood pressure, so seniors with high blood pressure to begin with face a high risk of suffering from complications. Nasal sprays are a good alternative, but they come with a high risk of dependency if taken for more than several days. Decongestants can be unsafe for seniors with heart conditions, glaucoma, diabetes and an overactive thyroid, so consult with a doctor if your client has any of these conditions.
Ibuprofen
Ibuprofen is effective at relieving a variety of ailments, including fevers, aches and pains. However, those who use it frequently face the risk of allergic reactions, peptic ulcers and even kidney damage in severe cases. Those with certain conditions can develop a heart attack or stroke. Therefore, those with high blood pressure, diabetes or heart disease should avoid alcohol. Those who smoke face an increased risk of complications as well. If your client suddenly experiences problems with vision or speech, or has dark stools, seek medical help immediately.
For more information about how the caregivers at La Jolla Nurses Homecare can help your aging loved one, call 858-454-9339. We are a home care agency providing quality and affordable caregivers in La Costa, CA, and the surrounding communities.
Today we are the oldest and most experienced private duty agency in San Diego County.She saw a need for quality private duty home health care and she worked diligently to build an agency that filled that need.I am proud to say, her vision is carried on today with our dedicated staff.
I believe our tenure in the community speaks well for us.We have had the opportunity to be of service to countless interesting individuals, including local and worldwide celebrities.It is the people we care for that makes this a fascinating industry.Whether high profile or a more ordinary citizen, we are proud that thousands have entrusted us with their care or the care of their loved ones.Our Mission is to provide high quality, very secure and the most compassionate home health care.We believe that patients heal faster and are happiest when they can stay in their homes.”
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