9 White Lies Doctors Hear That Put A Patient's Health In Danger

Natural Medications And Supplements

When doctors ask patients if they have been taking any medications, they are also asking about alternative and natural substances. Some patients think doctors need o know only about prescription medications. However, some substances in natural and herbal supplements, such as caffeine and green tea, can interact with other medications. For example, herbal supplements used to treat anxiety and depression make birth control medications less effective. If doctors are unaware that their patients are using these supplements, they may not know that they need to warn them about possible consequences, such as an unplanned pregnancy. In addition, certain vitamins and over-the-counter medications can interfere with surgical procedures and affect how patients heal afterwards, so doctors must be aware that patients are taking them before performing these procedures.