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By definition, geriatrics is the branch of medicine that deals with
the diagnosis and treatment of diseases and problems specific to old age.
So, what is old age? Thirty years ago, we probably looked at
old age as starting at 65. Today, what do we consider old age? 75? 80? 90? 100?
The fact of the matter is that old age is a different time and age for each
individual and is defined more by physical conditions than by physical age.
Memory loss is considered by many to be one of the old-age barometers. Good
geriatric care discovers that memory loss is sometimes caused by medications and
combinations of medications.
As we age, one of the most valuable services provided by your family physician
is that of coordinator/clearing house of all of your medications. The importance
of this coordination is often overlooked. Knowing the medications prescribed by
different sub-specialists alone can be invaluable in avoiding drug interactions
and maintaining mental clarity.
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Adverse Drug Reactions
Anyone can have an adverse drug reaction. However, people who take more than
3 or 4 medicines every day might be more likely to have an adverse drug reaction.
One medicine might cause an adverse reaction if its taken with another medicine.
One way to reduce your chance of having adverse drug reactions is to work
with your doctor to limit the number of medicines you take. Tell each of
your doctors (if you see more than one) about all of the medicines you're
taking, even if you take something for only a short time. Also consider one
source for filling prescripttions. Pharmacists are trained to look at the
medicines you're taking to see whether they might cause an adverse drug reaction.
Even medicines that don't need a prescription (over-the-counter medicines) can
cause problems. Vitamins, health food products and herbs (in teas or tablets) may
also cause adverse reactions. It's important to tell your doctor and pharmacist
if you're using these kinds of products.
Source: American Academy of Family Physicians
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