Overdose is a medical emergency that you hope you never get, but knowing what to do in case such a situation will occur can make the difference. Occasionally it is unintentional, such as forgetting to take one dose or taking one more than we intend and yet occasionally it is by a deliberate choice.
In any case, overdose of a drug poses a severe threat to the health and life of a person. At Premier Private GP in Bagshot, Surrey, we often meet patients who are unsure whether their symptoms are related to an overdose or just part of the reactions to certain medication. Let’s learn the warning signs and what may be done in case you ever fall into such a predicament.
What is an Overdose?
Overdose occurs when a person consumes more of a medication or a drug that their body can handle. It may be entirely accidental, but it can also happen through misuse, as where the medicine is combined with alcohol. Every drug can cause overdose if taken more than the prescribed amount. Sometimes a drug overdose can even be voluntary and directed to stress, anxiety, or other psychological exigencies. Whatever the reason, it must always be treated as such and considered as a medical emergency.
Signs Can Save a Life
It is important to recognise the signs of overdose early enough and save a life. The symptoms also depend on the type of drug or medicine used, but may include confusion and/or drowsiness or unusual behaviours. Others feel nauseated, vomit or pains in the stomach, others may have slow breathing, slurred speech, and have a hard time staying awake. In severe cases, the individual can experience seizures or loss of consciousness or have a bluish tint around the lips or fingertips due to insufficient oxygen that can lead to a medical emergency.
Even if minor symptoms are ignored, it can soon get more severe. In case of uncertainty then approaching it as a case of emergency and calling in rescue is the safer alternative.
Where To Call in UK?
Medical Emergency
Call 999 immediately in case the person is unresponsive, having trouble breathing, seized, or demonstrating very severe symptoms.
Phone a doctor If
● You’re unsure whether an excessive intake of medicine has been done.
● Symptoms are not threatening, however, they concern (dizziness, confusion, nausea).
● You need immediate counsel on the next step.
At Premier Private GP, Bagshot, Surrey, we schedule same-day appointments when you need it the most to clarify and reassure.
Not all overdoses are visibly dramatic. Some accidental drug overdoses build slowly. For example, the doses of paracetamol that may cause liver damage can take several days to accumulate.
Follow-up Care
An overdose recovery is not only fast instantaneous. It is a call to action to those individuals to ensure they check their prescriptions, better organise their medication, or review underlying health conditions.
At Premier Private GP in Bagshot, our comprehensive health checks include tracking the use of medication and providing follow-up in case you have overdosed, or are at risk. In the case of patients where other contributing factors to the deed may be stress, anxiety or depression, our team is also equipped to conduct confidential mental health evaluations, and help with long term wellbeing.
Final Word
Overdose happens quietly. It is something that should not be overlooked, be it intentional or accidental overdose. Timely action, requesting assistance, and being aware of the warning signs of overdose is a matter of saving lives.
When you are worried about your medicine intake, or desire individual and non-judgmental consultation, make an appointment at Premier Private GP in Bagshot, Surrey. Clinically our physicians can check your prescription drug, have your health checked, and provide you with the assimilation you need.
