I went to my aunt’s house. I was exhausted and had a headache from the long trip. Everyone advised me to take a painkiller and rest in bed. I assured them that my pain was the result of insufficient sleep and that it was unnecessary. "I would eat first, then fall asleep. When I wake up, I will be refreshed.
"I noticed that everyone relied significantly on medicines, even for minor health conditions like headache, hand, leg, and body aches and fatigue; instead of resting, they all naively believed in self-medication and continued with their daily routines.
Reason—
Hectic schedule
Willing to control symptoms promptly
Convenience
minimal out-of-pocket
Being a healthcare professional, I intervened and explained that it is a normal health indication. It is the outcome of a disturbance in the body’s circadian rhythm (master clock).
Circadian rhythm: A coordination link between physical and mental function.
The hypothalamus contains closely spaced tiny cells known as the “suprachiasmatic nucleus,” or SCN, that control the body’s internal timing system.
Function
Sleep-wake-up cycle: Receives a signal for alertness during the day and sleep at night.
Organ function: Regulates heart rate, blood pressure, and renal function.
Hormonal balance: Control the synthesis of cortisol and melatonin during the day and night.
Bioenergetics: Large bowel and digestive enzymes are highly active during wakefulness. Cortisol production aids energy for metabolism.
Boost immunity: B and T lymphocyte production, activity, and defence work maximum during the daytime.
Reminiscence and restoration: Sleep facilitates the creation of memory.
Reduce inflammation: Cortisol is secreted in the day to impede pro-inflammatory signals.
Pain : Pain peaks at night due to low cortisol levels, resulting in a disruption of sleep that further creates a deranged, vicious cycle of circadian rhythm.
I recommended everyone adopt a healthy lifestyle, like eating a balanced diet, practicing yoga or exercising regularly, and improving quality of sleep rather than relying solely on OTC medication for minor issues.
Apart from drugs and diagnoses, medical professionals should educate individuals about healthy ways of living.
In such situation, would you prefer to recommend medication or lifestyle changes?
MBH/PS
