The residents of Igembe have been warned against engaging in self-treatment and relying on over-the-counter medicines without proper medical examination and guidance.
Dr. Thiakunu Mwirabua, Nyambene Clinic, and Nursing Home urged individuals experiencing illness to seek professional medical advice instead of resorting to over-the-counter medications.
“We are witnessing more people making queues in pharmacies and purchasing drugs without any prescription, which is so dangerous,’’ Dr. Mwirabua said.
Dr. Mwirabua maintained that self-medication often leads to misdiagnosis, inappropriate treatment, or delayed treatment.
The doctor further cautioned against visiting unqualified healthcare providers, alias “quacks doctors” who may be offering cheaper services but lack proper qualifications, which may in turn lead to mismanagement of health.
He warned individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes, hypertension, and asthma to shun any form of self-treatment to avoid adverse long-term harm or even death.
“Misuse of non-prescribed medications leads to drug resistance and worsens the health condition,” he said.
According to the medic, use of medication without proper direction and guidance from professional healthcare practitioners can lead to incorrect treatment, adding that many infections, like bacterial infections, require targeted treatments based on proper diagnosis, which includes proper lab tests to identify the correct medications.
“Many infections, especially chronic ones, if left inadequately managed, can lead to severe complications like organ damage, prolonged suffering, and worse, can lead to death,” explained the doctor.
Dr. Mwirabua continued to encourage residents to always embrace visiting qualified and accredited health facilities for appropriate consultations rather than relying on over-the-counter medical solutions.
“Certified health facilities, whether private or public, are equipped with well-trained professionals who always adhere to medical guidelines to the latter and as well have necessary equipment which helps in offering safe and effective treatment,” he opined.
By Kamanja Maeria
