Do you rely on over-the-counter medicines?

Many continue to use over-the-counter medicines even when minor ailments have turned more serious. One survey shared that 41% of adults who report taking a drug store sleep aid have done so for at least a year The recommended limit is 2 weeks Experts say there is a crisis with overusing OTC pain relievers because more than 4 million Americans overuse these pills. Experts also say there is no sign of it slowing down. Here are suggestions for when to call a doctor: INSOMNIA You have been taking OTC sleep aids several times a week for 2 weeks. Bedtime makes you anxious. You frequently wake up in the middle of the night with your mind racing and you can't fall back to sleep. You are struggling with feelings of malaise, anxiety, or sadness during the day too. HEADACHES You are taking an OTC pain reliever twice a week or Just once a week, but continuously for a period of 3 months. You take a first dose of OTC pain reliever, then you take a second dose for that same attack and You take OTC pain reliever the next day when the pain returns. You are taking OTC pain relievers at higher-than-recommended doses, and you are barely getting relief. Or worse, no relief at all.