Dear LPG

Until recently I have always been lucky I suppose, because I have had little need to visit a doctor and usually feel really healthy.  As I have become a member of the ’65 years and over’ club I have seen many friends joining the ranks of people who are starting to visit their GPs a little more regularly, while I have not found a reason to go for the last two years at least.

An alarmingly large proportion of those mates have visited their GPs and returned with news of a relatively minor, but potentially worrying complaint which can be easily controlled by regular medication, and I have often counted my lucky stars.  About a year ago I went to a health day organised at my local club where a quick check of my blood pressure revealed that it was not good.  The nurse who put the cuff on my arm concluded that I needed to make an appointment and see my GP sooner rather than later.

After a visit to the surgery, I had suddenly become one of the many people who have been told that I will need to take daily medication for the rest of my life to control my blood pressure.  A bit harsh I thought after being reminded of the consequences of not doing so, which included the possibility of a stroke.    The news did sober me up a little, but all I had to do is take a daily pill which would regulate my condition. 

When I got my first prescription I was told I would need to choose a regular time each day to add the pill-taking into my daily routine and it worked quite well at first, but it was not long before one got missed here and there. 

I have opted to take my one pill a day each night before turning in, but I have to admit to forgetting at least once a week.  Then there are the days when I can’t remember if I did or if I didn’t.  I am having trouble with one pill a day and I know many people who take a lot more than that.  They often need to take four or five different pills at differing times of the day which makes me really feel badly that I cannot even remember the one a day.  So I had a look on line to figure out the best way to improve my lack of will power. 

I was surprised to find out that I am one of many; about half the pill-takers in the country forget every now and then.  I also found some information which I hope that LPG will be able to add to the bottom of my message about what to do once you remember that you forgot and hope that some other LPG readers find it helpful.  

WB, Stratham

WB has been kind enough to pass on the links to some of the information found.  We also found some advice on ways to remember not to forget.

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