Medication Side Effects: When to Seek Help for Persistent Symptoms

Q: Medication Side Effects: When to Seek Help for Persistent Symptoms

Hello： 1. <br>Please discuss in detail with your physician. <br>2. <br>If drooling persists, you may request an evaluation by a neurologist.

The pulmonologist diagnosed pneumonia and mentioned that it is a side effect of the medication, recommending intravenous therapy?

Hello Dr.
Zhou, I really don't know what to do.
I visited a pulmonologist on Tuesday evening because I was drooling and had bubbles in my saliva, which the doctor said might be a side effect of the medication.
I was given an IV to dilute it.
They did a blood test, which came back normal, but I noticed that my urine also had bubbles.
After the IV on Tuesday night for one hour, I woke up in the morning and if I drink water, I start drooling with bubbles; if I don't drink water, my mouth feels dry.
The doctor said my pneumonia is almost resolved.
Today, Wednesday, I went back to the clinic, and the doctor said I should be hospitalized for IV treatment to dilute the medication, but I could also just get the IV as an outpatient.
The doctors I saw on Tuesday and Wednesday are not the original pulmonologist.
I'm still drooling with bubbles, and as soon as I drink water, it happens again.
Dr.
Zhou, should I continue with the IV? How long does it take for medication side effects to metabolize? I don't know what to do.
Should I see the original pulmonologist on Thursday, April 28th? I'm hesitant to go back to the original doctor because the medication dosage was too strong.
Dr.
Zhou, is the drooling with bubbles and the bubbly urine a sign that my pneumonia isn't fully resolved? Can you recommend which specialty I should see? I'm feeling helpless.
I'm planning to go to work on Saturday.
Thank you, Dr.
Zhou, for taking the time to respond.

Miss Chen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/27

Dr. Zhou Ziguang reply Pulmonology

Hello: 1.
Please discuss in detail with your physician.
2.
If drooling persists, you may request an evaluation by a neurologist.

Reply Date: 2016/04/27

More Info

When dealing with medication side effects, particularly those that are persistent or concerning, it is crucial to understand the nature of the symptoms and when to seek further medical assistance. In your case, the symptoms of excessive salivation and foamy urine after taking medication raise important questions about the potential side effects of the drugs you are using.

Firstly, it's important to recognize that many medications can have side effects that affect the gastrointestinal system, including increased salivation. This can occur due to various reasons, including the stimulation of salivary glands by certain drugs or as a reaction to the medication itself. If your doctor has indicated that the excessive salivation may be a side effect of your medication, it is essential to take this seriously. Persistent symptoms like these can lead to discomfort and may require adjustments in your treatment plan.

The foamy urine you mentioned could be related to several factors, including dehydration, proteinuria (the presence of excess protein in the urine), or even the effects of the medications you are taking. It is essential to monitor this symptom closely, especially if it persists. Foamy urine can sometimes indicate a kidney issue, so it is advisable to discuss this with your healthcare provider if it continues.

Regarding your question about how long it takes for medication side effects to subside, this can vary widely depending on the specific medication, the dosage, and individual metabolic factors. Some medications may have a short half-life, meaning they are eliminated from the body relatively quickly, while others may linger longer. If you are experiencing side effects that are significantly impacting your quality of life, it is crucial to communicate this to your healthcare provider. They may recommend adjusting your medication, switching to an alternative, or providing supportive care to help manage the symptoms.

In terms of whether to continue with the intravenous (IV) fluids, this decision should ideally be made in consultation with your healthcare provider. If the IV fluids are intended to help dilute the medication in your system and alleviate the side effects, it may be beneficial to continue them until your symptoms improve. However, if you feel uncertain about the treatment plan or if your symptoms worsen, it is essential to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

As for which specialist to see, it may be wise to consult with the physician who originally prescribed the medication or a specialist in pharmacology or internal medicine. They can provide insights into the specific medication you are taking and its potential side effects. If your symptoms are related to your lung condition, it may also be beneficial to follow up with your pulmonologist to ensure that your pneumonia is being adequately managed and that your current symptoms are not related to that condition.

In summary, persistent medication side effects warrant careful monitoring and communication with your healthcare provider. Do not hesitate to seek help if your symptoms continue or worsen, and ensure that you have a clear understanding of your treatment plan moving forward. Your health and comfort should always be a priority, and your healthcare team is there to support you in managing these challenges.

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