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Writer's pictureJohn Hayes Jr, MD

Alternative Care Cautions

The takeaway here is, let's be more careful consumers and more caring Doctors.



When taking care of your health, alternative care cautions are just as important as traditional medicine. Alternative care is any form of medicine, treatment, or practice that is not considered to be part of conventional medicine. Alternative care cautions are important to consider when deciding which form of care to pursue.


Distrust in conventional health care is at an all-time high. According to recent research, this may be associated with a potent underlying predisposition to believe in conspiracy theories, a trait known as conspiracy mentality. Medical approaches outside the mainstream are becoming more favorable. Data collected recently shows that almost 26 percent of Europeans employed complementary or alternative medical remedies at least once in a particular 12-month period.


There have been heightened claims about alternative care in modern times. This new diet fad, the latest treatment system for neuropathy, disease club memberships, and essential oils fix every human malady and maybe even some new highly "researched" drug claims. There is just so much everywhere turned into gazillion-dollar businesses for many.


Here's my point- We all have a choice. Instead of taking so much at face value, take some time to investigate whatever it is you may be considering, be it at home, or for professionally rendered services. Nowadays it's so easy to fact-check quickly across multiple sources.


However, it is important to understand that alternative care treatments can come with some cautions and risks. Here are some important things to consider before beginning any alternative care treatment.

1. Know your health history: Before beginning any alternative care treatment, it is important to understand your health history and any existing medical conditions. Certain treatments may not be safe or effective for certain individuals, so it is important to understand if you are a good candidate for the treatment.


2. Research the treatment: Before beginning any alternative care treatment, it is important to do your research. Make sure you understand the potential risks and benefits of the treatment and discuss any questions or concerns with a qualified healthcare professional.


3. Discuss with your doctor: It is important to discuss any alternative care treatments you are considering with your doctor. Your doctor can help you decide if the treatment is safe and appropriate for you, and can provide guidance on how to use the treatment safely.


4. Understand the risks: Many alternative care treatments come with some risks. For example, some herbal supplements can interact negatively with other medications or have other debilitating effects on your health.


Finally, many “alternative” therapies are unproven or ineffective, yet some may be the scientifically tested therapies of tomorrow. Only good research gives us the knowledge to know the difference. So, the takeaway here is; let us be more careful patients and more caring Doctors.


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