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of Consumer Guide, the Editors. "How to Cope with Medication Side Effects." 02 March 2006. HowStuffWorks.com. <http://health.howstuffworks.com/how-to-cope-with-medication-side-effects.htm> 17 May 2008.
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Respiratory System Side Effects
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Respiratory System Side Effects
Side effects common to the respiratory system include stuffy nose, dry throat, shortness of breath, and slowed breathing. A stuffy nose and dry throat usually disappear several days after starting a medication.
If these side effects are bothersome, you may use nose drops (consult your doctor first) or throat lozenges, or you may gargle with warm salt water to relieve them. Shortness of breath is a characteristic side effect of some drugs (for example, propranolol). If you experience shortness of breath, check with your doctor. It may be a sign of a serious side effect.
Itching, swelling, and redness frequently indicate a drug allergy. Check out the next section to learn more about these and other potential side effects and what to do to relieve them.
If you experience any major side effects, contact your doctor immediately. Your dosage of the medication may need adjustment, you may have developed an allergy or sensitivity to the drug, or you simply may not be able to tolerate the particular medication well. Your doctor may therefore decide to discontinue the drug and possibly switch you to an alternative medication. However, never stop taking a prescribed medication unless you discuss it with your doctor first. |
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Please copy/paste the following text to properly cite this How Stuff Works article:
of Consumer Guide, the Editors. "How to Cope with Medication Side Effects." 02 March 2006. HowStuffWorks.com. <http://health.howstuffworks.com/how-to-cope-with-medication-side-effects.htm> 17 May 2008.
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