Diet Pills Emergencies. They Can Send you to the ER
Obesity continues to rise in the United States, with the latest statistics showing that 41.9% of Americans are obese.
Along with those extra pounds, obesity also increases the likelihood of severe health conditions, including cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
In an effort to lose weight and become healthier, many turn to weight loss supplements and prescription drugs for help. But unfortunately, many of these supplements and medications hold hidden dangers to your health.
The Hidden Dangers of Diet Pills
You can buy most weight loss supplements without a prescription. And because we see them openly displayed at pharmacies and even supermarkets, we believe they are safe for consumption.
However, the U.S. supplement market does not have to comply with as many regulations as prescription medications. Although the FDA monitors over-the-counter supplements, they use different guidelines and mostly rely on manufacturers to ensure the safety of their products, which many fail to do.
Supplements that claim to be natural may contain chemicals and other banned or dangerous substances often not listed on the product label. Others may use unsafe dosages that may produce adverse side effects.
Prescription weight loss drugs are also not without their risks. Most of these medications are not for long-term use, and many patients gain the weight back once they stop taking them unless they continue to follow a healthy, balanced diet and exercise routine.
Dangerous Side Effects of Diet Pills
Some of the ingredients in weight loss products can have harmful side effects, such as:
- High blood pressure
- Increased heart rate
- Agitation – anxiety
- Disruption in sleep – insomnia
- Diarrhea
- Digestive irritation
- Rectal bleeding
- Liver damage
- Kidney problems
Some weight loss supplements and prescription drugs can also cause addiction and withdrawal symptoms.
Diet Pill Emergencies
Cardiac Arrhythmias
Many weight loss supplements contain stimulants that may increase your heart rate and can sometimes result in potentially life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats).
Dangerously High Blood Pressure
The same stimulants that cause irregular heart rates can also increase blood pressure. High blood pressure is associated with an increased risk of stroke and heart attacks.
Stomach and Rectal Bleeding
Weight loss supplements and drugs may irritate your digestive tract and cause ulcers which can be painful. Additionally, some ulcers may result in internal bleeding, which can be hard to diagnose without imaging technology.
Liver Damage
Some diet pills contain plant extracts that may be toxic to your liver and cause liver damage. Although many patients recover from diet-pill liver damage, some severe cases may require a liver transplant.
Kidney Problems
Diet pills can affect your kidney function and may lead to kidney problems. Additionally, rapid weight loss puts additional strain on your kidneys which can result in damage.
Where to go for a Medical Emergency?
When trying to lose weight, the best approach is to speak to your doctor before you change your diet or take any weight loss supplement.
Lasting weight loss is best achieved through healthy eating habits and regular exercise. Please avoid taking weight loss supplements without your doctor knowing. If you experience any severe symptoms, please do not delay and come to your nearest RapidCare ER location.
At Rapid Care ER, we wish you a Happy and Healthy 2023. Remember that our three locations are open 24/7/365 with little to no wait to get you well during any medical emergency.
