❓ Common Health Questions
Short answers to questions patients often ask in clinic.
“My BP is normal today. Can I stop the tablet?”
Usually not on the basis of one normal reading. Treatment may be exactly why the BP is controlled. Discuss repeated readings and any side effects with your doctor before changing medicines.
“Do I need an antibiotic for every fever?”
No. Fever has many causes, including viral infections where antibiotics do not help. The cause, duration, examination and warning signs determine whether an antibiotic is appropriate.
“My cholesterol is normal. Is my heart risk zero?”
No. Heart risk also depends on age, blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, family history and previous heart or vascular disease. Cholesterol is one important piece of the picture.
“Can a normal test mean I definitely have no disease?”
Not always. Every test has limitations and timing matters. Doctors combine symptoms, examination, probability and different tests rather than relying on a single normal result.
“Should I take vitamins because I feel weak?”
Weakness has many causes—from sleep and stress to anaemia, thyroid disease, infection and other illnesses. Supplements are most useful when there is a reason to suspect or confirm a deficiency.
“Can I use someone else's prescription?”
It is safer not to. The same symptom can have different causes, and dose, allergies, kidney/liver function, pregnancy and medicine interactions can change what is appropriate.