Why You Shouldn’t Stop Taking Your Maintenance Medicine Even Without Symptoms

In the Philippines, it’s common to hear people say:

“I feel fine now, I don’t need my medicine anymore.”

This is a dangerous misconception among people with hypertension (high blood pressure) or diabetes. Many stop taking their maintenance medicine once they no longer feel symptoms, thinking they are “cured.” But the truth is, this can lead to serious complications.

The Truth About Hypertension and Diabetes

1. Lifelong conditions – Hypertension and diabetes are not like the common cold that goes away after a few days. They are long-term illnesses that require consistent management.

2. Silent diseases – Often, you won’t feel anything even if your blood pressure or blood sugar is dangerously high. Meanwhile, the body is slowly being damaged by affecting the heart, kidneys, eyes, and brain.

3. Symptoms are not the measure of health – Just because you feel normal doesn’t mean your numbers are under control. Regular check-ups and laboratory tests are the only way to be sure.

   
   

The Risks of Stopping Your Medicine

• Sudden blood pressure spikes – Can lead to stroke or heart attack.

• Uncontrolled blood sugar – May result in kidney failure, blindness, or wounds that won’t heal.

• Harder to manage later – Once treatment is stopped, it becomes more difficult to bring levels back to normal when you resume medication.

What Should You Do Instead?

• Don’t self-diagnose, consult your doctor. How you feel is not enough to tell if you are healthy.

• Follow your doctor’s prescription. Maintenance medicine is usually for life, unless your doctor advises a change.

• Get regular check-ups. Even if you feel fine, your condition still needs monitoring.

• Adopt a healthy lifestyle. Proper diet, exercise, and avoiding vices help your medicine work better.

  
  

A Message for Every Filipino Family

Hypertension and diabetes are like “silent enemies.” They may not show immediate symptoms, but they can slowly damage your body over time. If you or your loved one has been prescribed maintenance medicine, never stop taking it without your doctor’s advice.

It’s better to take medicine daily than to face the risks of stroke, heart attack, or dialysis later on.

No symptoms ≠ No illness.

True strength comes from discipline and sticking to your treatment plan.