Fafure Kehinde
In Zik Hall, like in many other Halls of residence, it’s common to see a message pop up on the WhatsApp group: “Anyone with paracetamol?” or “Can someone lend me an eye drop?” At first glance, this may seem harmless. It may look like a quick solution to a minor discomfort. However, self-medication, even with something as ordinary as painkillers or eye drops, carries hidden risks that many students overlook.
Self-medication is the practice of treating oneself with drugs or remedies without professional guidance. While it may seem convenient or harmless, it can lead to serious health problems ranging from Incorrect Dosage to Misdiagnosis, Drug interactions and resistance.
Taking the wrong amount of medication can be dangerous. Overdosing on something as common as paracetamol can cause severe liver damage. Underdosing, on the other hand, may not treat the condition properly and can lead to complications.
Also, misdiagnosis which is treating symptoms without knowing the underlying cause can mask serious illnesses. For example, using painkillers for a persistent headache could hide early signs of conditions like high blood pressure or infections.
Furthermore, Drug Interactions is another health problem which can arise from self medication. In short, Some medications react negatively with others. A simple eye drop could worsen an existing condition or interfere with other prescribed drugs.
Lastly, Improper use of antibiotics can lead to antibiotic resistance, making future infections harder to treat. Similarly, some over-the-counter medications can cause dependency if misused.
As students, it’s tempting to rely on what’s readily available, especially when academic pressure and tight schedules make hospital visits seem inconvenient. But health is not something to gamble with.
What can students do instead?
Students can seek advice from qualified medical personnel before taking any medication. Consulting the University's healthcare center (Jaja) when faced with any health challenges is also paramount other than engaging in self medication.
Hall managements are also encouraged to organize health awareness programs or invite medical professionals periodically for consultations.
