Dr Rohit Kumar C, Consultant - Surgical Oncology & Robotic Surgery, HIPEC & PIPAC Specialist, Aster Whitefield Hospital, says one of the biggest problems in India is the culture of self-medication.
However, I tell they will go and do self-medication,” he says.
According to him, repeated use of antacids, painkillers, or over-the-counter medicines can temporarily hide symptoms that may actually need medical attention.
We are seeing masking of symptoms which are very early probably simple symptoms which could indicate towards some problem which if not evaluated can later come up with bigger problems,” he explains.
Doctors say this masking effect is especially seen in stomach-related cancers.
Dr Rohit Kumar C, Consultant - Surgical Oncology & Robotic Surgery, HIPEC & PIPAC Specialist, Aster Whitefield Hospital, says one of the biggest problems in India is the culture of self-medication.
“The main thing that we talk to everybody anywhere in India whenever we go for awareness talks is that it is impossible in India not to tell the patients to self-medicate. However, I tell they will go and do self-medication,” he says.
According to him, repeated use of antacids, painkillers, or over-the-counter medicines can temporarily hide symptoms that may actually need medical attention.
“So, because of self-medication what are we seeing? We are seeing masking of symptoms which are very early probably simple symptoms which could indicate towards some problem which if not evaluated can later come up with bigger problems,” he explains.
Doctors say this masking effect is especially seen in stomach-related cancers. People often continue treating “gas,” acidity, bloating, or indigestion for years without proper evaluation. The discomfort becomes familiar, and familiarity creates neglect.
