PSA📢 Did she or Didn’t she?

Whoa, I really messed up something that could have spiraled into a serious situation!

I’m an over-thinker, constantly racing through a myriad of thoughts as if I have a multitude of tabs open in my brain. 📁📁📁📁📁

This tendency never posed much of a problem, but as the years pass, I find that I’m not quite the sharpest pencil in the box anymore. 

Yesterday morning, at around 7:30 AM, a dull ache settled into my lower back, prompting me to reach for two extra-strength Tylenol. Usually, this does the trick for me. I had planned to take another two capsules at 1:30 PM, but in the whirlwind of my thoughts, I completely forgot. The idea drifted away like a fleeting cloud until it suddenly resurfaced at 3:30 PM, reminding me of the missed dose.

💊💊💊💊

I made my way to the kitchen, intending to take that dose, but I became sidetracked by one of the countless thoughts swirling in my mind. Hours slipped by, and by 5:45 PM, the familiar discomfort in my back returned, making me realize with a sinking feeling that I had neglected to take the dose I had intended to. 

I had no recollection of taking it - However, I could vividly recall the task that had diverted me from my intended path, and I distinctly remembered the subsequent action that followed. Feeling a dull ache creeping in, I decided to risk it and take two Tylenol, hoping they would bring some relief.

As the minutes ticked away, an uneasy feeling began to settle in my stomach. My overactive mind started nagging me... 

Did I or didn’t I?  

It felt like a gamble with a 50% chance of dire consequences. My heart raced as I turned to Google, typing in "Tylenol overdose," and the results were anything but reassuring. While I was preparing the dinner, the worry gnawed at me, yet I kept it to myself, not wanting to burden my husband with my escalating fears. Finally, after taking a deep breath, I revealed my anxiety to him. His calm demeanor was a comforting anchor; Still, my mind was racing, and the fear intensified. 

I picked up the phone and called the ER for guidance. Their response was disappointing; without an advice nurse available, they directed me to Poison Control or I come in and get my stomach pumped. I didn't want that, just yet. So I called Poison Control, hoping for clarity over the chaos swirling in my mind.

I found myself in tears as I spoke with the guy on the other end of the line. He asked me some questions, including my age, and the quantity of Tylenol I had taken throughout the day.  Three thousand milligrams within 24 hours is the MAX for the Extra Strength. Realizing that I might have accidently taken a third dose, I feared I had reached that threshold. However, he reassured me with a calm voice that I should be just fine, even if I did take the third dose. I was still within the MAX. 

I still had my doubts - (I have trust issues) I decided to reach out to them online for further clarity. The AI representative conducted a more comprehensive line of questioning, guiding me through the process, and I received an email confirmation along with a case number, which provided a reassuring course of action. I felt a wave of relief wash over me, knowing I was finally on the right track. At least then, if they were wrong, my family would have that email. Plus, they will check in on me. 

I had a restless night, tossing and turning with my thoughts. Despite feeling drowsy, I'm doing fine. Still, I can't shake the question that only God knows: did I or didn’t I?

Maybe a little late, but I have come to understand the crucial importance of being fully present and attentive when taking medications or pain relievers and engaging in conversation or distractions while medicating can lead to significant risks. According to reports from poison control, overdosing on Tylenol is unfortunately a common occurrence, often resulting in severe liver damage and, in some cases, even death. This reality underscores the necessity of careful consideration and mindfulness when managing our health with these substances.

Avoid making the same mistake I did. 

• Stay attentive
• If you’re taking prescription medications, utilize those handy pill containers to ensure you don’t miss a dose. 
• For over-the-counter medications, consider maintaining a detailed log of the quantities taken and the times you use them. 
• Focus your mind on the task at hand—being mentally present is crucial.
•  Engaging in mental multitasking can lead to dangerous oversights;
•  distractions can easily result in missed doses or accidental overdoses.

💊💊💊💊

Today, August 7, I want to take a moment to honor my beloved son Michael, who would have turned 48 years old. As I reflect on his life, I am filled with cherished memories that warm my heart. Today, I hold space not just for his birth, but for the laughter, love, and unforgettable moments we shared together. His spirit continues to resonate within me, a gentle reminder of the extraordinary gift he was.

See ya, when I see ya, Son. 💓💓

Until Next time, 

Debby