Ketamine is a powerful medication used to treat various medical conditions, including depression, chronic pain, and anxiety. It works as an anesthetic and can effectively reduce or eliminate symptoms. Here is what you should avoid after ketamine treatment:
Driving or Operating Heavy Machinery
Ketamine can cause side effects such as dizziness and confusion. These side effects can impair your ability to drive safely or operate heavy machinery. This may put you and others at risk of accidents. To reduce the risk of injury, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery for at least a day after a ketamine treatment session.
Taking Alcohol and Other Drugs
Alcohol and other drugs can interact with ketamine in unpredictable ways that may worsen the side effects of the medication or even render it less effective. Avoid alcohol and other drugs for at least a day after a ketamine treatment session. This includes prescribed medications as well as recreational drugs like marijuana.
Making Significant Life Changes
Significant life changes include major decisions such as quitting your job or moving across the country. Changes like these can cause stress or upheaval in your life that may interfere with how well you respond to the treatments. Wait until your treatment plan has come to a close before making any big changes in your life.
Doing Strenuous Exercise
Ketamine can cause feelings of drowsiness and fatigue which can linger for several hours after the treatment session is over. Avoid strenuous exercise for at least a day after a ketamine session so that you do not strain your body unnecessarily while recovering from the medication’s effects. Opt for low-intensity activities such as light walking or yoga.
Skipping Follow-up Appointments
Follow-up appointments can help monitor your progress and check if the ketamine treatments are working as intended. Skipping these appointments can lead to decreased effectiveness of the ketamine treatments. There may be potential side effects that could have been avoided with regular checkups from your doctor.
Neglecting Self-care
Take care of yourself physically and mentally during this time by getting enough sleep, eating healthy meals, and engaging in activities that bring you joy. All of which can help you succeed with your treatments.
Eating Heavy Meals
Maintain a balanced diet while recovering from ketamine therapy. Eating heavy meals can be challenging for anyone recovering from any kind of medical procedure. Stick to light meals that are easy on your digestive system, and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
Smoking
Smoking can be damaging after undergoing ketamine treatment. Not only can smoking lead to complications with your recovery process, but it can also increase your risk of experiencing side effects such as nausea or dizziness. If you smoke during recovery, do so in a well-ventilated area, and don’t overdo it. Smoking too much can cause serious health concerns.
Taking Hot Showers
Hot showers may aggravate the skin and worsen any existing irritation or redness that may have occurred during the procedure. Opt for lukewarm or cool showers to avoid any negative reactions to your skin.
Being in Stressful Situations
People who undergo this type of therapy can feel overwhelmed or anxious during the first few days following their treatment. Do not put yourself in any situation that could exacerbate these feelings. This means avoiding confrontations with others or anything else that could cause stress and agitation. Focus on relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or meditation.
Seek Ketamine Treatment Today
Ketamine treatment can be effective in treating certain mental health conditions, but you should take precautions following treatment to be safe. Avoiding the above activities can decrease the likelihood of adverse side effects and help you get the most out of your treatment. Follow your doctor’s instructions and recommendations for a successful treatment.
