OVER THE COUNTER

A medical doctor provides sensible health care recommendations that don’t require a prescription.

In these pages, Wilkinson clearly and thoughtfully exhibits a wealth of knowledge about a range of common medical concerns. On the one hand, she identifies the medical conditions for which Americans most often seek care (such as pain, particularly back pain); on the other, she acknowledges very real barriers to access, including knowledge gaps and a lack of insurance. The text addresses these barriers, in part, by offering broad information on both pharmaceutical and natural remedies while also meaningfully connecting those two categories: Pharmaceutical products are often derived from natural sources, for example, and natural remedies may include doctor-recommended lifestyle interventions, such as wearing properly fitting, supportive shoes. The author arranges information broadly by topic (pain, allergies, cold and flu, and so on) and typically leads off each section with an explanation of a causal mechanism, such as the anatomy of pain, what exactly histamine is, or the functions of specific nutrients in the body. She then discusses and evaluates nonprescription treatment options, which can range from non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to chamomile tea and cognitive behavioral therapy. What makes the book so effective is Wilkinson’s own experience with patients. She regularly notes how her medical advice is informed by a family member’s use of cannabidiol products, her own seasonal allergies, or her habit of keeping a TV in her bedroom (a known obstacle to quality sleep); rather than speaking purely as a medical professional, she’s also speaking as a member of the public seeking care. The text offers honest evaluations of options, based on real data, as seen in its thorough footnotes. Also, if there’s no evidence that a product (or entire class of products, such as dietary supplements) has medical value, the author states as much in no uncertain terms.

A handy, easy-to-read guide that blends expertise with empathy.