That's Fit

I've always been a bit of a wimp when it comes to headaches. But, until recently, I had never had a migraine. Just a few weeks ago I found myself dealing with the most painful headache I've ever had. I found a position -- half-sitting, half-laying down -- on the couch that was somewhat comfortable. I covered my eyes with a damp washcloth. And I just stayed put. I tried to turn the TV on so I'd at least have something to listen to, but if it was loud enough to hear it at all, it felt like it was booming in my ears. Even though the blinds were closed, every time I took that washcloth off my eyes, the light felt blinding. And every time I moved, I felt sick to my stomach. It was awful. I seriously sympathize with anyone who has migraines regularly.

A few months ago I wrote about natural treatments for migraines. (Maybe writing that post and saying I never had a migraine jinxed me... ya think?) Revolution Health has more ideas for managing migraines:

• OTC pain relievers may provide some relief; your doctor can also prescribe medications to help.
• Caffeine can constrict blood vessels and relieve some of the pressure, but don't go overboard -- too much caffeine can be a trigger for migraine headaches.
• Avoid foods containing tyramine. Tyramine is found in aged or fermented foods including some cheeses and wine.
• Visit a chiropractor. Some chiropractors believe that migraines are caused by a misalignment of the spine and that adjustments can minimize migraine frequency.
• Include magnesium-rich foods in your diet.
  
• Get a massage -- massage therapy has helped some migraine sufferers reduce the frequency of their headaches.

Over-the-counter (OTC) pain medications are sometimes used rather carelessly by people, to the point where they're popping Tylenol or Advil every time they stub their toe. Think I'm exaggerating? Maybe a little, but not completely.

A survey conducted by the American College of Emergency Physician and the Emergency Nurses Association revealed that one in two Americans misuse common OTC pain relievers. Here are just a few of examples of what the survey found:

• Almost half of the respondents had taken pills more frequently than recommended
• Most respondents had taken more pills per dose than is recommended
• Sixty-six percent of respondents did not read the label the last time they took an OTC pain reliever
• Many never spoke with their doctor or pharmacist about the OTC medication they were taking

This week, the FDA recommended sterner warnings on common pain relievers, citing concerns that earlier warnings did not go far enough considering the easy availability of the products and their presence in combination products, such as cold medicines.

Acetaminophen is safe when taken as directed. But at higher doses, the drug can cause liver damage. Patients taking acetaminophen should also avoid alcohol, and never drink more than three alcoholic beverages a day while on the drug.

Ibuprofen, aspirin, and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatories can cause kidney damage and gastrointestinal bleeding, even when taken at normal doses. The number of people who suffer these complications is small compared to the 17 million who take the drug each day, however. Patients at the highest risk include those over 59, those with a history of stomach ulcers or who take blood thinning drugs, or those who take other NSAID-containing drugs or use NSAIDS long term.