I am a wimp when it comes to drugs whether recreational, over-the-counter or prescription. I've never liked the thought of being "chemically controlled". That is just me. That hasn't stopped me however, from jumping on the pain KILLER band-wagon. I became a robot of sorts. I would just pop an Advil when ever I got a headache, muscle soreness or menstrual cramps. After all why suffer? That seems to be an important question....why suffer? Since my recovery from Vulvodynia, acid reflux, high blood pressure and aching joints, I now know why it's important to suffer, at least a little.
Pain is red flag. It is a warning that something is not right. By popping a pill, I was trying a quick fix. And that is like duct taping your muffler back onto your car. Not a cure but heck I could still run. I could still go about my day, eat the same food, think the same thoughts, abuse my body in several different unconscientious ways and not feel a thing.....until the next time. And the medication have to be filtered out of my body through my liver, which was already burdened by other stuff! Probably leading to...you guessed it....inflammation!
These past several years I have been aware of my pain KILLER intake, probably more than most. But a few months ago I made the choice to not take any pain KILLER medication for a year. At least I am going to try.
I really don't believe people need to suffer BUT there are alternative ways to address these red flags without doing extra harm to my body. By halting my use of pain KILLERS I have had to find some creative alternatives to help me deal with occasional pain. Here are a few:
1) ICE- I love it! It is the best thing ever! After a hard workout or a long day at the mall there is nothing like some ICE therapy for the feet, hips, knees, back whatever. I apply 20 minutes on and 20 off. It is cheap, fast and easy. You can use frozen peas for a really cheap version. I buy 2 bags and alternate. Just mark the bags with marker so you don't go to cook and eat them. YUCK! You can freeze bottled water and roll it under your knee, hamstring or feet. You can ever buy special ice therapy molds and wraps. These are a bit pricier but convenient.
2) REST-When I have a headache, which is much less common these days, I take a break. I go into a dark place and lay down. Perhaps I sip some hot herbal tea. I listen to my breath. Sometimes I even fall asleep. Nine times out of ten it works.
3) Traumeel- Old habits die hard so for those pill popping people Traumeel is awesome. It is a homeopathic tablet (or liquid or cream) that works to calm inflammation. For me it works wonders. Not so much for my husband. I say it is worth a shot. Still goes through the liver but not nearly as harsh.
4) Veggie Juice-I am fortunate to have a juicer. I often find that by juicing fresh veggies, especially green leafy veggies, I can replenish minerals, vitamins and enzymes. This can be helpful for inflammation.
Taking pain killers comes with a heavy price, financially and physically. In two separate articles the effect they have on liver can not be ignored. Advil, especially when consumed with alcohol can be extremely damaging for the liver. Here is a scary fact: Acetaminophen is the NUMBER ONE Cause of liver disease. So check with your physician about dosage and any existing conditions before you start popping the pills. The fact that they are called pain KILLERS should speak for itself!!!!
The above blog is in no way intended as medical advice. Please seek the advice of a medical professional for your own personal needs.
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