Do You Pop a Pill at the First Sign of Pain?

Believe me, I know what it's like to feel those little aches and pains that come with getting older. I went out and played tennis last weekend for the first time in a while and it was like I found muscles I didn't know I had.

It's tempting to pop a painkiller to soothe those aches and pains. But it turns out, if you can find more natural ways to ease your pain, you'll be a lot better off.

In one recent study, researchers found that people who regularly use Tylenol, Advil, Aleve, or their generic counterparts are likely causing their blood pressure to rise. (http://www.newstarget.com/021765.html) Now, you probably already know that high blood pressure is closely linked to heart disease risks.

There's also the well-established linked between these painkillers—especially ibuprofen and naproxen sodium—and stomach ulcers.

Bottom line, you are better off finding other ways to relieve your pain. Here's what I've found that works:
• Stretching… Taking the time to stretch each day can do wonders for stopping all those aches and pain.
• Meditation… Recurring headaches are usually stress related. Nothing beats stress like meditation.
• Drink More Water… When I get a headache, it's usually because I'm dehydrated. A big glass of water often sends the pain packing within 30 minutes. That's as long as I'd have to wait for a painkiller to kick in anyway.
• Buy a Better Bed… Your bed can cause no end of soreness and pain if it's not a good one. Invest in a good night's sleep—it is worth it.
• Use lavender oil… Rub a little lavender oil on your temples to relieve a headache.
• Try white willow bark or fever few for natural pain relief.

Heather Robwell