DrSugar Answers: Best Medicine to Take For a Headache?


Updated 10/14/11 11:51 AM · Posted by DrSugar · 3 comments

What's the Best Medicine For My Headache?

DrSugar is in the house! This week she gives us the skinny on OTC pain medications. Dear DrSugar, Do the different types of over-the-counter pain relievers work better for different problems? What should I take for a headache — is aspirin better than ibuprofen? What should I take if I have a fever or the flu? Is there one that's best for dealing with swelling for twists and sprains? What about Read more

A Breakdown of Common OTC Pain Meds


Updated 05/06/11 1:25 AM · Posted by · 0 comments

The Difference Between OTC Painkillers Like Tyenol and Advil

Do you know what's in your medicine cabinet? A recent report in the American Journal of Preventative Medicine found that while over-the-counter medicine use is prevalent, many people don't know much about the active ingredients in popular painkillers like Advil and Tylenol. When asked about the difference between common pain relief brands, most of the study's participants didn't know what was in Read more

Eat the Pain Away


Updated 09/01/11 1:15 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 0 comments

Foods That Ease Muscle and Joint Pain

You are what you eat, at least that's the old adage. It's also one I believe in — what you put into your body has a big affect on how you feel. There are foods that fight fat, detox foods, and foods that help you get stronger. There are even foods that help you sleep better and look fresher. Adding to the list of foods that fuel with a purpose are foods that help ease pain. Whether it's a Read more

What's the Deal With Alcohol and Ibuprofen?


Updated 10/14/11 11:49 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 38 comments

Is It Dangerous to Drink Alcohol While Taking Ibuprofen?

If you wake up with a headache after a night of overindulging, sometimes figuring out what painkiller to take can make the headache even worse. I've heard that it's bad to take acetaminophen (aka Tylenol), because it can lead to liver damage, but take note: you're also not supposed to drink while taking ibuprofen. Ibuprofen is part of the anti-inflammatory drug family known as NSAIDs, which can Read more

Liver Damage and OTC Pain Medication


Updated 02/08/08 9:06 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 8 comments

Liver Damage and OTC Pain Medication

Did you start your new Spring exercise regimen with a little too much gusto? Running for 60 minutes seemed like a great idea at the time right? Now every muscle in your legs is screaming with pain so you're going to take some pain medication, but you want to avoid the one that can cause liver damage. Do you remember which one it is? Which over the counter pain medication can cause liver Read more

Common Painkillers Linked to High Blood Pressure


Updated 02/27/07 8:00 PM · Posted by FitSugar · 0 comments

Common Painkillers Linked to High Blood Pressure

It's been recently reported that if you are frequently popping over-the-counter pain meds, you should know that they can raise your blood pressure, which in turn can lead to heart disease. Although men were the subject of this recent study, it confirms earlier research conducted on the effects of OTC pain medication on women's blood pressure. The medications studied are staples in your medicine Read more

Ibuprofen Beats Acetaminophen for Menstrual Pain


Updated 02/20/07 7:29 AM · Posted by FitSugar · 12 comments

Ibuprofen Beats Acetaminophen for Menstrual Pain

Although both ibuprofen and acetaminophen reduce menstrual pain, ibuprofen appears to be more potent for pain relief. Although ibuprofen is accepted as an effective treatment for painful periods, or dysmenorrhea, there is still controversy about the usefulness of acetaminophen. To investigate further, a small trial was conducted involving 12 women with dysmenorrhea. They were given three Read more

5 Fast, Inexpensive Ways to Get Rid of Redness


Updated 11/02/11 6:17 PM · Posted by · 1 comment

Redness Treatments That Work Fast

Dry, ruddy-skin season is upon us, and if you have sensitive skin or naturally pink undertones, it can mean lots of unwanted redness all over. Not to worry, though, because there are plenty of quick, simple fixes that will get you looking nice and cooled-off again in no time; check them out. Read more

Don't Let Blisters, Achy Muscles, or Bruises Halt Your Workout Routine


Updated 09/23/11 2:43 PM · Posted by Heather Dale · 2 comments

How to Work Out With Blisters, Bruises, or DOMS

You give all you've got to your workout, pushing yourself right up until the very end, and what does your workout do for you? It leaves you with bruises, sore muscles, and a couple of bad-looking blisters — thanks, workout! But don't let that bubble of skin interfere with your next sweat session! Keep reading for tips about how to cope with common workout wear and tear annoyances. Read more

A Reader Asks: How Do You Tame the PMS Monster?


Updated 10/14/11 11:51 AM · Posted by Fit Community · 2 comments

How to Deal With PMS Symptoms

FitSugar reader WarmnessOnTheSoul needs your help: her PMS is making it even harder to stay on her new diet and exercise plan. She posted her question in our Weight Loss Support group. OK ladies, I need some support/advice. I've been on a diet program for about a week, eating healthy, exercising every day, feeling great — until Mother Nature decided to attack! I've been completely sluggish, Read more