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Jul 30 '00
When I was twelve years old, I had my first migraine. (I later determined that I inherited this from my mother.) Luckily for me, the doctors were wrong in their first diagnosis : possible brain tumor (something my mother's father actually died from). Now at twenty-five, I'm something of an expert at pain relievers.
Originally, the doctor I was going to at the time prescribed Vicodin - a very powerful and addictive drug. (Matthew Perry of Friends recently battled a drug addiction to this drug.) Strangely enough, Vicodin did absolutely nothing me. Since my mother didn't want me on such a drug at an early age, we started trying Tylenol for all my headaches. (I have frequent headaches aside of the migraines.) It didn't take long for me to become nearly completely tolerant to Tylenol. In fact, it got to where I would have to take at least four pills to have any effect.
By this time, I was desperate to try something else. I mentioned to my mother that I might start trying aspirin; however, she warned me against it since she is allergic to it and feared I might be as well. She also explained to me how aspirin tends to give many people an upset stomach. (I tend to have a fairly weak stomach myself.)
Around this time, Advil really began to take off in popularity. I tried it once and now am a firm believer in it. Only two Advils can kick any kind of headache that comes along. Also, since it is an anti-inflammatory, my husband experienced great relief when using it when he severely strained some back muscles about a year back. Finally, I find that it has magical powers as far as menstrual cramps are concerned.
I've recently read several studies about the side-effects of most common pain relievers. Tylenol is supposed to cause liver damage with extreme use. (I've been fortunate so far.) Aspirin is stomach-irritating but can prevent heart-attacks. And now, unfortunately, my beloved Advil is suspected to cause kidney damage in some.
So in conclusion, every pain reliever seems to have some benefits as well as risks. As a victim of frequent and painful migraines, I must chose a pain reliever that provides maximum relief. In the end, I choose Advil and take the risks involved.
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Epinions.com ID:
aimm
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Member: Amy Burke
Location: Groves, TX
Reviews written: 156
Trusted by: 39 members
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