Sunday, September 21, 2008

Health Tips for September 21

Health Tip: Taking an NSAID

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are pain relievers, many of which are available without a doctor's prescription. They include aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen.

While NSAIDs are safe for most people in recommended doses, the American Academy of Family Physicians says the following people shouldn't take these drugs unless they've consulted a doctor first:

* Anyone who takes a blood-thinning medication.
* Anyone with bleeding in the stomach, intestines or any type of bleeding disorder.
* Anyone who has stomach ulcers.
* Anyone who has liver or kidney disease.
* Anyone who consumes three or more alcoholic drinks per day.

Health Tip: When Flat Feet Cause Pain

Flat feet may pose few or no problems for some adults. But for others, flat feet can cause pain that makes standing or moving difficult.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons says you should see your doctor if flat feet are causing any of these conditions:

* Feet that tire easily, or become painful after standing for long periods.
* Problems standing on your toes, or moving your heel or the middle of your foot.
* Pain in the heel or arch, or swelling along the inside of the foot.
* Inability to exercise or play sports because of foot pain.
* Foot pain and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). About half of people with RA develop a worsening flat-foot deformity.

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