Are Natural Substances Safe? — ADD Tip O the Day 597

Natural Substances

Many people with ADD AHD are helped by medicine – Ritalin, Adderall, Strattera, etc.- but many are concerned about medication side effects.  Some prefer “natural” substances but not all “natural” substances they use are safe.  Here’s a report on one with dangerous side effects:

“— increases intracranial pressure (ICP). It is this increase in pressure which leads to the first observable symptoms  —: headache, personality changes, changes in behavior, confusion, irritability, and drowsiness. These are sometimes followed by difficulty breathing during exertion, muscle weakness & pain, twitching, or cramping, nausea, vomiting, thirst, and a dulled ability to perceive and interpret sensory information. — The cells in the brain may swell to the point where blood flow is interrupted resulting in cerebral edema. Swollen brain cells may also apply pressure to the brain stem causing central nervous system dysfunction. Both cerebral edema and interference with the central nervous system are dangerous and could result in seizures, brain damage, coma or death.[11]

Other possible side effects include frequent urination, serious infections and increased risk of cancer. It also has the potential for abuse.

Side Effects

Soon I’ll post about side effects in general.  Oh, did you realize that the “natural” substance above is water?

doug

The Link

Bonus Link O the Day:

Dr. Hallowell on ADD ADHD medicines or alternatives

Quote O the Day:

“Moderation in all things, but don’t overdo it.”