How To Get Rid of a Twinge

Twinge is the appearance of a sharp, sudden physical pain. There are numerous causes to twinge, from flesh wounds and muscle sprains to other, more complicated underlying conditions. Luckily there are several readily available over the counter medications you can use to relieve this pain in addition to other methods. Before taking any medication always read the label and guidelines and consult your pharmacist or
doctor if unsure.

Instructions (Steps):

There are several different types of painkillers which work in different ways. Painkillers focus on different areas, some work by blocking pain receptors so the sensation of pain isn’t felt. Others work by inducing a stronger sensation in the body which covers over the pain sensation.

Paracetamol or acetaminophen is the world’s most common analgesic (pain reliever) and antipyretic (fever reducer). The main method of its action is in the inhibition of cyclooxygenase production which in turn stops pain. Although the pain relieving properties of paracetamol are not massive it does work for a wide variety of twinge and will help reduce fever as well. Paracetamol is cheap and readily available and because of its wide variety of uses it is useful to have a stock at home. Always remember to stick to the recommended dosage as paracetamol poisoning can take up to three days to show effect and by this time your life is in danger.

Salicylate is a versatile drug with many uses. It has analgesic, antipyretic and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition to it being found in tablets it is also commonly found in creams with menthol and camphor which is ideal to apply to muscular twinge and sprains. The menthol and camphor mask the pain whilst the salicylate gets to work to reduce the pain and inflammation. Such creams are always found in physio’s bags on the side of the pitch or track.

Mefenamic acid is a drug that appears in two forms, both as a pill and as a solution and is ideal to treat inflammations and general aches and pains. It can be taken orally to give general pain relieve and to relieve swelling but the cream can be applied directly to the site of pain which makes it a valuable addition to your medicine cabinet at home.

Tramadol is a stronger painkiller that is available in some USA states over the counter. It is used in cases where pain is more severe and works by increasing the production of the body’s main pain relieving hormones. This drug is very strong and should be used sparingly, paying close attention to the guidelines and should not be used in pregnant women at all unless told to do so by a doctor.

Start with the first drug listed and if the twinge persists try the next. Since the drugs act upon different organs and hormones the effects will vary from one person to the next. If the twinge persists after trying all of the treatments seek advice from a doctor who will be able to diagnose the cause of the twinge.

Hot and cold treatments can be used to combat twinge. Hot and cold packs can be bought and stored in your medicine cabinet but a bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel can be just as useful. After applying a compress to the inflamed area the temperature works to ease the pain and reduce further swelling. Although the technique is basic the results can be just as good as using some of the drugs listed.

If the cause of the twinge is more serious than a sprain or flesh wound you should seek the advice of your doctor or emergency services if the pain is extreme and debilitating. These people have expert knowledge and have means to thoroughly examine the cause of the twinge and can prescribe stronger and more specific drugs to help you.

Tips & Warnings:

• Always read the enclosed information leaflet inside any medication before you take any and seek the advice of a doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure if it is safe to take.

Image: