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Protecting the Heart from the Start 

Are ADD/ADHD Medications Compromising Health?

 

February celebrates American Heart Month—which is an important health issue to follow, particularly for those with ADD/ADHD—as reports have linked prescriptions for the disorder to heart problems.

With heart disease the leading cause of death for Americans, taking precautions to prevent and control factors that put people at greater risk, including proper nutrition, sleep, exercise, and stress control, can greatly help.

Monitoring intake of potentially harmful medication may also be a key factor in staying healthy and avoiding heart problems.

The American Heart Associationissued a recommendation for all children currently taking or diagnosed to begin taking prescription ADD/ADHD medication to receive a thorough cardiovascular screening, as heart disease often goes undetected in children.

This suggestion follows the FDA’s ordinance to ADD/ADHD drug manufacturers to include warning labels on drugs regarding theincreased risk for cardiac complications among those with underlying heart conditions, as prescription ADD/ADHD stimulants raise both heart rate and blood pressure.

Since so many heart conditions in children go undiagnosed as symptoms are rarely exhibited, the importance to screen a child on medication or about to begin treatment is necessary to helpprevent against these potential risks. Many children have been properly diagnosed with heart disease via thorough examination.

Herbal and homeopathic remedies can provide effective, safe relief without compromising health or risking serious side effects. Natural remedies have been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years to support the healthy functioning of the brain and nervous system, helping to encourage normal and efficient concentration and memory functioning.

As most conventional medicines work only to treat symptoms and problems in isolation, natural medicine strives to create holistic balance in the body to support systemic health, relieve ailments, and prevent future disease. Incorporating changes in a number of areas including diet, lifestyle, surroundings and emotional elements can also be very beneficial in promoting overall health.

 

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"I developed BrightSpark™ as a homeopathic remedy to assist me in the treatment of children in my clinical practice. This remedy has been very effective in helping children who presented difficulties in concentration and appropriate classroom behavior due to a tendency to be impulsive, overly stimulated and restless, often along with irritable mood and a resistance to parental discipline. Many of these children went from being the classroom clown to willingly settling down to complete tasks, while still retaining brightness and creativity - to the great relief of parents and teachers alike!" - Michele Carelse, Clinical Psychologist