Looking For Info About Kava Side Effects?Before you try any form of treatment, supplement, or drug, you should check out all the potential side effects that you may, or may not, experience when undergoing the particular treatment. As for kava, you may be interested or concerned about what kava side effects there may be before you try it, especially as it is a relatively new supplement. Those side effects that are probably more bothersome than they are serious, can include an upset stomach; abdomen pressure; headaches; dizziness; drowsiness; enlarged pupils; dry mouth; red eyes; yellow discoloration of your hair and/or nails; or scaly, dry, or yellow-tinted skin. But, as you continue using kava, the side effects can become more serious. If you notice any of the more serious kava side effects, you'll want to consult your health-care provider. The more extreme kava side effects tend to be caused by long term use and higher doses, and tend to include liver damage; uncontrollable body movements or spasms, shakiness or tremors; hypertension; reduced protein levels; blood cell abnormalities; and signs of allergic reaction (such as rash, hives, itching, wheezing, difficulty breathing, or swelling of your mouth or throat). Because of the more serious kava side effects and the reports of liver damage, some countries have actually banned the use of kava, but there are reports that liver damage is not caused by kava. It's still a big concern if you opt to use kava, so if you notice any signs or symptoms that may indicate liver damage, you'll want to consult your doctor as soon as you can. If you are pregnant, nursing, using other prescription medications, or being treated for depression, you do not want to use kava, and if you consume alcohol or continue smoking, the toxicity can increase. Because one of the kava side effects includes drowsiness, it is not recommended that you drive or use heavy machinery while using kava. Kava can, also, inhibit your reaction time, so when using the treatment, it is strongly advised not to drive or operate heavy machinery. It is not advised to use Kava if you have Parkinson's disease, as it may worsen the "off" periods related to the condition. Plus, depending on the other medications you may be on in response to the disease, kava may cause a semi-comatose state. Although, kava is a legal intoxicant used as an herbal medication to reduce stress, aid insomnia, and reduce anxiety, you should weigh the kava side effects with the pros, as you would with any other supplement. |