Do you find yourself reaching for painkillers every day to combat those persistent aches and pains? Many of us have been there, seeking quick relief from discomfort without giving it a second thought. But have you ever wondered about the potential side effects that might accompany this daily reliance on painkillers?
We spoke to Dr Aditya Shukla, Consultant Intensivist and Pain Management, Regency Hospital Ltd, who listed the side effects of taking painkillers for an extended time.
Side Effects Of Taking Painkillers Everyday
Here are some common side effects of taking painkillers daily:
Gastrointestinal Issues
Dr Shukla said, “Regular use of painkillers, particularly Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen, can irritate the stomach lining and lead to gastritis, ulcers, or gastrointestinal bleeding. Long-term use may increase the risk of these conditions.”
Kidney Damage
Dr Shukla added, “Some painkillers, especially NSAIDs, can put a strain on the kidneys. Using painkillers for a long time may lead to kidney damage or worsen existing kidney problems.”
Liver Damage
High doses or prolonged use of certain painkillers, such as acetaminophen (paracetamol), can be harmful to the liver, especially when combined with alcohol or in individuals with pre-existing liver conditions.
Cardiovascular Risks
Dr Shukla informed that NSAIDs have been associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes, particularly in individuals with a history of heart disease or those at higher cardiovascular risk.
The Institute for Quality and Efficiency in Health Care (IQWiG) has found evidence indicating that the risk of cardiovascular health issues may increase when painkillers are used for a shorter duration, specifically less than two weeks. This effect is particularly noteworthy for individuals who already have a pre-existing heart condition.
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Increased Bleeding Risk
Painkillers can affect blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding, which may be concerning for individuals on blood-thinning medications or those with bleeding disorders.
Medication Overuse Headache
Frequent use of painkillers, especially those containing caffeine, may lead to medication overuse headaches, causing a cycle of dependency on the medication.
Rebound Pain
Dr Shukla said, “In some cases, frequent use of painkillers can lead to a phenomenon known as rebound pain, where the pain returns and intensifies once the medication wears off.”
Allergic Reactions
Some individuals may develop allergic reactions to painkillers, which can range from mild skin rashes to severe anaphylactic reactions.
Interactions with Other Medications
Painkillers can interact with other medications you may be taking, leading to potential side effects or reducing the effectiveness of other drugs.
Dependence and Addiction
Dr Shukla said, “While most over-the-counter (OTC) painkillers are not typically associated with addiction, some prescription painkillers, such as opioids, have a high potential for abuse and addiction if used improperly or for an extended duration.”
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Things To Keep In Mind While Taking Painkillers
Dr Shukla listed crucial guidelines to follow to mitigate the risks of taking painkillers every day:
- Follow the instructions of a healthcare professional when using painkillers
- Use the smallest effective dose for the shortest required period
- Avoid combining multiple painkillers without medical advice
- Discuss your pain management plan with a healthcare provider to explore non-pharmacological alternatives or targeted treatments
Bottomline
Dr Shukla concluded, “If you find yourself needing painkillers regularly, it's important to consult a healthcare professional to identify the underlying cause of the pain and develop a comprehensive and safe pain management plan.”
Disclaimer
The information in this article is shared by an expert and is for information purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult with your expert before taking painkillers or if you face any complications.