It has been said that pain is a part of life. Twenty percent of Americans are affected by chronic pain. Of the over 50 million people experiencing daily pain, more than 30 million use non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to find relief.
These drugs are the most commonly used pain medication in the United States. NSAIDs are household names like Motrin and Advil (ibuprofen), Aleve (Naproxen), Mobic (meloxicam), Celebrex (celecoxib), and diclofenac.
Medications in this category have proven to reduce inflammation and provide effective pain relief. However, we must ask ourselves what is the price that we pay to be pain-free.
As humans age, chronic conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure become more common. Ninety-six percent of patients over 65 years old report using these medications. Therefore, the dangers and potentially deadly outcomes associated with NSAIDs should be discussed.
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Four things you should know about NSAIDs when being taken chronically or daily:
NSAIDs increase the risk of a heart attack in patients with diabetes.
NSAIDs increase the rate that patients are hospitalized who have heart failure.
NSAIDs increase blood pressure.
NSAIDs damage kidneys and that damage can be permanent.
There are alternatives to using NSAIDs that have also been proven effective for pain. The scientific data suggests all of the below alternatives are worth trying and safe:
Daily stretching for 10-15 minutes.
Diet changes (try eliminating gluten and dairy for 6 weeks).
Using a combination of ice 15 minutes twice a day and heat.
Having an ergonomic work space.
Wearing supportive shoes and changing shoes or at least inserts (orthotics) regularly.
Purchase a new mattress every 8-10 years.
Adopt a mindfulness practice (breathing/meditation).
Daily exercise (in addition to staying active) — if you don’t use it you lose it!
Tylenol is a safe medication alternative to NSAIDs. As always, discuss any new medications or herbal supplements with your doctor.
Dr. Brandi Wright is a southeast Arkansas doctor who is board certified in internal medicine and nephrology.