Overuse of NSAIDs
As their name suggests, NSAIDs, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are medications whose purpose is to relieve fever, pain, and inflammation. While they’re widely prescribed and used, they come with risks of adverse reactions, with older people being more susceptible to them. Some potential side effects that can arise from their use are pain or irritation, heartburn, gas, constipation or diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, bleeding, and ulcers. Moreover, pairing these drugs with alcohol may result in internal bleeding.
In addition, their excessive use may lead to conditions like acute and chronic gastritis, as they reduce the critical substances that aid in preserving the stomach’s protective lining. Long-term use of these types of medication may also lead to risks of elevating blood pressure, kidney problems, renal failure, allergic reactions, stroke, heart attack, and other dangerous complications. For this reason, you must only take NSAIDs when prescribed by a doctor.
Some red flags that indicate medical assistance is necessary are allergic reactions like swelling or itching, dark stools, blurry vision, light sensitivity, trouble urinating, and severe headaches or other body pains. Getting treatment is also essential if you experience breathing problems, chest pain, weakness in a specific body part, and slurred speech.
