Pain Killers and Stomach Irritation: How to Protect Yourself

Many of us suffer from the aches and pains of everyday life. When our joints or muscles ache, we go to our medicine cabinet. Once there many of us will reach for pain relief medication.

Usually pain medication whether prescription or those we buy over the counter relieve our discomfort . Most of the time our pain medication doesn't cause additional problems. But in some people pain medications like aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can irritate stomachs or worse.

Aspirin and the more common NSAIDs, like Advil, Motrin (ibuprofen), and Aleve, Naprosyn (naproxen) can cause upset stomachs, bleeding and even ulcers in some people. These side effects usually happen in one of two ways: either the individual taking the medication is sensitive to the ingredients or is at risk for stomach problems or the medication is not being taken as directed.

What Side Effects Do NSAIDs Have?

While NSAIDs decrease the inflammation process they also decrease the stomach's ability to protect itself from stomach acids. Stomach acid is needed to digest the food we eat. But with decreased protection the acids can eat or irritate the stomach lining causing stomach upset or even ulcers.

The lack of stomach protection is an increased problem for elderly individuals as the stomach's ability to protect itself decreases with age. NSAIDs also interfere with the blood clotting process so bleeding can be a problem not only in the stomach but other parts of the body as well.

How Can You Protect Yourself And Your Loved Ones?

First decide if a medication that is not an NSAID will work. Tylenol or other related medications do not have the stomach upset problems of the NSAIDs.

Second, read the directions of the medication you are taking. If the medication says: take only 6 in 24 hours then don't take more. If you're supposed to take the medication with food, that means more than a cracker or a piece of candy. Check with your pharmacist or doctor for specific recommendations Take the medication with a full glass of water, unless you are on some sort of fluid restriction. The full glass insures the pill will dissolve correctly and also won't irritate your stomach.

Third, if your doctor decides you need long term treatment with NSAIDs, ask your doctor about taking a proton pump inhibitor or H2 blocker. These medications help protect your stomach from possible bleeding problems.

Fourth, if you have stomach pain, bloody bowel movements, dizziness, or vomit blood call your doctor
immediately or go to a hospital. These symptoms can be symptoms of dangerous side effects of NSAIDs.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be very effective in relieving aches and pains. But be careful of potential side effects. Take time to read the instructions and use only as directed.