When you have a headache, you take aspirin. If there is pain in the muscles, we take paracetamol. Likewise, in case of stomach or toothache, we buy an analgesic from a medical store and consume it. It also provides immediate relief. This is why painkillers are one of the most commonly used over-the-counter medications in the world.
The more we use painkillers, the more dangerous their side effects become. These medications can particularly seriously affect our stomach and kidneys. Their excessive or inappropriate use can cause stomach ulcers, liver and kidney damage.
According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine in July 2021, consuming too many painkillers or using them for a long time increases the risk of liver and kidney damage. It even increases the risk of heart disease.
That’s why today in “Sehatnama” we will talk about the side effects of painkillers. You will also learn that-
How big is the painkillers market? What are painkillers and how do they work? Why does kidney health deteriorate because of this?
The painkiller market is growing every day
According to “Market Research Future”, a global research company covering all types of markets worldwide, the painkillers market is one of the fastest growing markets in the world. Based on the rapid increase in their demand over the past few years, it is estimated that their market can grow at a compound growth rate of 7.2% between 2024 and 2032.
The painkillers market in India is growing faster than the rest of the world. It is estimated that it could grow at a compound growth rate of 9.21% between 2024 and 2029.
What are painkillers?
In medical language, painkillers are called analgesics. These are medications that help control pain and reduce fever. Certain medications can reduce swelling. These are mainly divided into two categories:
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)Opioids
How do these medications work?
NSAIDs reduce inflammation and block the signals that cause the body to feel pain. Therefore, after consuming them, the feeling of pain stops. Opioids directly control the nervous system. These block brain receptors. As a result, the message that there is pain in any part of the body does not reach the brain. Therefore, after eating them, the feeling of pain stops.
What harm do painkillers cause to health?
Dr. Ganesh Srinivas says that first of all, it is important to understand that no medicine is completely risk-free. Because painkillers affect the entire body, including our brain receptors and nervous system, their harmful effects are also greater. Let’s see in the graph what side effects they can have.
The kidneys suffer the most damage
Dr. Ganesh Srinivas says painkillers cause the most damage to the kidneys. This happens because painkillers reduce blood flow to the kidneys. As a result, the functioning of the kidneys is affected. Apart from this, kidney tissues are also damaged. Ultimately, it is the role of the kidneys to filter these medications and remove them from the body. Even during this period, these drugs affect the kidneys. This is the reason why excessive consumption of painkillers increases the risk of kidney damage.
5% of cases of kidney failure due to painkillers
According to the American National Kidney Foundation, improper use of painkillers can cause problems throughout the body, including the kidneys. Each year, 3 to 5% of new cases of chronic kidney disease are due to excessive use of these painkillers. Once a person has kidney disease, continued use of these medications makes the situation worse.
Painkillers are not the enemy
Dr. Ganesh Srinivas says painkillers are designed to reduce our pain and provide relief. If these are consumed carefully as prescribed by the doctor, the damage they cause can be reduced.
The side effects of painkillers can be reduced by following these instructions given by Dr. Ganesh Srinivas:
Follow Dosage Instructions: If you are taking painkillers, always follow the prescribed or recommended dosage. If you have persistent pain, see a doctor instead of taking medication yourself.
Use as little as possible: Use painkillers as little as possible. If pain persists, seek medical attention and have the underlying problem treated.
Find alternatives: Depending on the cause of the pain, there may be many options to reduce it. There is no need to take medication. Things like physical therapy, acupuncture, or mindfulness can help moderate pain.
Get regular checkups: If you regularly consume painkillers due to a medical or physical problem, continue to have your stomach and kidneys checked regularly. This will reveal how these medications affect the kidneys and stomach. Depending on this, the doctor can change the dosage.
Stay away from alcohol: If someone drinks alcohol with painkillers, it can increase the risk of stomach ulcers and kidney damage. It also increases the risk of liver damage. Therefore, avoid alcohol during this period.
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