NSAIDS

NSAIDS also known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are common solution for pain and inflammation. It is one of those easy ways to leave pain behind and to go on with one’s daily routine. They are responsible for approximately 5-10% of all medications prescribed each year. The prevalence of NSAID use in patients over 65 years old is as high as 96% in the general practice setting. Approximately 7.3% of elderly patients over 60 years old filled at least one NSAID prescription in one year period.

NSAIDS works by reducing the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are chemicals that promote inflammation, pain, and fever. They also protect the lining of the stomach and intestines from the damaging effects of acid, promote blood clotting by activating blood platelets, and promote normal function of the kidneys.

Prostaglandins are produced by enzymes called cyclooxygenases (COX). There are two types of COX, COX 1 and COX 2. Both enzymes produce prostaglandins that promote inflammation, pain, and fever; however, only COX-1 produces prostaglandins that activate platelets and protect the stomach and intestinal lining.

NSAIDS function to block COX enzymes and reduce the production of prostaglandins. Thus reducing pain, inflammation and fever. However, with that being said, many studies have found that NSAIDS does not only contribute by managing pain but also it increases certain health risks.

Health Risk 1
With the reduction in Prostaglandins, this reduces the efficacy of blood clotting and the protective stomach lining which prevents the erosion of the stomach wall. Chronic use of NSAIDS may result in bleeding and ulcers happening in the stomach or the gut.

Health Risk 2
COX-2 selective inhibition exhibited by certain NSAIDs can increase the risk of cardiovascular events in patients with preexisting cardiovascular disease.

Health Risk 3
The most commonly experienced side effects are nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, decreased appetite, rash, dizziness, headache, and drowsiness. The more severe side effects seen with NSAID use are fluid retention, renal failure.

Here at Healthworks, clients before care often consume NSAIDS due to the pain that they experienced. But with the health professionals at Healthworks, clients are now able to enjoy the natural pain relieving treatments. If you have any questions regarding this article, feel free to visit us at our website or Whatsapp us at 018-9828539.