Is taking pain relievers known as NSAIDs is the first thing you think of when you suffer from headaches? Or when your muscles hurt from exercise? What do you do when you feel pain? Do you take NSAIDs regularly? If your answer is yes to any of these questions, read this article and learn more about these medicines!

Do you use NSAIDs?

Most probably the answer is yes. Millions of people take NSAIDs every day; NSAIDs are used to treat many conditions without the need for a prescription. They act as pain relievers and can reduce fever and inflammation. You will be surprised to know that aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium are all NSAIDs!

What is the harm of using too much?

Use of NSAIDs may cause digestive problems including stomach upset, stomach acid, ulcers, and rashes. It may also cause kidney problems or easier bruising or bleeding.

There are other side effects, but they are less common, such as severe allergic reactions, serious liver injury and an increased risk of heart disease.

Should I consult a doctor?

Actually, most of them are OTC medications, but you should check with your doctor before taking NSAIDs in the following cases:

• Pregnancy, especially in the third trimester of pregnancy
• Kids and adolescents with viral infections should not take aspirin or products containing it because it puts them at risk of developing Reye’s syndrome, which is a fatal disease.
• You will undergo surgery soon even if it is a dental surgery.
• You drink three or more alcoholic drinks a day.
• Asthma, especially if it gets worse when taking aspirin.
• If you are 65 years old or older.

How do I take NSAIDs wisely?

This article is not intended to discourage you from using NSAIDs, but rather to motivate you to use them wisely. Before going to the medicine cabinet and using the medication, we recommend that you do the following:

• Talk to your doctor, especially if you have a chronic disease.
• Follow directions, stick to the prescribed dosage or directions, and do not take an extra pill thinking it will give you more benefits.
• Use it only when you need it, it should not be used for prevention.
• Talk to your pharmacist about other alternatives to these medicines.
• Consult a doctor to find out the cause of the pain and its treatment. If you find yourself turning to NSAIDs regularly for pain relief, you should talk to your doctor to try to identify the underlying cause.
• Do not use NSAIDs for more than three days if you have a fever and 10 days if you have pain unless your doctor tells you to.