Did You Know That Common Painkillers Could Cause Heart Attacks?

If you are accustomed to using over-the-counter painkillers for normal aches and pains, it is possible that you could be finding the relief you need from the problems you are facing. However, are you aware that over-the-counter painkillers also have the potential to cause heart attacks? If not, the information that some of the most common painkillers such as Motrin, Advil, and Aleve can increase the risks of heart attacks even in the first week of use could perhaps shock you.

These drugs have the potential to increase your risks of a heart attack by 20 to 50% as compared to people who do not use them. Researchers have concluded that the overall risk associated when using these drugs was just about 1% every year.

[su_quote class=”cust-pagination”]“We need to help people understand that taking pain medicine to maximize one’s ability to be productive and to sustain enriching relationships is very different than the disease of addiction, which limits one’s ability to contribute to society and maintain healthy habits.” ― Dianne Bourque[/su_quote]

Why Are Researchers Concerned?

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Researchers are concerned because, despite the small increase in the percentage, the use of these drugs is widespread. Also, the problem has potential to aggravate itself when people begin to use higher doses of these drugs. As things stand presently, these painkillers increase the potential of a heart attack regardless whether the dose is taken for a week, a month or more than one month. The risk only increases when the individuals begin using higher doses.

These painkillers are widely used to deal with pain and inflammation especially from long-term conditions such as arthritis and other joint conditions. Many people also use these painkillers for short-term problems such as menstrual cramps, fever or flu and sometimes for backaches or headaches.

Studies could not confirm that these pills increased the risks of heart attacks. The potential factors which could influence heart attacks were not taken into account. This is a clear indicator that conclusions cannot be made about the study and the effects despite it being one of the largest investigations of its type. The researchers only advised that over-the-counter painkillers be used prudently without using them as the first option against aches and pains of any kind.

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What Can The Average Individual do In Such Cases?

You are advised to consider all available alternatives for the treatment of aches and pains or even the odd fever or inflammation. Take some time to read the label of these medications and use the lowest possible dosage to avoid harming the heart. Avoiding the use of over-the-counter painkillers could perhaps be impossible if you are accustomed to having opioids, but limit the dose.

The medical fraternity and pharmaceutical companies would not want these studies to become commonly available to all people because it can cause a dent in their business. Unfortunately, they do not have any alternatives to provide. Under the circumstances, it is the average individual that will continue to suffer from the increased risks of heart attacks and other cardiac conditions.

[su_quote class=”cust-pagination”]“Chronic pain patients like me are not the cause of the opioid crisis; only 22% of those who misuse opioids are prescribed them by a doctor, and only 13% of ER visits for opiate overdoses were chronic pain patients. Most chronic pain patients are rule-followers who just want to function.”— Sonya Huber[/su_quote]

Adopt Natural Remedies as Alternatives

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Natural remedies such as herbs and exercise can provide people the relief they need from aches and pains. They also treat other conditions such as depression and anxiety. Research has also revealed that the problem can be dealt with without the help of over-the-counter painkillers, which can cause additional problems.