Watch Out: Long-term Ibuprofen Use Can Harm Your Kidneys and Stomach
Consider halting the use of ibuprofen for pain relief: Potential risks involve two detrimental outcomes, according to a medical expert.
In a fascinating Instagram post, cosmetic plastic surgeon Dr Alberico Sessa pointed out several potential risks associated with taking ibuprofen for extended periods or in large doses. Here's a quick rundown of what you need to know.
Ibuprofen, a popular nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), is commonly used to alleviate pain, fever, and inflammation. However, according to Dr Sessa, frequent use of ibuprofen can lead to severe consequences for your kidneys and stomach.
Damage to Kidneys
One of the most significant risks associated with prolonged ibuprofen use is kidney damage. Dr Sessa emphasized that this is especially concerning for those with pre-existing kidney issues. Ibuprofen can disrupt the blood flow to your kidneys by blocking the production of essential prostaglandins, which maintain renal function. Over time, this decrease in blood flow can cause irreversible kidney damage, potentially resulting in conditions such as acute or chronic kidney disease.
Stomach Troubles
In addition to kidney damage, long-term or high-dose usage of ibuprofen can also increase the risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding. These complications occur due to ibuprofen's impact on the stomach lining, which normally produces protective prostaglandins. By reducing these protective substances, ibuprofen can strip the stomach of its mucous barrier, leading to even more serious gastrointestinal issues such as bleeding and ulcers.
Safer Alternatives
Instead of relying on ibuprofen, consider some alternative treatments for managing pain. Dr Sessa suggested alternatives such as bromelain, fish oil, and arnica. These natural anti-inflammatory agents may help reduce inflammation more effectively and with fewer side effects than ibuprofen.
Remember, Consult a Professional!
Before making any decisions about your health, it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional. This article is for informational purposes only and should not take the place of advice from a qualified medical expert.
Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking treatment because of something you've read here. Always consult your doctor with any concerns about your health or medication use.
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- In a health-and-wellness discussion, cosmetic plastic surgeon Dr Alberico Sessa raised concerns about long-term ibuprofen use, citing potential risks to the kidneys and stomach.
- Ibuprofen, a common pain reliever, can lead to severe consequences for kidney function when used frequently or in large doses, according to Dr Sessa.
- Prolonged use of ibuprofen can disrupt blood flow to the kidneys, affecting renal function, and may lead to irreversible kidney damage over time.
- Additionally, frequent ibuprofen use increases the risk of stomach ulcers and bleeding, due to its impact on the stomach lining and suppression of protective prostaglandins.
- In pursuit of safer alternatives, Dr Sessa recommended natural anti-inflammatory agents like bromelain, fish oil, and arnica as potential substitutes for ibuprofen.
- For mental-health and overall health, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional before making any decisions about health regimens, medications, or therapies-and-treatments.
- Understanding the potential risks of ibuprofen and exploring safer alternatives can contribute positively to your physical health and well-being, making it an important aspect of your lifestyle and personal health management.
