Taking Pain Relievers? Be Wary

As people grow older, their health will eventually start to deteriorate and they may experience more aches and pains over time. The solution for many, especially seniors, is to take over-the-counter pain relievers. Unfortunately, there are risks to consuming over-the-counter pain relievers on a regular basis. That's why it is important for seniors, as well as all people, to use over-the-counter pain relievers with caution.

One of the most common over-the-counter pain relievers is acetaminophen. Available by itself and in cold products and sleep aids, acetaminophen can lead to serious liver damage if taken improperly. Consuming more than the recommended amount can cause the body to produce more metabolites than it can eliminate. Eventually the excess metabolites will damage the liver. The initial signs of liver damage are similar to those of the flu and can go undetected for several days. By the time the condition is diagnosed, the patient may be suffering from severe liver disease, which can result in mental confusion, coma and even death.

Aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen are other common over-the-counter pain relievers. As with acetaminophen, taking them improperly can result in bodily harm. Too much of any of the three can lead to gastrointestinal bleeding, especially in people over the age of 65.

To avoid the risks associated with over-the-counter pain relievers, seniors should take them properly. They should read the label and follow the recommended dosage. Taking more than what is recommended in the allotted time period will not provide more relief; it will only result in increased health risks. Seniors should also check with their physician before taking an over-the-counter pain reliever. Certain prescription medications already contain pain relievers. Taking acetaminophen, ibuprofen or some other pain reliever on top of what is already present in a prescription medication could lead to serious health conditions.

If taken properly, over-the-counter pain relievers will provide relief for most seniors. If taken improperly, they can cause more pain than relief. To avoid the health risks associated with over-the-counter pain relievers, seniors should speak to their physician and follow their advice. Only then can they be certain that the pain relievers they take will help rather than hinder them.

Over-the-counter pain relievers may look innocent, but they're not. When taken improperly, they can cause great harm!