DEFINITION
NSAIDs can cause stomach pain and distress and gastric and duodenal ulcers.
DESCRIPTION
NSAIDs are Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs which are used to relieve pain, inflammation and fever - adults and to help reduce the incidence of blood clot formation. Side effects are commonly experienced with NSAID use and these can be serious in some cases. Stomach irritation is the most common adverse effect of NSAIDs.NSAIDs can cause stomach pain and distress and gastric and duodenal ulcers.
NSAIDs are the second leading cause of peptic ulcers; Helicobacter pylori infection is the main cause. The risk of stomach ulceration increases with the dosage and length of time a patient is taking an NSAID. Stomach ulceration and bleeding can occur, however, at any time after a person starts taking an NSAID.
Certain groups are at a higher risk of developing stomach ulceration. These include people; who are over 60, with a history of stomach ulceration, who consume alcohol regularly, who smoke, who take corticosteroid drugs, who take more than the recommend dosage of NSAIDs and those on long-term NSAID therapy. There are drugs available to help minimise the risk of developing stomach ulceration and these may be recommended for some people at high risk.
Signs and symptoms of stomach ulceration or bleeding include bloody or black tarry stools, vomiting of blood, severe painful stomach cramps, severe and continuing nausea, heartburn and indigestion. Signs and symptoms are not always present.
TREATMENT OPTIONS
As with all conditions your Doctor should be consulted. Your Doctor will diagnose and treat this condition. - Taking NSAIDs with food and using antacids may help prevent stomach irritation. - Of the NSAIDs, ibuprofen appears to be the least likely to cause stomach bleeding and/or ulceration. - NSAIDs should be used at the lowest dose possible for the shortest amount of time possible. - Certain groups of people are at greater risk of stomach bleeding and ulceration. There are drugs available that can be taken to minimise the risk of developing stomach damage. These may be recommended for some people at high risk. - If you experience signs and symptoms of stomach bleeding or ulceration, seek medical assistance immediately.
PHARMACIST'S ADVICE
Ask your Pharmacist for advice. 1) See your Doctor if you are taking NSAIDs and begin to experience stomach pain. 2) Sometimes an antacid will be suggested. Ask your Pharmacist for advice. Your Pharmacy also stocks soothing ulcer medication to be taken after meals. 3) If you need help to stop smoking, ask your Pharmacist for suggestions. Studies have proven that smoking irritates Peptic Ulcers and interferes with the healing process. 4) Drink plenty of fluid every day. Normally 6 to 8 glasses of filtered water are suggested. Ask your Pharmacist to explain the benefits and to show you the water filter jugs available. 5) Moderate the intake of alcohol as it may promote the development of Peptic Ulcers. 6) Avoid caffeine drinks, particularly coffee, as it has been found to promote the irritation of Peptic Ulcers. 7) Avoid stress at all times. Stress and other emotions can have a harmful effect on the digestive system. It is not uncommon for people to experience diarrhoea, constipation or stomach pains when they are stressed. Studies have found an association with Peptic Ulcers and stress.
