21 hours Ago By Katie-Ann Gupwell
A gastroenterologist has issued a warning to people who regularly take a well-known pill, cautioning that its overuse may lead to two significant health complications. Dr Saurabh Sethi, who shares advice online, asserts there are critical reasons he personally avoids excessive use of this medication. Overindulgence in ibuprofen can result in adverse effects on the body, he warned.
He noted that the potential harm it can inflict is often underestimated, thus prompting him to offer some professional guidance. Article continues below ADVERTISEMENT On Instagram , Dr Sethi shared: "75% of people who take them regularly develop gut inflammation, and one in four can develop ulcers. I perform endoscopies regularly, and see these ulcers first hand.
"NSAIDs reduce bloodflow to the gut, which can harm its lining. I've seen young, otherwise healthy people, come in with gut damage so severe they've ended up in the ER just because they did not know the risk of these medications. "If you're taking these medicines more than a couple of times a month, here are three things you can do.
First, talk to your doctor about alternatives." View this post on Instagram A post shared by Saurabh Sethi (@doctor.sethi) He added: "Second, talk to your doctor about using a stomach protecting medication.
And third, take these medicines with food to minimize the risk of damage to the gut lining." Moreover, it's essential to be aware that regular or high doses of ibuprofen can lead to ulcers. This occurs as the drug can inhibit the production of prostaglandins, which play a crucial role in safeguarding the stomach's lining.
Ibuprofen falls under the category of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which function by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX). This enzyme plays a pivotal role in the production of prostaglandins, substances crucial for maintaining the protective lining of the stomach against digestive acids. What does ibuprofen do? Ibuprofen serves as a pain reliever and fever reducer, making it a common treatment for headaches, toothaches, muscle aches, arthritis and menstrual cramps.
Its anti-inflammatory properties make it effective in treating swelling and inflammation. Generally, adults over 17 can use ibuprofen, but it's not recommended for those who have experienced allergic reactions to other NSAIDs or for pregnant women. Prior to taking ibuprofen, consulting a GP is advised to ensure there are no other issues.
Although widely used, the medication can have side effects, as highlighted by the NHS in the UK. Their guidelines note: "Ibuprofen can cause ulcers in your stomach or gut, especially if you take it by mouth for a long time or in big doses. If you need to take it for a long time your doctor may also prescribe a medicine to help protect your stomach.
" Oral ibuprofen can also have common side effects, which more than one in 100 people may experience. These can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, vomiting, flatulence or indigestion. If these symptoms persist, it's crucial to consult your doctor.
The NHS UK advises that you should also get in touch with a doctor, or dial 111 immediately, and cease taking ibuprofen if you have: Black poo or blood in your vomit – these signs can indicate bleeding in your stomach Swollen ankles, blood in your pee or not peeing at all – these signs can indicate a kidney problem.
