Side Effects of Pain Killers
By: CraigTotal Views: 378, Word Count: 517,
Pain killers are used for getting rid of muscle pain, headache, body ache, etc. Sometimes deep pain forces us to consume pain killers, but these pain killers have few side effects linked with them. The pain killers might reduce pain, but they also give rise to some other disorders as well.
Sometimes, individuals get so used to taking painkillers that even for mild pain they take them. This could develop painkiller addiction in them. Thus, make sure that you take painkillers only if you are suffering from intense pain. Moreover, it’s better to consult a doctor and then take the painkillers prescribed by him as it would not lead to side effects and at the same time it would be safer. There are several side effects of pain killers which are discussed below.
Side Effects of Pain Killers
Constipation
Painkillers usually cause constipation. The use of a laxative or other form of stool softener is suggested. Further, users must consume plenty of liquids when taking painkillers to prevent constipation. A diet high in fiber would also help to keep bowel movements regular.
Addiction
Numerous pain killers carry the possibility to be habit forming. Some users of pain medication are more vulnerable for developing a habit. This frequently occurs because some users find the numbing of pain and the downer effects of painkillers to be pleasurable. If your doctor prescribes you a pain medication which is habit forming, take the dosage as prescribed. If you feel that you are using the painkillers more than prescribed, request your doctor about alternate treatment options for your pain.
Cardiovascular and Respiratory Effects
Pain killers could affect the function of both your cardiovascular and respiratory systems. Furthermore, causing a feeling of sedation, painkillers could slow the respiratory and heart rate. Taking too much could cause lethal fluctuations in these systems. These side effects could occur from misuse of both over the counter and prescription painkillers.
Mental Side Effects
Painkillers containing opiates could cause mental side effects in some users. Hallucinations, difficulty sleeping, confusion and nightmares are at times reported. If this occurs while you are taking a painkiller, consult a medical expert or the doctor that prescribed the painkiller to you instantly, so that alternate treatment options could be explored.
Skin Problems
Pain killers could also give rise to scratchy skin. Existence of sensitive skin all over the body would also be observed in some cases as a result of side effects of pain killers. Growth of hives is also observed in some individuals.
Aching Problems
The pain killer could lessen the pain for which it’s taken, but at the same time it could give rise to pain in the other part of the body. Pain killer could develop back pain, headache and neck pain.
It could also give rise to other problems like drowsiness, dizziness and weakness. Some individuals could also develop fever, cold and cough. It could also make the person feel weak. In some cases, the person could also experience increase or decrease in the appetite all of a sudden.
About the Author
Craig Brown has practiced as a Doctor of Medicine in New Zealand for about 20 years. Although he is retired now, he continues to share his medical knowledge and experience with readers through his writings.
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