An NHS doctor has warned against relying on common painkillers like ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin for severe pain or arthritis, citing serious side effects. Speaking on December 2, Dr. Mark Porter highlighted the risks, including ulceration and bleeding, especially for regular users or those with arthritis. These NSAIDs are widely used to reduce inflammation, pain, and swelling, and aspirin also acts as a blood thinner.
However, Porter emphasized that these drugs can cause dangerous stomach bleeding. An audit by Oxford University found that over 60,000 hospital admissions annually are due to gastrointestinal bleeding, with about 10% of affected patients not surviving. A report in the journal Gut revealed that nearly half of patients hospitalized for bleeding were taking medications like NSAIDs or aspirin, which can worsen stomach issues.
Porter warned that NSAIDs increase the risk of ulcers, bleeding, heart attacks, strokes, and kidney damage. He stressed that many people underestimate these dangers, especially those on low-dose aspirin or anticoagulants, who need to balance benefits against bleeding risks.
He also pointed out that NSAIDs can worsen indigestion and heartburn, and long-term use can damage the stomach’s lining, leading to ulcers or even perforation. Patients should carefully consider the risks and benefits of these medications, particularly those over 65 or with pre-existing health conditions, and consult their doctor for proper management.