Painkillers are a common treatment for back problems or other types of chronic pain. These drugs are usually safe and can provide pain relief when taken as directed by a physician. However, certain painkillers can have dangerous permanent side effects, so they should be used with caution.
The following information will help you understand the dangers of these pharmaceutical drugs:
Physical Side Effects
The term "painkiller" is meant to reflect short term pain relief. Even though we have been told for years that aspirin is safe it can actually cause irritation in the stomach lining and even cause and intensify ulcers. In the most extreme cases aspirin can lead to severe internal bleeding. A majority of conventional painkillers contain aspirin.
Another reason to be careful with painkillers is that they can cause a heart attack or stroke. Despite claims in the past by health professionals in the media that taking an aspirin a day can prevent a heart attack, recent studies show the opposite to be true. Taking aspirin on a regular basis may temporarily relieve chronic pain, but it also increases the risk of heart attack or stroke due to its high salt composition.
Mood Swings and Addiction
Taking high doses of painkillers can trigger mood swings, irritability, lack of energy and depression. Even more troubling, it can be physically and psychologically addictive. This body and mind alteration can lead to irrational behavior, such as doing things out of desperation to satisfy cravings for the drugs.
Alternatives to Painkillers
Chronic pain can be treated in ways other than pills. Overcoming pain without resorting to drugs is best. For back problems, regular chiropractic massage or acupressure helps.
Ask your doctor about other drug-free alternatives such as:
- Recovery groups
- Psychiatric therapy
- Power of positive thinking
- Healthy diet, exercise and stretching
