Better than Advil? Back Pain Can Be Treated Without Drugs

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Back pain plagues millions of Americans and hundreds of millions globally. This common complaint generally has people reaching for over-the-counter pain killers, including Advil. Back pain can be attributed to injuries, stress, poor posture, arthritis, degenerative disc disease and other spinal conditions, obesity, and more. How you treat this pain will vary depending on the cause, but you’ll be glad to know that regardless of the root cause, you’ve got options beyond Advil.

Advil caplets, as we’ll discuss, brings with its temporary relief a host of potential complications. Many users, rightly concerned for their long-term health, have begun searching for alternatives. We’ve compiled a list of six of the most effective drug-free methods of treating back pain to give you some new options and help regain control over your health.

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The Problem with Advil: What They Don’t Tell you

Advil, also known by its generic name ibuprofen, is one of the most common over-the-counter drugs on the market. Advil is in a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). Aspirin is another common NSAID, although many drugs in this category are prescription medications. These drugs are widely utilized to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and manage fever, making them dual purpose medications.

Advil works by inhibiting enzymes that produce prostaglandins, chemicals in the body that contribute to pain, inflammation, and fever. By reducing the body’s ability to produce these chemicals, Advil caplets helps alleviate discomfort and helps people treat conditions like back pain, headaches, muscle aches, arthritis, and menstrual cramps.

Advil Side Effects

While Advil can provide effective relief for various ailments, like all drugs it comes with a suite of side effects and potentially serious downsides. Often, these drawbacks don’t get a lot of press so many people aren’t even aware of the risks. Here’s what you could be exposing yourself to every time you pop a few Advil caplets.

Gastrointestinal Issues

NSAIDS like Advil can cause gastrointestinal irritation, one of the most common side effects. As a result, stomach pain, indigestion, heartburn, and ulcers may develop. These issues can be increased by long-term or excessive use of Advil caplets, as well as other ibuprofen products and acetaminophen medications.

Bleeding and Bruising

Blood clotting can be interfered with by Advil, making bleeding and easy bruising more likely. If you have a bleeding disorder or are taking blood-thinning medication, you should consult a doctor before using Advil.

Compromised Kidney Function

Advil can affect kidney function if used for an extended period of time. For people who have a history of kidney disease, staying hydrated and avoiding Advil is important. This risk also applies to acetaminophen.

Cardiovascular Risks

It has been reported that NSAIDs, such as Advil, are associated with an increased risk of heart attack and stroke and an increase in blood pressure, especially when they are taken in high doses or for prolonged periods of time. If you have a preexisting cardiovascular condition, you should talk to your doctor before taking Advil.

Allergic Reactions

People taking Advil caplets or generic ibuprofen may experience allergic reactions such as rash, itching, swelling, and difficulty breathing. You should seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms. Allergic reactions are also possible with acetaminophen.

Liver Issues

There is a possibility that Advil might damage the liver, although this is rare. If you have a history of liver disease, you should take Advil under medical supervision or avoid it altogether. There is also a liver health risk associated with acetaminophen use.

Central Nervous System Effects

In some cases, Advil may cause ringing in the ears, dizziness, or headaches. In most cases, these side effects are temporary, but if they persist, you should consult your doctor.

If You Must Take Advil for Back Pain, Keep These Tips in Mind

A variety of factors can affect the probability and severity of these Advil side effects, including dosage, duration, health status, and potential interactions with other drugs. Advil users who must use an acetaminophen or ibuprofen product should consider the following guidelines to minimize side effects:

Follow Dosage Recommendations

Stick to the recommended dosage and duration outlined on the packaging information or as advised by a healthcare professional. Avoid exceeding the maximum daily dose.

Short-term Use

Whenever possible, use Advil caplets for short periods to manage acute pain or discomfort. Prolonged use should only be undertaken under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of fluids can help lower the risk of potential kidney issues associated with Advil use. It’s a good idea, even if you’re not taking an acetaminophen or ibuprofen product!

Consult a Doctor

If you have preexisting health conditions, are taking other medications to treat another condition, or are unsure about using Advil, consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Monitor for Symptoms

Be attentive to any unusual symptoms or side effects while taking Advil caplets or any other pain product, and seek medical attention if necessary.

Advil and other forms of ibuprofen (or acetaminophen like Tylenol, which is a whole other can of worms) can be helpful to treat pain and inflammation on a short term basis, but responsible use and awareness of its potential side effects are essential. By making informed choices with all the information and seeking medical guidance from your doctor when needed, you can maximize the benefits of Advil when you really do need it, and lower the risks to your health.