Background:
Not long ago the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) strengthened an existing warning that pain relievers known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) increase the risk of heart attack, stroke and gastrointestinal problems. Popular drugs in this category include aspirin (Bayer, Bufferin), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB), naproxen (Aleve), and celecoxib (Celebrex).
What was the FDA Warning?
- Patients taking NSAIDs following a first heart attack were more likely to die in the first year after the heart attack compared to patients not taking them.
- Patients taking NSAIDs should seek medical attention immediately if they experience shortness of breath, chest pain, or trouble breathing.
- The risk may increase with longer use.
- NSAIDs can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke in patients with or without heart disease or risk factors for heart disease.
What is the Take Home Message?
Chronic joint pain is the reason millions of people take these drugs regularly. Their risk of heart attack or stroke increases with higher doses and with longer periods of use. Are there other, natural alternatives? Yes. Many people have reported relief taking turmeric, bromelain, and Boswellia.
Chiropractic care and regular exercise also help by mobilizing joints and strengthening surrounding muscles that support the joints. Long term chiropractic patients often report greater mobility and less joint pain than their peers who are not under care.
Yours for better health,