16 Feb , 16:37
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British medical experts have named groups of people for whom the common ibuprofen can lead to serious health problems. At particular risk are elderly people, expectant mothers, and allergy sufferers.
As reported by TUT.AZ with reference to the National Health Service, experts are raising the alarm: one of the most common medications found in home medicine cabinets is not suitable for everyone. Details are provided by The Mirror.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which include ibuprofen, are excellent at dealing with pain and inflammation. However, this coin has a flip side — damage to the stomach. The medication weakens the protective barrier of the mucous membrane while simultaneously triggering increased acid production. The result is an elevated risk of developing ulcers.
Doctors urge particular caution for people over 65 years old. Elderly patients who are forced to take ibuprofen for extended periods are often additionally prescribed medications to protect the stomach.
The list of contraindications is substantial: heart, liver, and kidney diseases, uncontrolled blood pressure, asthma, intestinal problems, and even chickenpox — all of these are serious reasons to avoid ibuprofen.
A separate matter concerns allergy sufferers. Those who have already experienced a reaction to aspirin, naproxen, or other NSAIDs should be extremely careful. Allergy symptoms range from harmless runny nose and sneezing to frightening wheezing and choking attacks. The skin often suffers as well — rashes, redness, itching, or hives may appear.
In the most severe cases, angioedema is possible — a condition requiring immediate medical attention. This is precisely why doctors sometimes prescribe additional medications alongside ibuprofen that can prevent dangerous complications.
