Side effects of Ibuprofen

People often resort to anti-inflammatory medicines whenever they want relieve from pain or swelling due to arthritis and injuries. The most common prescribed anti-inflammatory medicine is Ibuprofen. It is non-steroidal and it has capability to lessen the inflammation, thereby, making it effectual to treat headaches. It works by reducing the hormones that are responsible for inflammation and pain in the body. In fact, it is also listed in the WHO’s “Essential Drugs List”, as a core medicine. Continued use of Ibuprofen has many side effects on the human body. First of all, digestive system is affected by the use of Ibuprofen. Often, people complain of nausea, heartburn or indigestion after ingesting Ibuprofen, sometimes it results in cramps or instances of gas as well. rnIn extreme cases, it may even lead to constipation or diarrhea. An ulcer and internal bleeding may also occur if the symptoms don’t subside. Elderly people are more prone to the negative effects of Ibuprofen. If a person is having mild gastrointestinal problem, taking food with a dose of Ibuprofen will ease the problem. On one hand, eating food with Ibuprofen protects the stomach wall and on the other hand, the lining of the stomach can possibly get torn down due to its use. Common side effects of prolonged use of Ibuprofen are itching, nervousness, headaches or ringing in the ears. In some other cases, it may lead to water retention and at times loss of appetite. There is a possibility that Ibuprofen side effects may also cause dizziness or drowsiness. In some cases, a person can also get bewildered or confused after consuming Ibuprofen. Less common effects are depression, insomnia or sores in the mouth. Few people have also complained of meningitis, hair loss, anemia or heart palpitations.rnProlonged use of Ibuprofen has many harmful effects. It can cause cardiovascular problems and also affects the liver and the kidney. Ibuprofen can cause severe allergic reactions to people who are allergic to its use like difficulty in breathing, rashes on the body or fever to name a few. Due to Ibuprofen side effects, there are chances of an unexpected drop in the blood pressure. Expectant mothers should avoid use of Ibuprofen especially during the last three months of pregnancy. Women who are breast-feeding should consult a doctor before taking this medication. Use of Ibuprofen can also cause side effects to children and therefore it is strictly prohibited for children suffering from asthma, stomach or intestinal disorders, angioedema, liver or kidney disease, chicken pox, blood clotting disorder and or aspirin allergy.rnIf you feel an allergic reaction to Ibuprofen then do not use it and consult a physician immediately. Also, if you notice any of the Ibuprofen side effects as mentioned above, then it is advisable to meet your doctor or a heath care professional. Many a times, the negative effects are not prominent but as they say prevention is better than cure, serious conditions can be averted if you pay careful attention to the warning signs. Always take the prescribed dosage only because an overdose may damage the stomach or intestines.