Chronic Pain Medications & the Heart
Oct 12, 2016
Painkillers are often the first resource for patients who suffer from chronic pain. While pain medications can work wonders in reducing pain, they can have adverse effects on other areas of the body when taken to excess. In this article, we are going to discuss a few of the common medications used to treat chronic pain and their potential impact on the heart.
NSAIDs are over-the-counter medications that you can get at any local drugstore. Examples include advil, and ibuprofen, and the like. NSAIDs are very common, and at the recommended doses, typically don’t pose much of a risk of any side effects. However, when a patient takes too much, they can contribute to kidney damage, increase blood pressure, and cause congestive heart issues in patients who have with a history of heart conditions.
Opioids are controlled substances – meaning you can’t get them without a prescription from a pain doctor. These pain drugs are highly effective at reducing patient pain, but they are also highly addictive. The biggest thing you need to worry about with opioids is avoiding dependency and addiction. When used as directed, there shouldn’t be any heart health issues.
Acetaminophen and Aspirin are common over-the-counter painkillers. These medications do not work as effectively as other prescription medications (chronic pain patients often have to take a good amount in order to feel relief). That being said, NSAIDs pose little risk to heart health when taken in appropriate doses.
Advanced Spine & Pain Clinics of MN has over two decades of experience treating Minnesotans for chronic pain conditions. Our pain management doctors will work hand-in-hand with you to determine the root cause of your pain and how it can be treated most effectively. Treating chronic pain requires a coordinated, team approach, and we will work with any other medical professionals when necessary to ensure that you receive the best possible care. Contact our Edina pain clinic today to set up your appointment and get back on the road to a pain free life!