Every day millions of people turn to the medicine cabinet for over-the-counter and prescription pain medications for pain symptoms. This may seem like an easy fix, and if the FDA approves these medications, they must be safe, right? Not so fast. These medications, even when taken properly, can cause side effects that may compromise your overall health. It is essential to know the long-term side effects that can result from taking pain medications.

Pain medications containing acetaminophen (like Tylenol), which is a pain reliever and fever reducer, has been known to cause serious liver damage possibly leading to liver failure and even death. Medications like acetaminophen decrease the liver’s ability to work as a filter and detoxifier of the body. This can lead to liver toxicity and damage. It is extremely important to avoid taking more than the prescribed dose of this medication and do not take it while drinking alcohol, which can greatly increase the possibility of damage to the liver. Long-term use of this medication can lead to decreased liver function and toxicity.

A class of medications called Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS), which are used as pain relievers, can cause damage to the gastrointestinal tract resulting in ulcers and/or gastrointestinal bleeding. Popular forms of NSAIDS include ibuprofen (Advil/Motrin), Naprosyn (Aleve), Celecoxib (Celebrex), aspirin (Bayer), etc. Prostaglandins are substances which are important in helping the gut linings resist corrosive acid damage. NSAIDs cause ulcers by interfering with prostaglandins in the stomach. Frequent use of these medications has been shown to cause serious harm to the digestive system.

In addition to liver and gastrointestinal problems, pain medications can also affect the kidneys. Prolonged use of over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, have been shown to affect kidney function, which in some cases can lead to kidney failure. There have also been studies performed that indicate an increased risk for bone fractures and high blood pressure in those who take pain medications on a regular basis.

Aside from the biological effects of these medications, pain relievers are also habit-forming and many become dependent upon these drugs. Addiction is a serious problem for individuals struggling to manage their pain while being able to function with activities of daily life. Addiction to pain medications can lead to psychological issues, relationship problems, overall health quality, etc.

Managing pain is a difficult task because everyone has a different perception and tolerance for pain. So, it is important to look at your own definition of pain and decide how best to manage it to fit your comfort and lifestyle. You can decide to take the easy route and continue taking pain medications knowing the possible consequences. Or, you can take a proactive approach to your health by increasing anti-inflammatory foods, decrease inflammatory foods from your diet, find natural ways of pain relief (massage, chiropractic, acupuncture, herbs, exercise), and be knowledgeable of what you put into your body, you only have one so treat it right.