How Common Painkillers Boost Your Risk of a Repeat Heart Attack?

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How Common Painkillers Boost Your Risk of a Repeat Heart Attack?

 

With the recent news that common painkillers like ibuprofen and naproxen have been found to increase your risk of a heart attack by as much as 25 percent, you might be wondering if it’s time to make a change. This article breaks down what these painkillers were designed to do, how they can put your health at risk, and what you can do instead.

 

What are Common Painkillers?


There are a variety of painkillers that people commonly take for various reasons. These painkillers include over-the-counter (OTC) medications like ibuprofen and aspirin, as well as prescription medications like celecoxib, diclofenac, and naproxen. While these painkillers can be effective at relieving pain, they also come with a risk of serious side effects, including an increased risk of a repeat heart attack.

People who have already had a heart attack are at particularly high risk for having another one if they take any of these common painkillers on a regular basis. In fact, even taking these drugs just once per week can increase your risk of having another heart attack by up to 50%. The risks are even higher if you take more than one of these drugs at the same time or if you have other health conditions that put you at risk for heart disease.

If you need to take pain medication regularly, it's important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits. There may be other options that can help relieve your pain without increasing your risk of having another heart attack.

 

How do they cause heart attacks?


Aspirin and ibuprofen are two of the most common painkillers on the market. They're used to treat everything from headaches and muscle aches to arthritis pain. But new research suggests that these drugs may also increase your risk of having a repeat heart attack.

The study, which was published in the journal Circulation, looked at data from over 4,000 patients who had suffered a heart attack. The researchers found that those who took either aspirin or ibuprofen regularly were more likely to have a second heart attack than those who didn't take these medications.

So how do these drugs increase your risk of having a repeat heart attack? It's thought that they work by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins. These are substances that help to protect the lining of the blood vessels and prevent clotting. By inhibiting their production, aspirin and ibuprofen may make it more likely for blood clots to form, which can lead to a heart attack.

If you're currently taking aspirin or ibuprofen regularly, talk to your doctor about whether or not you should continue doing so. In some cases, the benefits of these medications may outweigh the risks. But if you're not sure, it's best to err on the side of caution and stop taking them. It is advised to consult a specialist before taking any medication.

 

Why do Painkillers Boost Your Risk of a Repeat Heart Attack?


There are a few reasons why painkillers may boost your risk of a repeat heart attack.

1. First, painkillers can increase blood pressure, which can put additional strain on the heart.

2. Second, painkillers can also cause or worsen arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), which can lead to a heart attack.

3. Third, painkillers can interfere with blood clotting, which can also lead to a heart attack.

If you have had a heart attack, it is important to talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of taking painkillers. In some cases, the benefits of taking painkillers may outweigh the risks. However, in other cases, it may be best to avoid painkillers altogether.

 

What are Alternatives to Painkillers?


There are many alternatives to painkillers that can be just as effective in managing pain. Some of these include:

  • Acupuncture

  • Aromatherapy

  • Chiropractic care

  • Exercise

  • Massage therapy

  • Meditation

  • Yoga


 

Conclusion


In conclusion, while painkillers may provide temporary relief from pain, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with their use, especially if you have a history of heart disease. If you are concerned about the potential for adverse effects, speak with your doctor about alternative treatments that may be more appropriate for you.