Anti-Inflammatory Medicine Use Linked to Long-Term Chronic Pain
8/4/2022
Popular over-the-counter pain relief medicines, anti-inflammatories and steroids can offer short-term relief, but may leave users with long-term chronic pain or conditions.
A new study from McGill University found inflammation to be a crucial part of healing due to neutrophils, a white blood cell that helps fight infection and set the stage for tissue repair. When these neutrophils were blocked in mice with anti-inflammatory drugs and steroids, they experienced prolonged pain up to ten times the normal duration. The study determined interfering with neutrophils could lead to dangerous results including a higher chance of developing chronic pain.
“Inflammation is a normal part of healing and when that inflammation is blocked, healing can become disrupted,” says Dr. Cory Fernandes, a family medicine physician with Primary Care Associates of Laredo. “The healing process is complex and it’s important to consider how to best help the process without causing any long term complications.”
Depending on the type of pain you are experiencing, there are a number of low-risk options for relief that do not require medication. These options include topical ointments, exercise therapy, acupuncture, massage, heat and cooling. A heating pad or warm bath can relax and loosen tense muscles and increase blood flow to an injury, which can help speed up recovery. An ice pack can be used to reduce swelling by causing blood vessels to constrict.
“Consult with your physician before starting any pain relief medicines to determine what treatment is best for you and your particular type of pain,” says Dr. Fernandes.
To learn more about the risks and benefits of pain relief medicine or to find a physician, visit https://bit.ly/3J0qEnx or call (956) 796-4990.
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Dr. Fernandes is employed by Regional Employee Assistance Program d/b/a Primary Care Associates of Laredo.
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