Nowadays, it has become common to take painkillers for headache, backache, joint pain or minor injuries. Many people keep taking them for a long time without consulting a doctor. Initially, these medicines provide relief, but with continued use they can gradually affect the internal organs of the body. It especially affects the kidneys and liver the most, because these organs work to remove medicines from the body. Often, people consider painkillers to be safe once the pain subsides and ignore the side effects. This carelessness can cause serious problems later. Therefore, it is important to understand how painkillers work inside the body. Let us also know how painkillers affect the kidneys and liver and what are its symptoms.
How do painkillers affect the kidneys and liver?
Professor Dr. Subhash Giri, Director, Medicine Department, RML Hospital, explains that painkillers work by reducing swelling and pain in the body, but long-term use can affect the blood vessels of the kidneys. This can reduce blood flow to the kidneys, which reduces their ability to function. The liver’s job is to break down drugs and remove them from the body. Continuous use of painkillers puts more pressure on the liver, which can damage the liver cells. In some cases, it may cause inflammation, fatty liver, or increased liver enzyme levels. This risk is even greater for people who already have kidney or liver problems.
What are the symptoms of kidney and liver damage?
If the kidneys or liver are being affected, some symptoms may appear. Frequent fatigue, swelling of the legs or face, decreased urination, or changes in the color of urine may indicate kidney problems. Symptoms of liver damage may include loss of appetite, nausea, upper abdominal pain, and yellowing of the eyes or skin. Sometimes, internal damage occurs without causing any serious pain, so even mild symptoms should not be ignored.
How to avoid this? Do not take painkillers without consulting a doctor.
Avoid prolonged and continuous use.
Drink plenty of water.
Tell your doctor if you have any pre-existing medical conditions.
Get health checkups done regularly.