On an ordinary afternoon, Grandma Li, a 78-year-old retired teacher, walked into my office with worry written all over her face. She held a small bag of medicine in both hands and whispered, "Doctor, I take these analgesics every day, but I heard that there will be *** for a long time, what should I do?" ”
Her problem is not unique. Many older people with arthritis or gout face a similar dilemma: they need to rely on analgesics for pain relief, but at the same time worry about the consequences of long-term medications.
1.The truth about arthritis: it's not just "geriatric disease".
Arthritis, especially osteoarthritis, is often misunderstood as affecting only older people. In fact, it can affect people of any age.
Osteoarthritis is mainly caused by the gradual wear and tear of articular cartilage, which is a chronic joint disease.
Symptoms often include joint pain, stiffness, and limited mobility, which can be exacerbated by the weather.
2.Gout: It's not just a problem with the joints
Gout is an inflammatory joint disease caused by high levels of uric acid. It can trigger severe joint pain, especially in the thumb joint.
Elevated uric acid levels are due to abnormal purine metabolism in the body and may be related to dietary habits (e.g., intake of high-purine foods) and genetic factors.
Gout not only affects the joints but can also cause kidney problems, so it needs to be managed thoroughly.
1.The double-edged sword of analgesics
Analgesics, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), are commonly used for arthritis and gout. They are effective in relieving pain and inflammation.
However, long-term use of these medications can bring*** including gastrointestinal problems, kidney damage, and heart problems.
For older people, the risk of drug metabolism is higher, and it must be used with caution under the guidance of a doctor.
2.The key to safe use of analgesics
Regular monitoring:Regular kidney and liver function tests, as well as heart health assessments, to make sure the medication doesn't cause serious ***
Individualized drug selection:Depending on the patient's overall health and pre-existing medical conditions (e.g., heart disease, kidney disease, etc.), the most appropriate medication is selected.
Non-drug ** in combination: Include appropriate physical activity, weight management, and physical ** to reduce dependence on medications.
Long-term use of analgesics, especially in older people, can cause a variety of adverse effects.
First, the liver and kidneys are the main organs of drug metabolism and excretion, and the function of these organs tends to weaken with age.
Therefore, long-term use of analgesics may increase the burden on the liver and kidneys, leading to an increased risk of related diseases.
Second, some analgesics may cause gastrointestinal upset, such as stomach pain, indigestion, and may even cause stomach ulcers or bleeding. In addition, certain medications may affect heart and blood vessel health, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Scientific Medication: Guidelines for Safe Medication
Consult your doctor and pharmacist:Consult with your doctor or pharmacist before starting any analgesics to make sure the medication you choose is appropriate for your health condition.
Follow your doctor's advice:Take your medication exactly as instructed by your doctor and do not increase or decrease the dose or stop it on your own.
Monitoring***Pay attention to any possible conditions such as indigestion, dyspnea, allergic reactions, etc., and report them to your doctor in time.
Regular check-ups:Have regular physical exams, especially liver and kidney function tests, to monitor the effects of medications on your body.
Lifestyle Modifications:Combined with medications** and lifestyle improvements, such as moderate exercise and a healthy diet, can help reduce symptoms of arthritis or gout, potentially reducing dependence on analgesics.
With these measures, we can minimize the risk of taking analgesics for a long time while effectively controlling the symptoms of arthritis or gout. Remember, using your medications wisely, paying attention to changes in your body, and actively communicating with your doctor are the keys to your health.