Pain Killers Side Effects
Many time,s when over-the-counter pain relievers are not able to take the edge off severe pain, a doctor may prescribe prescription painkillers to do the trick. Prescription pain relievers work by reducing the pain messages sent to the brain and relaxing the brain's response to those messages. While painkillers do the job of suppressing pain, they also have a host of side effects.
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Constipation
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Painkillers can cause constipation, which can become painful and cause other symptoms if not treated. It is recommended to take a stool softener while painkillers are being used.
Cardiovascular Risks
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Depending on pre-existing conditions and overall current health, some painkillers can cause cardiovascular risks and respiratory depression, which could be a serious side effect for some, especially individuals with heart conditions or the elderly.
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Nausea
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Painkillers containing morphine are not easily tolerated by some individuals and can cause nausea and vomiting. If nausea is experienced, there are drugs to counteract this symptom, or your physician may use an alternate painkiller.
Drowsiness/Dizziness
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Painkillers relax the pain messages sent to the brain and the brain's reaction to those messages. This can cause a complete relaxation of the body, resulting in drowsiness or dizziness, which can be dangerous if driving, operating equipment or performing any task that requires logical and sound judgment.
Dry Mouth
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Some painkillers, due to their effectiveness, may cause dry mouth because the salivary glands' production is reduced while taking a pain suppressant. Drinking water or other fluids may help alleviate dry mouth.
Habit Forming
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Many painkillers, depending upon their drug classification, can be habit forming, and those should be taken under the strict direction and guidance of a physician. If a painkiller that has habit-forming capabilities has been prescribed to you, you can request your doctor to prescribe another non-habit-forming drug as a replacement.
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