Pros and cons on anti-inflammatories

The Pros and Cons of Anti-Inflammatories: What You Need to Know
Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury, infection, or illness. While it’s a critical part of the healing process, chronic or excessive inflammation can cause discomfort and contribute to a wide range of health issues—from arthritis and muscle pain to autoimmune conditions. That’s where anti-inflammatory medications come in.
These drugs are among the most commonly used worldwide, but they’re not without drawbacks. Whether you’re taking them for short-term pain relief or managing a long-term condition, it’s important to understand both the benefits and the risks.
What Are Anti-Inflammatories?
Anti-inflammatory medications fall into two main categories:
• NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): Includes ibuprofen (Nurofen), naproxen (Aleve), and aspirin. They work by blocking enzymes (COX-1 and COX-2) that promote inflammation, pain, and fever.
• Steroidal Anti-Inflammatories: Corticosteroids like prednisone that suppress the immune system and reduce inflammation more broadly.

Pros of Anti-Inflammatories

1. Effective Pain Relief
   One of the biggest advantages of anti-inflammatories is their ability to quickly reduce pain. Whether it’s a headache, back pain, or post-surgical soreness, these medications are often highly effective.
2. Reduce Swelling and Inflammation
   For people dealing with conditions like arthritis, tendinitis, or sports injuries, anti-inflammatories can significantly reduce swelling and improve mobility.
3. Fever Reduction
   NSAIDs like ibuprofen and aspirin can help lower fevers, making them useful in managing flu-like symptoms or infections.
4. Readily Available
   Most NSAIDs are available over-the-counter, making them accessible for everyday aches and pains without a prescription.
5. Help with Chronic Conditions
   In autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, prescription anti-inflammatories (including steroids) can help control symptoms and flare-ups.

Cons of Anti-Inflammatories

1. Gastrointestinal Issues
   Prolonged use of NSAIDs can irritate the stomach lining, leading to ulcers, bleeding, or gastrointestinal discomfort. This is a common concern, especially for older adults.
   More info on that: NSAIDs work by inhibiting COX enzymes—COX-1, which protects the stomach lining (produces prostaglandins) and regulates blood flow, and COX-2, which promotes inflammation and pain. By reducing prostaglandin production, NSAIDs thin the stomach’s protective mucus layer, increasing the risk of acid damage, ulcers, and other gastrointestinal issues.
2. Cardiovascular Risks
   Some NSAIDs (especially in high doses or taken long-term) may increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. This is particularly true for people with pre-existing heart conditions.
3. Kidney Damage
   NSAIDs can reduce blood flow to the kidneys, which may lead to kidney damage over time—especially in those with preexisting kidney issues or who are dehydrated.
   Special note: When doing long distance/ endurance events where dehydration is likely, do not take anti-inflammatories.
4. Dependency and Side Effects (Steroids)
   Steroidal anti-inflammatories can have more serious long-term effects, including weight gain, mood swings, high blood pressure, and an increased risk of infections. They can also cause withdrawal symptoms if not tapered off properly.
5. Masking Underlying Issues
   By relieving symptoms, anti-inflammatories can sometimes hide underlying health problems. This might delay proper diagnosis and treatment.
6. Interfere with healing
   Anti-inflammatory drugs can negatively affect healing by inhibiting inflammation, a crucial part of the body’s natural healing process. By suppressing inflammation, these medications can interfere with the removal of damaged cells, the formation of new cells, and the overall healing response. This can lead to delayed or impaired healing of various tissues, including bones, ligaments, and muscles.

A girlfriend treating a boyfriend’s injured leg

Final Thoughts
Anti-inflammatory medications can be life-changing when used appropriately. They’re an essential part of many treatment plans, offering relief and improved quality of life. But like any medication, they come with potential risks—especially with long-term use or when taken without medical supervision.
Tips for Safe Use:
• Always follow dosage instructions.
• Don’t mix with alcohol or other medications without consulting a doctor.
• Avoid long-term use unless prescribed.
• Talk to your healthcare provider if you have heart, kidney, or digestive issues.
• Don’t use during endurance events or when you are likely to become dehydrated.
If you’re dealing with chronic inflammation or pain, it’s worth exploring other complementary strategies as well—like physical therapy, dietary changes, and stress reduction techniques.
Interesting facts:
30% of Ironman contestants (New Zealand 2004) took NSAIDs during the competition (increasing risk of kidney issues)
57% of parkrun (5km) participants took NSAIDS during the event and 67% took it afterwards.
Physio advice:
It is not advisable to exercise whist on anti inflammatory as you may be masking injuries, and making them worse as well or delay healing as well as hindering performance, recovery and overall health.
• Use alternative pain relief methods:
Ice, heat, massage, and gentle stretching can help manage pain and inflammation.
• Consider physical therapy:
If you have ongoing pain or injuries, consult with a physiotherapist
for personalized treatment and guidance.