Latest news with #NSAIDs
Indian Express
2 days ago
- Health
- Indian Express
Shefali Jariwala death: Why experts caution against taking medicines, injections on an empty stomach
Shefali Jariwala death: Shefali Jariwala, who passed away recently, was reportedly fasting on the fateful day. Many reports also suggest that the 42-year-old, believed to have suffered a cardiac arrest, had allegedly taken anti-ageing medications on an empty stomach. She was fasting on Friday due to a puja at her home, and consuming various medicines on an empty stomach may have caused her blood pressure to drop, leading to her falling to the ground, a police official said, reported PTI. She had taken an injection that afternoon, possibly for anti-ageing, and also had her usual dose of pills in the night, the official added. 'Her blood pressure dropped drastically and she began shivering, following which family members rushed her to hospital,' he added. Now, close friend and actor Pooja Ghai has opened up about Shefali's last moments and how her husband, Parag Tyagi, found her motionless at their home. When asked if Shefali was taking an anti-ageing drip, Pooja told Vickey Lalwani, 'On that day, she did take the vitamin C IV drip, but it's a very normal thing to take a Vitamin C. We all take vitamin C. Post-Covid people have started taking vitamin C regularly. Some people just pop in a tablet, and some people take it through an IV drip. She did take an IV drip on that day.' When asked if Shefali took the IV drip just hours before her death, Pooja responded, 'I am not sure about that, but the only thing that I saw was that while I was standing there the police called for the guy who gave the drip just to check what medicine she was taking, and that's when it unfolded that she had taken an IV drip that day.' While the case remains under investigation, experts raise concerns about taking medicines on an empty stomach. Dr Rituja Ugalmugle, consultant in internal medicine at Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central, said that taking medication without food can sometimes lead to side effects, such as low blood pressure, dizziness, fainting, or even cardiac complications, especially with antihypertensives or heart medications. 'Drugs like NSAIDs or steroids can irritate the stomach lining, increasing the risk of gastritis or ulcers when taken on an empty stomach,' said Dr Ugalmugle. When medicines are taken on an empty stomach, they are absorbed more rapidly, which can cause sudden and unpredictable effects on the body, added Dr Narander Singla, lead consultant, internal medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Delhi. 'This accelerated absorption can result in sharp fluctuations in vital functions such as blood pressure, heart rate, or blood sugar levels. For example, certain anti-ageing treatments, including glutathione and Vitamin C injections, can trigger a sudden drop in blood pressure when taken without food, potentially leading to fainting, shock, or cardiac arrest,' said Dr Singla. Moreover, the dangers are compounded when multiple medications or injections are taken together, a practice known as polypharmacy, said Dr Singla. How does eating food help? According to Dr Ugalmugle, food acts as a buffer, slowing drug absorption and reducing side effects. 'For many medications, taking them with meals improves tolerability and safety by moderating how quickly they enter the bloodstream,' said Dr Ugalmugle. Are all medications supposed to be taken after meals? No. Some medicines are meant to be taken on an empty stomach, Dr Ugalmugle affirmed. 'For example, thyroid hormone (levothyroxine), bisphosphonates, and certain antibiotics like doxycycline are better absorbed without food. Taking them after meals can reduce their effectiveness,' said Dr Ugalmugle. What should patients keep in mind? Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding the timing of food and medication. These recommendations are based on the pharmacokinetics of each drug, how it's absorbed and processed in the body. Timing can significantly impact both safety and efficacy. Experts strongly advise individuals to consult healthcare professionals before starting any medication, especially if they are fasting or undergoing cosmetic or wellness treatments, said Dr Singla. 'It is crucial to monitor the body's response to any new drug or injection and be alert to warning signs such as dizziness, fatigue, or an irregular heartbeat,' said Dr Singla. Wellness routines, including fasting and anti-ageing therapies, should always be balanced with sound medical guidance. Failing to heed this advice can lead to severe health consequences. 'Ultimately, the safest approach is one that prioritises informed decisions, professional supervision, and overall health over unverified treatments or unsupervised self-care practices,' said Dr Singla. DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
Daily Mail
2 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
Safety alert for over-the-counter remedy taken by millions - after pills trigger disease that fuels bowel cancer in healthy 18 year-old
Frequently taking a common type of painkiller could trigger inflammatory bowel disease (IBD)—raising the risk of bowel cancer—experts warn. Medics raised the alarm after treating an 18-year-old boy who developed colitis—a type of IBD—after taking over-the-counter allergy and pain relief medication continuously for almost three years. IBD is a known risk factor for bowel cancer and experts have long warned that those who have had the condition for years are at increased risk of developing the disease. The unnamed American teen sought medical help for bleeding from his rectum and extreme fatigue—according to doctors who shared his tale in a medical journal. He told medics he had been taking diphenhydramine, an over-the-counter hay fever medication and a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), daily to combat debilitating headaches and allergies for almost three years. NSAIDs are a class of painkiller—famous examples being ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen—which are commonly used to alleviate pain and swelling. Pills combining diphenhydramine and NSAID are available in both the US the UK under brands like Advil PM and Motrin PM, as pain relief and sleep aids. While not naming the brand of medication the teenager took, doctors said he had taken the equivalent of 600mg of NSAIDs twice a day. Brands that make diphenhydramine and NSAID combination pills warn patients not to take more than two tablets in 24 hours, equivalent to around 400mg of NSAID. Medics then performed a colonoscopy—where a thin flexible camera is inserted into the rectum—and found the tissue inside was severely inflamed. Writing in the journal Cureus, medics said he was then diagnosed with colitis, a form of IBD which specifically develops in the colon. They theorised that his frequent use of NSAID drugs had disrupted the production of mucus that protects the digestive system, causing irritation. Irritation of the digestive system is a known risk of these drugs and as result they can lead to bleeding, ulcers and potentially colitis. Some studies have linked using NSAID drugs with an 86 per cent increased chance of developing colitis. The medics who reported the case said these increased risks are why doctors often prescribe a separate medication to patients' who have to take NSAIDs frequently for chronic pain issues, in order to protect their guts from this potential damage. However, they noted that their patient was an extreme example and occasionally using a medication like ibuprofen will not carry the same risk. But they added that the risk is something to be aware of given how readily patients are able to take these over-the-counter medications without medical supervision. 'Given the widespread availability of these medications and their over-the-counter accessibility, it is imperative that patients suffering from chronic inflammation or long-term pain be advised to avoid NSAIDs, or to use them only under the direct guidance of a supervising clinician,' they said. WHAT IS INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE? Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a medical term that describes a group of conditions in which the intestines become inflamed (red and swollen). Two major types of IBD are Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis affects the large intestine (colon) whereas Crohn's disease can occur in any part of the intestines. Symptoms may include: Abdominal cramps and pain frequent Watery diarrhoea (may be bloody) Severe urgency to have a bowel movement Fever during active stages of disease Loss of appetite and weight loss Tiredness and fatigue anaemia (due to blood loss) People of any age can get IBD, but it's usually diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 40. The conditions are chronic and cannot be cured so treatment usually relies on medication and lifestyle changes to manage the symptoms, but may include surgery. IBD is thought to affect some three million people in the US, over 300,000 Britons, and 85,000 Australians. Source: Crohn's & Colitis Australia In the teen's case, once he was stable, he was prescribed anti-IBD drugs and told to stop using NSAIDs. However, despite being scheduled for a follow-up colonoscopy, he never attended, so medics were unable to determine how successful this had been. For years scientists have been unsure exactly what causes IBD to develop in some patients but not others. Earlier this year, however, researchers in London discovered a genetic weakness present in 95 per cent of people with IBD. An estimated half a million Britons and some 3million Americans are thought to have IBD, with the condition affecting more than 10million globally. IBD arises when the immune system mistakenly attacks the bowel, causing an array of debilitating symptoms including abdominal pain, diarrhoea and blood in stools. The disease can also cause sudden weight loss and crippling fatigue. While no cure is available, symptoms can be managed with drugs. These tend to be most effective when given soon after diagnosis. Estimates vary on exactly how much having IBD increases the risk of bowel cancer, with some charities citing studies which found it raises it by 7 per cent compared to the general population. But charities are keen to highlight that the vast majority of patients with IBD won't develop the disease. They do, however, advise people with IDB to keep in mind other risk factors for the cancer, such as smoking, drinking alcohol and being overweight that could further increase their individual risk. It comes as experts have repeatedly warned of a concerning and mysterious rise in rates of bowel cancer among under 50s. A recent global study found rates of bowel cancer in under 50 year-olds are rising in 27 of 50 nations. England is averaging a 3.6 per cent rise in younger adults every year-one of the highest increases recorded. While the disease is known to be linked to obesity, experts have noted that the disease also seems to also be occurring in fit and healthy patients. Some believe the explanation must lie in environmental factors young people have been exposed to more than previous generations. Signs of bowel cancer include abdominal pain, a lump in the abdomen, bloating and feeling very tired or short of breath. Bleeding from the back passage, or blood in the stool, occurs when cancerous tumours bleed into the digestive tract. However, bowel cancer can also appear with no symptoms until it has spread, where it becomes harder to treat. Overall, just over half of bowel cancer patients are expected to be alive 10 years after their diagnosis.
The Irish Sun
2 days ago
- Health
- The Irish Sun
Boy, 18, left with horrific bowel disease for life after hay fever tablets wreaked havoc in his gut
CHRONIC use of popular medications may lead to inflammatory bowel disease, experts have warned. Their warning comes after an 18-year-old boy' s daily use led to him developing 2 The boy's case highlights the adverse effects associated with chronic NSAID use Credit: Getty The teenage boy had been dealing with debilitating daily NSAIDs are a class of medications used to reduce pain, inflammation, and fever. They're commonly used for conditions like headaches, menstrual cramps, sprains, strains, and arthritis, with common examples including ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin. In a report published in , medical experts detailed how the boy had also been taking diphenhydramine for seasonal allergies - which is a combination of an antihistamine and NSAID. Read more on colitis More than two years after taking the pills daily, he began experiencing hematochezia - He had no significant past medical history , but revealed to doctors he'd been taking 600mg of over-the-counter NSAIDs two times a day. A colonoscopy revealed significant mucosal inflammation in his colon, suggestive of colitis due to chronic NSAID use, which led to him being officially diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Colitis is one of the main types of IBD. Most read in Health Doctors discharged the boy after his vital signs (heart rate and blood pressure) showed to be stable. He was given oral oral prednisone and mesalamine for IBD, was advised to discontinue NSAID use, and was instructed to return in six weeks for a repeat colonoscopy. I was going to the toilet 40 times a day - FA Cup star opens up on his bowel disease torment But he ultimately failed to follow up. The authors of the report wrote: "This case highlights the adverse effects associated with chronic NSAID use." They added: "Although the patient was diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease, the absence of a strong family history and the presence of chronic NSAID use raise the possibility of drug-induced colitis. 2 A colonoscopy revealed significant mucosal inflammation in his colon, suggestive of colitis due to chronic NSAID use Credit: cureus "This underscores the importance of obtaining a detailed medication history and ensuring close outpatient follow-up." What is colitis? Colitis, or ulcerative colitis as it's also known, is where the colon and rectum become inflamed. The exact cause is unknown, although it's thought to be the result of a problem with the immune system. Inherited genes may also be a factor of the development of the condition - you may be more likely to have it if you have a close relative with the condition. And where and how you live could affect your chances. The NHS advises: "The condition is more common in urban areas of northern parts of western Europe and America. "Various environmental factors that may be linked to uclerative colitis have been studied, including air pollution, medicine and certain diets. "Although no factors have so far been identified, countries with improved sanitation seem to have a higher population of people with the condition. "This suggests that reduced exposure to bacteria may be an important factor." NSAIDs, some heart and migraine medications, hormone medicines, and antibiotics have previously been linked to colitis. Signs of ulcerative colitis The main symptoms are: recurring diarrhoea, which may contain blood, mucus or pus tummy pain needing to poo frequently You may also experience extreme tiredness (fatigue), loss of appetite and weight loss. The severity of the symptoms varies, depending on how much of the rectum and colon is inflamed and how severe the inflammation is. For some people, the condition has a significant impact on their everyday lives. Some people may go for weeks or months with very mild symptoms, or none at all (remission), followed by periods where the symptoms are particularly troublesome (flare-ups or relapses). During a flare-up, some people with ulcerative colitis also experience symptoms elsewhere in their body; which are known as extra-intestinal symptoms. These can include: painful and swollen joints (arthritis) mouth ulcers swollen fat under the skin causing bumps and patches – this is known as erythema nodosum irritated and red eyes problems with bones, such as osteoporosis In many people, no specific trigger for flare-ups is identified, although a gut infection can occasionally be the cause. Stress is also thought to be a potential factor. You should see a GP as soon as possible if you have symptoms of ulcerative colitis and you haven't been diagnosed with the condition. Source: NHS
Jordan News
2 days ago
- Health
- Jordan News
Warning: The Dangers of Pancreatitis - Jordan News
Warning: The Dangers of Pancreatitis Dr. Alexander Goev, a surgeon, warns that the main symptom of pancreatitis is pain in the upper abdomen — specifically in the epigastric region, or sometimes the right or left hypochondrium. اضافة اعلان 'The pain typically occurs a few hours after consuming fatty, spicy, or unhealthy food,' he explains. 'It can vary in nature — cramping, constant, sharp, or mild. Some patients report bothersome pain at night.' He adds that unlike nerve pain, the intensity of pancreatitis pain does not change with body position. The greatest danger lies in the unclear clinical picture during the early stages of the disease. In the beginning of acute pancreatitis, patients may only feel discomfort or mild pain in the epigastric area — which often delays seeking medical help. The doctor strongly recommends immediate medical testing upon the onset of pain symptoms. This should include abdominal ultrasound to assess the pancreas and gallbladder. If signs of pancreatitis are detected, further diagnostics such as amylase blood tests and contrast-enhanced CT scans are essential. Dr. Goev notes that genetic predisposition to pancreatitis is rare. The primary causes are poor dietary habits and alcohol consumption. People at higher risk include those with gallstones, thick bile (biliary sludge syndrome), and those who have previously suffered from pancreatitis attacks. 'At the first signs of inflammation, fatty foods and alcohol must be eliminated from the diet immediately,' he emphasizes. 'While antispasmodics and NSAIDs may offer temporary pain relief, self-medication is not acceptable. A doctor must be consulted right away.' Dr. Goev warns that pancreatitis is a dangerous condition, and even with prompt medical intervention, it may not be possible to prevent the development of severe acute pancreatitis. In some cases, patients are diagnosed with pancreatic necrosis just two days after symptoms begin. — Izvestia
Scottish Sun
2 days ago
- Health
- Scottish Sun
Boy, 18, left with horrific bowel disease for life after hay fever tablets wreaked havoc in his gut
Plus, the signs of the boy's condition to look out for PILL PERIL Boy, 18, left with horrific bowel disease for life after hay fever tablets wreaked havoc in his gut CHRONIC use of popular medications may lead to inflammatory bowel disease, experts have warned. Their warning comes after an 18-year-old boy' s daily use led to him developing colitis. 2 The boy's case highlights the adverse effects associated with chronic NSAID use Credit: Getty The teenage boy had been dealing with debilitating daily headaches and decided to self-treat with daily over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). NSAIDs are a class of medications used to reduce pain, inflammation, and fever. They're commonly used for conditions like headaches, menstrual cramps, sprains, strains, and arthritis, with common examples including ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin. In a report published in Cureus, medical experts detailed how the boy had also been taking diphenhydramine for seasonal allergies - which is a combination of an antihistamine and NSAID. More than two years after taking the pills daily, he began experiencing hematochezia - bleeding from the rectum - and fatigue. He had no significant past medical history, but revealed to doctors he'd been taking 600mg of over-the-counter NSAIDs two times a day. A colonoscopy revealed significant mucosal inflammation in his colon, suggestive of colitis due to chronic NSAID use, which led to him being officially diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Colitis is one of the main types of IBD. Doctors discharged the boy after his vital signs (heart rate and blood pressure) showed to be stable. He was given oral oral prednisone and mesalamine for IBD, was advised to discontinue NSAID use, and was instructed to return in six weeks for a repeat colonoscopy. I was going to the toilet 40 times a day - FA Cup star opens up on his bowel disease torment But he ultimately failed to follow up. The authors of the report wrote: "This case highlights the adverse effects associated with chronic NSAID use." They added: "Although the patient was diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease, the absence of a strong family history and the presence of chronic NSAID use raise the possibility of drug-induced colitis. 2 A colonoscopy revealed significant mucosal inflammation in his colon, suggestive of colitis due to chronic NSAID use Credit: cureus "This underscores the importance of obtaining a detailed medication history and ensuring close outpatient follow-up." What is colitis? Colitis, or ulcerative colitis as it's also known, is where the colon and rectum become inflamed. The exact cause is unknown, although it's thought to be the result of a problem with the immune system. Inherited genes may also be a factor of the development of the condition - you may be more likely to have it if you have a close relative with the condition. And where and how you live could affect your chances. The NHS advises: "The condition is more common in urban areas of northern parts of western Europe and America. "Various environmental factors that may be linked to uclerative colitis have been studied, including air pollution, medicine and certain diets. "Although no factors have so far been identified, countries with improved sanitation seem to have a higher population of people with the condition. "This suggests that reduced exposure to bacteria may be an important factor." NSAIDs, some heart and migraine medications, hormone medicines, and antibiotics have previously been linked to colitis.
