Hidden Hazards Of Over The Counter Cold Medicines And Analgesics.

Over the counter analgesics that help relive headache and minor aches and pains as well as cold medications that help relieve stuffy nose and scratchy throat, may sometimes do more harm then good. It is a misconception by many people that since they can buy these remedies without a prescription, they are safe which is not always true.
Here are some of the hazards to look for and some ways to avoid them.

1. Acetaminophen And Liver Damage: If you use acetaminophen such as Tylenol to ease arthritis pain or a backache or simply for a headache and also add a combination cold medicine for sniffles, you go well over the maximum safe daily dose of 3,000 to 4,000 mg. According to some recent statistics each year , about 78,000 people land in the emergency room for acetaminophen toxicity, which can lead to sever liver damage.
Initial symptoms include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain and loss of appetite, and sometimes these early symptoms are mistaken for vague symptoms of cold and one can take another dose of cold medicine aggravating the damage.
How to stay safe: Stay away from alcohol if you are taking acetaminophen. Take the lowest dose that brings relief, and stick to the recommended timing and read the labels carefully. Many medicines contain acetaminophen in combination and you may take more than needed without realizing it.

2. Ibuprofen, Causes Ulcers And Kidney Problems: Ibuprofen (in Advil and Mortin) is a non- steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that is effective in relieving body aches, headaches and fever. It may cause a severe allergic reaction as well, especially in people allergic to aspirin, and can cause peptic ulcers and kidney damage with chronic use.
Ibuprofen is also known to cause an increase in the risk of heart attack or stroke especially in patients who are already having an underlying heart disease or high blood pressure.
How to stay safe: Avoid alcohol beverages if you take ibuprofen regularly. Consult your doctor immediately if you develop bloody or black tarry stools. Also if you experience any changes in urination take it serious and consult the doctor as it may be an indication of underlying kidney damage.

3. Decongestants And Risk OF High Blood Pressure: Decongestants such as Triaminic and Dimetapp cold drops- relieve nasal congestion by reducing swelling and constricting blood vessels in the nose, allowing you to breathe more easily. Unfortunately decongestants have a serious side effect causing blood pressure to spike.


4. Antihistamine And Increased Chances Of Falls: Short acting antihistamines such as Benadryl and Chlor-Trimenton, block the production of the compound histamine and can relieve the symptoms of itchy and runny nose. These medicine also tend to make people sleepy, which might be helpful if taken at bedtime but becomes a problem especially in children and older adults. it can cause drowsiness and impairs coordination.