In the fight against rheumatic pain, effective painkillers are irreplaceable. But precisely these effective and soothing preparations often damage the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines. Therefore, one cannot do without them. But you can arm yourself against the attack: with a special stomach protection therapy.
NSAIDs for rheumatism
Against rheumatic pain and swollen joints, the so-called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs for short) are most often used. They effectively relieve the pain, but can significantly affect the sensitive mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines. Possible consequences: “painkiller ulcers” in the stomach, which cause massive bleeding and can lead to serious to life-threatening complications. These side effects occur regardless of whether tablets, suppositories or injections are used, because the active ingredient reaches the stomach via the bloodstream in every case.
Stomach pain is not felt
Studies have shown that with prolonged use of these medications, one in four to five patients develops a stomach ulcer. More than half of those affected do not feel a thing from it. This is because the painkillers not only suppress the rheumatic pain, but also the signals from the stomach problems that may have developed. But even if these side effects are a problem, there is usually no way around the proven rheumatism painkillers.
Protection for those particularly at risk
The good news is that protection of the stomach is possible. This is especially important for sufferers who have certain risk factors (see Risk Check). If two or more risk factors apply, or if a stomach ulcer is already known, experts recommend a so-called gastric protection therapy.
This involves the use of additional drugs to shield the sensitive stomach lining from the harmful effects of rheumatoid painkillers. Clinical studies have shown that proton pump blockers (PPIs for short) can effectively combat ulcers caused by NSAIDs in the stomach and duodenum.
Agents with different consequences
Most studies in this group of agents have been conducted with the substance omeprazole, which for years was considered the “gold standard.” The reason: in the early 1990s, omeprazole was the first active ingredient that could effectively slow acid production in the stomach. Today, it is found in many medications. But the development did not end there. The classic and pioneering omeprazole was followed by additional developments. Today, drugs are available that can reduce acid production very effectively.
Less acid means fewer side effects for everyone who has to take rheumatism painkillers. In other words, more protection for rheumatics against gastric ulcers from NSAIDs doesn’t get much better by today’s standards when taken regularly and in the correct dosage.
Self-test
Test yourself if you take NSAID medications for rheumatism or other severe pain for more than two to four weeks.
- Are you older than 60 years of age?
- Have you had a history of stomach ulcers or other stomach problems?
- Do you regularly take acetylsalicylic acid in addition to other medications?
- Do you take, for example, phenprocoumon as a blood thinning agent?
- Do you receive cortisone in addition to NSAIDs for your symptoms?
- Do you suffer from other serious illnesses?
If you answered yes once or more, you should ask your doctor about gastroprotective therapy to specifically prevent and continue to treat your rheumatic pain (stomach) gently.
