Abuse of painkillers can cause stomach ulcers – Physician Assistant
Physician Assistant Alfred Aliah has warned that prolonged or improper use of painkillers such as ibuprofen and diclofenac can increase the risk of stomach ulcers, urging the public to avoid self-medication and seek medical advice.
A Physician Assistant in the Kassena-Nankana Municipality, Alfred Aliah has cautioned the public against the misuse of painkillers, warning that prolonged or excessive use of certain medications could increase the risk of developing stomach ulcers.
He identified commonly used painkillers such as ibuprofen and diclofenac as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) which, when used improperly, can reduce the stomach’s natural protective mucus barrier, leaving its lining vulnerable to damage and ulceration.
Speaking on the Big Mike Breakfast Show on Thursday November 5, Aliah explained that the stomach produces protective substances that shield its lining from the corrosive effects of gastric acid.
However, excessive or inappropriate use of certain painkillers can interfere with this protective mechanism, increasing the risk of ulcers.
He also identified Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) bacterial infection as another major cause of stomach ulcers, while noting that smoking and certain lifestyle habits could worsen the condition.
Aliah mentioned symptoms such as pain or discomfort in the upper abdomen, sometimes radiating towards the back, frequent belching and vomiting as possible indications of the condition.
He, however, stressed that symptoms alone were not sufficient to confirm a diagnosis, explaining that appropriate medical examinations, including laboratory tests and scans where necessary, were required to establish the condition.
The Physician Assistant said stomach ulcers were treatable, with the appropriate medication or surgical intervention depending on the severity of the condition.
He therefore urged people experiencing persistent symptoms to seek prompt medical attention to prevent complications.
Aliah further cautioned against self-medication, advising the public to seek professional medical care at the nearest health facility whenever they experience unusual health conditions.
Mike 105.3 FM I Navrongo | David Adapuna
