Aunt Li, 67 years old, retired teacher, her story begins with an ordinary tooth. That morning, as she munched on her breakfast, a sharp pain came from her teeth. At first, she only experienced occasional pain, but soon, the pain became persistent and intense. Aunt Li decided to resort to painkillers. Initially, the medication seemed to work, but soon after, the pain reappeared and became more intense. In the weeks that followed, Aunt Li began to use painkillers frequently, until one day, she found that not only did her toothache not decrease, but she also added new problems such as indigestion and insomnia. This made her realize that painkillers are not a one-size-fits-all solution, and that the wrong way to use them can even lead to new health risks.
Toothache and arthralgia: common but not trivial
Toothache and joint pain are common health problems in middle-aged and elderly people. Toothache is usually caused by pulpitis, periodontal disease, tooth decay, etc. These diseases are often caused by poor oral hygiene and high habits such as chronic sugar intake, which make teeth sensitive and susceptible to bacterial attack. Joint pain, on the other hand, is commonly seen in conditions such as arthritis and degenerative joint disease, which are often related to long-term wear and tear on the joints, immune system problems, or genetic factors. These conditions can cause joint pain, stiffness, and limited mobility.
For middle-aged and older adults, it is crucial to understand the reasons behind these pains. This not only helps to choose the right treatment, but also prevents the deterioration of the condition to a certain extent. For example, improving oral hygiene habits and reducing sugar intake can significantly reduce the risk of dental lesions. Similarly, by exercising moderately and maintaining a healthy weight, the burden on the joints can be reduced, which can slow the progression of arthropathy.
Painkillers: More than just pain relievers
Painkillers are common but not simple. There are two main groups of these drugs: nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioids. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, relieve pain by reducing inflammation and blocking pain pathways. They are particularly effective for mild to moderate pain, while also reducing inflammation and reducing fever.
The other class, opioids, such as morphine and codeine, reduce pain by mimicking natural pain-relieving substances in the brain. These medications are particularly effective for treating moderate to severe pain, but more caution is required when using them because of their addictive nature and other potential side effects.
Correct use of painkillers: stay away from side effects
Pain relievers are good, but they can have side effects when used inappropriately. Using them correctly is key.
Know the dosage and frequency: Take the recommended dose as directed by your doctor or on the leaflet. An overdose of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can cause gastrointestinal upset and even ulcers, while an overdose of opioids can cause serious consequences such as dependence and respiratory depression.
Recognize side effects: Know about possible side effects and seek medical attention promptly. For example, long-term use of certain nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may increase the risk of heart attack, while opioids may cause constipation, respiratory depression, and more.
Avoid long-term dependence: Painkillers, especially opioids, should not be used continuously over a long period of time. If pain persists, you should consult your doctor to explore other treatment options.
Individualized treatment: Different pain pains may require different pain medications. For example, people with arthritis may be better suited to specific NSAIDs, while toothache may require a different class of medication.
Communicate with your doctor: It is crucial to communicate with your doctor before using any pain medication, especially if you have a chronic medical condition or are taking other medications.
With these practical tips, readers can use painkillers safely and effectively and avoid unnecessary health risks.
"Embrace nature, stay away from pain": exploring alternative treatments for painkillers
When dealing with common pain problems such as toothache and joint pain, relying on medication is quick and effective, but long-term use can be accompanied by side effects and health risks. In order to provide a comprehensive treatment strategy, some non-pharmacological alternative therapies will be introduced to help reduce pain and improve quality of life.
Physiotherapy: Soothes joints and strengthens the body
Physiotherapy is a widely recognized alternative treatment that is particularly effective for arthralgia. This method is designed to strengthen muscles and improve joint mobility through specific body movements and exercises. Physiotherapists will develop a personalized treatment plan based on the individual's pain and physical condition. For example, knee pain may include knee stabilization exercises and thermotherapy.
Moderate exercise: Activates the body and reduces pain
Moderate exercise not only improves the overall health of the body, but also reduces pain to some extent. Light to moderate aerobic exercise, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, can be very helpful in improving blood circulation and strengthening joint and muscle function. When exercising, the key is to pay attention to how your body feels and avoid overexertion, which can worsen your symptoms.
Psychotherapy: Pain management at the psychiatric level
Pain is not just a physical sensation, it is also closely related to our emotional and psychological state. Psychotherapy, especially cognitive-behavioral therapy, can help patients learn how to better manage and cope with chronic pain. By changing attitudes and coping strategies towards pain, psychotherapy can help reduce the impact of pain on daily life.
Nutrition and Diet: The Healing Power of Natural Foods
Healthy eating habits also have a positive effect on pain relief. Some foods, such as fish, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, vegetables and fruits that contain anti-inflammatory ingredients, can naturally reduce inflammation and pain. At the same time, reducing the intake of processed foods and sugar can also help reduce the level of inflammation in the body.
Traditional therapies: Chinese medicine and acupuncture
Traditional Chinese medicine and acupuncture are common pain management methods in Eastern medicine. Traditional Chinese medicine regulates the body's balance through herbs and dietary therapy, while acupuncture relieves pain by stimulating specific acupuncture points in the body. While these methods may not be as common in the West as drug treatments, many people benefit from them.