Using Painkillers
The common class of over-the-counter pain medications, including ibuprofen and aspirin, are used to treat mild to moderate aches and pains. These drugs are known as NSAIDs, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
The use of NSAIDs has been shown to have an adverse effect on patients with bowel disorders such as Crohn’s because they promote thinning of the blood and can be rough on the digestive tract, two factors which may cause or promote gastrointestinal bleeding.
Acetaminophen, commonly known under the brand Tylenol, is also a common painkiller that is not an NSAID. However, acetaminophen works differently and has rarely been found to be effective against the inflammation caused by Crohn’s disease.
Comments
Comment from antoinette
Time: June 17, 2011, 8:53 pm
not sure anyone will see this, but I am on pain management program with my psychologist. I am taking Percocet for the pain in my legs after I have a Crohn’s attack; for the pain in my joints as well as the swelling in my joints. I see the rheumatologist next month for a decision on RA. (Was told 3 years ago I didn’t have it, I don’t think I do. I believe it is part of the Chronic Fatigue Syndrome). I only take 1/4 of a pill a day unless it is a bad day and I will take one more 1/4 at night. I know my limits and I know, even though I’ve had to use Perc for 2 years now) I can stop any time.
Comment from Angela tolentino
Time: July 11, 2011, 5:44 am
I have been living with crohns for 8years found out I had it after getting deathly sick .I’m scared when I get really sick cause I don’t think I’ll make it.some of the medicine the companies will help you pay for them.I have gone from never taking mess to pain med.all the time the doctors think your faking to get pain medicine believe me as much as I can’t stand hospitals and doctors,I’m not faking I stay I’n pain.Thanks for the website .Not many people know anything about this disease .
Comment from P.J.
Time: July 27, 2011, 1:22 pm
I have always thought that our Gastro MD’s should be more informed themselves about all the “other stuff” that accompanies our Crohn’s Disease. These do include swelling of the joints, muscle fatigue, and just plain tiredness. The disease hurts. It is hard to get pain meds though. I feel as though I have to beg for it. I run about 30 miles a week, take good care of my body and still have alot of pain and suffering. Its almost like your fighting a battle that no one believes is there. I usually take Norco when needed, and zanex for muscle spasms. I’ve had four re-segments.
Comment from marie
Time: October 21, 2010, 12:03 am
what pain relif can i take with crohns