Ibuprofen is a common over the counter drug used to fight fever as well as pain symptoms. The drug is used by children as well as adults on a regular basis. It is becoming more well-known that while the drug can be helpful, it can also cause gastritis. Doctors are taught that ibuprofen can cause this condition, leading to ulcers in the stomach or even upper gastrointestinal bleeding.

In general, doctors are taught that the negative side effects are uncommon, and the issues will only occur when the medicine is used in high doses. However, it has come to light that even regular doses in shorter use can lead to health consequences including gut damage, in children and adults.

Scientific studies have been conducted over the past twenty years that show a connection with the use of Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and leaky gut syndrome. The National Institutes of Health completed a study involving the two and found that conventional NSAIDs were associated with small intestinal inflammation equally apart from nabumetone and aspirin which leave the small bowel alone.

In another study, it was found that NSAIDs will make the intestinal walls weak and that using such drugs for a long period of time will lead to the small intestine becoming inflamed. This can cause pain and other issues within the body.

Such immune problems may have issues beyond the gut and other issues like joint pain. With inflammation, the brain can be affected along with the nervous system. Anxiety can occur as well as mood swings, irritability and depression.

Patients with a gluten sensitivity can find their issues worsen by using such drugs as ibuprofen. The medications can increase the leaky gut issue and cause permeability within the intestines. With this issue, food particles as well as fragments of gut flora that is unhealthy as well as normal will get inside the intestines, within the gut lining and in the bloodstream. This can cause sensitivity to food, inflammation and autoimmune reactions.

Treating the Root Issue

In general, NSAIDs are not going to treat the root cause of a patient’s pain. The drug is just treating the symptoms. With a gut health program, the underlying cause of the problem is treated, which helps to alleviate symptoms as well as the issue. When the underlying cause is treated, the overall condition can be healed. However, most people just feel pain or have inflammation issues and reach for the ibuprofen bottle. Instant relief may be given, but it is only short term.

Many underlying health problems are associated with the gut. The intestines and stomach can be affected by emotional, physical or behavioral symptoms. Such symptoms can lead to stomach issues such a nausea, constipation and loose stools. It is essential that patients learn more about gut health and have their gut reviewed for any potential issues.

Patients who are experiencing gut issues and are frequent users of ibuprofen or other NSAIDs should have their gut reviewed by a physician. Perhaps the issue is being exacerbated from the use of ibuprofen. If you already have a gut condition, regular or heavy ibuprofen use can worsen your condition.

You of course had no idea because you are used to using the over the counter medication. By stopping your ibuprofen use and having your gut reviewed, you will hopefully be able to rid yourself of stomach and intestinal issues. A physician who specializes in gut health will be able to review your individual condition and find the right solution for better gut heath which will then have an effect on your overall health.