Table of contents:
- Paracetamol side effects and pain medication on hearing
- What caused this?
- How to avoid this side effect of paracetamol?
One type of pain reliever or pain medication that is most often used and considered safe is paracetamol. In addition, paracetamol is also an over the counter medicine that can be purchased without a doctor's prescription. However, did you know that the use of paracetamol drugs has side effects. Here's more information.
Paracetamol side effects and pain medication on hearing
The side effect of pain relievers on hearing was carried out in a study. The study, published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, involved about 66 thousand women aged between 44-69 years, as study participants.
To determine the effects of pain relievers, especially paracetamol and ibuprofen, participants were asked to complete a questionnaire containing their history, frequency of taking painkillers, and for how long they had used the drug.
It is known that most of the participants took ibuprofen and paracetamol more frequently to manage the pain that arose. Of the total participants who took part in the study, there were 18 thousand or about 33% of women who lost their hearing ability.
The group of women who often took paracetamol for more than six years had a 9% chance of losing their hearing ability. Meanwhile, women who used ibuprofen for more than six years had a 10% greater risk of becoming deaf.
What caused this?
The researchers stated that there are several possible reasons for hearing loss as a side effect of paracetamol and ibuprofen.
First, the use of painkillers for a long time can cause obstructed blood flow to the cochlea area, the hearing center in the ear. This obstruction of blood flow is caused by salicylates found in painkillers.
Then, the drug can cause the reduction of fine hairs around the ears which serve as a medium for picking up sound. These two things are considered to be the cause of hearing loss in a group of women who use acetaminophen (paracetamol) and ibuprofen for a long time, although there must be further research to confirm the truth of this statement.
How to avoid this side effect of paracetamol?
Actually, painkillers such as paracetamol and ibuprofen are classified as safe to use. However, long-term use and frequent use can lead to complications or other health conditions.
If you experience persistent headaches or other body aches that don't go away, it's better to see a doctor so you know your health condition.
