Crohn's & NSAIDs
NSAIDs and Crohn's Disease
Your doctor may have warned you to avoid taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). For aches and pains, most doctors recommend taking acetaminophen instead of NSAIDs if you have Crohn's.
Official Guidelines
The American College of Gastroenterology recommends that people with Crohn's avoid NSAIDs because they could cause symptom flare-ups as well as ulcers. Using NSAIDs also raises your risk of an emergency hospitalization for your Crohn's.
Safer Pain Relief
Acetaminophen is generally a better option for pain relief if you have Crohn's. Other alternative treatments for pain include antidepressants, exercise, and an anti-inflammatory diet.
Risks of Long-Term Use
Even people who don't have Crohn's have a higher risk of digestive problems and stomach or intestinal ulcers when they take NSAIDs. Prolonged NSAID use can increase the risk of developing inflammatory bowel disease and other gastrointestinal issues.
Holistic Health Approach
A holistic approach to treating pain might include aerobic exercise, physical therapy, medication, and psychotherapy. Anxiety and depression often go along with Crohn's, so a psychiatric evaluation and treatment with an antidepressant may help with pain as well.