Find out why self-medication can mask pain

Find out why self-medication can mask pain


The orthopedist explains that continued use of drugs can worsen health problems

Often, when we feel pain, our first reaction is to take medicine to relieve the discomfort. It’s like a quick fix, a way to move forward seamlessly. The problem is that these drugs generally only mask and do not solve the real problem.




According to a study conducted in 2021 by researchers associated with the Brazilian Society for the Study of Pain (Sbed), with several higher education institutions in the country, it was observed that chronic pain affects approximately 45.59% of the Brazilian population.

Investigate the cause of the pain

Dr. Benjamim Brito, an orthopedic specialist in regenerative medicine at the Ortholife clinic, warns against self-medication for pain. “Painkillers are like temporary masks. They don’t solve the real cause of the problem. Even though they may make us feel better for a while, the cause of the discomfort is still there, waiting to be treated,” he explains.

How can we know if we are just “masking” problems? It’s simple, if we need to constantly take medicine avoid painand if it comes back quickly when we stop taking it, it’s a sign that something deeper needs to be treated.

“One of the approaches to dealing with pain is to focus on treating the person as a whole, investigating different aspects of their life, such as sleeping habits, nutrition and physical activity, emotional and mental problems, trying to understand their cause”, comments the specialist.



Self-medicating can lead to side effects and worsen health problems

Risks of self-medication

According to research by the Institute of Science, Technology and Quality (ICTQ), carried out in 129 municipalities in the five regions of the country, eight out of ten Brazilians take medicines on their own, a percentage that reaches 91% of people in Brazil. age range from 25 to 34 years.

“A self-medication It’s a worrying practice that can have serious health consequences. Taking medications without professional guidance can cause unwanted side effects and further complicate the clinical picture. It is essential to understand that each individual has unique characteristics, and what is suitable for one will not necessarily be suitable for another”, concludes the doctor.

Therefore, when you feel any kind of pain, consult a doctor before taking medications yourself.

By Lucas Ariza

Source: Terra

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