The most important consideration with regards to Advil and diabetes is that any ibuprofen drug will reduce blood flow to the kidneys and is destructive to its cells. Diabetics are already at high risk of kidney disease, due to high blood sugar and damaged blood vessels. Using Advil may add to the damage, especially if the person is older. Ibuprofen preparations such as Advil are part of the class of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and are used most often for arthritis, but also for headaches and muscle pain, inflammation, stiffness, swelling and joint pain, fever and menstrual cramps.
Diabetes and Advil Balancing Benefits and Risks
One must balance the benefits and risks before taking Advil, and diabetes patients need to be especially careful. In addition to the risk of kidney disease, there may be an increased likelihood of heart disease and stroke caused by using Advil, and diabetes patients with high blood pressure should consult first with their doctor. There are other medical issues that may affect its use, including asthma, anemia, liver disease, ulcers or bleeding problems, and stroke. The medicine may cause stomach or intestinal bleeding, especially in people who smoke or drink alcohol, are over 60 years of age, are in poor health, or who have had a stomach ulcer. It also may be a concern for those using steroids or blood thinners. Notify your doctor of any other medications you’re taking, as some may cause potentially dangerous interactions. Diabetics should also be cautious, because the suspension form of the medicine contains sugar.
Advil, Diabetes, and Other Treatments for Pain Relief
Milder symptoms such as dizziness, ringing in the ears, loss of hearing and ear pain have been reported by those taking Advil, and diabetes patients will have concerns about more serious risks like kidney disease. There are alternatives that should be considered before taking pain medication. Many herbs are said to relieve pain. For example, Capsaicin is found naturally in hot peppers. It works in a few ways – it affects the body’s perception of pain, triggers the release of endorphins (which relieve pain), and has an analgesic effect. There are topical creams on the market that contain capsaicin and are used for arthritis and nerve pain. A high concentration may be needed for peripheral nerve pain caused by diabetic nerve damage. Gamma-linolenic acid is one of the “good fats” found in black currant and borage seed oils. It may be helpful in cases of mild diabetic nerve damage and headaches. Ginger root has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. These are just a few alternatives for Advil, and diabetes sufferers should know that headaches might also be caused by low blood sugar or a build-up of toxins in the body, which can be flushed out with clean water and fiber-rich foods.
