Risk of Heart Attack, Stroke, and Kidney Damage
Beyond digestive complications, Dr. Porter explained that these medications may also increase the risk of other serious health problems.
“And it is not just bleeding from the gut—NSAIDs can trigger heart attacks, strokes, and kidney damage,” Porter said, explaining that symptoms may worsen with anti-inflammatory medications, even in relatively small amounts.
“Anyone prone to indigestion or heartburn will know that even an occasional over-the-counter ibuprofen or aspirin can aggravate their symptoms, but if taken long term, they can do much worse,” he added.
Porter explained that the reason for this lies in how NSAIDs work within the body. They reduce inflammation by blocking substances known as prostaglandins, which also help protect the stomach lining from its own digestive acids.
“The same mechanism of action (prostaglandin inhibition) that helps most NSAIDs to ease aches and pains weakens the stomach’s natural defence against its own gastric juices, leading to irritation, ulceration, bleeding, and even perforation.”
People Most at Risk
Dr. Porter emphasized that, as with all medications, the potential benefits should always be carefully weighed against possible risks, particularly for individuals with underlying health conditions or those already taking certain medications.
“These include anyone on low-dose aspirin (and equivalents such as clopidogrel) or anticoagulants such as warfarin and apixaban, those prone to indigestion or heartburn and/or who have a history of stomach or duodenal ulcers, and people with heart failure and chronic kidney disease,” he continued.
“And anyone over 65 who is not on accompanying gastroprotection such as omeprazole.”
Although ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin are among the most commonly used medications worldwide, Dr. Porter’s warning highlights the importance of understanding their potential risks, particularly when they are used long term or without medical advice.
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