NSAID Risks: What You Need to Know About Painkiller Dangers

When you reach for ibuprofen or naproxen for a headache or sore back, you’re using a type of drug called a NSAID, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs used for pain, fever, and inflammation. Also known as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, these drugs are among the most common medications people take daily — but they’re not harmless.

NSAIDs can cause serious problems you might not expect. For example, about 7% of people with asthma have a dangerous reaction to NSAIDs like aspirin or ibuprofen — a condition called NSAID-sensitive asthma, a severe respiratory reaction triggered by common painkillers. This isn’t just a mild flare-up; it can lead to life-threatening breathing trouble. If you have asthma and your symptoms worsen after taking Advil or Aleve, you could be part of that group. And it’s not just asthma. NSAIDs can raise your blood pressure silently, even if you’ve never had high BP before. That’s because they interfere with kidney function and fluid balance — a risk that’s often missed until it’s too late.

Another hidden danger is bleeding. NSAIDs thin the blood by blocking protective stomach lining chemicals, which can lead to ulcers or internal bleeding — especially if you’re older or take blood thinners like warfarin. You might not feel anything until you start vomiting blood or notice black stools. And if you’re taking other meds — like antidepressants or steroids — the risk stacks up. Even short-term use can be risky if you have kidney disease, heart problems, or are over 65. The FDA and major medical groups now warn that no NSAID is completely safe for long-term use, and many doctors are pushing patients to find alternatives before reaching for the bottle.

What you’ll find below are real, practical guides from people who’ve dealt with these risks firsthand. You’ll learn how to spot early warning signs, which painkillers are safer for your condition, and how to talk to your doctor without sounding alarmist. There’s no fluff — just clear info on what to avoid, what to watch for, and what to ask next time you’re handed a prescription or reach for the pharmacy shelf.