What a Relief - Options for Aches and Pains

When you need pain relief fast, pharmacists can provide helpful advice on the best over-the-counter (OTC) remedies for you. “Choosing the right over-the-counter option depends on your individual needs and requires a closer look at your symptoms,” says Brian Deal, a community pharmacist. “You also need to take into account contraindication factors that could make a specific drug unsuitable for you, such as allergies, any other medical conditions and medication you’re already on.” Headaches - Analgesics such as paracetamol, ibuprofen and aspirin are good pain-relief options for headaches, says Zartasha Arshid, a locum community pharmacist. “Paracetamol is very effective in treating mild to moderate pain caused by headaches. If this fails to ease the pain, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as ibuprofen can be taken. If the pain continues, you can safely take both types together, although it is better to stagger the doses.” How they work: paracetamol helps to block the nerves that transmit the pain impulse to the brain. NSAIDs such as ibuprofen and aspirin work by reducing the level of prostaglandins, hormone-like substances that irritate the nerve endings and cause the feeling of pain. Period pain - “NSAIDs such as ibuprofen are the best option, as they have the anti-inflammatory action that can often ease period pain,” Deal says. “This group of drugs works on reducing the production of prostaglandins and there is evidence to show that they help to reduce the heaviness of a period.” Arshid adds: “If pain persists, ibuprofen can be combined with paracetamol by staggering the doses.

Hyoscine can also be taken to ease cramps.” How they work: ibuprofen and paracetamol are effective against mild to moderate pain. NSAIDs also help to control the body’s temperature. Joint pain - “NSAIDs – for example, ibuprofen or diclofenac, available as a cream, spray or oral painkiller – are the best option for treating joint pain,” Arshid says. “Applying a topical preparation to the skin will help to increase blood flow and stimulate nerves in the affected joint.” How they work: NSAIDs can help to ease musculoskeletal pain and reduce inflammation in affected joints by speeding up the healing process. Stomach upsets - Options: “Simeticone is an OTC anti-flatulent that helps to relieve the symptoms associated with trapped wind,” Arshid says. “Loperamide can help to reduce the duration of diarrhoea. Antacids or alginates can help to relieve indigestion symptoms. H2 receptor antagonists such as ranitidine and proton-pump inhibitors such as omeprazole also help to ease indigestion discomfort by suppressing acid secretion in the stomach.” How they work: simeticone is an anti-foaming agent that enables trapped gas to be expelled more easily. It is not absorbed by the body and can be taken by infants and adults. Alginates form a ‘raft’ in the stomach to prevent acid reflux and heartburn.

Seasonal aches and pains

Sunburn: if you find your skin going pinker than planned, taking paracetamol or one of the NSAIDs can help to minimise any mild discomfort. If there are associated signs of heatstroke or burns, especially in babies and children, seek medical help. Insect bites: applying a topical antihistamine cream can relieve their redness and itchiness. For additional pain relief, paracetamol is the best option. To advertise in The Villager and Town Life please call 01767 261122

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