What does NSAID mean in LABORATORY

An NSAID is a Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drug. These drugs are typically used to reduce pain, inflammation, and fever. They can also be used to reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack in some people.

Common side effects associated with taking an NSAID include stomach irritation or upset, nausea, vomiting, headache, dizziness, fatigue, constipation or diarrhea, water retention and swelling. Other serious side effects may occur but are rare. Those include chest pain or palpitations, blood pressure changes, kidney damage or failure and liver damage or failure.

While taking an NSAID you should avoid drinking alcohol as it can increase your risk of liver damage as well as increase your risk of gastrointestinal bleeding or ulcers. Additionally you should avoid foods high in sodium such as processed meats while taking an NSAID because they may contribute to water retention or swelling.

Depending on the severity of your symptoms it can take anywhere from a few hours up to several days for relief after taking an NSAID. If you do not experience relief after this time period consult with your doctor about adjusting your dosage or switching medications altogether.

Yes! Some alternative treatments include lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and stretching; over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen; hot/cold therapy; acupuncture; massage therapy; topical creams/ointments containing menthol or capsaicin; turmeric supplements; Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil capsules; behavioral therapies such as cognitive behavioral therapy etc.