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Pros And Cons Of Over The Counter Pain Relief Patches

Pros And Cons Of Over The Counter Pain Relief Patches

When suffering from pain it is only natural to want to find a way to get some relief as quickly as possible. If you are sure that there isn’t something that needs immediate medical attention then the next step is to find something that can give you relief from your local pharmacy. In the past, one would use a heating pad to help relieve pain, especially when it occurs in the back, but that is only an option when you are able to just relax at home.

Of course, relaxing at home when you are in pain is not always an option, especially if you suffer from chronic back pain. This is likely what led to the idea to create patches that can simply be applied to the problem area. That way you can get relief, but still, continue with your daily life. This is one of the biggest benefits of these types of products.

Another benefit is that they are offered in two main types of varieties, ones that sooth the pain through a cooling sensation and others that provide a heating sensation. These can be used alternately, which is what most doctors recommend when your joints and muscles are in any type of distress. It is the best way to work to reduce inflammation, which is what is causing the pain by putting excess pressure on nerves.

One of the biggest benefits that users comment on is that they do not have to worry about there being any negative side effects. While some people are sensitive to the components of the patches, for the most part they are safe for use for just about anyone. They do not impair judgment like a number of prescription painkillers do and there is no risk of becoming addicted to them. Even when compared to over the counter medications they are safer as most medications come with unwanted side effects. For example, NSAIDs, which are one of the safest over the counter medications available, can lead to bleeding in the lining of the stomach when they are used too frequently. Acetaminophen, another common option can lead to liver damage if used too often. There are no known risks to the organs when individuals choose to use a pain patch to relieve their pain.

Another notable benefit of over the counter pain patches is that they do not require a prescription to obtain. You just need to be able to make it to your local pharmacy and purchase them right on site. This can save a lot of time and money as you do not need to see your doctor to get the relief that you need. It is, however, important to note that if the pain persists or becomes worse while using the patches it is best to seek medical attention to be sure that there isn’t something more serious than a muscle cramp occurring.

The benefits of these pain patches such as Staminapro patches, are numerous, but there are a number of downfalls as well. One is that they likely will not be able to help with severe pain. They may take the edge off slightly and make the pain bearable, but they really are only intended for use when facing mild to moderate pain. If you are experiencing excruciating pain that is so intense that it takes your breath away, leaves you feeling nauseous or limits your ability to sleep then it definitely is time to seek the assistance of a medical professional.

One of the biggest complaints about the patches is removing them. Every brand is different, so it is best to read the label to determine the best means of removal. Some are best removed when they become wet, such as in the shower or by applying a wet washcloth to loosen it up. Others should not be allowed to get wet at any time. Be sure you read the instructions before even applying the patch to determine if it is the right option for you. Also, like a bandage, they can become attached to the skin and hair in the area, causing some pain when they are removed.

The inability to put them anywhere on the body is also can be a downfall. They are typically great on the back because it is a large, relatively flat surface. Other parts of the body such as joints like elbows, hips, and knees can be more difficult to get them to stay put. Most patches should not be cut into to reshape them as the medications are contained inside the patch and will leak out. Typically it is not best to have them touching the skin directly but through the patch material. There are some manufacturers that make patches that are meant to overcome this dilemma, but the fact is that everyone is shaped differently and what might work for the average person is not going to work for everyone.  

Finally, there is some risk of mixing too many medications when using patches in conjunction with prescription medications. The patches are generally safe for use, but if you are taking prescription medications it is important to consult your physician before using them. Your doctor can recommend the brand that is right for you given your health issues and the medications you are currently taking to ensure that there aren’t any risks to your health.

Pain patches are a relatively new option for those that are experiencing pain. You can get them very easily at your local drug store and they can be very helpful in allowing you to maintain your lifestyle while you are experiencing an annoying level of pain. The key is taking your time to do your research so that you can find the patch that is right for you and your personal needs. Most importantly, however, it is important to seek the treatment of a medical professional if you find that you are in pain for an extended period of time or the pain gets worse instead of better.