Commonly used painkillers like ibuprofen and diclofenac fall into the category of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and are used to reduce pain and inflammation.

Painkillers in Summer: With the arrival of summer, minor problems like headaches, body aches, and fatigue become common. In such situations, most people start taking painkillers without much thought. While this habit may provide immediate relief, experts say these medications can pose a risk to the kidneys in the intense heat, especially if the body is already dehydrated.

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Commonly used painkillers like Ibuprofen and Diclofenac belong to the category of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). They are effective in reducing pain and inflammation. However, doctors say these medications can slightly reduce blood flow to the kidneys. While the body can handle this during normal weather, this effect can be more dangerous in summer, when the body is already suffering from dehydration.

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Excessive sweating in the summer leads to dehydration. This thickens the blood, preventing adequate blood flow to the kidneys. Taking painkillers can further reduce blood flow. Doctors say this condition can lead to serious complications like acute kidney injury. The key is that this damage occurs gradually, and the initial symptoms are often not immediately apparent.

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While its effects don't affect everyone the same way, some are at greater risk, such as those with pre-existing kidney disease, those with diabetes or high blood pressure, heart patients, and the elderly. Additionally, if a person is already taking blood pressure medication and then taking painkillers, it can put extra strain on the kidneys.

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The effects on the kidneys develop gradually, initially with symptoms such as fatigue, decreased urination, and swelling in the legs. People often ignore these symptoms, mistaking them for general weakness or heat, which can worsen the problem.

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According to doctors, caution is essential before taking painkillers at home. Always keep your body hydrated. Avoid taking painkillers if you are dehydrated. Avoid taking them repeatedly without need. Paracetamol is considered relatively safe in some cases, but it should be used in limited and appropriate dosages.

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Experts are clear that painkillers aren't necessarily harmful. However, using them thoughtlessly in the summer heat can be detrimental to the kidneys. Therefore, it's important to understand your body's signals, avoid dehydration, and seek medical advice if necessary.