Why Does Ibuprofen Cause Fluid Retention?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil) and naproxen (Aleve) are popular over-the-counter medications used for pain and inflammation. They are a well-known cause of swelling due to salt retention .

Do anti inflammatories cause fluid retention?

NSAIDs promote sodium and water retention , and this has generally been explained by a reduction in prostaglandin-induced inhibition of both renal chloride reabsorption and the action of antidiuretic hormone.

Can ibuprofen cause fluid retention?

NSAIDs can cause water retention and edema in some people. You may notice your ankles look puffy or your weight rapidly increases within a few hours of taking ibuprofen.

Is swelling a side effect of ibuprofen?

Possible warning signs of some serious side effects that can occur during treatment with this medicine may include swelling of the face, fingers, feet, and/or lower legs ; severe stomach pain, black, tarry stools, and/or vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds; unusual weight gain; yellow skin or ...

What drugs cause swelling and water retention?

medications – certain drugs, including high blood pressure medication (antihypertensives), corticosteroids and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are known to cause fluid retention. chronic venous insufficiency – weakened valves in the veins of the legs fail to efficiently return blood to the heart.

How do I get rid of fluid in my legs and feet?

  1. Put your legs on pillows to raise them above your heart while lying down.
  2. Exercise your legs. ...
  3. Follow a low-salt diet, which may reduce fluid buildup and swelling.
  4. Wear support stockings (sold at most drugstores and medical supply stores).
  5. When traveling, take breaks often to stand up and move around.

Will drinking more water help with edema?

1. Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water per day . Though it might seem counterintuitive, getting enough fluids actually helps reduce swelling. When your body isn’t hydrated enough, it holds onto the fluid it does have.

Is it harmful to take 2 ibuprofen every day?

It’s safe to take ibuprofen regularly for many years if your doctor prescribes it, and as long as you do not take more than the recommended dosage. If you need to take ibuprofen by mouth for a long time and you’re at risk of getting a stomach ulcer, your doctor may prescribe a medicine to help protect your stomach.

Does ibuprofen build up in your system?

Ibuprofen levels in your bloodstream are estimated to be at their maximum level after 1 to 2 hours . However, ibuprofen is quickly cleared from your body . This is one of the reasons why — depending on the condition that’s being treated — you may need to take a dose every few hours.

Can you flush ibuprofen out of your system?

Ibuprofen is rapidly metabolized and eliminated in the urine . The excretion of ibuprofen is virtually complete 24 hours after the last dose. The serum half-life is 1.8 to 2.0 hours.

How can I stop retaining water?

  • Exercise on a Regular Basis. Share on Pinterest. ...
  • Sleep More. ...
  • Stress Less. ...
  • Take Electrolytes. ...
  • Manage Salt Intake. ...
  • Take a Magnesium Supplement. ...
  • Take a Dandelion Supplement. ...
  • Drink More Water.

What gets rid of water retention fast?

  • Exercise on a Regular Basis. Share on Pinterest. ...
  • Sleep More. ...
  • Stress Less. ...
  • Take Electrolytes. ...
  • Manage Salt Intake. ...
  • Take a Magnesium Supplement. ...
  • Take a Dandelion Supplement. ...
  • Drink More Water.

Why is my body retaining fluid?

Plane flights, hormone changes, and too much salt can all cause your body to retain excess water . Your body is made up mainly of water. When your hydration level is not balanced, your body tends to hang on to that water. Usually, water retention may cause you to feel heavier than normal, and less nimble or active.

Does walking help swollen ankles?

The best weapon in the fight against swollen legs is a simple one: walking. Getting your legs moving means circulation is improved which will sweep up that collected fluid and get it shifted.

What happens if edema is left untreated?

If left untreated, edema can lead to increasingly painful swelling, stiffness, difficulty walking, stretched or itchy skin, skin ulcers, scarring , and decreased blood circulation.

Can drinking too much water cause swelling in the ankles?

One sign you’re experiencing an electrolyte imbalance is swelling in the hands, feet, or lips. According to the MSD Manual, drinking too much water can lead to low levels of sodium in the blood . This can cause the body’s cells to swell and retain fluid.

Rebecca Patel
Author
Rebecca Patel
Rebecca is a beauty and style expert with over 10 years of experience in the industry. She is a licensed esthetician and has worked with top brands in the beauty industry. Rebecca is passionate about helping people feel confident and beautiful in their own skin, and she uses her expertise to create informative and helpful content that educates readers on the latest trends and techniques in the beauty world.