Ibuprofen is a type of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). In some cases, ibuprofen can worsen symptoms of asthma.

People who have asthma are advised to take ibuprofen with caution. If a person with asthma takes ibuprofen as a painkiller, it can cause symptoms of asthma or inflammation of the inside of the nose.

Many people with asthma can take ibuprofen without having any problems. However, it is important that anyone with asthma knows the risks associated with this everyday painkiller.

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Ibuprofen and other painkillers may worsen the symptoms of asthma, such as shortness of breath.

If a person with asthma has an allergic reaction to ibuprofen or another medicine, it can often cause wheezing or shortness of breath.

Ibuprofen can also worsen asthma symptoms by causing the airways to narrow in a condition known as bronchospasm.

Aspirin-induced asthma is another recognized condition, which is believed can occur with the use of other NSAIDs as well.

Around 20 percent of adults with asthma will have aspirin-induced asthma. The condition is rarer in children, with around 5 percent affected.

Those who are affected after taking ibuprofen can have asthma symptoms that range from mild to severe. These symptoms can include:

  • nasal polyps or swelling in the nasal passages and sinuses
  • urticaria, an allergic skin rash
  • other minor or non-serious skin reactions
  • long-term nasal allergies
  • coughing
  • runny nose
  • wheezing
  • shortness of breath
  • swelling or hives on the face

Anyone who suspects these symptoms developing should tell their doctor immediately. A doctor can then decide whether or not the medicine should be changed.

People with asthma who have a peak flow meter can also check on changes in the readings after taking ibuprofen, to see if the painkiller is causing them problems.

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An allergic reaction is a potential risk to be aware of when taking ibuprofen.

If a person with asthma has an allergic or asthmatic reaction after taking ibuprofen, they should stop taking the medication.

Those with asthma that have taken ibuprofen with no problems are at low risk of a reaction, particularly if they are more than 40 years of age.

However, some people who have asthma will often not notice that ibuprofen is causing them problems until they are in their 20s or 30s.

Furthermore, problems with ibuprofen use are more common in females than males.

Those who do have a reaction to ibuprofen can find that it makes asthma attacks more severe and harder to control.

It may also increase the risk of death from a severe attack. However, deaths caused by people with asthma taking ibuprofen have only been reported on rare occasions.

All children, whether they have asthma or not, should avoid taking aspirin, as it is thought the drug triggers a condition called Reye’s syndrome. Reye’s syndrome is a rare disorder that mainly affects children and those aged under 20 years old. It causes serious liver and brain damage.

As children with asthma are less likely to be affected by ibuprofen, it is generally considered that it can be given to them. An exception is if they have a personal or family history of asthma being induced by taking aspirin.

There is some evidence to suggest that there might be therapeutic benefits for some children with asthma who take ibuprofen.

While ibuprofen-sensitive asthma in children is not believed to be common, bronchospasm caused by ibuprofen should still be considered a risk.

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Acupuncture is an alternative form of pain relief for people with asthma who cannot take ibuprofen.

People who have asthma can usually take acetaminophen, also known as paracetamol, without any risks, as an alternative to aspirin. This medicine is used mainly to relieve pain and fever.

In rare cases, however, acetaminophen can make asthma worse. If this happens, a person should consult their doctor immediately.

In the case of children, there is evidence to suggest that it is acetaminophen, rather than ibuprofen, that is more likely to cause problems, such as wheezing.

There are some other non-medicated pain relief options that can be used instead of ibuprofen:

  • Ice packs: Can ease swelling and pain for acute injuries, such as sprains.
  • Heat packs: For chronic injuries caused by overuse but should not be used on recent injuries.
  • Exercise and stretches: Can help relieve discomfort and pain in sore muscles and arthritis.
  • Relaxation techniques: Including yoga and meditation, which can also be useful for pain caused by stress, such as headaches.
  • Alternative and complementary techniques: These can include acupuncture.
  • Other lifestyle changes: Such as a better diet, regular exercise, reduced alcohol intake, and giving up smoking.

Antihistamines for allergies are usually safe to take for people with asthma. However, they can have side effects, especially if taken alongside certain other medicines.

People with asthma should always check with their doctor and read the instructions carefully before they take antihistamines.

There are other medicines that can also make asthma worse. These include beta-blockers that are used to control blood pressure and heart disease.

Often, a class of drug called ACE inhibitors can be used as an alternative to treat blood pressure, heart disease, and sometimes diabetes. These drugs appear to be safe for people who have asthma.