For Peace of Mind: Volume 8 - Possibilities…

Seniors hospitalised due to gut problem

Warning to elderly Australians to monitor their arthritis medications

A recent report revealed that one-in-ten arthritis sufferers aged 55 years and over are hospitalised with stomach complications1 and according to Associate Professor Terry Bolin, President of The Gut Foundation, the vast majority of cases involve bleeding ulcers. “These ulcers often show no symptoms until they rupture and start to bleed at which time the issue is very serious and the person ends up in hospital. What is alarming is that onein- three arthritis sufferers are not aware that the medication they take can cause a stomach ulcer,” he said. The national study – which investigated non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and their health effects on elderly arthritis sufferers – revealed that 87 per cent of people on arthritis medication have suffered upper gastrointestinal (GI) side effects yet only 37 per cent had consulted a doctor because of stomach problems1.

According to Associate Professor Bolin up to 30 per cent of NSAID users will develop ulcers. He explained that the risk of ulceration and bleeding is highest in people over 65 years of age, those who smoke, those who take aspirin at the same time as arthritis medications and those with H. pylori infection or a past history of ulcer disease or bleeding. “NSAIDs are the most commonly prescribed drugs in the world, with one-in-ten people currently taking these medications.

This research is a sober reminder of the serious health complications that can arise from misunderstanding and ignorance on the dangers of these common pain relievers,” said Associate Professor Bolin. The survey also found a low level of doctor patient consultation regarding NSAID medications with about onein- two arthritis sufferers discussing their medication with their doctor or pharmacist1. “Many people taking NSAIDs are inappropriately managing their side effects and putting their health at risk.

This can become a real issue for patients who routinely visit their GP to get scripts with no further consultation or monitoring undertaken,” Associate Professor Bolin said. Additionally, the survey revealed that almost two-thirds of arthritis sufferers were unaware of how to reduce the risk of NSAID-induced GI problems, and more than ten per cent ceased treatment because of GI side effects1.

“Elderly Australians shouldn’t suffer needlessly – they need to seek professional advice, because the pain of arthritis and the side-effects of pain medications can be managedeffectively,” advised Associate Professor Bolin. “Research shows that there are very effective medications available to treat and prevent NSAID related GI complications for arthritis patients who need to use NSAIDs regularly to relieve aches and pains,” he said. Despite the availability of edications to actively managing the GI risk of NSAIDs, the survey found that only 20 per cent of patients taking NSAIDs were prescribed a gastro-protective medication11.

Professor Bolin recommended that seniors seek professional advice from their doctor or pharmacists to review their current arthritis treatment and management of their GI health. The research, conducted by The Gut Foundation, surveyed more than 500 Australians over the age of 55, specifically addressing the issue of arthritis and the side-effects of medications used to treat the condition. It was funded by an unrestricted grant from AstraZeneca Pty Ltd, who had no part in the direction, analysis or findings contained in the report. The Gut Foundation provides professional and public education and promotes research into digestive disorders to improve gastrointestinal health.