505
A single change in stool could signal potentially "fatal" liver failure, the doctor warned.
Paracetamol, stuffed in many medicine cabinets in our homes, is a sedative to treat various pains.
Many people take the little white pill without thinking about its unwanted effects, but as with any medication, there are some side effects to be aware of.
According to the doctor, although the vast majority of people who take paracetamol have nothing to fear, some people may have changes in the way their bowels work.
Diarrhea and constipation
Diarrhea and constipation, which are considered "common" side effects of popular medicines, occur in 1 to 10 percent of those taking paracetamol.
"Users may also complain of abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and indigestion."
The good news is that paracetamol rarely causes side effects if you follow the recommended dosage. A standard dose is one or two 500 mg paracetamol tablets taken up to four times within 24 hours.
While it may be tempting to keep using painkillers when you're dealing with constant pain, doctors warn that doing so is very dangerous.
"Even taking a few extra pills can have very serious consequences and lead to death."
If you swallow too much of the popular painkiller, you can develop liver failure, which can lead to another side effect that manifests itself in the toilet.
Clay-colored chair
The doctor explained that an overdose of paracetamol can cause jaundice, which manifests itself in yellowing of the skin and eyes.
Jaundice can be accompanied by a clay-colored stool that looks light, grayish-white, reminiscent of clay or putty.
"Similar symptoms usually occur within a few days after an overdose of paracetamol."
Black tarry stool
Another problem associated with paracetamol that can be detected is melena.
"Melena - black tarry stool - although rare - has been observed in those who have taken paracetamol for a long time. The stool looks black because the bleeding has occurred in the upper part of the GI tract (usually the esophagus or stomach), and as the red blood passes through the intestines, it changes to its characteristic "old blood" black color.
If you notice changes in your bowel habits while taking a popular pain reliever, you should stop taking it, Lee advised.
“However, if you have black stools, or if you ever see red blood in your stool, toilet or toilet paper, tell your GP immediately. True melena requires immediate medical attention and prompt evaluation. Go to the emergency room or call XNUMX immediately."
Fortunately, most people will be able to take paracetamol without problems, as the pain reliever is considered a 'useful and safe' medicine.
But, like any medicine, it should be taken wisely, and if side effects occur or medical history changes, its use should be reconsidered.
