People who suffer from chronic joint inflammation and pain due to arthritic conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis, osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis may experience relief from discomfort by taking a medication called diclofenac. Diclofenac is a prescription non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug or NSAID that limits the ability of the body to produce inflammatory and pain signals. Patients should be aware of the side effects of diclofenac before using this pain relieving medication.
Stomach Discomfort
After taking a dose of this medication, patients may develop stomach discomfort side effects. Typically, these side effects are mild and include stomach pain or heartburn, Drugs.com reports. Certain patients may experience bowel movement changes, including constipation or diarrhea. Bowel movement side effects may exacerbate stomach pain and can cause abdominal cramping or bloating. Patients who vomit blood after taking this medication should seek immediate care from a medical professional.
Skin Rash
Irritated, red patches of skin may develop across a patient's body as a side effect of diclofenac treatment, MedlinePlus reports. Skin rash side effects may also induce itching sensations, which can lead to frequent scratching. Patients who repeatedly scratch the affected skin region may be at an increased risk of developing a skin infection. Patients who experience severe skin reactions, such as hives or blistering, should consult a physician immediately.
Unusual Vision or Hearing Changes
Unusual vision or hearing changes may occur in patients receiving treatment with diclofenac. Affected patients may experience blurred or cloudy vision, which can contribute to sensations of dizziness, lightheadedness or headache. Abnormal buzzing or ringing sounds may also develop within the ears, RxList explains. This side effect, called tinnitus, can be bothersome and may cause head pain in certain patients.
Flu-like Symptoms
Patients receiving treatment with diclofenac may develop flu-like side effects such as fever, fatigue, nausea, diminished appetite, breathing difficulties, weakness, chills or sore throat, Drugs.com warns. If these side effects occur, affected patients should receive further evaluation and care from a medical professional.
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