Acetaminophen vs. ibuprofen are generic names for over-the-counter (OTC) pain relief drugs. They work differently in the body.  <!–split–>

What Is Acetaminophen?

In the U.S., acetaminophen is the common name for N-acetyl-para-aminophenol (APAP) and trade name is Tylenol. In other countries, it may be called paracetamol. It’s a non-opioid analgesic, which means that it reduces pain signals in your nervous system. It’s also an antipyretic agent, which means it reduces fever.

Uses Of Acetaminophen   Doctors recommend it for mild-to-moderate pain relief in conditions such as:  backaches, colds’ headaches, period pain, minor arthritis pain, muscle aches’ sore throat, toothache, and reactions to vaccines. You can also take it to reduce fever.

How Does Acetaminophen Work?  Experts don’t know exactly how acetaminophen works in people. In mice, it blocks part of the cyclooxygenase (COX) pathway in the central nervous system. So it probably works the same way in humans. By blocking the COX pathway, it keeps your nervous system from making a molecule called prostaglandin. Prostaglandin is a signal your body makes when you have tissue damage or infection. It’s involved in, among other things, pain perception.

Acetaminophen Dosage   Follow the dosage recommended by your doctor and as directed on the label. Taking more than the recommended dosage can cause severe liver damage.

In general, the recommended dosage for adults and teens aged older than 13 is:

• For people weighing 110 pounds and over: 1,000 milligrams every 6 hours or 650 milligrams every 4 hours. Don’t take more than 1,000 milligrams in a single dose. Don’t take it more often than every 4 hours. Don’t take more than 4,000 milligrams per day.
• For people weighing less than 110 pounds: 12.5 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight every 4 hours or 15 milligrams per 2.2 pounds every 6 hours. Don’t take more than 15 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight in a single dose. Don’t take it more often than every 4 hours. Don’t take more than 3,750 milligrams per day or 75 milligrams per 2.2 pounds of body weight, whichever is lower.

Acetaminophen is also added to some prescription medicines. Talk to your doctor if you’re also taking any prescription medicines or other OTC drugs for pain, fever, coughs, and colds. Do not take acetaminophen with other medicines containing acetaminophen because an overdose could be fatal.

Common Acetaminophen Brand Names   In the U.S., acetaminophen is found in hundreds of brands. Common ones include:   Dayquil, Feverall, Mapap, Children’s Mapap, Nyquil, Percocet, Robitussin, Silapap, Tylenol, Vicodin.

What Is Ibuprofen?

Ibuprofen is one of the most widely used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in the world. As an NSAID, it’s related to aspirin and naproxen. Like acetaminophen, NSAIDs reduce pain and fever. But unlike acetaminophen, they also reduce inflammation (swelling and redness).

Uses Of Ibuprofen    Any kind of arthritis, backaches, colds, fever, headaches, period pain, other aches and pains, especially if you also have inflammation.

How Does Ibuprofen Work?   Ibuprofen was invented in the 1960’s as a way to reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness in people with rheumatoid arthritis. As with acetaminophen, ibuprofen blocks part of the cyclooxygenase (COX) pathway in your body and keeps you from making prostaglandin. Prostaglandin is a signal molecule involved in pain and swelling in your body. It’s different from acetaminophen in that it not only works in your brain,  but also in the rest of your body. That’s how it can reduce inflammation as well as pain and fever.

Ibuprofen Dosage   Different brands may have different dosage instructions, so take it as directed on the label or as recommended by your doctor. It’s always best to take the lowest dose that still gives you relief from your symptoms.

Common Ibuprofen Brand Names   In the U.S, common brands include: Advil, Motrin.

Acetaminophen vs. Ibuprofen Side Effects  

• Acetaminophen side effects: Acetaminophen can cause an allergic reaction in your body. The signs of an acetaminophen allergy are swelling in the face, tongue, throat, and lips. You may also develop hives or have difficulty breathing. In some rare cases, it can cause a lethal skin reaction. This is even possible if you have never had an adverse reaction to the drug in the past. If you experience blistering, rash, redness, or peeling on your skin, stop taking the medicine and talk to your doctor right away. Don’t drink alcohol while you’re taking acetaminophen. Always talk to your doctor before using over-the-counter medicines if you are pregnant or have heart, kidney, or liver disease. But acetaminophen is considered safe for your baby, so your doctor will likely suggest you take it instead of ibuprofen if you need it. Common side effects include: Nausea; Vomiting; Headache
• Ibuprofen side effects: All NSAIDs can increase your risk of heart attack or stroke. Ask your doctor if you can take ibuprofen if you have any chronic conditions, especially kidney disease, heart disease, stomach ulcers, asthma, or have had a heart attack. You should also ask your doctor if you can take it when you are pregnant or breastfeeding because NSAIDs in the last 20 weeks of pregnancy can cause kidney and heart problems in your baby. It may also cause complications in the rest of your pregnancy. If you have had an allergic reaction or a hypersensitivity reaction to other NSAIDs, you should avoid ibuprofen. Signs of an allergic reaction include swelling in your throat or face and itchy welts or hives. Common side effects include: headache, loss of appetite, nausea, upset stomach.

 Talk to your doctor as soon as possible if you have any of the following side effects:

• Increased blood pressure
• Signs of heart failure such as rapid weight gain or unusual weakness or fatigue
• Skin rash, itching, or hives
• Redness, blistering, peeling or loosening of your skin, including inside your mouth
• Signs of liver problems such as pain in your upper right belly, light-colored poop, dark yellow or brown pee, and yellowing of your skin or eyes
• Signs of kidney problems such as a decreased amount of pee or swelling in your ankles, feet, or hands
• Bleeding, small red or purple spots on your skin, or unusual bruising
• Signs of stroke such as sudden numbness or weakness in your face, arm, or leg on one side of your body, trouble talking, confusion, loss of balance, or headaches and dizziness
• Signs of heart problems, such as pain or tightness in your chest, shoulders, arms, or jaw or cold, clammy skin Shortness of breath with moderate activity or feelings of lightheadedness or dizziness Bleeding and swelling in your stomach (rare compared to other NSAIDs). Signs include bloody, black, or tar-like poop or throwing up what looks like coffee grounds.

Does Ibuprofen Have Side Effects?   If you have heart disease, stomach ulcers, asthma, or have had a heart attack, ask your doctor if you can take ibuprofen. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should also consult with their doctors before taking this drug. Like acetaminophen, you can also be allergic to ibuprofen. The signs of an allergic reaction are swelling in the throat or face. Some other ibuprofen side effects are:

• Vision changes
• Shortness of breath with moderate activity
• Rapid weight gain
• Skin rash
• Liver problems
• Kidney problems
• Nausea and vomiting
• Bleeding
• Headaches and dizziness

Acetaminophen vs. Ibuprofen: Which to Use?

If you’re confused which to use, experts generally advise you to choose ibuprofen for inflammation and acetaminophen for just pain.

Acetaminophen Vs. Ibuprofen For Headaches   If you aren’t allergic and don’t have liver problems, acetaminophen may be better for a simple headache than ibuprofen.

Acetaminophen Vs. Ibuprofen For Sore Throat   The American Academy of Family Physicians recommends ibuprofen for a sore throat that’s due to strep throat. Most cases of sore throat include inflammation as well as pain, so ibuprofen is probably the best choice in this case unless you have a reason not to take it.

Which Is Better For An Earache?   Acetaminophen and ibuprofen will work equally well for earache, so take whichever you prefer. If you need to take pain medicine for several days in a row, though, you may want to try alternating them to help lessen the chance of getting side effects.

Your Parish Nurse, Kara

For many older adults, going home after a hospital or rehabilitation stay is a big milestone. It can be not only physically demanding but mentally exhausting, too. This can be especially so when the recovery takes time and you don’t feel as independent as you once were. But with the proper planning and preparation, you can ensure a smooth recovery process and reduce the time it takes to feel like yourself again. <!–split–>

Preparing for Home Recovery in Advance

• What kind of help will you need, if any?
• Will you be able to climb stairs, or will you need to change how your home is laid out?
• And what about transportation to follow-up appointments?

These are just some of the things to address ahead of time so you have the support and assistance for a comfortable and safe recovery at home. Ideally, you should consider these questions before you go into the hospital or rehab center.

Here are some tips for questions to consider asking and things you might want to prepare for:

• Communicate with your health care team. If the hospitalization is planned, much of the information you need to be prepared can be asked ahead of time. Your pre-op appointment is the time to ask about medications that will be needed, follow-up appointments, dietary restrictions, and any specific instructions for managing your condition at home. This discussion should include whether you’ll need physical, occupational, or speech therapy. But if the hospitalization wasn’t planned, your health care providers should explain your post-hospital care plan and needs before discharge.
• Ask family and friends to help. Reach out to family members, friends, or neighbors who can help during your recovery. Asking them to do tasks such as making meals, grocery shopping, and household chores can be a huge help. If that’s not an option, contact your local Right at Home office to learn how their professional caregivers can help with these and other needs.
• Arrange transportation. Make transportation arrangements for your journey home. You may need help getting in and out of vehicles, so ensure transportation options cater to your needs. You’ll also likely have follow-up appointments or physical therapy sessions to get to, not to mention that arrangements will need to be made so you can get needed medications and groceries.

Prepare your home.

• Make any changes to your home that will be needed to accommodate your recovery needs. Clear pathways of clutter, secure rugs to prevent tripping hazards, and consider installing handrails or grab bars in bathrooms and high-traffic areas to reduce the risk of a fall.
• Stock up on essentials. Be sure you have essential supplies, such as medications, wound care materials, and any durable medical equipment prescribed by your health care providers. Having these items readily available will streamline your recovery process and reduce stress.

Getting Help With Household Chores Makes Your Recuperation Easier   Everyone knows how nice it is to have a helping hand. That’s especially true when it comes to recovering at home. Here are the types of help around the house that can be a big relief to someone who’s recuperating:

• Personal care. Depending on your level of mobility and independence, you may need help with personal care activities, such as bathing, dressing, using the toilet, and grooming.
• Meal prep and nutrition. Recovery requires a nutritious diet. Consider meal delivery services and meal kits. If your recovery depends on a specialized diet, ask a friend, family member, or professional caregiver to help.
• Household chores and errands. Tasks such as laundry, cleaning, grocery shopping, and pet care can be physically demanding and may require additional support during recovery.
• Transportation to medical appointments. Follow-up appointments help your health care providers monitor your progress and answer your questions. Arrange transportation to and from appointments if you are unable to drive or navigate public transportation independently.

Emotional support and companionship. Recovery can be emotionally challenging. Having emotional support and companionship can greatly impact your well-being. Stay connected with loved ones, friends, or support groups who can offer encouragement, companionship, and a listening ear.

Planning Your Post-Hospitalization Recovery Is Essential.  Navigating your return home requires careful planning, support, and collaboration with your health care team and loved ones. By preparing in advance and enlisting help for your recovery needs, you’ll benefit from a supportive and nurturing environment that promotes healing, comfort, and peace of mind on the road to recovery.

How Right at Home Can Help

Your local Right at Home office can help with a wide range of services, including light housekeeping, personal care, and respite care to fill in when your family or friends can’t be there. Use our office locator to contact the office nearest you to find out more.

For additional information, download our free Adult Caregiving Guide. And consider subscribing to our free monthly e-newsletter, Caring Right at Home, for ongoing information, tips, and advice delivered to your inbox.

Your Parish Nurse,  Kara

Marsha Johns is a veteran health care marketer and award-winning writer. She strives to make medical topics understandable and relatable for all readers.

 

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year. <!–split–>

Signs and Symptoms

Flu may cause some or all of these signs and symptoms:

• Fever or feeling feverish, chills
• Cough and sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Headaches and muscle or body aches
• Fatigue/feeling very tired
• Vomiting/diarrhea (more common in kids than adults)

How Flu Spreads

Most experts believe that flu viruses spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze, or talk. These droplets can and in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. Less often a person might also get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own face, mouth, eyes, or nose.

Period of Contagion

Fancy words for ”when you can spread your flu germs to others”. You may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you even realize you’re infected! Most healthy adults are able to infect others beginning one day before developing symptoms and up to 7 days after becoming sick. Some folks especially young children (who don’t control their germ-sharing activities) might be able to infect others for even longer.

How Serious is the Flu?

Flu is unpredictable and the severity of symptom will vary from season to season depending on

• What strains of flu viruses are spreading
• How much flu vaccine is available
• How many people get vaccinated
• How well the vaccine matches the flu viruses that are causing illness in that season

Some people are at greater risk for the most serious complication of the flu including older adults, young children, pregnant women and people with serious chronic health conditions. Complications can include bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections, dehydration and worsening of chronic medical conditions.

The single best way to prevent getting the flu is to get a flu vaccine each season. The vaccine does not provide instant protection. It takes 2-3 weeks for a person’s immune system to react to the vaccine, producing a protective level of antibodies. The flu vaccine cannot protect against other flu-like illnesses caused by non-influenza viruses. The seasonal flu vaccine is formulated with the 3 flu viruses that scientists from the CDC believe will be the most likely to cause epidemics that year. Vaccinations usually begin in September or as soon as the vaccine becomes available and continues into Spring. While flu season can begin as early as October, it usually peaks in January, February and March. Summer flu infections are also possible although less likely.

The Covid-19 Virus also presents with “cold” or flu like symptoms. This virus also continues to evolve and mutate. While it is recommended for almost everyone to be vaccinated it is a personal choice just like the flu vaccine. Protect yourself and your loved ones as much as possible. Wear a mask when out in public places if you feel more comfortable. Wash your hands and get plenty of rest, exercise and healthy foods.