Why you shouldn’t take ibuprofen after a head injury?

In this article:

• Why you shouldn\'t take ibuprofen after a head injury?
• Safer alternatives to ibuprofen

In this article

• Why you shouldn\'t take ibuprofen after a head injury?
• Safer alternatives to ibuprofen

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated that 190 people died per day from traumatic brain injury (TBI) related deaths in 2021. While most head injuries aren’t that critical, it’s always important to take a head injury seriously. There are many considerations after sustaining a head injury, one being that you should think twice before reaching for the popular over-the-counter drug ibuprofen to treat any pain related to head injuries.

Why you shouldn’t take ibuprofen after a head injury?

“Ibuprofen should not be used for a head injury because it is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that can increase the risk of bleeding,” explained Danielle Kelvas, an MD and Primary Care Physician at The HCG Institute. “After a head injury, there is a concern that if there has been any bleeding in the brain, NSAIDs like ibuprofen could potentially exacerbate it.

In general, it is not safe to take ibuprofen after hitting your head. Ibuprofen is not a good option after suffering a traumatic brain injury, concussion, or other type of head injury. Along with a risk of increased bleeding, taking ibuprofen after a head injury can lead to masking symptoms and increase the risk of brain swelling. Below, learn more about each of these risks.

As a note, ibuprofen is the generic name for the over-the-counter pain reliever, but it can also be sold under the brand name Motrin or Advil. It’s also available in higher doses by prescription. Other NSAIDs like aspirin or Aleve (naproxen) will also come with these risks.

Potential for increased bleeding

NSAIDs, including ibuprofen, alter blood platelet function. Platelets play a role in blood clotting. When the body’s ability to clot blood is affected due to NSAIDs, it can increase the risk of bleeding. Due to this factor, providers recommend waiting 24 to 48 hours before treating head injury-related pain with NSAIDs.

A study in 2021 looked at preinjury use of NSAIDs in adolescent athletes. Researchers found in their analysis there were no indications that “preinjury NSAID use affects the severity of initial injury presentation or concussion recovery.”

Risk of masking symptoms

There is also a concern that NSAIDs can mask symptoms of a head injury when getting treatment. Athletes who are suspected of having a concussion may be given Immediate Post-Concussion Assessment and Cognitive Testing or an ImPACT test to determine the severity of their concussion. If an athlete is benefiting from the analgesic properties, or pain-relieving properties, of NSAIDs, it is possible the recorded information, like reaction time, won’t be as accurate as the physical symptoms may be alleviated.

The risk of worsening brain swelling

If the use of NSAIDs like ibuprofen for a head injury causes bleeding, this, in turn, can increase the risk of brain swelling. When the blood vessels of the brain begin bleeding, the surrounding area of the brain can become irritated. This area where the blood is gathered is called a hematoma. This can result in cerebral edema, also known as brain swelling.

Safer alternatives to ibuprofen

“For pain relief, consulting with a healthcare professional for tailored advice is essential,” said Dr. Po-Chang Hsu, an MD, writer, and consultant at Alpas Wellness. After seeking medical advice for your head injuries, there are safer alternatives you can use at home for treatment.

Over-the-counter pain relief options

“I recommend acetaminophen (Tylenol) instead for managing pain post-head injury, as it does not have the same blood-thinning effects.,” said Dr. Kelvas.

Non-medicinal pain management techniques

There are also home remedies to try. 

• Resting in a dark room without screens and video games will help alleviate any sensitivity to bright lights and sounds a person experiences.
• Limit activities for the first couple of days and slowly incorporate light activity until you can have a gradual return to routine daily activities.
• A cold pack can help reduce pain by numbing the area and reducing any swelling.
• Stay hydrated, as dehydration can worsen headaches.

What to do if you’ve sustained a head injury

Rough play between children, physical activity like contact sports with student-athletes, or a car accident are some of the most common causes of concussion.

After experiencing a head injury, you or a family member or caregiver should immediately assess the condition. If you sustain a head injury or concussion, there are important symptoms to look out for that indicate medical attention is necessary. 

Symptoms of a concussion to monitor include:

• Headache 
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Nausea or vomiting
• Loss of consciousness
• Vision problems like blurry vision or double vision

These symptoms warrant a trip to the emergency room where doctors or a concussion specialist can perform testing, like CT scans, to find if it’s a minor head injury or a severe head injury. A concussion is considered a mild traumatic brain injury. However, the type of brain injury could be even worse, leading to permanent brain damage in some cases.

If you don’t notice any symptoms initially after hitting your head, it doesn’t automatically mean you’re in the clear. Dr. Hsu explained, “If you feel relatively okay, it’s still important to rest and observe yourself for 24 hours, as symptoms can sometimes take time to appear.”

If you’re unsure if you require medical treatment for your head injury, Dr. Hsu advised, “Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution regarding head injuries. If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to contact a healthcare professional!”