In our homes, when we have a minor ache or a joint ache, we reach for a bottle of balm. We think it's okay to take something like Tiger Balm, Siddhalepa, or BenGay and rub it on the painful area. But these are not just scented things, they are actually medicines. So, did you know that there are many things we need to know about the pain-relieving creams and gels we use? Let's talk about this today.
What is this medicine?
Simply put, these creams, gels, or lotions we're talking about mainly contain compounds called Camphor, Menthol, and Methyl Salicylate . These work together to relieve minor aches and pains in your muscles and joints.
Imagine you sprained your leg. When you apply a balm, you feel a cool sensation first, then a slight warmth, right? That's the first thing this medicine does. That warm/cool sensation blocks the pain signals from your skin to your brain. In other words, it's like your brain is diverting its attention away from the pain.
In addition, the salicylate component in this medicine reduces swelling, or what we call inflammation, at the site of pain. Therefore, the cause of the pain gradually disappears.
Things to tell your doctor before using this medicine
Although this is a topical medication, it is very important that your doctor informs you about these things before using it.
- If you have burns, scrapes, or wounds on your skin: These medications should never be applied to cuts, scrapes, or burns. Doing so can cause the body to absorb more of the medication, which can cause side effects.
- If you have allergies: Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any allergic reactions, especially to camphor, menthol, and methyl salicylate, but also to other medications, foods, and dyes, such as aspirin.
- If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant: You should be very careful when using any medication during pregnancy, so talk to your doctor about this.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother: It is essential to seek medical advice before using this medication while breastfeeding.
How exactly do you use this?
To get the most out of this and stay safe, use it this way.
1. For topical use only: This is for external use only. Do not put it in your mouth or swallow it for any reason.
2. Wash your hands: Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before and after applying the medicine. However, if you are applying the medicine for a pain in your hand, wash your hands only before applying it.
3. Be careful with your eyes: Do not touch sensitive areas like your eyes, nose, or mouth with your hands that have been treated with the medicine. If you accidentally get it in your eyes, immediately rinse your eyes thoroughly with clean water for several minutes.
4. Apply a thin layer: Apply a thin layer of the medicine only to the area of pain. Do not apply too much or rub it in too hard.
5. For children: Doctors sometimes recommend these for children over 3 years old, but only in special cases. So be sure to ask a doctor before using them on young children.
Most importantly: If this medicine is used in excess, or if someone puts it in their mouth like a small child, do not delay. Immediately call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Or take the person to the Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) of the nearest hospital.
Things to be careful about when using the medicine
It is good to be aware of these things while taking this medicine.
- If your pain does not improve after 7 days , or if it gets worse, be sure to see your doctor. Do not continue using this medicine.
- If you pass black, tarry stools , or vomit that looks like coffee grounds , call a doctor immediately.
These symptoms indicate that you may have an ulcer in your intestine and are bleeding. This can be a serious condition, so don't delay.
What are the possible side effects?
Most people don't experience any major side effects, but sometimes these things can happen. So it's important to be aware of this.
| Side effect | Description and what to do |
|---|---|
| Things to inform your doctor immediately | |
| Serious Allergic Reaction | Skin rash, severe itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing. If this happens, stop using the medicine immediately and see a doctor. |
| Usually nothing to worry about, but if it persists, here are some things to tell your doctor: | |
| Slight inflammation or redness of the skin | The skin may become slightly red and feel a little burning where the medicine was applied. This usually goes away after a while. However, if this persists or becomes severe, talk to your doctor. |
How do you keep your medicine safe?
- Keep away from children: The smell and color of these may appeal to young children. So be sure to keep them out of reach of children and pets .
- Store at room temperature: Store at normal room temperature, between 20 and 25 degrees Celsius, tightly closed.
- Discard after expiration: Discard the medicine bottle once the expiration date has passed.
- The correct way to dispose of expired medication: When throwing expired medication in the trash, mix the medication with something like coffee grounds, soil, or used cat litter, put it in a bag or container, seal it well, and throw it in the trash. If you are unsure about this, ask your doctor.
Take-Home Message
- These medications are for topical use only. Do not swallow them for any reason.
- Do not apply these to skin that is cut, scratched, burned, or injured.
- Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly after applying the medicine, and be careful not to get it in your eyes.
- If the pain lasts more than 7 days or if it gets worse, see a doctor.
- Watch for serious symptoms, such as black stools or vomit that looks like coffee grounds.
- Always store these medicines out of the reach of small children.
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