Headache? Take a painkiller. Joint pain? Take another. For all of us, over-the-counter (OTC) painkillers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen are as much a part of daily life as a morning cup of coffee. They're fast, efficient, and appear harmless—who needs a prescription, anyway? But what if this blase dependence on painkillers is actually laying the groundwork for a much more devastating health emergency?

If that's your daily mantra, don't worry, you're in good company. In the age of instant gratification, all of us are turning to over-the-counter pain relievers as a quick fix for even mild pain. But what if this ostensibly innocuous habit is silently threatening your kidneys with a major health problem?

Painkillers, or analgesics, are usually a lifeline for individuals with chronic or severe pain. From recovery from surgery and migraines to arthritis and menstrual cramps, these drugs offer relief that ensures our quality of life is not drastically reduced. But beneath the pain relief lies a surprising question: whether the overuse of these drugs may exact too high a price-kidney damage and even kidney cancer.

Dr. Aditya Punamiya, a GI, HPB, and Gynecologic Oncosurgery Consultant, cautions, "The long-term and uncontrolled use of over-the-counter painkillers is emerging as an under-diagnosed but serious risk factor for kidney cancer." Dr Punamiya observations reveal an alarming pattern, numerous patients self-medicate for chronic pains—headaches, joint pains, or back pain—unaware of the additive damage to the kidneys.

Why We Turn to Painkillers So Easily?

Pain is a biological alarm system. Helpful in warning us of injury or sickness, chronic pain can strongly interfere with our functioning on a daily basis. To counter this, painkillers provide a feeling of control and comfort. For acute on-demand pain and chronic inflammatory diseases, drugs like NSAIDs and acetaminophen are not only handy but effective as well.

Sadly, the very ease of use of these drugs has led to their misuse. Painkillers are increasingly being consumed without medical supervision, particularly in nations such as India where OTC availability is prevalent but even within well-regulated economies such as the U.S., long-term use has become an undercurrent of an epidemic.

What Are The Types of Painkillers?

Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications

Paracetamol (Acetaminophen): Good for fever and light pain, but hepatotoxicity is a serious issue above moderate doses.

NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): Contains ibuprofen, naproxen, and diclofenac. These are useful for pain that is inflammation-related but have gastrointestinal and renal toxicity with long-term use.

Prescription Painkillers

Opioids (Tramadol, Morphine, Oxycodone): For severe pain only but pose the risk of respiratory depression, addiction, and endocrine disruption.

Topical and Alternative Therapies

Topical creams and patches containing drugs such as menthol or capsaicin are localized treatments with fewer systemic hazards.

How Do these Drugs Harm the Kidneys?

How do such drugs damage the kidneys? Dr. Punamiya clarifies, "Drugs such as ibuprofen, diclofenac, and naproxen, if taken in excess, can harm the kidneys in two ways. One, they weaken the kidneys' function to filter blood by cutting off blood supply. Two, they cause chronic interstitial nephritis over time, scarring kidney tissues." This scarring provides a fertile ground for RCC to grow.

The kidneys, essential organs responsible for filtering waste products from the blood, are especially susceptible to chronic exposure to NSAIDs and acetaminophen. Acute kidney injury, chronic kidney disease, and, in severe cases, kidney failure can result from excessive use of these compounds. The transition to kidney cancer is not as sudden but equally alarming, since the cumulative insult changes cellular mechanisms, possibly initiating malignant growth.

A landmark meta-analysis by Toni K Choueiri, Youjin Je, and Eunyoung Cho has again highlighted the relationship between chronic painkiller use and renal cell carcinoma (RCC)—the leading form of kidney cancer.

Non-Aspirin NSAIDs: Chronic use was linked to a 25% enhancement in the risk of RCC. Heavy consumption increased that threat by 56%, long-term consumption for more than 10 years especially concerning for women.

Acetaminophen: Associated with a 21% heightened risk of kidney cancer. Heavy users who took high doses saw their risk rise by 66%.

Aspirin: While most U.S.-based research found no conclusive link, some research from other countries suggested a connection, possibly due to regional variation in formulation or consumption habits.

Why Kidney Cancer Is a Silent Threat?

Kidney cancer is especially stealthy since it usually presents late without any symptoms. "Flank pain, hematuria and weight loss are typically late presentations," states Dr. Punamiya. For patients such as Sarah, who might have been taking painkillers for years, these signs may only manifest by the time cancer has metastasized, and so treatment is less effective.

Risk factors such as smoking, hypertension, diabetes, and obesity increase the risk, particularly in individuals with previous long-term analgesic use. Women also have an increased risk with non-aspirin NSAIDs, possibly because of hormonal or metabolic variation, although further work is required to explain this difference. He describes two principal mechanisms:

Decreased Renal Blood Flow: NSAIDs inhibit prostaglandins, decreasing kidney blood flow and compromising kidney filtration capability.

Chronic Interstitial Nephritis: Long-term NSAID use leads to fibrosis and inflammation of kidney tissue, setting the stage for RCC.

"Most patients self-treat for headaches or joint pain without knowing they're gradually driving their kidneys towards failure," he adds.

Why Early Detection Of Kidney Cancer Symptoms is Difficult?

Kidney cancer is infamous for its asymptomatic nature in the early stages. By the time symptoms such as pain in the flank, hematuria (urine containing blood), or unexplained weight loss appear, the disease is usually advanced. Patients with pre-existing risk factors—such as smoking, hypertension, and diabetes—and with a history of analgesic abuse are particularly susceptible.

Dr. Punamiya advises individuals to consult a doctor for ongoing pain rather than resorting to self-medication. "Routine screening and preventive caution are necessary, especially for vulnerable groups," he points out.

What Are Ways You Can Manage Pain Management Smartly?

Not every use of painkillers is risky. "Short-term, doctor-monitored use is generally safe," says Dr. Punamiya. The trick is not entering into uncontrolled, long-term use. Here's how to handle pain more safely:

Consult a Healthcare Provider

For long-term pain, consult a professional to treat the underlying condition, whether arthritis, neuropathy, or migraines. A customized treatment plan can minimize painkiller dependency.

Try Non-Drug Options

Physical therapy, acupuncture, yoga, and cognitive-behavioral therapy can treat chronic pain without medication risks. For sudden pain, ice, heat, or rest may be enough.

Use Painkillers Wisely

Follow instructions on dosing and avoid prolonged use outside of medical guidance. For NSAIDs, eat food when taking to reduce stomach discomfort, and drink enough fluids to aid kidney function.

Take Precautions

Encourage regular health screening for early detection of kidney problems, particularly among high-risk groups. Dr. Punamiya urges "preventive vigilance" with follow-up visits and attention to early signs such as blood in the urine or recurrent flank pain.

Lifestyle Matters

A balanced diet, exercise, and weight control can cut pain from conditions such as arthritis while reducing kidney cancer risk factors such as obesity and high blood pressure.

There may be the temptation to cover up pain instead of comprehending its cause but swallowing a pill with a glass of water can be an instant solution that might come at a price of long-term health. The growing body of evidence linking commonly used painkillers to kidney cancer is a call for informed, cautious use. As more people take their health into their own hands, the importance of education, medical guidance, and moderation cannot be overstated.

Dr. Aditya Punamiya is a Consultant GI, HPB & Gynec Onsosurgery at HCG Cancer Centre, Borivali in India

Cardiff University medical student and triathlete Lily McGarry, 24, from Jersey, never imagined that what seemed like a mild case of “freshers’ flu” would spiral into a life-threatening illness. A fit, active young woman with a passion for swimming, running and triathlons, Lily’s life was turned upside down in January this year when she developed sepsis. Within hours, she went from watching television with her housemates to suffering two cardiac arrests, falling into a coma, and later losing all four limbs.

“I felt a bit under the weather, but I was still going about my daily life,” Lily recalled from her hospital bed at Cardiff’s Llandough Hospital. “I just thought I’d have a rest and sleep it off.”

From Flu-Like Symptoms to Emergency Care

On January 14, Lily went to bed believing she only needed rest. But her condition worsened overnight. Her housemate checked on her after noticing her bedroom light was still on and found her violently ill and incontinent. Friends Lucy and Ella rushed to clean her up and took her straight to A&E.

At first, Lily believed it was nothing serious. “I was able to walk into A&E, and I thought I’d just receive some antibiotics and go home the next day,” she said. However, her appearance of stability quickly deteriorated. A spreading rash and plummeting blood pressure revealed something far more dangerous.

In the resuscitation room, doctors moved swiftly. “I remember the consultant asking for my mum and dad’s mobile numbers,” Lily said. “That was the moment I realized something was very wrong.”

Also Read: What This 19-Year-Old Thought Was 'Freshers' Flu' Actually Turned Out To Be Meningitis

A Three-Month Blank

The next few months remain a blur. Lily fell into a coma and has no memory of the events that followed until April. During that time, she endured two cardiac arrests and was diagnosed with meningococcal septicaemia, a severe form of sepsis.

“I don’t think I really realized the scale of what had happened until about May when I was starting to look at my body,” Lily admitted. Her medical team explained that she had gone into septic shock, which starved her limbs of blood supply and ultimately led to amputation.

Understanding Sepsis

Sepsis occurs when the body reacts abnormally to an infection, damaging tissues and organs. It can strike anyone, regardless of age or health, and can progress at alarming speed. According to the UK Sepsis Trust, symptoms vary widely but there are six key warning signs to look out for:

• Slurred speech or confusion
• Extreme muscle or joint pain
• Passing no urine in 24 hours
• Severe breathlessness
• Intense feeling of impending death
• Skin that is mottled, discolored or very pale

If untreated, sepsis can cause organ failure, a drastic drop in blood pressure, and death. Experts stress that early recognition and urgent medical treatment are vital.

Adapting to a New Life

Despite the devastating changes to her body, Lily remains remarkably positive. “I’m fortunate to have lost my limbs in an age where there’s lots of technology,” she said. She is already looking ahead to adaptive sports, including hand cycling and returning to the water.

“I’ve always liked swimming and being in the water, and I’m really excited about the sense of freedom I’ll have without gravity in the water,” she said, hopeful about resuming her active lifestyle.

Lily is expected to return home to Jersey in November, where she looks forward to reuniting with her grandparents, spending time on the beach, and reflecting on her recovery.

The Power of Support

Her resilience has been matched by the outpouring of support from her community. Friends and family have launched fundraising campaigns to provide Lily with access to prosthetics and sporting opportunities. Messages of encouragement have poured in from Wales, Jersey and beyond.

Housemate Ella Jennings praised Lily’s character and determination: “She’s the most selfless person I’ve ever met. Since she’s got poorly she’s just that and more—so positive and determined. Honestly, she blows my mind. Every time I see her, she astounds me with her attitude and outlook on life.”

Looking Ahead With Strength

For Lily, the journey ahead will involve rehabilitation, learning to navigate life with prosthetics, and embracing new ways to remain active. But her focus is firmly on what she can achieve, not what she has lost.

“When you’re young, you think these kinds of conditions don’t affect you,” Lily reflected. “You feel a bit invincible. But I’m determined to make the most of the opportunities I have and to keep moving forward.”

Her story serves as a sobering reminder of how swiftly sepsis can strike, but also a powerful testament to resilience, positivity and the human spirit in the face of unimaginable challenges.

The Trump administration has announced it will end the federal government’s long-running annual report on hunger in America, a decision that has drawn sharp criticism from advocates and experts. Officials say the survey had become “overly politicized” and “rife with inaccuracies,” while critics argue the move will make it harder to measure hunger amid recent cuts to food assistance programs.

Background: Cuts to Food Aid

The decision comes just over two months after President Donald Trump signed legislation that significantly reduced federal food aid. In July, Republicans pushed through a tax and spending cuts package that the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) projected would leave around 3 million people ineligible for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), commonly known as food stamps.

The move represented one of the most consequential shifts in food policy in recent years, with concerns that millions of low-income households would lose a critical safety net.

Ending the USDA Hunger Report

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) confirmed on Saturday that the upcoming Household Food Security Report, scheduled for release on October 22, 2024, would be the last. The annual report has been a central tool in tracking hunger and food insecurity across the nation for decades, helping policymakers, researchers, and aid organizations assess needs and shape responses.

In its statement, the USDA defended the decision, claiming that the survey questions used to collect data were “entirely subjective” and did not provide an accurate reflection of food security.

“The data is rife with inaccuracies slanted to create a narrative that is not representative of what is actually happening in the countryside,” the agency said. “We are currently experiencing lower poverty rates, increasing wages, and job growth under the Trump Administration.”

The Administration’s Justification

The Trump administration pointed to positive economic trends as evidence that hunger is declining and suggested that the USDA survey was inconsistent with these broader indicators. Officials highlighted Census Bureau data released earlier this month showing that the U.S. poverty rate fell from 11% in 2023 to 10.6% last year, before Trump took office.

According to the administration, such numbers reflect the success of policies aimed at boosting wages and expanding job opportunities, making the hunger survey less relevant.

Critics Respond

However, critics argue that the decision to discontinue the hunger report is less about accuracy and more about obscuring the real impact of recent policy changes. Anti-hunger groups, researchers, and political analysts warn that without reliable annual data, it will be far more difficult to track whether food insecurity is rising, especially among vulnerable groups affected by the food stamp cuts.

“Trump is cancelling an annual government survey that measures hunger in America, rather than allow it to show hunger increasing under his tenure,” said Bobby Kogan, senior director of federal budget policy at the Center for American Progress, a left-leaning think tank. “This follows the playbook of many non-democracies that cancel or manipulate reports that would otherwise show less-than-perfect news.”

Advocacy groups also stressed that the USDA’s food security data has historically been considered the gold standard in hunger research, relied upon by both Democratic and Republican administrations. Eliminating the report, they warn, risks leaving policymakers “flying blind” when it comes to understanding the needs of low-income families.

Broader Implications

The end of the USDA hunger report highlights a growing clash between the administration’s claims of economic progress and critics’ warnings that poverty and hunger remain pressing challenges. While official poverty rates have dipped, millions of Americans continue to rely on food aid, food banks, and community support programs.

Experts say that without annual federal data, private researchers and non-profit organizations may struggle to capture the full picture of food insecurity nationwide, potentially weakening efforts to hold the government accountable for policy outcomes.

The controversy underscores the political stakes around hunger in America, where the battle over data is increasingly tied to broader debates about inequality, public assistance, and the role of government in supporting struggling households.

When 19-year-old Ketia Moponda set off from Wolverhampton to begin her first year at De Montfort University in Leicester, she was filled with the usual excitement of freshers’ week. But just eight days after arriving, what she thought was a simple “freshers’ flu” turned into a life-threatening battle with meningococcal septicaemia, as reported in the BBC. It is a rare and severe form of bacterial meningitis.

Within a matter of days, Ketia went from being a healthy teenager adjusting to university life to lying unconscious in hospital, fighting for survival. The illness would eventually claim both her legs below the knees and parts of her fingers, but Ketia has emerged as a determined advocate for awareness, warning other students about the risks and the importance of quick medical attention.

Mistaking Deadly Symptoms for Freshers’ Flu

Like many first-year students, Ketia brushed off her illness as something minor. “Don’t mistake everything for a common cold,” she now warns. “I made that mistake and went to sleep. It could have been fatal.”

Her memory of those final hours before being found is hazy. For 27 hours, she lay in her university accommodation, gravely ill. When worried friends and security staff finally entered her room, the scene was alarming. “As soon as they opened the door, they had to call the emergency services because it was described as looking like foul play,” she recalled. “There was blood and vomit everywhere. My body was failing.”

She was rushed to Leicester Royal Infirmary, where doctors placed her in a coma to stabilize her condition. Her family were driven under blue lights to join her, fearing the worst.

Defying the Odds

Doctors were not confident Ketia would survive. But after two days, she woke from the coma, unable to see or speak and barely aware of her surroundings. “I couldn’t see or speak and it was a whole week before I started speaking,” she said. “Most of the time I didn’t know where I was.”

The meningococcal bacteria had spread rapidly through her bloodstream, cutting off circulation to her extremities. The skin on her fingers and feet began to shrivel, swell, and turn painful. Despite antibiotics, her limbs could not be saved.

On January 7, 2025, doctors at Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham amputated both of her legs below the knees, along with parts of her fingers and thumbs. “Basically my legs had died because of a lack of blood going to them,” she explained. “It was terrible. I just kept crying all the time. I felt so hurt, it was killing my spirit.”

A Long Recovery Journey

Ketia spent five months in hospital, undergoing multiple surgeries, including skin grafts after developing a secondary flesh-eating infection. The experience was traumatic, but her determination to recover was evident. “I felt like my whole life had just begun and now I had to start all over again differently,” she said.

The road to recovery has been slow, but Ketia is now finding strength in her new reality. She has become active on TikTok, sharing her journey as a young, Black, female amputee, a representation she says is rarely visible in mainstream media. “It’s rare that you see an amputee just out there in front of your face,” she said. “Even though seeing an amputee is not normal, I want it to be a norm.”

Understanding Meningococcal Septicaemia

According to the NHS, meningococcal septicaemia is caused when meningococcal bacteria enter the bloodstream, leading to blood poisoning and, in many cases, meningitis, inflammation of the lining around the brain and spinal cord. It is less common than viral meningitis but significantly more dangerous, requiring urgent treatment with intravenous antibiotics.

Symptoms can appear similar to flu at first, including fever, headache, and nausea. But the illness can worsen very quickly, leading to confusion, vomiting, severe pain, and sometimes a distinctive rash. The NHS stresses that people should not wait for all the symptoms to appear or until a rash develops. If meningitis is suspected, medical help must be sought immediately.

Vaccination and Student Awareness

Many students in the UK receive the MenB vaccination during secondary school, which Ketia had also received. But the vaccine does not cover all strains of the bacteria, meaning cases still occur.

Each year, universities and health organizations urge new students to register with a local GP and familiarize themselves with the signs of meningitis. Some institutions distribute welcome packs with symptom cards to help students recognize warning signs early.

The NHS advice is clear: trust your instincts. If symptoms seem worse than a normal flu or cold, or if something feels unusual, seek urgent medical help.

Inspiring Others Through Adversity

Despite the life-altering consequences of her illness, Ketia is determined to transform her experience into a message of awareness and empowerment. She wants students to be vigilant about their health and to not dismiss symptoms too quickly.

She also hopes her story inspires people to rethink perceptions of disability. “Disability does not limit ambition, beauty, or confidence,” she said. Her presence online as a confident amputee challenges stereotypes and gives visibility to people often overlooked.