Identify a risk associated with the long-term use of NSAIDs.

Long-term use of NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) is well-known to pose several risks, and gastrointestinal bleeding is one of the most significant concerns associated with their prolonged use. NSAIDs work by inhibiting enzymes involved in the production of prostaglandins, which play a crucial role in protecting the stomach lining. With reduced prostaglandin levels, the mucosal barrier becomes weakened, leading to an increased risk of ulcer formation and gastrointestinal bleeding.

This risk is particularly pronounced in older adults and individuals who may already have underlying gastrointestinal issues, as they may be more susceptible to the harmful effects of NSAIDs. These medications can also interfere with natural physiological processes, such as hemostasis, further compounding the risk of bleeding.

Kidney damage, fatigue, and heart attack are indeed other potential risks associated with the long-term use of NSAIDs, but gastrointestinal bleeding is often highlighted as a critical and potentially life-threatening consequence that healthcare providers need to monitor closely, making it a primary focus in discussions of NSAID-related complications.