Originally Posted by
Runner 1
Be careful with the ibuprofen though! Because it can mask pain -- and pain is a sign that something is wrong.
Ibuprofen -- and actually, any NSAID, like aspirin or naproxen sodium -- not only masks pain, it reduces inflammation. (NSAID = non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug)
Acetaminophen (Tylenol), in contrast, is not an NSAID and will only reduce pain.