A group of Danish researchers have suggested that wide array of painkillers including common prescriptions for treatment of inflammation , non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), such as ibuprofen and aspirin and advanced anti-inflammatory drugs, known as selective COX-2 inhibitors can trigger an irregular heart rhythm. The painkillers are already known to have an association with increased risk of heart attack and stroke.

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a disorder which is responsible for causing irregular and rapid heartbeats. The disorder indeed plays a role to obstruct the blood supply as it tends to affect the heart and cause palpitations, breathlessness, dizziness, angina and the development of blood clots. All these conditions together contribute to increase the long term risk of stroke, heart failure and death.

During the course of the study, the researchers have examined around 32,602 patients diagnosed with AF between 1999 and 2008.

"It's important to note that the overall risk from these drugs and abnormal heart rhythms is still small", added a senior Cardiac Nurse at the British Heart Foundation, Natasha Stewart."As with any drug, there are risks and benefits to be had. Talking these through with your GP will help ensure the benefits outweigh any risks involved".