Taking aspirin daily is a topic that has been discussed for years in the medical community. For years, doctors have prescribed a daily low-dose aspirin to patients who have a higher risk of developing heart disease, to prevent heart attack or stroke. Other patients use aspirin for pain relief or to reduce inflammation.
Recent studies have shown that the risks of taking aspirin daily may outweigh the health benefits, especially for older adults. However, like any medication, it’s important to understand both the benefits and risks before deciding whether or not taking aspirin daily is for you.
Benefits of aspirin everyday
Aspirin is known for its ability to thin the blood, which can be beneficial in preventing blood clots. By preventing blood clots, aspirin can help keep your blood flowing smoothly through your arteries. This reduces your chances of having a heart-related issue.
Blood clots are the leading cause of heart attacks and strokes. “Blood clots form when a plaque (cholesterol and other substances deposited on artery walls) ruptures and your body tries to contain the damage by creating a clot. When arteries are already narrowed by the buildup of plaque, a clot can block a blood vessel and stop the flow of blood to the brain or heart.” (HopkinsMedicine.org)
If a blood clot blocks a blood vessel that goes to the heart, this causes a heart attack. When a blood clot blocks a blood vessel that goes to the brain, this causes a stroke. (Heart.org)
Additionally, aspirin has anti-inflammatory properties, which can be helpful in reducing pain and swelling. Whether you’re dealing with a headache, muscle pain, or arthritis, a daily dose of aspirin might provide some relief.
Why is aspirin no longer recommended?
The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), “created in 1984, is an independent, volunteer panel of national experts in prevention and evidence-based medicine. The Task Force works to improve the health of people nationwide by making evidence-based recommendations about clinical preventive services such as screenings, counseling services, and preventive medications. (USPSTF.org)
The USPSTF recently reversed its recommendations on taking aspirin daily as a preventative measure. This change was due to results of a research trial by ASPREE (ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly). This trial included healthy adult volunteers who were randomly assigned to take a daily 100 mg aspirin or a placebo pill. They were monitored for approximately five years.
There was no significant difference in stroke incidence between those who took aspirin and those who took the placebo.(NIA.NIH.gov) So, they found that taking aspirin daily has little impact on stroke risk.
They also found, however, that there were risks in taking a daily low-dose aspirin.
To hear Dr. Holmstedt, Professor of Neurology and Director of Clinical Stroke Services at the Medical University of South Carolina speaking on this subject on South Carolina Public Radio, click here.
Daily aspirin risk
The biggest concern with taking aspirin daily is the increased risk of bleeding, due to thinning of the blood. Taking other medications that thin the blood along with aspirin can cause this risk to go even higher.
Aspirin can also irritate the stomach lining and cause gastrointestinal upset and bleeding ulcers. The risk is higher in individuals who take higher doses of aspirin and those who have a history of ulcers.
Aspirin is dangerous for patients who have been diagnosed with kidney failure, severe liver disease, or clotting disorders.
Another risk to consider is the potential for allergic reactions.
What are the side effects of taking aspirin daily?
Most medicines have some side effects. Aspirin does as well. There is a long list of side effects, which you can find at MayoClinic.org.
The following serious side effects are ones that you need to be aware of (and talk to your doctor about) before starting a daily regimen of aspirin:
- Stroke – A daily aspirin can help prevent a clot-related stroke. But, because aspirin thin the blood, it can cause a burst blood vessel (hemorrhagic stroke).
- A bleeding stomach ulcer which could be life-threatening. If you already have a bleeding ulcer or gastrointestinal bleeding, taking aspirin may cause more bleeding.
- Allergic reaction. If you’re allergic to aspirin, taking any dose of aspirin can trigger a serious allergic reaction.
- Low hemoglobin (anemia).
Also, if you’re taking a daily aspirin and you have surgery or dental work scheduled, be sure to let the health care provider know. You may need to take steps in advance of the surgery to prevent excessive bleeding. (MayoClinic.org)
Daily aspirin guidelines
The most recent recommendation by the USPSTF:
For adults aged 40 to 59 years who have a 10% or more 10-year cardiovascular disease – risk is a personal decision.
For adults 60 years or older, the USPSTF advises against starting a low-dose aspirin for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease. (USPSTF.org)
Should you take a daily aspirin?
Daily aspirin therapy is not for everyone. It’s important to consult with your health care provider before starting an aspirin regimen. Your doctor will look at your age, overall health, history of heart disease, and risk of heart attack or stroke.
You will need to “make sure you know the signs of bleeding, such as seeing blood in your urine or stool,” says Max Brock, MD, a cardiologist. “You should also see your provider regularly so they can check your hemoglobin and iron levels. If they get low, you may need to take a supplement to prevent anemia.” (VeryWellHealth.com)
How much aspirin should you take for heart health?
Most commonly, doctors will prescribe one low-dose, 81 mg aspirin per day. You and your health care provider should discuss what dose is right for you.
Other ways to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease or stroke:
There are other medicines and ways to prevent heart disease and strokes that were not available decades ago. Doctors now have more options to help keep your heart healthy. So, it’s not always necessary to rely on aspirin today.
- Get regular exercise
- Eat a healthy diet, low in saturated fat, refined sugars, and simple carbohydrates
- Lose weight
- Don’t smoke, and avoid secondhand smoke
- Treat and manage other risk factors, like diabetes, cholesterol, or high blood pressure
- Ask your doctor about other medications to control diabetes, cholesterol, and high blood pressure
Is it safe to stop taking low dose aspirin?
Never stop taking any prescribed medicine without talking to your doctor first.
If you have had a heart attack or a stent placed, your doctor may want you to keep taking aspirin daily. Stopping daily aspirin therapy in these cases could trigger a blood clot and lead to a heart attack. (MayoClinic.org)
Aspirin is no longer recommended for everyone as a way to prevent heart attacks. This is because of new research showing the risks of bleeding and the availability of better alternatives. Always consult your doctor before starting or stopping any medication. They can help you understand what’s best for your health.
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Other online resources used for this article:
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