What is a Baby Aspirin?
Baby aspirin are low-dose aspirin tablets that contain 81 mg of acetylsalicylic acid. They have been generally recommended to prevent blood clots, reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke, and relieve pain and inflammation. The term "baby" aspirin comes from the fact that this low dose is often recommended for infants and children, although it is also commonly used by adults.
But daily baby aspirin consumption can have serious side effects, particularly with long-term use. For example, there is a real risk of hemorrhagic stroke, which occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures and causes bleeding in the brain. This can lead to a buildup of pressure in the brain, which can damage brain cells and result in brain injury or death. This risk is particularly real for people with, chronic high blood pressure (most common risk factor for hemorrhagic stroke) and for people after age 55.
What Are Some Common Side Effects?
Daily aspirin therapy causes some serious side effects, particularly if taken for an extended period. Some side effects of daily aspirin therapy include:
Gastrointestinal bleeding: Regular use of aspirin can cause irritation and damage to the lining of the stomach and intestines, leading to bleeding.
Allergic reactions: Some people may develop an allergic reaction to aspirin, which can cause symptoms such as hives, swelling, and difficulty breathing.
Increased bleeding: Aspirin can interfere with blood clotting, which can increase the risk of bleeding, particularly during surgery or other medical procedures.
Tinnitus: Some people have reported experiencing ringing in the ears (tinnitus) as a side effect of aspirin.
Reye's syndrome: This rare but serious condition can occur in children who take aspirin during a viral infection, leading to liver and brain damage.
Increased risk of bleeding in the brain: Aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding in the brain (intracranial hemorrhage), particularly in older adults.
Can Daily Aspirin Use Increase my Risk of Cancer?
According to research, daily aspirin use has been associated with an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and certain cancers, particularly cancers of the gastrointestinal tract. Some studies have suggested that regular aspirin use may increase the risk of colorectal cancer, gastric cancer, and esophageal cancer. Additionally, in one study, there was a 19% higher risk of metastatic cancer and a 22% higher risk of receiving a diagnosis of advanced cancer over placebo. In another study with 981 people who took it daily, researchers found that the participants in the aspirin group had a higher risk of having cancer that had metastasized (spread) or was stage 4 at diagnosis. They also had a higher risk of death.
Why the Aspirin Controversy?
The use of aspirin is controversial because it has been shown to have several dire consequences, despite previously described benefits.
For years, aspirin was touted to prevention of blood clots, reduce risk of heart attack /strokes, and prevent certain types of cancers. Conversely the many of the complications of aspirin were overlooked.
Aspirin increases the risk of bleeding, particularly in individuals with a history of bleeding disorders or gastrointestinal bleeding. This risk can be greater in older adults, those taking other blood-thinning medications, and those with pre-existing medical conditions.
Furthermore, the benefits may not outweigh the risks in all individuals. Some studies have also suggested that long-term aspirin therapy may increase the risk of certain types of cancer.
Who Should Definitely Not Take Baby ASA?
Some individuals are at higher risk of complications when taking a daily aspirin. These include:
People with a history of bleeding disorders or gastrointestinal bleeding: Aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding, particularly in those who have a history of bleeding disorders or gastrointestinal bleeding.
People taking other blood-thinning medications: Taking aspirin along with other blood-thinning medications such as warfarin or heparin can increase the risk of bleeding.
People with liver or kidney disease: Aspirin is metabolized in the liver and excreted by the kidneys, so individuals with liver or kidney disease are at higher risk of complications from aspirin therapy.
People with asthma: Aspirin can trigger asthma attacks in some individuals, particularly those with a history of asthma.
Pregnant women: Aspirin is generally not recommended for pregnant women, particularly in the third trimester, as it can increase the risk of bleeding and premature labor.
People at risk for Hemorrhagic Stroke.
What are Some Risks for Hemorrhagic Stroke?
Hemorrhagic stroke can occur in anyone, but certain factors can increase the risk of developing this type of stroke. Some of the risk factors for hemorrhagic stroke include:
High blood pressure: High blood pressure is the most common risk factor for hemorrhagic stroke. When blood pressure is high, it can weaken blood vessel walls and increase the risk of a rupture.
Age: The risk of hemorrhagic stroke increases with age, particularly after age 55.
Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke by damaging blood vessels and increasing blood pressure.
Alcohol consumption: Heavy alcohol consumption can increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke by raising blood pressure and damaging blood vessels.
Drug use: Certain drugs, such as cocaine and amphetamines, can increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke by causing blood vessels to narrow and increasing blood pressure.
Family history: A family history of hemorrhagic stroke or other types of strokes may increase the risk of developing this condition.
Brain aneurysm: An aneurysm is a bulge in a blood vessel in the brain that can increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke if it ruptures.
Blood disorders: Certain blood disorders, such as sickle cell anemia or hemophilia, can increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke.
Trauma: Trauma to the head or neck can increase the risk of hemorrhagic stroke.
When to Speak With Your Doctor About Stopping Baby ASA?
There are situations where a person needs to stop taking baby aspirin immediately. In addition to the above, other considerations would include:
If a person experiences severe side effects, such as bleeding or allergic reactions.
If a person needs to undergo surgery or dental procedures, as aspirin can interfere with blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding.
If a person is pregnant or trying to conceive, as aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding during pregnancy.
If a person's risk of heart attack or stroke decreases, as determined by a healthcare professional.
Remember also that as people age, the risk of bleeding and other complications from aspirin therapy increases. Older adults may be more likely to have pre-existing medical conditions such as gastrointestinal ulcers or bleeding disorders that increase the risk of bleeding from aspirin therapy.
Some Natural Ways to Prevent Blood Clots:
There are some natural blood thinners that can help prevent blood clots and reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Some of these include:
Nattokinase: Nattokinase is a natural enzyme extracted from natto, a traditional Japanese fermented soybean dish. It is a type of serine protease enzyme that has been shown to have blood-thinning effects by breaking down fibrin, a protein involved in blood clotting. This enzyme has been used as a dietary supplement to help prevent blood clots and improve circulation.
Garlic: Garlic has natural anti-clotting properties and can help prevent blood clots from forming.
Ginger: Ginger contains salicylates, which are similar to aspirin and can help prevent blood clots. It can also help reduce inflammation and improve circulation.
Turmeric: Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties and can help prevent blood clots.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and tuna can help reduce inflammation and prevent blood clots from forming.
Vitamin E: Vitamin E is a natural anti-coagulant and can help prevent blood clots. It is found in nuts, seeds, and vegetable oils.
Green tea: Green tea contains catechins, which can help prevent blood clots from forming and improve circulation.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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