DR. WALKER

Problems With Baby Aspirins

What is a Baby Aspirin?

A baby aspirin is a low-dose version of the medication aspirin, which is typically used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and lower fever. Baby aspirin contains a lower dose of aspirin than regular adult-strength aspirin, typically 81 milligrams (mg) compared to 325 mg in regular aspirin. It is commonly used for the prevention of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular events in adults who are at high risk for these conditions. The term "baby aspirin" is often used to describe this low-dose form of aspirin because it was originally marketed for use in children to reduce fever and pain. People who are taking baby aspirin should be aware of the potential side effects and should seek medical attention if they experience any unusual symptoms.

What are Some Indications for Baby Aspirin?

 Prevention of heart attack or stroke: Baby aspirin may be recommended for people who are at high risk of heart attack or stroke due to factors such as high blood pressure, or a history of heart disease.
 Treatment of Kawasaki disease: Kawasaki disease is a rare condition that affects children and can cause inflammation in the blood vessels. Baby aspirin may be used as part of the treatment plan to reduce inflammation.
 Prevention of preeclampsia: Preeclampsia is a serious complication of pregnancy that can cause high blood pressure and damage to organs. Baby aspirin may be recommended for women who are at high risk of developing preeclampsia.
 Prevention of colorectal cancer:Low-dose aspirin may be recommended for people who are at high risk of developing colorectal cancer.

Potential Complications of Baby Aspirin:

• Gastrointestinal bleeding: Long-term use of aspirin, even at low doses, can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding. This risk may be higher in people who have a history of ulcers or gastrointestinal bleeding.
• Kidney problems: Long-term use of aspirin can also increase the risk of kidney problems, including reduced kidney function and kidney failure.
• Allergic reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions to aspirin, which can range from mild to severe and potentially life-threatening.
• Increased risk of bleeding: Aspirin can interfere with the blood's ability to clot, which can increase the risk of bleeding. This risk may be higher in people who take other medications that also affect blood clotting.
• Tinnitus: Long-term use of aspirin can sometimes cause tinnitus, a ringing or buzzing in the ears.
• Reye's syndrome: Aspirin use in children and teenagers who have a viral illness such as the flu or chickenpox has been linked to an increased risk of Reye's syndrome, a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that can cause brain and liver damage.

Who are at HIGH Risk for Taking a Baby Aspirin?

 Individuals with a history of gastrointestinal bleeding or peptic ulcer disease.
 Individuals with liver disease or kidney disease.
 Individuals with a history of stroke or bleeding in the brain.
 Individuals with uncontrolled high blood pressure.
 Individuals who are over the age of 65, as they may be more prone to side effects from aspirin.
 Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
 Individuals who are taking other medications that can increase the risk of bleeding, such as blood thinners or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

What are Some Natural Supplements That Prevent Clots?

 Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in fish oil and flaxseed oil, omega-3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce the risk of blood clots.
 Garlic: Garlic contains compounds that may help prevent blood clots by reducing the stickiness of blood platelets.
 Ginger: Ginger has blood-thinning properties and may help prevent blood clots.
 Turmeric: Turmeric contains compounds that may help prevent blood clots by reducing inflammation and platelet aggregation.
 Ginkgo biloba: Ginkgo biloba has blood-thinning properties and may help prevent blood clots.

References:

New guidelines: Should you take daily baby aspirin to prevent heart attack, stroke? - UCHealth Today
Is Aspirin Therapy Good for Your Heart? (clevelandclinic.org)
Daily aspirin therapy: Understand the benefits and risks - Mayo Clinic