Aspirin Therapy Can Prevent a Heart Attack

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Aspirin therapy - The American Heart Association recommends aspirin use for patients who've had a heart attack, unstable angina, ischemic stroke (caused by blood clot) or transient ischemic attacks (TIAs or "little strokes"), if not contraindicated. This recommendation is based on sound evidence from clinical trials showing that aspirin helps prevent the recurrence of such events as heart attack, hospitalization for recurrent angina, second strokes, etc. (secondary prevention). Studies show aspirin also helps prevent these events from occurring in people at high risk (primary prevention).

Note: Some people may have a hemorrhagic stroke (bleeding inside the brain). Taking aspirin can complicate matters because it will cause more bleeding.

Aspirin should not be taken without the care of a physician. Your Doctor may prescribe an aspirin dosage according to your needs. Aspirin comes in 81 mgs (baby aspirin) and 325mgs. Aspirin is often abbreviated as ASA and is also known as ecotrin.

One of the most common aspirin side effects is bleeding. You need to report to your doctor immediately if you have any signs of bleeding in your stomach or intestines and stop taking this medication. Symptoms of bleeding include black, bloody, or tarry stools.

<>Do not take aspirin every time you have a headache or any other type of pain. Do not drink alcohol because this will increase your chances of bleeding. You should not treat your child or teenager if they have a fever. Aspirin should not be given to children especially if they have flu, or chicken pox. It can cause a serious condition called Reye’s syndrome in children. It can be fatal.

Aspirin should be taken with a glass of milk and with food to avoid stomach upset. It is recommended you take aspirin whole because breaking it or crushing it can cause stomach irritation.

Before going into aspirin therapy, make sure you tell your Doctor if you have a history of stomach ulcers, asthma, any bleeding or clotting disorders, liver and/or kidney problems, gout, nasal polyps or if you are taking any blood thinning medications.

Please click here to learn about contraindications of aspirin.

It is important you follow your Doctor’s recommendations when taking any medications for best results. As always, keep all medications out of the reach of children.

Self medication administration can be frustrating at times but if you need to take them, there are a few things you should know about. This can help you take them appropriately and get the best results.



Disclaimer

The information in this section and throughout this site is not meant to diagnose and does not provide any legal advice whatsoever. It is recommended to consult a physician if you have any questions or concerns regarding illnesses, prescribed and over the counter medications including, supplements, herbal and any other types of medicines.