Can An aspirin a day keep the doctor away??
You’ve probably heard that aspirin therapy can protect you against heart attack and stroke. While it can be lifesaving for some, it can cause serious health problems in other. So before you start popping a daily dose, read on:
How does aspirin work?
Taking an aspirin a day reduces the clotting action of your blood, which helps prevent heart attack and stroke.
Is aspirin therapy a good idea for folks with diabetes?
Since people with diabetes have triple the risk for heart attack and stroke, it may seem like a no-brainer. Yet, when taken regularly, aspirin can increase your risk for bleeding in the stomach and the brain.
Well then who might it be good for?
The American Diabetes Association and American Heart Association recently revised their guidelines: They now recommend a daily dose for most women over 60 and men over 50 who have diabetes and at least one other risk factor for heart disease. High Cholesterol, hypertension, smoking and a family history of heart disease.
Why the new guidelines?
In younger people, the potential bleeding risks outweigh any benefit. “Part of the reason is more people are controlling cardiovascular risks with medications for high cholesterol and high blood pressure, which is good news,” says Craig Williams PharmD.
What’s the recommended dose?
Eighty-one milligrams, the amount found in a baby aspirin. “Higher doses generally dont offer additional benefits and can carry increased risks,” Says Williams.
Is it okay to take aspirin with other meds?
Not always! For instance, combining it with anticoagulants can greatly increase your risk for bleeding. So be sure to tell your healthcare provider about all the medications you take.
-Jeff Meyers
