Benefits and risks of low dose aspirin
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Oct 08 2009
Q: Quite lately, I heard a doctor on Fox news extra indicate that the continued use of low dose aspirin to mitigate cardiovascular risks, has been researched and found to be pose some complications. He advised that the use be discontinued. I had to stop the use of low dose Aspirin. What do you think?
A: Low dose aspirin can cause serious bleeding. The risk of a serious bleed needs to be weighed against your risk of having a heart attack or stroke. Not everyone has a high enough risk of a heart attack or stroke to make it worth the risk of serious bleeding from aspirin. In addition, recent studies have shown that some people don’t get any benefit from taking aspirin. You should make the decision about taking or not taking aspirin with the help of your doctor.
Tags: aspirin, cardiovascular, heart attack, Heart Health, Heart Health, low dose aspirin, Misc, strokeAspirin for hypertension?
Written by: Dr. Rowena | Posted: Mar 03 2009
Q: I saw an article that suggested that low dose aspirin was only effective on blood pressure when taken right before bedtime, and it seemed only in women. What is your opinion — is it good for men and what’s the proper time to take it?
A: Taking low dose aspirin daily can lower the risk of heart disease and stroke but can also cause serious bleeding. The balance between benefit versus risk is small. Because of this, the decision to start on aspirin should be made after talking to your doctor. Studies done in Spain have shown that taking aspirin at night helps reduce blood pressure in both men and women.
Tags: blood pressure, Heart Health, hypertension, low dose aspirin, risk of heart disease
