The American Heart Association recommends low dose, or 81mg, aspirin for patients who've had a heart attack, angina, a stroke or transient ischemic attacks. Aspirin is a blood-thinning medication that is available over the counter that decreases the risk of the recurrences of heart attack, angina or strokes because it prevents blood from clotting and blocking blood vessels. While beneficial in preventing certain conditions, the risks and benefits of aspirin vary. Therefore, a patient should consult a physician and fully understand the risks of low dose aspirin before beginning therapy.
Allergic Reaction
Some patients may have an allergic reaction to aspirin, states Drugs.com. An allergic reaction is the inappropriate activation of the body's immune system against a substance that is not a threat to the body. Cells in the immune system may release chemical signals that cause a serious allergic reaction after being exposed to aspirin. Signs of an allergic reaction include hives; difficulty breathing; and swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. Stop taking aspirin and seek emergency medical treatment if you experience these signs of an allergic reaction. Furthermore, avoid taking aspirin and products that contain aspirin to prevent a future allergic reaction.
Stomach Bleeding
Drugs.com states that a risk of low dose aspirin therapy is stomach bleeding. Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID, that may affect the lining of the stomach. Specifically, NSAIDs may weaken the lining of the stomach that protects it from stomach acid. Damage to the stomach lining can cause bleeding in the stomach, which results in a patient coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds. In addition, a patient may experience black, bloody or tarry stools. Stop taking aspirin and seek immediate emergency medical treatment if you experience any of these signs.
Ringing in the Ears
Hearing problems are a risk of low dose aspirin therapy, states Drugs.com. Specifically, a patient on low dose aspirin may experience ringing in one or both ears. This occurs because aspirin may affect the nerve that is responsible for hearing. In this case, stop taking aspirin and call your doctor to report this symptom. According to the American Tinnitus Association, a variety of treatments may be used to treat tinnitus. A referral to a hearing specialist may be needed if a patient is experiencing continuing hearing problems after stopping aspirin therapy.
