Aspirin used to be considered a wonder drug due to its effectiveness in relieving pain and reducing inflammation. It was also widely recommended for its blood-thinning properties which help prevent heart attacks and strokes. However, recent research has shown that aspirin is no longer recommended for use in certain populations.
One key reason why aspirin is no longer recommended is its potential risk of causing bleeding in the stomach and intestines. Aspirin belongs to a class of drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). These drugs reduce inflammation by inhibiting the production of prostaglandins, which are chemicals that play a vital role in protecting the stomach lining from the stomach acid. When aspirin or other NSAIDs inhibit prostaglandin production, they can cause stomach ulcers and intestinal bleeding.
Another reason why aspirin is no longer recommended is its negative impact on the kidneys. Aspirin and other NSAIDs can damage the kidneys’ filtering system and lead to kidney failure, especially in those with pre-existing kidney conditions.
Furthermore, aspirin has been found to cause Reye’s syndrome, a rare but potentially fatal illness that occurs mostly in children and teenagers who are recovering from a viral infection such as the flu or chickenpox. Aspirin can cause swelling of the brain and liver, which can lead to seizures, coma, and even death.
Lastly, aspirin is no longer recommended for use by certain populations, particularly those who are at risk of bleeding. These include:
– Those with a history of bleeding disorders, such as hemophilia
– Those who are taking blood-thinning medications, such as warfarin
– Those who have had stomach ulcers or bleeding in the past
– Those who are over the age of 70
Aspirin is no longer recommended because of its negative impact on the stomach, kidneys, and risk of Reye’s syndrome. Moreover, it should not be taken by certain populations who are at risk of bleeding. Hence, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before taking aspirin to discuss the risks and benefits.
Should aspirin be taken in the morning or at night?
Aspirin is a commonly used medication and is known for its analgesic (pain-relieving), anti-inflammatory, and antiplatelet (blood-thinning) properties. It is used for various conditions like headaches, fever, muscular pain, heart attack, and stroke prevention. However, the timing of when to take aspirin is an important consideration.
The ideal time to take aspirin depends on the condition it is being used for. For example, if it is being used for pain relief, the time of day when the pain is most severe should be considered. If the pain is more intense in the morning, it is advisable to take aspirin after breakfast. On the other hand, if the pain or fever is more severe at night, aspirin can be taken before bedtime. Additionally, taking aspirin with food or after meals is recommended to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal irritation.
For heart attack and stroke prevention, aspirin is usually taken in low doses (75-100 mg) daily. It is recommended to take aspirin in the evening before going to bed, as aspirin’s antiplatelet effects are highest during the morning hours. This timing maximizes the preventive benefits of aspirin, reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke in people at high risk.
It is important to note that the timing of aspirin intake should be discussed with a healthcare provider, especially among people with medical conditions or those taking other medications, as they may have specific instructions on the best timing.
The timing of aspirin intake depends on the purpose of use. For people using it for pain relief, the timing should be based on the time of day when pain or fever is more severe, while for those using it for heart attack and stroke prevention, it is best to take it before bedtime. Aspirin should always be taken with food to reduce the risk of gastrointestinal irritation, and individuals should seek advice from a healthcare provider before starting an aspirin regimen.
What should I do if my blood pressure is 160 over 100?
A blood pressure reading of 160 over 100 is considered high and requires immediate attention. High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is a serious medical condition that can lead to various health complications including stroke, heart attack, kidney failure, and other cardiovascular diseases.
If you have a blood pressure reading of 160 over 100, the first step is to consult a healthcare professional. Your doctor can assess your condition and determine the best course of action to manage your high blood pressure. Depending on the severity of your condition, they may prescribe medication, recommend lifestyle changes, or a combination of both.
In addition to medical treatment, you can also make lifestyle changes to help manage your blood pressure. These include:
1. Eating a healthy diet – reducing intake of salt, saturated fats, and processed foods while increasing fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
2. Regular physical activity – engage in moderate-intensity physical activity such as brisk walking, jogging, or cycling for at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week.
3. Maintaining a healthy weight – being overweight or obese significantly increases your risk of high blood pressure.
4. Managing stress – finding ways to manage stress, either through mindfulness, meditation, or other stress-reduction techniques.
5. Quitting smoking – smoking can significantly increase blood pressure and the risk of heart disease.
Managing high blood pressure requires a commitment to making positive lifestyle changes and seeking medical treatment as necessary. With proper care and management, individuals with high blood pressure can live healthy lives and reduce their risk of serious health complications.