Heart Attack and Stroke Prevention

Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). It is a type of pain reliever and fever reducer, but it can also be used to treat some medical conditions. It is available over the counter and can be found in many different types, from tablets to liquids.

Aspirin works by reducing the production of chemicals called prostaglandins and thromboxanes that cause inflammation, pain, and fever. Aspirin can also help to prevent blood clots that can lead to heart attacks and strokes.

For most people, aspirin is a safe and effective way to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. However, it is not right for everyone and may be harmful if taken without the guidance of a doctor or other health professional.

Primary prevention
Aspirin is usually prescribed to lower the risk of a first heart attack or stroke in people who haven't had these problems before. This is known as "primary prevention." It's also used to lower the risk of a second heart attack or stroke in people who have had these problems and have other heart disease risks, such as smoking, high blood pressure, or diabetes.

Secondary prevention
Aspirin may be prescribed to reduce the risk of a heart attack or stroke in people who have already had these problems, but who are not taking other drugs that can also lower their risks. It is usually given to these people, or their family members, daily for weeks to years.

There are many different kinds of aspirin, so talk with your doctor to find one that is right for you. For instance, a doctor may prescribe you a chewable tablet that contains more aspirin per tablet than a standard tablet. This is a form of delayed-release aspirin, which works gradually to lower the risk of heart attack and stroke.

Delayed-release aspirin is often prescribed in combination with other medications, such as clopidogrel, to lower the risk of a heart attack or stroke. This is called dual antiplatelet therapy (DAPT).

It is important to take low-dose aspirin regularly to lower your risk of a heart attack or stroke. It can be difficult to get a low-dose aspirin prescription, so it is best to ask your doctor for help.

When you start using aspirin, be sure to let your doctor know all of the medicines or natural products that you are taking, and how you are feeling. Aspirin can interact with some drugs and can cause serious side effects.

Overdose
Aspirin overdose is a very dangerous condition. It can be life-threatening, and it should be treated immediately. Early signs of overdose include ringing in the ears, loss of hearing, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain. Later symptoms may include tremors, shaking, and mental confusion.

The most common side effect is gastrointestinal bleeding, which can be severe and even fatal. This is more likely to occur if you have a stomach ulcer, and can be life-threatening if you have other medical conditions or diseases that cause bleeding, such as HIV.