Aspirin and the Heart
Scientific studies have shown that aspirin has therapuetic benefits beyond relieving aches and pains. Aspirin helps inhibit the formation of blood clots.
Since many heart attacks and strokes result from a blood clot in a blocked or narrowed artery, aspirin has a therapeutic role in the prevention and management of heart disease.
Secondary Prevention
In the last decade, aspirin therapy has played an important role in the prevention of recurrent angina (chronic chest pains), heart attacks, and strokes. Aspirin therapy also appears to have significant benefits if used within the 24 hours following a heart attack. The American Heart Association suggests that aspirin "should be administered routinely to virtually all patients" having a heart attack.
Aspirin can have side effects, however, such as unwanted blood-thinning. That's why it is important to talk with your doctor before beginning any regular use of aspirin.
Primary Prevention
Studies show that aspirin also helps prevent heart attack, angina, and strokes from occurring in people who are at high risk for these conditions. But to be on the safe side, the American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that you talk with your doctor first before using aspirin as a preventive agent.
As with all medications, aspirin is associated with certain risks as well as benefits. Aspirin therapy is not advisable for people with some medical conditions such as kidney or liver disease, or bleeding disorders. The American Heart Association warns people to consult with their doctors before taking aspirin on a long-term basis.
If you take aspirin regularly to prevent heart disease, the AHA recommends that you should not drink alcohol.
During a Heart Attack
The AHA recommends:
- If you have any heart attack warning signs, call 9-1-1 immediately.
- The 9-1-1 operator might recommend that you take an aspirin after he or she makes sure that you don't have an allergy to aspirin or a condition that makes using aspirin too risky.
Research shows that taking an aspirin when heart attack symptoms start will significantly improve your chances of survival. |
