Aspirin is a fairly common medication that gets taken by millions in the UK every day. However, the NHS has issued a piece of advice that certain people could be taking a risk of developing a painful side effect if they are not careful.
In the UK, it’s possible to buy low doses of aspirin to use at home as an everyday painkiller – similar to paracetamol – in shops and supermarkets for under £1. Stronger doses can usually be prescribed by a doctor if needed.
Aspirin is different from paracetamol in that it helps reduce pain, fever, and inflammation by blocking the body’s production of prostaglandin, a hormone-like substance found in most cells responsible for regulating blood flow, blood clot formation, and inflammation.
The painkiller can help ease the aches and pains that come from typical problems such as headaches, toothaches, and period pain. It can also be used to treat colds and flu-like symptoms and to bring down a high temperature.
Most people aged 16 and over can safely take aspirin. But, the NHS website claims that aspirin – which can come in tablet, gel or suppository form – is not suitable for certain people.
People can be allergic to aspirin (and similar painkillers like ibuprofen). The medical experts also advise that people with the following conditions should not take aspirin without talking to a doctor or pharmacist first:
- high blood pressure (hypertension)
- indigestion
- gout asthma or lung disease
- liver or kidney problems
- heavy periods – as they can get heavier with aspirin
People who are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, breastfeeding or have ever experienced a blood clotting problem. Another group of people who are advised against taking aspirin is anyone who has a history of stomach ulcers.
A spokesperson for the NHS warned: “Aspirin can cause ulcers in your stomach or gut, especially if you take it for a long time or in big doses. Your doctor may tell you not to take aspirin if you have a stomach ulcer, or if you’ve had one in the past. If you’re at risk of getting a stomach ulcer and you need a painkiller, take paracetamol instead of aspirin as it’s gentler on your stomach.”
The NHS has a full guide on its website about the proper dosage of taking aspirin, as the right amount for you depends on the kind of aspirin you’re taking, why you’re taking it and how well it helps your symptoms. If your doctor has prescribed aspirin, take it for as long as they recommend.
More common side effects of taking aspirin
The NHS claims that “more than one in 100 people” will likely experience some mild side effects from taking aspirin, including mild indigestion and bleeding more easily than normal.
Experts explained that, because the drug helps to stop your blood from clotting, it can sometimes make you bleed more easily. For example, you may get nosebleeds and bruise more easily, and if you cut yourself, the bleeding may take longer than normal to stop.
Be cautious when engaging in activities that may cause injury or a cut. The NHS advises people taking aspirin should think about wearing gloves when using sharp objects like scissors, knives, and gardening tools
There was also a suggestion that people might switch to an electric razor instead of wet shaving. Using a soft toothbrush and waxed dental floss to clean your teeth might also help reduce your risk of cuts and bleeding.
See a doctor if you’re worried about any bleeding.