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What Are the Different Types of Contraindications for Aspirin?

Meshell Powell
Meshell Powell

Aspirin is a popular over-the-counter pain reliever and is considered safe for the majority of the population, although it should be used with caution and under the care of a physician in certain situations. Specific contraindications for aspirin include small children, breastfeeding mothers, and those who have experienced allergic reactions to other pain relievers, including ibuprofen or naproxen. Patients who have been diagnosed with medical conditions such as kidney disease, bleeding disorders, or diabetes may not be advised to take products containing aspirin. Additional contraindications for aspirin may include people who are scheduled for surgery, those with gastrointestinal disorders, and people who are taking certain medications. A doctor should be consulted with any specific questions or concerns about possible contraindications for aspirin in an individual situation.

Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding and children under the age of 12 should not use aspirin unless specifically instructed by a doctor. These contraindications for aspirin are in place primarily due to the risk of developing a condition known as Reye's syndrome. This is a potentially fatal disorder that causes damage to the liver, brain, and other organs of the body. Headaches, fatigue, and confusion are often the first sign of Reye's syndrome. Without early treatment, symptoms may progress to brain swelling, coma, or death.

A doctor can offer consultation on possible contraindications for aspirin.
A doctor can offer consultation on possible contraindications for aspirin.

Intestinal bleeding is a possible complication of aspirin usage, so those who have stomach ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, or other digestive disorders should consult a doctor before using this product. Smoking and consuming alcohol increase the risks of bleeding when taking aspirin, especially for an extended period of time. Other diseases that may cause contraindications for aspirin use include kidney or liver disease, diabetes, or blood-clotting disorders. Aspirin is a natural blood thinner and may not be safe for those preparing for surgery or patients who have been diagnosed with high blood pressure.

Pregnant and nursing women, children and people with stomach problems should consult a doctor before taking aspirin.
Pregnant and nursing women, children and people with stomach problems should consult a doctor before taking aspirin.

Contraindications for aspirin may include the use of medications such as steroids, antidepressants, or anti-inflammatory drugs. It may not be safe to take aspirin following the administration of some live vaccines. Some herbal supplements should not be combined with aspirin, so a doctor should be consulted before beginning any new herbal treatment. While medications such as ibuprofen and naproxen do not normally contain aspirin products, studies have shown that those who experience allergic reactions to these drugs have an elevated risk of being allergic to aspirin as well. There may be additional contraindications for aspirin, so it is wise to check with a doctor before choosing this method of pain relief.

Discussion Comments

ddljohn

I'm on aspirin because of high blood pressure. I had a few drinks yesterday and had the most terrible stomach cramps. I know that aspirin can cause stomach issues and mixing it with alcohol certainly didn't help. I thought I'd mention it in case anyone else is on aspirin and has a sensitive stomach.

stoneMason

@alisha- Yes! They are both blood thinners and they should not be taken together.

Aspirin makes blood thinner and cannot be taken with other blood thinners or anti-coagulant medications. Fish oil is a natural blood thinner. There are many other natural blood thinners out there. So it's always a good idea to read the effects of supplements and medications if you're thinking about taking aspirin.

I'm not sure if the blister is a result of mixing aspirin and fish oil. But this combination could result in internal bleeding. Avoid taking them together from now on.

discographer

Is there a contradiction between aspirin and fish oil?

I took them both yesterday and today, there is a weird blister on my stomach and I'm wondering if it's related.

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    • A doctor can offer consultation on possible contraindications for aspirin.
      By: Shakzu
      A doctor can offer consultation on possible contraindications for aspirin.
    • Pregnant and nursing women, children and people with stomach problems should consult a doctor before taking aspirin.
      By: blueskies9
      Pregnant and nursing women, children and people with stomach problems should consult a doctor before taking aspirin.