Role of Aspirin in atherosclerosis : patients can use it either for good or for harm
Aspirin is often praised for its role in preventing heart problems, but did you know it can also cause harm if not used correctly? In this article, we’ll break down how aspirin affects atherosclerosis, its pros and cons, and how to use it safely.
1. Who Should Read This?
If you have heart disease, are at risk of developing it, or are simply curious about how aspirin affects heart health, this article is for you. Whether you’re a patient or a healthcare professional, understanding aspirin’s impact can help you make better decisions.
2. Atherosclerosis: A Major Health Concern
Atherosclerosis is a leading cause of heart attacks and strokes worldwide. It happens when fatty plaques build up in the arteries, restricting blood flow. The consequences are severe—not just for individuals but for society as a whole. Medical costs and lost productivity make this condition a serious public health issue.
The good news? Lifestyle changes and medications like aspirin can help manage the risk.
3. How Aspirin Helps with Atherosclerosis
Aspirin is best known for its ability to prevent blood clots. It blocks an enzyme called cyclooxygenase (COX), which reduces the production of thromboxane A2—a compound that makes platelets stick together. This action lowers the risk of clot-related complications like heart attacks and strokes.
Clinical trials, such as the ISIS-2 study, have shown that aspirin can reduce the risk of death from heart attacks by 23%.
4. How Aspirin Works in the Body
Beyond preventing clots, aspirin also fights inflammation, which plays a big role in plaque buildup. By reducing inflammation, aspirin helps keep plaques stable and lowers the chance of dangerous ruptures that could trigger a heart attack.
5. How Much Aspirin Should You Take?
The right dose of aspirin depends on your health condition:
- For people with heart disease (secondary prevention): A low dose (75–162 mg daily) is commonly recommended.
- For healthy people trying to prevent heart disease (primary prevention): The benefits are less clear. Some studies, like ARRIVE and ASPREE, suggest aspirin may not be worth the risk in people without existing heart conditions.
Always check with your doctor before taking aspirin regularly.
6. The Risks of Taking Too Much Aspirin
More aspirin isn’t always better. Taking more than 100 mg daily for long periods can actually damage blood vessels, making atherosclerosis worse. Instead of protecting your heart, excessive aspirin can increase your risk of heart problems. Additionally, exceeding this dose inhibits prostacyclin synthesis, which raises the risk of hypertension.
7. Side Effects of Misusing Aspirin
Taking aspirin incorrectly can lead to serious health problems, including:
- Stomach bleeding and ulcers – Aspirin can irritate the stomach lining, leading to digestive issues.
- Brain bleeding (intracranial hemorrhage) – Even at low doses, aspirin slightly increases the risk of bleeding in the brain.
- Allergic reactions – Some people may have serious allergic responses to aspirin.
Studies show that for people at low risk of heart disease, the risks of aspirin use often outweigh the benefits.
8. Always Follow Your Doctor’s Advice
Aspirin isn’t for everyone. Doctors carefully weigh the risks and benefits before recommending it. Never start or stop taking aspirin without consulting a healthcare professional.
The bottom line.
Aspirin can be a powerful tool for preventing heart attacks and strokes, but only when used correctly. It’s effective for people with existing heart disease but may not be necessary for those without it. The key is to follow medical advice, avoid self-medicating, and be aware of the risks.
By understanding both the benefits and dangers, you can make smart choices about aspirin use and protect your heart health.
Be healthy!
Resources used for article:
1. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10509658/
2. https://www.ccjm.org/content/87/5/300
3. https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/01.cir.0000027816.54430.96
