Low-Dose Aspirin Linked to Internal Bleeding in the Skull

Over the past several decades, doctors have routinely prescribed a daily aspirin for patients at risk for cardiovascular incidents. However, new studies have shown that low-dose aspirin therapy may not be for everyone. In certain individuals, the risks --- such as internal bleeding in the skull --- often outweigh the rewards. The findings have prompted the American Heart Association to issue new guidelines regarding aspirin therapy.

Several studies have shown that low-dose aspirin therapy, such as that prescribed for individuals at risk for cardiovascular events, may increase the risk for bleeding in the skull for some individuals. Those most at risk include patients who have a greater likelihood of bleeding incidents with no known history of heart attack or stroke. In light of these findings, the guidelines surrounding aspirin therapy have changed. See what the new guidelines are all about...

Low-Dose Aspirin Studies

A series of studies published in The New England Journal of Medicine have changed the way low-dose aspirin therapy is viewed by the medical community. All 3 studies performed linked low-dose aspirin therapy with a higher risk of internal bleeding. However, the second study was the most concerning.

The study showed that the risk of major hemorrhage and intracranial bleeding was higher in individuals who received aspirin in comparison to those who received a placebo. The incidents of major bleeding were more than 0.2% higher for those on an aspirin regimen.

Who Benefits from Low-Dose Aspirin?

That’s not to say that aspirin therapy is bad for all individuals. For some, the benefits outweigh the risks. People who have had a heart attack, stroke, cardiac bypass surgery, stent placement or other known cardiovascular disease are at higher risk for a repeat of these events. Aspirin may help prevent subsequent cardiovascular issues. For this reason, researchers still recommend therapy for these individuals.

Those who have no known history of cardiovascular disease, on the other hand, should think twice and talk to their doctor before using aspirin as a protective therapy against disease. There is no known benefit of such a therapy, but there are known risks.

New Guidelines for Low-Dose Aspirin Therapy

New low-dose aspirin therapy guidelines recommend a daily aspirin for individuals who are at high-risk for cardiovascular incidents and low-risk for bleeding incidents. Adults aged 50 to 59 years who have a 10% or greater risk for a cardiovascular incident and no increased risk for bleeding are prime candidates for aspirin therapy, provided they have a life expectancy of at least 10 years. Older individuals (60 to 69) may benefit from an aspirin regimen as long as they don’t have a higher risk for bleeding. However, each case should be reviewed on an individual basis. Aspirin therapy is not recommended for people younger than 50 and older than 70 who have not had a cardiovascular event.

Since the guidelines have changed, the American Heart Association recommends that individuals avoid daily aspirin therapy unless it’s prescribed by their doctor. Anyone who has questions regarding currently prescribed therapies are urged to discuss the new guidelines with their physician.

~ Here’s to Your Health and Wellness