Can Aspirin Lower Blood Pressure? Here’s The Truth

Aspirin is widely known as a drug used for pain relief and the management of heart disease. But can aspirin lower blood pressure? The answer isn’t easy. Although aspirin is not the main treatment for hypertension, it may have a mild effect on blood pressure under certain conditions. Let’s uncover the truth behind this surprising relationship.

Can aspirin lower blood pressure?

No, there is evidence that aspirin can help lower blood pressure. However, in certain circumstances, this drug may have a mild effect in lowering blood pressure.

• According to american heart association, Taking low-dose aspirin (81 mg/day) under a doctor’s supervision can help lower blood pressure in people who have had a heart attack, stroke, atrial fibrillation, or vascular stenting. This drug may indirectly contribute to lower blood pressure by reducing blood clots and increasing blood flow.

• United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends low-dose aspirin treatment after 12 weeks of pregnancy for women at high risk of preeclampsia. Preeclampsia is generally characterized by high blood pressure levels during pregnancy. After the USPSTF recommendation, preeclampsia recurrence rates decreased. 30%.

• one discovery Some hypertensive patients who take aspirin before bed report a decrease in diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) of 4 mmHg and 6 mmHg, respectively. However, this theory has not been confirmed.

• However, the following guidelines have been updated: American College of Cardiology Aspirin is recommended for people aged 40 to 70 years who are at high risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and are not at risk for bleeding. People of all ages who are at high risk of bleeding should avoid it completely.

• of american heart association We suggest avoiding daily use of aspirin unless prescribed by your doctor. This is because this drug can thin the blood, increasing the chance of internal bleeding.

Possible side effects of aspirin

Aspirin can cause both mild and severe side effects.

Mild side effects:

• heartburn

• nausea

• headache

• upset stomach

• loss of appetite

Serious side effects:

Important notes: Some people may be at a much higher risk of side effects, such as smokers, people over 60, and people taking blood thinners. Therefore, if you experience severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

Important considerations when taking aspirin

If your doctor prescribes a low daily dose of aspirin, take the exact dose prescribed to prevent the risk of side effects. Additionally, before starting aspirin treatment, discuss the following with them:

• how much alcohol do you consume

• What supplements and medications should I avoid when taking aspirin and ibuprofen together because they can increase the risk of internal bleeding?

• If and when you need to stop taking aspirin if you have surgery right away.

• What symptoms to watch out for and how to deal with them

Tips to lower high blood pressure

So if aspirin isn’t the right solution, what is? Here are lifestyle factors and other medications to consider to lower blood pressure.

Lifestyle changes:

• eat heart-healthy foods: Add nutritious foods such as whole grains, fruits, lean proteins, and vegetables to your diet. Reduce your intake of salt, saturated fat, and processed foods.

• exercise regularly: Practice at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise such as cycling, walking, or swimming per day.

• Reduce stress: Manage your stress levels by incorporating relaxation techniques like deep breathing, yoga, and meditation.

• Avoid or limit alcohol: Avoid alcohol or consume it in moderation. 2 drinks per day, 1 drink for women.

• no smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels and increases blood pressure, so quitting smoking is highly beneficial for your heart health.

• limit caffeine: Reduce your use of caffeinated beverages as they may temporarily increase blood pressure levels.

• maintain a healthy weight: Reducing excess body fat can prevent stress on the heart and lower blood pressure.

• monitor blood pressure levels: Record your blood pressure readings regularly to ensure a healthy range.

• get enough sleep: Get 7 to 9 hours of quality sleep each night to maintain your blood pressure.

medicine

Your doctor may prescribe the following medications:

summary

Aspirin is not a first-line treatment for lowering blood pressure. However, in some circumstances, such as pre-eclampsia or a history of heart disease or stroke, lower doses of aspirin may have a mild effect. However, if you want to know “Can aspirin lower blood pressure?”, always follow your doctor’s advice when using the drug.

With proper guidance and lifestyle changes, blood pressure control is within reach. Always consult your doctor for a personalized approach to heart health.

Also read 8 tips to prevent heart disease

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