Can Aspirin Help Prevent Heart Attack?

by Richard J. Manager

Heart attack is an acute, life-threatening condition, which needs emergency help. It is more likely to happen in men over 50 and in women over 60 years of age. Aspirin is a known method to prevent heart attack if you've already experienced one. But does it help to preclude the first episode? Are there any risks of its daily intake? Let's find it out!

How does Aspirin work?

Aspirin pills belong to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, which have analgesic effect. Besides, it thins the blood thus helping to prevent the formation of blood clots. They are considered to be the most frequent cause of heart attacks and strokes.

It is proven that low doses of Aspirin taken on the daily basis reduce the risk of death from 11.8% to 9.4%. Besides, if taken at least 30 minutes - 48 hours after noticing the first symptoms of heart attack, the drug significantly reduces the probability of lethal outcome and gives chances for complete recovery.

Who is recommended to use Aspirin?

People with a heart attack or stroke in medical history usually get Aspirin therapy to lower the probability of reoccurrence of these ailments. Except of those with an episode of a heart attack, the medication is prescribed to people with:

• Cardiovascular problems including atherosclerosis and coronary artery disease;

• A family history of heart attack;

• People of 50-59 years old, who haven't had a heart attack but are likely to have it in 10 years perspective;

• A stent in the coronary artery;

• A combination of several factors of risk for heart attack with diabetes.

What are the possible risks?

Thinning of blood increases the probability of bleeding and may lead to:

• Hemorrhagic stroke;

• Stomach ulcer;

• Abdominal bleeding.

The effectiveness of Aspirin in people without heart disease and with a low risk of heart attack is not proven. The same may be said about those, who are younger than 50 and have no history of such ailment. Yet, the risks of suffering from unwanted consequences for such people is rather high. Comparing the pros and cons of Aspirin intake you should consult your healthcare provider to learn more about the possible side effects and contraindications to its usage. Only then you may decide whether you need it or not.