Does aspirin lower blood pressure?

Drugs that form part of a category known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are known to treat many forms of bodily pain. Such meds are widely used for treating toothache, migraines, backache, pains in your abdomen as well as pains triggered by arthritis. NSAIDs can be administered for managing a few symptoms of infections such as pains experienced due to the onset of common cold, flu or fever. Aspirin is a popular med in this genre. But, does aspirin lower blood pressure? It becomes essential to know more on this front.

NSAIDs control a few chemicals your system naturally makes to cause internal swelling or an inflammation. Main substances present in these meds inhibit actions of enzymes such as COX-1 and COX-2. Of such enzymes, COX-1 is associated with the inner lining of stomach. On the other hand, COX-2 controls inflammation which is a natural reaction to pains.

In a few instances, NSAIDs are prescribed to manage chronic forms of pain, mainly those triggered by autoimmune problems such as arthritis. In some people, NSAIDs may cause episodes of indigestion or dyspepsia. In such cases, it is highly recommended to take NSAIDs with a meal.

So, what is aspirin?

Aspirin is one of the first generation drugs that belong to the class of NSAIDs. The generic form of aspirin is known as acetylsalicylic acid. This med is taken for treating a wide variety of discomforts such as internal swelling or inflammation, pains, etc. It is also taken to reduce risks associated with heart arrests. As an extended application, this med is prescribed to decrease risks of blood clots or an internal thrombosis.

Does aspirin lower blood pressure?

Studies done on this indicate that this drug is unlikely to lower your pressure level. It is a misconception that this drug helps manage hypertension or high blood pressure. As doctors recommend daily dosage of aspirin after a heart failure, this belief may have gained ground.

You need to know that aspirin belongs to a milder form of NSAIDs. It may cause a few adverse outcomes. These include liver problems, renal conditions, stomach upset, abdominal conditions like nausea, vomiting – often accompanied by a spell of migraine / headache.

So, how to lower your blood pressure level? You may try taking lesser amounts of salts like sodium chloride. As an added measure, ensure to maintain a proper body weight. It is a proven thing that shedding flab can help gain greater control over your pressure. Added to watching over your weight, ensure to workout regularly. Research indicates that those who adhere to a daily exercise schedule are successful in containing their blood pressure.

Also, take care what you eat. Check with a dietitian to know what to eat. In general, foods that have vitamin C and E, potassium and calcium are effective in controlling pressure levels. In this light, it is important to get ample amount of sleep. Those who get to sleep for 7 hours per day have greater control on blood pressure.

Safety measures needed while taking NSAIDs such as aspirin

NSAIDs may cause ulcers, internal bruising as well as bleeding. Hence, it is essential to inform your doctor of any recent or current episodes of abdominal conditions like ulcers. It is a safe thing to talk to your physician about ailments – both current and prior ones.

Moreover, those who have known allergies to active ingredients of NSAIDs (like aspirin) must seek safer substitutes like paracetamol or acetaminophen. Also, if you have had a recent heart problem or renal dysfunction, inform your doctor of such conditions before starting your dosages.

Upon sensing severe side effects like breathing conditions, seek help by dialling 911 (in US) or get needful assistance from a local poison management center (in Canada).

Disclaimer

Information provided here are only of supplementary nature. Information shared here does not substitute a qualified doctor’s advice. This website is not suggesting intake of this drug as safe or appropriate. Hence it is advised to talk to your doctor before consuming this med or any other drug.