Aspirin side effects: ‘Unexplained bleeding’ can occur – when to speak to a doctor

AstraZeneca: Aspirin is 'probably more dangerous' says expert

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One of the side effects of taking aspirin is an increased risk of bleeding.

If you start experiencing unexplained bleeding, such as a nosebleed, you should consult your doctor.

Aspirin may also cause allergic reactions, although this is more common in those with asthma.

If you experience an allergic reaction to the aspirin, you should also seek the advice of a medical professional.

Unexplained bleeding, whilst sounding dramatic, is one of the most common side effects of aspirin along with mild indigestion.

Even so, you still consult your doctor if you experience it.

Other, more serious side effects of aspirin, ones which you should most certainly call your GP about if you experience them include:
• Red, blistered and peeling skin
• Coughing up blood
• Blood in your pee
• Blood in your vomit
• Blood in your faeces
• Yellow skin or the whites of your eyes turning yellow
• Painful hand and foot joints
• Swollen hands and or feet

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Before you or suggest someone else takes aspirin, you should make sure that you can safely have it.

It isn’t, for example, safe for children to take aspirin.

You should also let your GP know if you:
• Are pregnant
• Have an allergy to aspirin
• Have ever had a stomach ulcer
• Suffer from high blood pressure
• Suffer from indigestion
• Suffer from asthma
• Have heavy periods
• Have ever had liver or kidney problems.
• Have ever had a blood clotting problem
• Have gout (a form of arthritis)

On that first point, about pregnancy, there are some guidelines about whether and how much you should take during your term.

Overall, it is agreed that it is safe to take aspirin during your pregnancy, as long as your GP gives you the go ahead.

The reason why aspirin may be prescribed is to lower your chances of a heart attack or a stroke, if you’re having fertility treatment or if you have experienced previous miscarriages.

It can also help to prevent pre-eclampsia, a type of high blood pressure that occurs during pregnancy.

Aspirin works best when used over long periods of time and, unlike some medicines, you can continue to drink alcohol whilst taking it.

Whilst it’s safe to take painkillers with aspirin, it’s recommended that you avoid taking ibuprofen, that is unless you’ve consulted your GP or doctor beforehand.

The reason for avoiding taking both together is that, combined, they can cause stomach irritation.

Lifestyle changes can also be made to enhance the effect of the aspirin; these include improving your diet, exercising more, cutting down on your alcohol levels and finding ways to reduce stress and anxiety.

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