Should You Be Popping a Daily Aspirin?
The powerful pill may reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes, but you need to think twice before taking one everyday. It turns out, whether or not you should be popping a pill every day aspirin depends on your age. Here's how the new guidelines break down:
Are you in your 40s? LIKELY NOT
There's little proof that an aspirin every day prevents heart attacks and stroke.It might even hurt you, as it's linked to upset stomachs and gastrointestinal bleeding.
Are you in your 50s? MAYBE
If you're at high risk for heart disease, you may want to talk to your doctor about starting a daily aspirin routine. (Over time, it stops plaques from becoming artery-blocking clots.)
Are you in your 60s? MAYBE
Side effects start to become more common, but the perks-like reducing blood clots-may outweigh the downside for some. Discuss the pros and cons at your next checkup.
Are you in your 70s? CONSULT A DOCTOR
As you age, you tend to take more medications, which can interact with aspirin and increase the risk of bleeding. Speak with your physician about your situation.
SOURCES: Nieca Goldberg, MD, cardiologist and medical director, Joan H. Tisch Center for Women's Health, NYU Langone Medical Center. Martha Gulati, MD, cardiologist, Ross Heart Hospital, The Ohio State University. U.S. Preventive Services Task Force.
