Aspirin – uses, health risks, and side effects at NaturalPedia.com

Wednesday, August 15, 2018 by Zoey Sky

Aspirin is often used as a pain reliever for minor aches and pains. The drug, which can help reduce fever, is also an anti-inflammatory drug.

Additionally, Aspirin can be used as a blood thinner. Patients who have a high risk of developing blood clots, heart attack, and stroke may use aspirin long-term, but only in low doses.

The drug is usually given to patients right after a heart attack to prevent further clot formation and cardiac tissue death.

Aspirin’s generic name is acetylsalicylic acid, and its brand names include 697Arthritis Pain, Aspir 81, Aspir-Low, Bayer Childrens Aspirin, Durlaza, Ecotrin, Ecpirin, Fasprin, Halfprin, and Miniprin.

Known health risks or side effects of Aspirin

Aspirin may cause common side effects such as drowsiness, heartburn, nausea, stomach pain, and vomiting.

You may require immediate medical attention if you experience severe side effects such as:

Bloody vomit/vomit that looks like coffee grounds
Bright red blood in stools or black/tarry stools
Breathing difficulties or wheezing
Cold and clammy skin
Fast heartbeat or fast breathing
Hives or rash
Hoarseness
Loss of hearing
Ringing in the ears
Swelling of the eyes, face, lips, throat. or tongue

List of organs that might be affected by Aspirin

An overdose of Aspirin may cause complications like coma, convulsions/seizure, or temporary hearing loss.

Food items or nutrients that have similar effects to Aspirin

The following foods or nutrients have similar effects to Aspirin:

Cloves – Cloves are available in capsule or powder form. Clove oil is also available. Clove supplements can help ease nausea and treat colds. These supplements can also help relieve pain due to headaches.
Turmeric – Turmeric has a compound called curcumin, which is an antioxidant that can protect the body from free radical molecules that may damage cells and tissue. Turmeric can help treat conditions such as indigestion and an upset stomach.
Willow bark – Willow bark can help ease inflammation, which causes most aches and pains. The bark of the white willow has salicin, an ingredient similar to the main ingredient in aspirin. Willow bark is available as a dried herb that can be brewed like tea. It’s also available as a liquid supplement or in capsule form. Willow bark can help ease pain due to headaches and discomfort caused by low back pain.

Treatment and management options for the side effects of Aspirin

The following treatments and management options can help prevent the side effects associated with Aspirin:

Avocados – Avocados, which are low in carbs but high in fat, are full of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The fruit can help minimize inflammation and stimulate the immune system.
Bananas – Bananas are a great food to eat when you’re sick. Even if the fruit is bland, it contains enough calories and nutrients. Bananas can also help relieve diarrhea and nausea.
Coconut water – Coconut water can help you stay hydrated, which is crucial when you have diarrhea or a fever.
Garlic – Garlic has potent antibacterial, anti-fungal, and antiviral properties. Additionally, it can stimulate the immune system. Eat garlic to avoid illness and recover faster if you’re sick.