Can Aspirin Lower Your Stroke Risk?
A lot of people take
aspirin to relieve minor aches and pains. But if you have suffered
a stroke, this ordinary medication could save your life. How?
It may prevent stroke from striking again.
In one study, 40,000 people
took a daily aspirin after having a stroke. Their risk of having
another stroke was reduced by 30 percent.
How Aspirin
Works
Aspirin seems to be most effective in reducing the risk of ischemic
stroke—which occurs when a blood clot cuts off oxygen-rich
blood to the brain. Regular aspirin use prevents these blood
clots from forming. Experts say that as little as 75 mg to 150
mg a day—about one tablet or less—may prevent another
stroke in patients at high risk.
Aspirin
and Healthy People
Regular aspirin use isn't for everyone. Recent studies show that
it might be harmful to healthy individuals with no medical history
of stroke.
Aspirin also can cause serious
health risks, such as bleeding in the digestive tract or brain.
So talk to your doctor before taking aspirin to reduce your risk
of another stroke.
Other
Ways to Reduce the Risk of Stroke
If you've suffered a stroke, you can control many of the factors
that increase your risk for another one. Here are some important
steps you can take:
- Keep your blood pressure
and cholesterol levels under control.
- Don't smoke.
- Exercise regularly.
- Eat a well-balanced diet
low in fat and cholesterol and high in fruits and vegetables.
- Drink alcoholic beverages
only in moderate amounts.
- Manage your blood sugar
levels, if you have diabetes.
|
