Can Aspirin Lower Blood Pressure? Exploring the Connection

Aspirin is a widely known medication for pain relief and managing heart disease. But Can Aspirin Lower Blood Pressure? The answer isn't straightforward. While aspirin is not a primary treatment for hypertension (high blood pressure), under specific conditions, it may have mild effects on blood pressure. Let’s uncover the truth behind this surprising connection.

Can Aspirin Lower Blood Pressure?

No, evidence shows that aspirin can lower blood pressure. However, in certain situations, this medication can have mild effects on lowering blood pressure.

• According to the American Heart Association, low-dose aspirin (81 mg/d) under medical guidance can help reduce blood pressure in individuals who have had a history of heart attack, stroke, atrial fibrillation, or vascular stenting. By reducing blood clots and boosting blood flow, the medication could indirectly contribute to reduced blood pressure.

• The U.S. The Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) advises low-dose aspirin treatment after 12 weeks of pregnancy for women who are at increased risk of preeclampsia. In general, preeclampsia is marked by high blood pressure levels during pregnancy. After the USPSTF recommendation, the rate of recurrent preeclampsia decreased by 30%.

• One finding reports that some hypertensive patients who took aspirin before bedtime found a reduction in their diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and systolic blood pressure (SBP) by 4 mmHg and 6 mmHg, respectively. However, this theory has never been confirmed.

• However, updated guidelines from the American College of Cardiology recommend the use of aspirin for people between 40-70 years who have an increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and no risk of bleeding. They say that people of any age who are at high risk of bleeding should avoid it completely. 

• The American Heart Association suggests avoiding the daily use of aspirin unless the doctors prescribe it. This is because this medication can thin out the blood, increasing the chances of internal bleeding. 

Possible Side Effects of Aspirin

Aspirin can cause both mild and severe side effects.

Mild Side Effects:

• Heartburn

• Nausea

• Headache

• Upset stomach

• Loss of appetite

Severe Side Effects: 

• Unusual bruising or bleeding

• Stomach ulcers

• Kidney issues

• Reye’s syndrome in children

• Skin reactions

Important Note: Some people can be at extremely high risk of side effects, e.g., people who smoke, are over 60 years old, or take blood thinners. So, if you experience any severe symptoms, seek medical help immediately. 

Important Considerations When Taking Aspirin

If doctors prescribe daily low doses of aspirin, take the dose as prescribed to prevent the risk of side effects. Moreover, discuss the following things with them before starting the aspirin treatment:

• How much alcohol you consume

• What supplements or medications do you need to avoid as ibuprofen with aspirin can raise the risk of internal bleeding

• Whether or when you need to stop taking aspirin if you soon undergo surgery.

• What symptoms to look for and how to manage them 

Tips to Lower High Blood Pressure

So, if aspirin is not the appropriate solution, then what is? Here are the lifestyle factors and other medications to consider lowering your blood pressure:

Lifestyle Changes:

• Eat Heart-Healthy Foods: Add nutritious foods such as whole grains, fruits, lean proteins, and vegetables to your diet. Reduce intake of salt, saturated fats, and processed foods.

• Exercise Regularly: Practice moderate exercises like cycling, walking, or swimming for at least 30 minutes per day.

• Reduce Stress: Engage in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, yoga, or meditation to manage your stress levels.

• Avoid or Limit Alcohol: Avoid alcohol or consume in moderation. Two drinks for and one drink for women a day.

• Quit Smoking: As smoking damages blood vessels and increases blood pressure, quitting it can extremely benefit your heart health.

• Limit Caffeine: Reduce the use of caffeinated beverages, as they can temporarily increase blood pressure levels.

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Lose excess body fat as it can help prevent stress on your heart, reducing blood pressure.

• Monitor Blood Pressure Levels: Regularly keep track of your blood pressure readings to ensure its healthy range.

• Get Adequate Sleep: Get quality sleep for 7-9 hours every night to maintain your blood pressure.

Medications

Doctors may prescribe the following medications:

• Thiazide diuretics

• Beta-blockers

• Calcium channel blockers

• Angiotensin receptor blockers

• Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors

Summing Up

Well, aspirin is not a first-line treatment to lower blood pressure. However, in some situations like preeclampsia and a history of heart issues or stroke, low-dose aspirin can provide a mild effect. But remember that, if you are looking for 'Can aspirin lower blood pressure?', always follow the advice of doctors when using the medication.

With the right guidance and lifestyle changes, managing blood pressure is within reach. Always consult your doctor for a personalized approach to heart health.

Also Read 8 Tips to Prevent Heart Disease