Aspirin adverse reactions explained and medication safety precautions.

1. What are the adverse reactions of aspirin?

(1) Allergic reactions: People allergic to aspirin may experience allergic reactions such as rash, angioedema, and asthma after taking this drug. The incidence rate is about 20%, and the mechanism is not yet clear. Those with severe reactions should seek medical attention promptly.

(2) Gastric mucosal damage: Aspirin can cause gastric mucosal erosion, bleeding, and ulcers. Most patients show a positive fecal occult blood test after taking aspirin for several days; long-term aspirin users have a high incidence of peptic ulcers.

(3) Hematologic dysfunction: Aspirin can inhibit the activity of cyclooxygenase, reduce the formation of thromboxane A2, and prevent platelet aggregation, making it less likely for clotting factors to be released. Those with severe bleeding tendencies should seek medical attention promptly. 2. What to do about bleeding while taking medication?

For minor bleeding, such as petechiae or bleeding gums, patients do not need to panic. The dosage does not need to be adjusted; simply continue taking the medication and observe.
For minor bleeding that can be stopped, such as nosebleeds, medication can be temporarily suspended on the day of the bleeding. Resume medication after the bleeding stops.
For moderate or severe bleeding that cannot be stopped on your own, such as vomiting blood, coughing up blood, or rectal bleeding, you need to consult a doctor. The doctor will adjust the medication plan according to the patient's condition. Patients must not stop taking medication without consulting a doctor.

Note: Patients who have had a stent implanted within the past year must not stop taking antiplatelet drugs without consulting a doctor. Otherwise, there is a risk of in-stent thrombosis leading to myocardial infarction. If discontinuation is necessary, consult a doctor.

3. What to do if surgery is needed while taking medication? Platelets have a lifespan of 7-14 days, with approximately 1/10 of the total platelet count being replaced daily, meaning all platelets are replaced every 10 days. Therefore, aspirin should be discontinued for at least 7 days for platelet counts to return to normal. If surgery is decided upon, it is recommended to wait 7 days after stopping medication.