Yes, aspirin is commonly prescribed after an ischaemic stroke to help reduce the risk of another stroke. It works by making platelets in your blood less likely to stick together and form clots. However, aspirin is not suitable for everyone, particularly after a haemorrhagic (bleeding) stroke. Learn why aspirin is prescribed, how long you may need to take it, its possible side effects and when to seek medical advice.

After your stroke...

You're given a small white tablet.

The doctor tells you...

"You'll need to take this every day."

Perhaps...

You feel completely well now.

You begin wondering...

"Do I really need aspirin for the rest of my life?"

Or...

"What happens if I miss a dose?"

The answer is...

Aspirin can play an important role in helping prevent another stroke.

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The Good News

For many people who have had an ischaemic stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA), aspirin significantly reduces the risk of another stroke.

When taken exactly as prescribed, it is a simple but effective part of long-term stroke prevention.

Combined with healthy lifestyle changes and management of other risk factors, aspirin can help protect your future health.

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What Is Aspirin?

Aspirin is a medication known as an antiplatelet.

Platelets are tiny blood cells that help stop bleeding by forming clots.

After an ischaemic stroke, reducing the tendency of platelets to stick together helps lower the chance of another clot forming and blocking blood flow to the brain.

Aspirin does not dissolve existing blood clots.

Instead, it helps prevent new clots from developing.

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Why Is Aspirin Prescribed After a Stroke?

Most strokes are caused by a blood clot blocking an artery in the brain.

This is known as an ischaemic stroke.

Aspirin helps reduce the risk of another clot forming.

It may be prescribed:

✓ After an ischaemic stroke.

✓ After a transient ischaemic attack (TIA).

✓ As part of a long-term stroke prevention plan.

It is usually combined with treatment for other stroke risk factors, such as high blood pressure or high cholesterol.

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Is Aspirin Used After Every Stroke?

No.

The type of stroke matters.

After an Ischaemic Stroke

Aspirin is commonly prescribed unless there is a medical reason not to use it.

After a Haemorrhagic Stroke

Aspirin is not routinely started immediately after a bleeding stroke because it can increase the risk of further bleeding.

If you've had a haemorrhagic stroke, your stroke specialist will decide whether antiplatelet medication is appropriate and when it is safe to start.

Always follow the advice of your healthcare team.

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How Long Will I Need to Take Aspirin?

This varies.

Some people take aspirin for only a short period before changing to another antiplatelet medication.

Others remain on aspirin long term.

Your treatment depends on:

✓ The type of stroke you had.

✓ The cause of your stroke.

✓ Your overall health.

✓ Your risk of bleeding.

Never stop taking aspirin unless your healthcare professional advises you to do so.

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What Are the Possible Side Effects?

Most people take low-dose aspirin without major problems.

However, side effects can occur.

These may include:

✓ Indigestion.

✓ Heartburn.

✓ Easy bruising.

✓ Nosebleeds.

✓ Bleeding for longer after cuts.

Less commonly, aspirin may cause stomach ulcers or more serious bleeding.

Seek urgent medical attention if you notice vomiting blood, black stools or any other signs of significant bleeding.

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What If I Forget to Take a Dose?

If you miss a dose, follow the instructions provided with your medication or those given by your healthcare professional.

Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one unless you have been specifically advised to do so.

If you're unsure what to do, ask your pharmacist or healthcare professional.

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Can I Take Other Medicines With Aspirin?

Some medications increase the risk of bleeding when taken with aspirin.

These include certain:

✓ Anti-inflammatory painkillers.

✓ Blood-thinning medications.

✓ Herbal supplements.

Always tell your doctor, pharmacist or dentist that you are taking aspirin before starting any new medication or procedure.

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What Else Helps Prevent Another Stroke?

Aspirin is only one part of stroke prevention.

You can also reduce your risk by:

✓ Taking all prescribed medications.

✓ Keeping your blood pressure under control.

✓ Managing cholesterol.

✓ Staying physically active.

✓ Eating a balanced diet.

✓ Stopping smoking if you smoke.

✓ Limiting alcohol.

✓ Managing diabetes if applicable.

These lifestyle changes work alongside medication to lower your future stroke risk.

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When Should You Seek Medical Advice?

Speak with your healthcare professional if:

✓ You develop stomach pain or indigestion.

✓ You notice unusual bruising.

✓ You have frequent nosebleeds.

✓ You experience side effects.

✓ You are unsure whether you should continue taking aspirin.

Seek urgent medical attention if you experience:

✓ Vomiting blood.

✓ Black or tarry stools.

✓ Heavy or uncontrolled bleeding.

✓ Sudden new weakness.

✓ Facial drooping.

✓ Slurred speech.

These symptoms require immediate medical assessment.

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My Perspective

After a stroke...

It's natural to question every tablet you're asked to take.

Especially when you start feeling better.

But stroke prevention isn't about treating how you feel today.

It's about reducing the chance of another stroke tomorrow.

Taking medication consistently may not seem dramatic...

But it can make an enormous difference over time.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is Aspirin Lifelong After a Stroke?

Sometimes.

Some people take aspirin for many years, while others switch to a different antiplatelet medication depending on the cause of their stroke and their medical history.

Can Aspirin Prevent Another Stroke?

It can help reduce the risk of another ischaemic stroke, but it cannot eliminate the risk completely.

Is Aspirin Safe?

For most people taking low-dose aspirin under medical supervision, yes.

However, it does increase the risk of bleeding, which is why it should only be taken as prescribed.

Should I Stop Taking Aspirin If I Feel Better?

No.

Never stop taking aspirin without discussing it with your healthcare professional.

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Key Takeaways

✓ Aspirin helps reduce the risk of another ischaemic stroke.

✓ It works by making blood platelets less likely to form clots.

✓ Aspirin is not suitable for everyone, especially immediately after a haemorrhagic stroke.

✓ Take aspirin exactly as prescribed.

✓ Never stop taking it without medical advice.

✓ Healthy lifestyle changes remain an essential part of stroke prevention.

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Related Articles

Continue learning about stroke prevention and medication:

• Blood Thinners After a Stroke

• Cholesterol Medication After a Stroke

• High Blood Pressure After a Stroke

• Can You Have More Than One Stroke?

• Stroke Prevention: Reducing Your Risk of Another Stroke

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Final Thoughts

A small tablet...

Can play a big role in protecting your future.

Taking aspirin exactly as prescribed...

Attending your follow-up appointments...

And looking after your overall health...

Are all important steps towards reducing the risk of another stroke and helping you move forward with confidence.