Yes—aspirin can cause stomach pain (including indigestion and ulcers)
Aspirin can irritate the stomach lining and increase the risk of stomach bleeding, which can lead to stomach aches, burning, indigestion, or pain in the upper abdomen. The risk is higher with higher doses, frequent use, or taking aspirin on an empty stomach.
Why aspirin hurts the stomach: irritation and bleeding risk
Aspirin belongs to a group of medicines called NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). NSAIDs can reduce protective stomach chemicals, making it easier for stomach acid to damage the lining. That irritation can progress to gastritis (inflammation) or peptic ulcers, which may cause pain.
What to watch for: warning signs that need urgent care
Seek urgent medical attention if you have symptoms that could mean bleeding, such as:
- Black, tarry stools or blood in the stool
- Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
- Severe or worsening stomach pain
- Dizziness, fainting, or weakness
Who is more likely to get stomach problems from aspirin
Stomach side effects are more common in people who:
- Take aspirin regularly or at higher doses
- Take it without food
- Are older
- Have a history of ulcers or GI bleeding
- Use other medicines that raise bleeding risk (for example, other NSAIDs, blood thinners, or steroids)
Are there ways to reduce the chance of stomach ache?
Taking aspirin with food can help reduce irritation for some people. Your clinician may also recommend a different form or medicine depending on why you’re taking aspirin (pain vs heart prevention). Do not switch or stop aspirin that was prescribed for a specific medical reason without guidance.
When to ask a clinician
Contact a healthcare professional if you get repeated stomach pain after taking aspirin, symptoms last more than a day or two, or you’re using it for more than occasional relief. They can help determine whether it’s irritation, an ulcer, or something else and suggest safer alternatives for your situation.