Does aspirin cause stomach ulcers?
Yes. Aspirin can cause or worsen ulcers in the stomach or upper intestine. It can injure the lining of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and increase the risk of bleeding from ulcers because aspirin reduces protective prostaglandins and can irritate the stomach lining.
How does aspirin increase ulcer risk?
Aspirin is an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug). Like other NSAIDs, it can:
- Reduce the substances that help protect the stomach and intestinal lining
- Increase irritation of the GI lining
- Increase the chance of GI bleeding if an ulcer forms
Who is more likely to get ulcers from aspirin?
Risk is higher in people who:
- Take higher doses or multiple NSAIDs
- Have a history of stomach or duodenal ulcers or GI bleeding
- Are older (especially over 60)
- Take aspirin plus another medication that increases bleeding risk (for example, certain blood thinners)
- Have heavy alcohol use
What symptoms suggest an ulcer or bleeding?
People taking aspirin should watch for signs such as:
- Burning or pain in the upper abdomen
- Nausea or indigestion
- Black, tarry stools or blood in stools
- Vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds
- Weakness, dizziness, or fainting (possible blood loss)
If there are signs of bleeding, urgent medical care is needed.
Can you lower the risk if you take aspirin?
Common strategies include using the lowest effective dose and taking it with food, and for some people clinicians may prescribe stomach-protecting medication (such as acid suppression). The best approach depends on why aspirin is being used (for example, heart prevention vs pain) and your personal ulcer/bleeding risk.
Are there safer alternatives for stomach protection?
If aspirin is being used for pain or inflammation, some people may be switched to other options that don’t carry the same GI risk—but “safer” depends on your medical history and cardiovascular risk. Don’t stop aspirin used for heart or stroke prevention without medical advice, because that can increase the risk of serious events.