Can low dose aspirin cause stomach problems?

Yes. Low‑dose aspirin can cause stomach problems. Even at small doses (like 81 mg daily) it can irritate the stomach lining and lead to symptoms such as:

- Dyspepsia (indigestion), heartburn, or upset stomach
- Nausea
- More serious issues like gastritis, ulcers, or GI bleeding (rare, but possible)

Why this happens: aspirin blocks COX-1, which reduces protective prostaglandins in the stomach lining.

Who’s at higher risk: older adults, a history of ulcers or GI bleeding, concurrent NSAID use, use of anticoagulants or steroids, Helicobacter pylori infection, heavy alcohol use, or smoking.

What to do if you have symptoms:
- Don’t take other NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) unless a clinician says it’s OK.
- Take aspirin with food and a full glass of water; avoid alcohol if you’re experiencing stomach issues.
- Talk with your clinician about whether you should continue aspirin, switch to a different therapy, or add a stomach-protecting medicine (like a proton pump inhibitor) if you’re at higher GI risk.
- Seek medical attention if you have black, tarry stools; vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds; severe or persistent abdominal pain; or faintness.

If you’d like, tell me your age, any history of ulcers or GI problems, and other medications you take, and I can outline more tailored considerations or questions to ask your doctor. This information isn’t a substitute for professional medical advice.