Dr. Deborah Lee from Dr Fox Online Pharmacy warns that ibuprofen, a popular painkiller belonging to the group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can cause bleeding in the digestive tract. This occurs because ibuprofen reduces the production of stomach mucus that neutralizes stomach acids. Symptoms of gastrointestinal bleeding include dark black stools or red blood mixed with the stool, loose and watery stool, and bad odor. If these symptoms occur after taking ibuprofen, urgent medical help should be sought. While the risk of stomach bleeding is not common, it is important to take it seriously, especially for individuals aged 65 and older, those with a history of peptic ulcer, H. Pylori infection, heavy alcohol consumption, or taking other medications such as antiplatelet agents or steroids.
Vitamin K deficiency can lead to various symptoms including easy bruising, excessive bleeding, heavy and painful menstruation, high risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, poor bone health, and potential heart health issues. To prevent deficiency, it is important to consume a balanced diet rich in vitamin K sources such as green leafy vegetables, yogurt, and raw cheese, or consider taking supplements under medical advice.
A new analysis of data from a large clinical trial suggests that daily low-dose aspirin may not provide significant protection against stroke for healthy older adults who have never had a heart attack or stroke. The analysis found higher rates of brain bleeding among those who took aspirin, particularly among older people prone to falls. The findings support the recommendation that low-dose aspirin should not be prescribed for preventing a first heart attack or stroke in healthy older adults. However, for individuals who have already had a heart attack or stroke, daily aspirin should remain an important part of their care.
Regular physical activity can reduce bleeding in individuals with intracerebral hemorrhage, according to a University of Gothenburg study. Analyzing data from 686 patients, researchers found that those who reported regular physical activity had significantly smaller hemorrhages than inactive individuals. The study hints at the importance of physical activity in stroke prevention strategies.