Dr Nighat says aspirin can reduce risks of some cancers

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Aspirin is a popular painkiller used for everyday aches and pains such as headaches and toothache. It is also an anti-inflammatory and can help treat fevers, colds and flu-like symptoms. However, it can bring with it some side effects that you might need medical attention for.

The Mayo Clinic warns that some people might experience diarrhoea, constipation, “black, tarry” stools or “light-coloured” stools as a result of taking aspirin.

If this is the case it urges you to “check with your doctor immediately”.

The clinic explains: “Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention.

“These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine.

“Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.”

Other side effects you could notice on the toilet include:

• Bloody or cloudy urine
• Dark urine
• Decreased frequency or amount of urine.

There are a number of caveats to consider when it comes to taking aspirin.

The NHS says: “It’s best to take aspirin with food.

“That way, you’ll be less likely to get an upset stomach or stomach ache.

“Never give aspirin to children under the age of 16 (unless their doctor prescribes it).

“It can make children more likely to develop a very rare but serious condition called Reye’s syndrome.”

Aspirin can cause ulcers in your stomach or gut, especially if taken frequently or in large doses.

Therefore, people who already have stomach ulcers or have had one in the past might be advised against taking it.

“If you’re at risk of getting a stomach ulcer and you need a painkiller, take paracetamol instead of aspirin as it’s more gentle on your stomach,” the NHS advises.

Aspirin is usually taken in the form of 300 milligram tablets.

The normal dose is one or two tablets, to be taken every four to six hours.

It is important you do not take more than 12 tablets over a 24-hour period.

You must wait at least four hours between doses.

Some other side effects of aspirin as listed by the Mayo Clinic are:

• Abdominal or stomach pain, cramping, or burning
• Fever
• Increased thirst
• Irregular heartbeat
• Muscle cramping and weakness
• Nausea or vomiting
• Numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or lips
• Rapid, deep breathing
• Seizures
• Stomach cramps
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Weakness or heaviness of the legs
• Weight gain
• Yellow eyes and skin.

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