Question: I have GERD, but my doctor is recommending that I take a daily aspirin because I have high cholesterol and my father died from a heart attack. The problem is the aspirin upsets my stomach. Is there anything else I can take that is like aspirin (like ibuprofen) instead?
Dr. Hibberd's answer:
A low-dose aspirin — 81 milligrams a day — usually does not cause gastric upset. If you are intolerant or allergic to aspirin, you simply cannot use it, and other agents are available, but may not pass the risk/benefit ratio for preventive use in most patients.
Have you considered having your gastro-esophageal reflux (GERD) corrected? You may find your stomach upset is related to GERD and not aspirin. Talk to your doctor or seek out a specialist.
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