Anaemia from aspirin?

[Heartmum56]

Just had my latest blood tests, mostly fine, but seeing changes in the full blood count I don't like the look of. Very low RBCs, high MCV and low HG concentration. Looking like some sort of anaemia and feel this must be linked to aspirin. Any one had this and any wisdom to share before I ask for review with the GP?

[mjames1]

Yes, and make sure your gp orders a full iron panel, including Ferritin. Depending on the results, you may need a GI work up (endoscopy, colonoscopy) looking for sources of blood loss.

Jim

[LilySav]

Hi, my other half was found to be mildly anaemic ...probably due to aspirin.

On recommendation of a friend who is medically trained, he made sure he always took the aspirin with or immediately after food.

Within a few weeks, his 'numbers' were slight better.

Unless it specifically says on your prescription to not take with food, might be worth trying this.

Best of luck

[Lowerfield_no_more]

As you are probably aware NSAIDs can cause internal bleeding. I had a serious GI bleed through taking ibuprofen, within the prescribed limits, so consequently never touch the stuff. I also take low dose aspirin but do not take the dispersible sort I take gastro resistant/ coated which as I understand it is less likely to irritate the GI tract. If you are taking dispersible it might be worth considering the switch to coated. There is some evidence that the efficacy of coated is not quite as good as dispersible but that does not concern me, I know it is working looking at my arms and hands which are covered in bruises! But if you are anaemic caused by a GI bleed a simple stool test should confirm that and your GP should organise that.