Aspirin causes blindness?

• April 28, 2024

Aspirin not only serves to fight headaches, but it is also an antiplatelet agent, which prevents blood cells called platelets from sticking together to form clots. Its use is recommended in people suffering from some type of heart deficiency; however, its use could be limited since a new study reveals that this medication is causing blindness.

Published in the magazine JAMA Internal Medicine , the research revealed that people who took aspirin had a double risk of developing macular degeneration, a condition that occurs when the eye grow blood vessels in incorrect areas, which cause swelling that damages the retina.
 

This disease affects the cells of the macula of the retina, the part of the eye that allows you to see small details. It is related to age, and the loss of visibility affects the performance of daily activities such as reading or sewing.

The study, which was conducted by the University of Sydney , showed that 9, 3% of patients taking aspirin developed macular degeneration related to age, compared to 3.7 who did not consume the drug.

As part of the investigation, we analyzed 2,389 patients, between 60 and 70 years of age. Of this group, one in ten took aspirin at least once a week, and had eye exams after five, ten and 15 years. The result of the tests showed that the risk arises when the doses are cumulative.

Aspirin should be used with caution, and if possible under the advice of a specialist.

Video Medicine: Daily Aspirin Linked to Vision Loss by Len Saputo, MD (April 2024).