What is a common side effect of long-term aspirin use?

Long-term aspirin use is associated with gastrointestinal bleeding, which is a well-documented side effect of this medication. Aspirin is classified as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by inhibiting certain enzymes involved in the production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins play a crucial role in protecting the stomach lining, maintaining mucosal integrity, and regulating gastric acid secretion.

When aspirin is used over an extended period, it can disrupt this protective mechanism, leading to irritation and erosion of the gastrointestinal mucosa. This increases the risk of developing ulcers and, consequently, gastrointestinal bleeding. This particular side effect is of significant clinical concern, especially in older adults or individuals with other risk factors such as a history of gastrointestinal issues or concurrent use of other medications that can further irritate the stomach.

Although other options may have varying degrees of association with aspirin use, such as headache potentially occurring due to withdrawal or mucosal irritation, and constipation being less common, gastrointestinal bleeding remains the primary concern for patients receiving long-term aspirin therapy. Thus, recognizing and monitoring for this risk is vital for nurses and healthcare providers when managing a patient's pain or inflammatory conditions with aspirin.