The Effect of Daily Aspirin on Kidney Function Decline

Taking regular, high doses of aspirin---or any other analgesic such as acetaminophen, ibuprofen or naproxen sodium---can cause further decline in already compromised kidneys. According to the National Kidney Foundation, using a lot of aspirin every day can put you at risk for developing future kidney problems even if your kidneys are normal.

Danger

• Analgesics such as aspirin reduce blood flow to your kidneys. If your kidneys are already not filtering properly, the additional decrease in blood flow could send you into acute renal failure.

Acute Renal Failure

• If your kidneys suddenly shut down due to analgesic use, you'll have to undergo emergency dialysis. Often the kidneys will begin functioning again once dialysis is complete and you're no longer taking analgesics.

Chronic Kidney Disease

• This condition can occur if you've been taking aspirin every day for years. If you have chronic kidney failure, your kidneys will slowly stop working and you'll need regular dialysis or a kidney transplant.

Options

• If you have declining kidney function, you can use acetaminophen occasionally. However, you should be careful to take it only in the recommended dosage.

Considerations

• If you are concerned that your aspirin intake is further damaging your kidneys, your doctor can give you a blood test to check your kidney function.