Why NSAIDs Are Especially Risky After 60
- Older blood vessels are already stiffer — NSAIDs reduce protective prostaglandins → blood vessels constrict → higher pressure & strain on heart
- Fluid retention — NSAIDs block kidney prostaglandins → sodium & water retention → increased cardiac workload
- Platelet effects — While low-dose aspirin protects, most NSAIDs block protective prostaglandins more than clotting ones → imbalance favors clots
- Reduced kidney blood flow → worsens hypertension and heart strain
Highest-risk groups (cardiologists warn most strongly):
- Already have heart failure, prior heart attack, stent, bypass, or arrhythmia
- Have high blood pressure (even if controlled)
- Take diuretics, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or beta-blockers
- Have diabetes, chronic kidney disease, or are over 70
What Leading Cardiologists Now Recommend Instead
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