Aspirin Sensitivity

In this article

• Aspirin Sensitivity Symptoms
• Asthma and Nasal Polyps
• Managing Aspirin Sensitivity

Managing Aspirin Sensitivity

• Get help for emergencies. If you have sudden symptoms -- like swelling, difficulty breathing, or wheezing -- call 911 or go to the emergency room. Aspirin sensitivity reactions can be life-threatening.
  
• Don’t take aspirin and other NSAIDs. If you have asthma and nasal polyps, your doctor may suggest cutting out aspirin and NSAIDs as a precaution -- even if you've never had any problems with the drugs.
  
• Watch out for aspirin in unexpected places. Lots of remedies for cold, flu, cough, stomach problems, and other symptoms contain aspirin or other NSAIDs. Aspirin can even be in cosmetics, soap, shampoos, and skin cleaners.
  
• Control your symptoms. Your doctor may prescribe steroids depending on your symptoms. If you have asthma, take your medicine to keep it under control.
  
• Change your diet. Some foods have high levels of salicylates, natural chemicals that are an ingredient in aspirin. Cutting back on these foods -- like some fruits, vegetables, nuts, coffee, and tea -- may help some people. Ask your doctor.
  
• Consider aspirin treatment. To help your body get over its sensitivity to aspirin, your doctor may offer a treatment called desensitization. In it, you will take very small doses of aspirin and then gradually increase them. Your doctor will watch you closely for reactions. If it works, you may be able to take aspirin without problems -- as long as you keep taking it daily. This treatment can help reduce asthma and sinus symptoms, too.
  
• Remove nasal polyps. If nasal polyps are a problem for you, your doctor may suggest surgery. Keep in mind that the polyps may grow back.