Aspirin, Wine, and Medications

Q:  I have cardiovascular disease (among other things) and have always taken a baby aspirin, along with my other medications, and a glass of wine at bedtime.

I now have spinal stenosis and was told not to have aspirin and wine with my anti-inflammatory medication. I'm also finding that the pain from the stenosis makes it very difficult to walk and keep my weight down. Your comments will be gratefully appreciated.

A:  Aspirin is also a type of anti-inflammatory medicine and if you take it at the same time as your ibuprofen (or whatever anti-inflammatory drug), they could compete against each other in your body and/or increase your chance of stomach irritation or bleeding. Wine or any alcoholic drink can also cause stomach irritation, so your risks are compounded, and alcohol may affect your absorption of the medicine as well.

For people who have pain or difficulty walking, water exercises are a wonderful way to burn calories and tone your body without causing stress on your joints or spine. The warm water can also soothe and increase your circulation.

"Dear Doctor" is a compilation of patient questions answered by doctors from the Medical College of Wisconsin.