Health and Me

Tanya Dutt

Aspirin Isn’t Always Safe For Older Adults Anymore—Here's Why Doctors Are Warning Against It

For decades, a daily low-dose aspirin was the go-to prescription for heart disease prevention. The tiny pill was considered a low-effort, high-reward approach to keeping heart attacks and strokes at bay. But recent research and evolving guidelines are prompting doctors to pump the brakes, especially when it comes to older adults.

Historically, aspirin’s blood-thinning properties made it a staple for preventing blood clots, which are a major cause of heart attacks and strokes. This practice, known as "primary prevention," targeted people who had not yet experienced a cardiovascular event but were considered at risk due to age or other factors. A typical dose hovered around 81 milligrams per day.

For individuals with a history of cardiovascular disease, aspirin’s benefits still hold. That’s "secondary prevention," and most experts still endorse it. But for older adults with no prior heart issues, new studies are revealing a more complicated risk-benefit balance.

Newer clinical trials and large-scale studies began to challenge the once-universal recommendation. They found that for many older adults, particularly those over 60 or 70 without a history of heart disease, the risk of serious bleeding outweighed the potential cardiovascular benefits.

As a result, leading health organizations have revised their guidelines:

The American College of Cardiology (ACC) and American Heart Association (AHA) advise against daily aspirin for primary prevention in adults over 70.

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends against starting low-dose aspirin for primary prevention in adults over 60, and suggests a case-by-case approach for those aged 40-59 who have a 10% or greater 10-year cardiovascular risk.

<h2>What Are The Hidden Risks Of Taking Aspirin?</h2>

Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces inflammation and prevents platelets from clumping together. But this same mechanism that reduces heart attacks also raises the risk of internal bleeding, particularly in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and brain.

Older adults are already more vulnerable to GI bleeding and hemorrhagic strokes. When aspirin is added to the mix, the potential for serious, sometimes fatal, complications increases.

According to Dr. Jordan Schaefer, a hematologist at the University of Michigan Medical School, "For some patients without a history of cardiovascular disease, the benefits of taking aspirin may be offset by an increased risk of bleeding, especially as patients get older."

A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology surveyed over 2,500 adults between the ages of 50 and 80. It found that:

<ul><li>About 1 in 6 older adults still take daily aspirin for primary prevention.</li><li>Nearly 25% started aspirin use without a physician’s recommendation.</li><li>Only 68% were aware that aspirin increases the risk of bleeding.</li><li>Nearly 30% believed aspirin could reduce the risk of dementia.</li></ul>

Younger respondents (aged 50-69) were twice as likely to use aspirin for primary prevention compared to those aged 70-80. Women and individuals with household incomes over $60,000 were also more likely to take aspirin preventatively.

Dr. Mark Edwards, an internal medicine resident at University of Michigan Health and lead author of the study, pointed out that many patients believe aspirin offers wide-ranging health benefits, not just heart protection. "It appears that older adults taking aspirin may anticipate benefits beyond reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and may not fully understand the added risk of bleeding," he said.

<h2>Why Many Still Take Aspirin Without Doctor Guidance?</h2>

Old habits die hard. For years, media campaigns and public health messaging endorsed the idea of a daily aspirin. Even today, some doctors haven’t updated their advice, and many patients continue on autopilot.

Adding to the confusion, aspirin is available over-the-counter and has a reputation for being "harmless." Aspirin use is much more of a complex question than it once seemed, which is all the more reason why it is important to consult a health care provider when considering use.

<h2>What Should Patients Over 40 Do?</h2>

If you're over 40, the advice isn't to automatically start or stop aspirin. It's to have a thoughtful conversation with your doctor about your individual risk. Risk assessments often include:

<ul><li>Personal and family history of heart disease</li><li>Blood pressure and cholesterol levels</li><li>Smoking status</li><li>Diabetes or prediabetes</li><li>Other medications that may increase bleeding risk</li></ul>

Based on these factors, your doctor may calculate your 10-year risk of cardiovascular disease and guide your decision.

<h2>What About People Already on Aspirin?</h2>

If you’re over 60 and taking aspirin without a prior cardiovascular event, it’s time to revisit the plan. Do not stop abruptly without consulting your physician, especially if you have a stent, history of stroke, or previous heart attack.

Experts recommend, anyone over 40 should talk to their provider about their risk for cardiovascular disease, with careful consideration of family and health histories.

Aspirin isn’t a one-size-fits-all preventive tool anymore. For many healthy older adults, the risks outweigh the benefits, particularly when it comes to internal bleeding. Still, for those with a documented history of cardiovascular disease, aspirin remains a cornerstone of secondary prevention.

Skip the DIY health decisions, talk to your doctor before starting or stopping any daily aspirin regimen. What once seemed like a harmless habit could be doing more harm than good.

Health Conditions A-Z

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aspirin for older adults

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aspirin heart disease prevention

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For decades, a daily low-dose aspirin was the go-to prescription for heart disease prevention. The tiny pill was considered a low-effort, high-reward approach to keeping heart attacks and strokes at bay. But recent research and evolving guidelines are prompting doctors to pump the brakes, especially when it comes to older adults.Historically, aspirin’s blood-thinning properties made it a staple for preventing blood clots, which are a major cause of heart attacks and strokes. This practice, known as "primary prevention," targeted people who had not yet experienced a cardiovascular event but were considered at risk due to age or other factors. A typical dose hovered around 81 milligrams per day.For individuals with a history of cardiovascular disease, aspirin’s benefits still hold. That’s "secondary prevention," and most experts still endorse it. But for older adults with no prior heart issues, new studies are revealing a more complicated risk-benefit balance.Newer clinical trials and large-scale studies began to challenge the once-universal recommendation. They found that for many older adults, particularly those over 60 or 70 without a history of heart disease, the risk of serious bleeding outweighed the potential cardiovascular benefits.As a result, leading health organizations have revised their guidelines:The American College of Cardiology (ACC) and American Heart Association (AHA) advise against daily aspirin for primary prevention in adults over 70.The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends against starting low-dose aspirin for primary prevention in adults over 60, and suggests a case-by-case approach for those aged 40-59 who have a 10% or greater 10-year cardiovascular risk.What Are The Hidden Risks Of Taking Aspirin?Aspirin is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that reduces inflammation and prevents platelets from clumping together. But this same mechanism that reduces heart attacks also raises the risk of internal bleeding, particularly in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and brain.Older adults are already more vulnerable to GI bleeding and hemorrhagic strokes. When aspirin is added to the mix, the potential for serious, sometimes fatal, complications increases.According to Dr. Jordan Schaefer, a hematologist at the University of Michigan Medical School, "For some patients without a history of cardiovascular disease, the benefits of taking aspirin may be offset by an increased risk of bleeding, especially as patients get older."A recent study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology surveyed over 2,500 adults between the ages of 50 and 80. It found that:About 1 in 6 older adults still take daily aspirin for primary prevention.Nearly 25% started aspirin use without a physician’s recommendation.Only 68% were aware that aspirin increases the risk of bleeding.Nearly 30% believed aspirin could reduce the risk of dementia.Younger respondents (aged 50-69) were twice as likely to use aspirin for primary prevention compared to those aged 70-80. Women and individuals with household incomes over $60,000 were also more likely to take aspirin preventatively.Dr. Mark Edwards, an internal medicine resident at University of Michigan Health and lead author of the study, pointed out that many patients believe aspirin offers wide-ranging health benefits, not just heart protection. "It appears that older adults taking aspirin may anticipate benefits beyond reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease and may not fully understand the added risk of bleeding," he said.Why Many Still Take Aspirin Without Doctor Guidance?Old habits die hard. For years, media campaigns and public health messaging endorsed the idea of a daily aspirin. Even today, some doctors haven’t updated their advice, and many patients continue on autopilot.Adding to the confusion, aspirin is available over-the-counter and has a reputation for being "harmless." Aspirin use is much more of a complex question than it once seemed, which is all the more reason why it is important to consult a health care provider when considering use.What Should Patients Over 40 Do?If you're over 40, the advice isn't to automatically start or stop aspirin. It's to have a thoughtful conversation with your doctor about your individual risk. Risk assessments often include:Personal and family history of heart diseaseBlood pressure and cholesterol levelsSmoking statusDiabetes or prediabetesOther medications that may increase bleeding riskBased on these factors, your doctor may calculate your 10-year risk of cardiovascular disease and guide your decision.What About People Already on Aspirin?If you’re over 60 and taking aspirin without a prior cardiovascular event, it’s time to revisit the plan. Do not stop abruptly without consulting your physician, especially if you have a stent, history of stroke, or previous heart attack.Experts recommend, anyone over 40 should talk to their provider about their risk for cardiovascular disease, with careful consideration of family and health histories.Aspirin isn’t a one-size-fits-all preventive tool anymore. For many healthy older adults, the risks outweigh the benefits, particularly when it comes to internal bleeding. Still, for those with a documented history of cardiovascular disease, aspirin remains a cornerstone of secondary prevention.Skip the DIY health decisions, talk to your doctor before starting or stopping any daily aspirin regimen. What once seemed like a harmless habit could be doing more harm than good.

aspirin isn’t always safe for older adults anymore—here's why doctors are warning against it

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<span>Type 1 diabetes</span> is a condition that cannot be treated clinically and people with <span>diabetes</span> receive lifelong treatment to manage symptoms and keep their blood sugar under control. However, with the joint efforts of researchers all over the world and countless studies, trials for a new drug have begun in the UK. 

Right now, about 4.6 million people in the UK have diabetes, and over 270,000 of them have Type 1. Since there isn't a cure for Type 1 diabetes yet, most people need to take insulin every day to keep their blood sugar levels normal and avoid serious health problems. As you may know, insulin is a hormone responsible for turning food into energy by essentially breaking down the sugar to make it glucose. 

This new drug, Teplizumab, can change the way we deal with type 1 diabetes. Instead of taking long-term treatment measures, the success of this trial could mean potentially finding a cure in the future. This treatment is happening at the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, and it's getting help from a group called the National Institute of Health and Care Research (NIHR). This is a big step forward because it might help people put off getting full-blown Type 1 diabetes. 

<h2>Hannah Robinson: The First Adult Patient in the UK </h2>

Hannah Robinson, who is a dentist and a mom of two from Devon, is the first adult in the UK to try this new treatment. She found out during her pregnancy that she was starting to develop Type 1 diabetes. Familiar with the challenges of living with diabetes, Hannah hopes that taking this drug could mean she won't need to take daily insulin shots for up to three years longer than she would have otherwise. This would give her more freedom and control over her health. 

Hannah, who is 36, said: "I've learned a lot about Type 1 diabetes since I was diagnosed and what it means for my future. For me, this new drug gives me more freedom and a chance to focus on my health before I have to change my life and manage things as someone who needs daily insulin. It's not just about what I eat or checking my sugar; it's also about feeling more in control and not letting my condition define me. This treatment could even lead to a cure for Type 1 diabetes, which is amazing. I feel very lucky to be part of this." 

<h2>What is Type 1 Diabetes and How Teplizumab Helps </h2>

With Type 1 diabetes, your body's immune system attacks and destroys special cells in your pancreas called beta cells. These beta cells are very important because they make insulin, which helps control your blood sugar. If your blood sugar is too high or too low, it can cause serious health problems.

The new drug, Teplizumab, works by teaching your immune system to stop attacking these beta cells. By doing this, it can delay you needing insulin by up to three years. But it's very important that the drug is given very early on, before the disease has gotten too far along. Teplizumab is already approved in the USA. Hannah is the first adult in the UK to get this treatment, though a small number of children and young people here have already received it in its early stages. 

Experts are saying that Teplizumab works best when it's given very early on, even before someone officially gets diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes based on high blood sugar. Dr. Nick Thomas, a top diabetes specialist at the University of Exeter, explained that this new treatment is a huge step forward. It allows doctors to step in early and change what the immune system is doing. The goal is to slow down how quickly people will need to start taking insulin. 

The research happening at the Royal Devon and the University of Exeter are using things like genetics and other tests to find people who are at a high risk of getting Type 1 diabetes. This smart approach means that more people could potentially get the drug early and delay the start of the disease. 

<h2>Insulin Free Future for Type-1 Diabetes Patients </h2>

Researchers involved in the study explain that trials like these can lead to many patients having some extra insulin free years. Their ultimate goal is a future where these types of immune-system treatments become the first line of defense against Type 1 diabetes, tackling the root cause of the problem. Hopefully, in the future, early treatment could even stop some people from ever needing insulin at all. 

Diabetes

Type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes drug

type one diabetes drug trials

Can you cure type 1 diabetes

First UK Adult for Type 1 diabetes

Type 1 diabetes is a condition that cannot be treated clinically and people with diabetes receive lifelong treatment to manage symptoms and keep their blood sugar under control. However, with the joint efforts of researchers all over the world and countless studies, trials for a new drug have begun in the UK. Right now, about 4.6 million people in the UK have diabetes, and over 270,000 of them have Type 1. Since there isn't a cure for Type 1 diabetes yet, most people need to take insulin every day to keep their blood sugar levels normal and avoid serious health problems. As you may know, insulin is a hormone responsible for turning food into energy by essentially breaking down the sugar to make it glucose. This new drug, Teplizumab, can change the way we deal with type 1 diabetes. Instead of taking long-term treatment measures, the success of this trial could mean potentially finding a cure in the future. This treatment is happening at the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, and it's getting help from a group called the National Institute of Health and Care Research (NIHR). This is a big step forward because it might help people put off getting full-blown Type 1 diabetes. Hannah Robinson: The First Adult Patient in the UK Hannah Robinson, who is a dentist and a mom of two from Devon, is the first adult in the UK to try this new treatment. She found out during her pregnancy that she was starting to develop Type 1 diabetes. Familiar with the challenges of living with diabetes, Hannah hopes that taking this drug could mean she won't need to take daily insulin shots for up to three years longer than she would have otherwise. This would give her more freedom and control over her health. Hannah, who is 36, said: "I've learned a lot about Type 1 diabetes since I was diagnosed and what it means for my future. For me, this new drug gives me more freedom and a chance to focus on my health before I have to change my life and manage things as someone who needs daily insulin. It's not just about what I eat or checking my sugar; it's also about feeling more in control and not letting my condition define me. This treatment could even lead to a cure for Type 1 diabetes, which is amazing. I feel very lucky to be part of this." What is Type 1 Diabetes and How Teplizumab Helps With Type 1 diabetes, your body's immune system attacks and destroys special cells in your pancreas called beta cells. These beta cells are very important because they make insulin, which helps control your blood sugar. If your blood sugar is too high or too low, it can cause serious health problems.The new drug, Teplizumab, works by teaching your immune system to stop attacking these beta cells. By doing this, it can delay you needing insulin by up to three years. But it's very important that the drug is given very early on, before the disease has gotten too far along. Teplizumab is already approved in the USA. Hannah is the first adult in the UK to get this treatment, though a small number of children and young people here have already received it in its early stages. Early Intervention is Key Experts are saying that Teplizumab works best when it's given very early on, even before someone officially gets diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes based on high blood sugar. Dr. Nick Thomas, a top diabetes specialist at the University of Exeter, explained that this new treatment is a huge step forward. It allows doctors to step in early and change what the immune system is doing. The goal is to slow down how quickly people will need to start taking insulin. The research happening at the Royal Devon and the University of Exeter are using things like genetics and other tests to find people who are at a high risk of getting Type 1 diabetes. This smart approach means that more people could potentially get the drug early and delay the start of the disease. Insulin Free Future for Type-1 Diabetes Patients Researchers involved in the study explain that trials like these can lead to many patients having some extra insulin free years. Their ultimate goal is a future where these types of immune-system treatments become the first line of defense against Type 1 diabetes, tackling the root cause of the problem. Hopefully, in the future, early treatment could even stop some people from ever needing insulin at all. 

first uk adult to receive treatment for type 1 diabetes drug undergoing trials

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Ever wondered what makes someone "cool"? A new international study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology suggests that no matter where you live, "cool" people often act in similar ways. 

Researchers from universities in Chile, the United States, and other countries found that people considered "cool" share six key <span>personality traits</span>. These traits were consistent across all 12 countries included in the study, which surveyed nearly 6,000 people from 2018 to 2022. Countries included Australia, Chile, China, Germany, India, Mexico, Nigeria, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Turkey, and the United States. 

<h2>Six Common Traits of "Cool" People </h2>

These traits were found to be consistent regardless of a person's age, gender, or education level. The study, identified the following traits in people seen as cool: 

<ul><li>Extroverted</li><li>Pleasure-seekers (hedonistic)</li><li>Powerful</li><li>Adventurous</li><li>Open to new experiences</li><li>Independent</li></ul>

Interestingly, being a "good" person was linked to different traits, such as being calm, kind, warm, traditional, and secure. People who were seen as capable often had qualities that made them seem both cool and good. 

Researchers explained that these "cool" traits are likely part of someone's core personality and aren't easily taught. Another lead researcher noted that while cool people are usually somewhat likable, their traits don't always mean they are morally "good," especially when considering being hedonistic and powerful. 

Reviewing the study's findings, researchers noted that "coolness" can have both positive and negative meanings in real life. They suggested that future research could explore the differences between "good coolness" and "bad coolness." 

Researchers also pointed out that their study only included people who already understood the term "cool." It's not clear if people in very traditional or isolated cultures would view the same traits as admirable. 

They emphasized that "cool" is a deeply embedded part of our social language. It acts as a quick way to understand someone's status, connections, and identity, especially in today's social media and influencer culture. Understanding "coolness" helps us see how quick judgments about traits influence <span>behavior</span> and social interactions. 

Many of these personality traits have also been found to be genetic, so the question arises, are we born with these traits? 

In a 2020 study published in the Genes, Brain, and Behavior journal, researchers explained that our personality traits are simply the lasting ways we tend to think, feel, and act in different situations. Studies of twins and families show that our personality traits are partly inherited from our parents. 

This means our genes play a role in shaping who we become. These traits can even give clues about future mental health conditions. What these genetic studies of personality have shown is that personality, like many brain-related diseases, is influenced by many genes working together (this is called being polygenic). 

<h2>Five-Personality Traits That Are Connected To Genes </h2>

Researchers at Yale School of Medicine (YSM) published a study in 2024 Nature Human Behavior where they found several DNA spots linked to specific personality traits. Researchers used information from a large program called the Million Veteran Program. They looked at people's genes to find tiny differences, called "loci," that are connected to the "Big Five" personality traits 

<strong>Extraversion:</strong> How outgoing you are.

<strong>Openness:</strong> How open you are to new experiences.

<strong>Agreeableness:</strong> How well you get along with others.

<strong>Neuroticism:</strong> How prone you are to negative feelings like worry or sadness.

<strong>Conscientiousness:</strong> How organized and disciplined you are. 

The "Big Five" traits are a common way scientists measure personality. In this study, participants answered questions about their personality and also gave a blood sample for genetic testing. 

By comparing their answers to their DNA, the team found 62 new genetic spots linked to neuroticism. They also found genetic spots for agreeableness for the very first time. When they combined all their results, they identified over 200 genetic spots across all five personality traits. 

The team also looked at the genetic connections between personality traits and various mental health conditions. They found a strong overlap between neuroticism (a personality trait with a lot of negative feelings) and depression and anxiety. 

On the other hand, people who scored high in agreeableness (meaning they tend to get along well with others) were less likely to experience these conditions. These links were already known, but this study provides new genetic proof. 

With each research on such topics, we come one step forward to finding better answers and treatments for mental health conditions. 

Personality Traits

behavior

Are we born with Personality Traits

Genetics and Personality

Research based cool traits

what defines cool people

Ever wondered what makes someone "cool"? A new international study published in the Journal of Experimental Psychology suggests that no matter where you live, "cool" people often act in similar ways. Researchers from universities in Chile, the United States, and other countries found that people considered "cool" share six key personality traits. These traits were consistent across all 12 countries included in the study, which surveyed nearly 6,000 people from 2018 to 2022. Countries included Australia, Chile, China, Germany, India, Mexico, Nigeria, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Turkey, and the United States. Six Common Traits of "Cool" People These traits were found to be consistent regardless of a person's age, gender, or education level. The study, identified the following traits in people seen as cool: ExtrovertedPleasure-seekers (hedonistic)PowerfulAdventurousOpen to new experiencesIndependentCoolness vs. Goodness Interestingly, being a "good" person was linked to different traits, such as being calm, kind, warm, traditional, and secure. People who were seen as capable often had qualities that made them seem both cool and good. Researchers explained that these "cool" traits are likely part of someone's core personality and aren't easily taught. Another lead researcher noted that while cool people are usually somewhat likable, their traits don't always mean they are morally "good," especially when considering being hedonistic and powerful. Deeper Meaning of "Cool" Reviewing the study's findings, researchers noted that "coolness" can have both positive and negative meanings in real life. They suggested that future research could explore the differences between "good coolness" and "bad coolness." Researchers also pointed out that their study only included people who already understood the term "cool." It's not clear if people in very traditional or isolated cultures would view the same traits as admirable. They emphasized that "cool" is a deeply embedded part of our social language. It acts as a quick way to understand someone's status, connections, and identity, especially in today's social media and influencer culture. Understanding "coolness" helps us see how quick judgments about traits influence behavior and social interactions. Many of these personality traits have also been found to be genetic, so the question arises, are we born with these traits? Is Human Personality Genetic? In a 2020 study published in the Genes, Brain, and Behavior journal, researchers explained that our personality traits are simply the lasting ways we tend to think, feel, and act in different situations. Studies of twins and families show that our personality traits are partly inherited from our parents. This means our genes play a role in shaping who we become. These traits can even give clues about future mental health conditions. What these genetic studies of personality have shown is that personality, like many brain-related diseases, is influenced by many genes working together (this is called being polygenic). Five-Personality Traits That Are Connected To Genes Researchers at Yale School of Medicine (YSM) published a study in 2024 Nature Human Behavior where they found several DNA spots linked to specific personality traits. Researchers used information from a large program called the Million Veteran Program. They looked at people's genes to find tiny differences, called "loci," that are connected to the "Big Five" personality traits Extraversion: How outgoing you are.Openness: How open you are to new experiences.Agreeableness: How well you get along with others.Neuroticism: How prone you are to negative feelings like worry or sadness.Conscientiousness: How organized and disciplined you are. The "Big Five" traits are a common way scientists measure personality. In this study, participants answered questions about their personality and also gave a blood sample for genetic testing. By comparing their answers to their DNA, the team found 62 new genetic spots linked to neuroticism. They also found genetic spots for agreeableness for the very first time. When they combined all their results, they identified over 200 genetic spots across all five personality traits. The team also looked at the genetic connections between personality traits and various mental health conditions. They found a strong overlap between neuroticism (a personality trait with a lot of negative feelings) and depression and anxiety. On the other hand, people who scored high in agreeableness (meaning they tend to get along well with others) were less likely to experience these conditions. These links were already known, but this study provides new genetic proof. With each research on such topics, we come one step forward to finding better answers and treatments for mental health conditions. 

study suggests six personality traits that make us 'cool' – is it genetic or acquired?

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What most people dismiss as a routine sore throat could, in rare cases, signal something far more serious. Someone I know from very up close told me about her persistent throat infection; she complained of a severe sore throat. The weather is such that the first guess for all of us was a viral infection or a cold.

However, the sore throat persisted and did not go away. Like all of us do, she too searched it up on Google, and it showed signs of a spleen injury. Like most, she too ignored what Google said, thinking that internet diagnosis is often far-fetched. Until she felt an excruciating pain in her chest, abdomen, and throat, and felt like she could not breathe anymore. She had her friend call 9-1-1, and was finally taken to the ER, where she was told that it was a virus that caused her throat to be sore and enlarged her spleen, leading to a spleen rupture. She was taken to the surgery immediately, as the rupture had caused much internal bleeding. When she came out of the surgery, the doctors had informed her that she was lucky to come out of a "life-threatening surgery".

When I was told all this, all I wondered was, how could such a common cold symptom that we usually take so lightly, lead to something so serious? 

I knew what I had to do, to speak to doctors and know more about it, so more people can know about it and detect it before it is too late.

<h4>The Kissing Disease: What Causes A Sore Throat To Attack the Spleen?</h4>

This condition could be caused by the Epstein-Barr virus—infectious mononucleosis or “mono”, which can present as a seemingly harmless illness, only to later escalate into complications like spleen rupture.

“It’s not uncommon to brush off a sore throat with home remedies and over-the-counter pills,” said Dr. Anirban Chattopadhyay, a critical care specialist at CMRI, Kolkata. “But if the sore throat persists for more than a week and comes with high fever, swollen glands, and overwhelming tiredness, one should start considering possibilities beyond a regular viral infection.”

<span>Infectious mononucleosis</span>, also known as glandular fever, spreads through saliva, which is why it’s nicknamed the “kissing disease.” Though often self-limiting, it is important to recognise its red flags early.

<h4>Splenomegaly And Its Rare, But Serious Outcome</h4>

One of mono’s lesser-known dangers is splenomegaly—or an enlarged spleen. This swelling, which occurs as the immune system fights the Epstein-Barr virus, can make the spleen fragile and susceptible to rupture. A rupture, though rare (affecting less than 1% of cases), is life-threatening.

Dr. Swati Rajagopal, Consultant in Infectious Disease and Travel Medicine at Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru explained, “The spleen helps filter blood and fight infections. During mono, it gets flooded with infection-fighting cells, which causes it to swell. While a swollen spleen is common in mono, rupture is thankfully very rare. But when it does occur, it’s a medical emergency.”

The danger is compounded by the fact that such a rupture can happen even without trauma. “A simple bump or strain during sports or exercise can cause it. That’s why we recommend patients avoid contact sports or any strenuous activity for at least three to four weeks during recovery,” she added.

<h4>How To Connect Sore Throat To Spleen Risk? Signs To Look Out For</h4>

Both Dr. Chattopadhyay and Dr. Rajagopal stressed that the challenge lies in linking everyday symptoms to a more serious underlying condition, especially in the absence of injury.

“If a patient has a sore throat that doesn’t improve over time and comes with deep fatigue, body aches, and pain in the upper left side of the abdomen, we start suspecting mono,” said Dr. Chattopadhyay. “That’s when we order diagnostic tests like a Monospot or white blood cell count, and sometimes imaging like an ultrasound or CT scan to check the spleen.”

According to Dr. Rajagopal, “Sudden sharp pain in the upper left belly or shoulder can be a red flag. Even without trauma, this could point to spleen involvement. Timely testing can prevent complications.”

<h4>Recovery And Caution Go Hand In Hand</h4>

For those diagnosed with mono, the recovery is generally supportive—rest, fluids, and time. However, the spleen remains a point of concern for a few weeks even after the fever subsides.

“Patients should not rush back into normal routines. Even after feeling better, the spleen can remain enlarged and vulnerable,” warned Dr. Rajagopal. “Follow-up visits may be necessary to ensure it returns to its normal size.”

Dr. Chattopadhyay added, “The advice is simple but critical—listen to your body. If symptoms change or worsen, especially with sudden pain or dizziness, seek help immediately.”

What begins as a sore throat may not always end there. While complications like spleen rupture are rare, the condition that causes them is not. “Mono isn’t uncommon,” said Dr. Rajagopal. “But ignoring the signs can turn a manageable illness into a dangerous one.”

So next time that cold lingers longer than it should—or feels strangely exhausting—it might be time to pay closer attention.

sore throat leads to spleen rupture

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Epstein Barr virus

infectious mononucleosis

mono virus

mono virus that ruptures spleen

RARE DISEASE

rare condition

What most people dismiss as a routine sore throat could, in rare cases, signal something far more serious. Someone I know from very up close told me about her persistent throat infection; she complained of a severe sore throat. The weather is such that the first guess for all of us was a viral infection or a cold.However, the sore throat persisted and did not go away. Like all of us do, she too searched it up on Google, and it showed signs of a spleen injury. Like most, she too ignored what Google said, thinking that internet diagnosis is often far-fetched. Until she felt an excruciating pain in her chest, abdomen, and throat, and felt like she could not breathe anymore. She had her friend call 9-1-1, and was finally taken to the ER, where she was told that it was a virus that caused her throat to be sore and enlarged her spleen, leading to a spleen rupture. She was taken to the surgery immediately, as the rupture had caused much internal bleeding. When she came out of the surgery, the doctors had informed her that she was lucky to come out of a "life-threatening surgery".When I was told all this, all I wondered was, how could such a common cold symptom that we usually take so lightly, lead to something so serious? I knew what I had to do, to speak to doctors and know more about it, so more people can know about it and detect it before it is too late.The Kissing Disease: What Causes A Sore Throat To Attack the Spleen?This condition could be caused by the Epstein-Barr virus—infectious mononucleosis or “mono”, which can present as a seemingly harmless illness, only to later escalate into complications like spleen rupture.“It’s not uncommon to brush off a sore throat with home remedies and over-the-counter pills,” said Dr. Anirban Chattopadhyay, a critical care specialist at CMRI, Kolkata. “But if the sore throat persists for more than a week and comes with high fever, swollen glands, and overwhelming tiredness, one should start considering possibilities beyond a regular viral infection.”Infectious mononucleosis, also known as glandular fever, spreads through saliva, which is why it’s nicknamed the “kissing disease.” Though often self-limiting, it is important to recognise its red flags early.Splenomegaly And Its Rare, But Serious OutcomeOne of mono’s lesser-known dangers is splenomegaly—or an enlarged spleen. This swelling, which occurs as the immune system fights the Epstein-Barr virus, can make the spleen fragile and susceptible to rupture. A rupture, though rare (affecting less than 1% of cases), is life-threatening.Dr. Swati Rajagopal, Consultant in Infectious Disease and Travel Medicine at Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru explained, “The spleen helps filter blood and fight infections. During mono, it gets flooded with infection-fighting cells, which causes it to swell. While a swollen spleen is common in mono, rupture is thankfully very rare. But when it does occur, it’s a medical emergency.”The danger is compounded by the fact that such a rupture can happen even without trauma. “A simple bump or strain during sports or exercise can cause it. That’s why we recommend patients avoid contact sports or any strenuous activity for at least three to four weeks during recovery,” she added.How To Connect Sore Throat To Spleen Risk? Signs To Look Out ForBoth Dr. Chattopadhyay and Dr. Rajagopal stressed that the challenge lies in linking everyday symptoms to a more serious underlying condition, especially in the absence of injury.“If a patient has a sore throat that doesn’t improve over time and comes with deep fatigue, body aches, and pain in the upper left side of the abdomen, we start suspecting mono,” said Dr. Chattopadhyay. “That’s when we order diagnostic tests like a Monospot or white blood cell count, and sometimes imaging like an ultrasound or CT scan to check the spleen.”According to Dr. Rajagopal, “Sudden sharp pain in the upper left belly or shoulder can be a red flag. Even without trauma, this could point to spleen involvement. Timely testing can prevent complications.”Recovery And Caution Go Hand In HandFor those diagnosed with mono, the recovery is generally supportive—rest, fluids, and time. However, the spleen remains a point of concern for a few weeks even after the fever subsides.“Patients should not rush back into normal routines. Even after feeling better, the spleen can remain enlarged and vulnerable,” warned Dr. Rajagopal. “Follow-up visits may be necessary to ensure it returns to its normal size.”Dr. Chattopadhyay added, “The advice is simple but critical—listen to your body. If symptoms change or worsen, especially with sudden pain or dizziness, seek help immediately.”What begins as a sore throat may not always end there. While complications like spleen rupture are rare, the condition that causes them is not. “Mono isn’t uncommon,” said Dr. Rajagopal. “But ignoring the signs can turn a manageable illness into a dangerous one.”So next time that cold lingers longer than it should—or feels strangely exhausting—it might be time to pay closer attention.

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