Patients with Atrial Fibrillation on Blood Thinners
Patients with Atrial Fibrillation on Blood Thinners
Overview
Atrial Fibrillation is a disorder characterized by irregular and/or rapid heartbeat. Atrial Fibrillation can be temporary or permanent. Adults diagnosed with Non-Valvular Atrial Fibrillation are often at increased risk of stroke.
To minimize the risk of stroke, patients will be prescribed Oral Anticoagulants, which reduce the risk of stroke by thinning the blood so clots won’t form in the Left Atrial Appendage. When these clots escape the Left Atrial Appendage, they enter the blood stream and can eventually travel to the brain, causing a blockage that leads to stroke.
Our approach
What to watch for
People with atrial fibrillation may have many symptoms or no symptoms at all. Often, the heartbeat will be irregular, and can sometimes be high (above 100 consistently). Symptoms associated with atrial fibrillation include shortness of breath, fatigue, palpitations or a sensation of heart racing, dizziness or lightheadedness, or weakness.
Do I need blood thinning medications?
If you have Atrial Fibrillation and some additional risk factors, your Doctor may determine that blood thinning medications are appropriate, to reduce your risk of stroke.
Blood Thinning Medications
For many adults, being on Oral Anticoagulants can be bothersome. Here are some reasons why adults might consider an alternative to their Oral Anticoagulants:
- Risk of, or history of, bleeding or bruising while on Oral Anticoagulant
- Job or hobbies that could contribute to bleeding or bruising
- High cost of medication or laboratory testing for Oral Anticoagulants
- Difficulty maintaining therapeutic INR range while on Warfarin due to food and drug interactions
- Risk of falls that can lead to bruising and bleeding
- High risk of thromboembolic stroke, as determined by your Provider
- Alternatives to Blood Thinning Medications
- Talk with your provider to discuss if there are possible alternatives for you to your blood thinning medication, but DO NOT stop your blood thinner without consulting with your Cardiologist.