Many people with AFib take a blood thinner because it lowers the chance of a blood clot that could cause a stroke. FCCI notes you might be placed on blood thinners for exactly this reason. Below are plain answers to common questions. Your own doctor's instructions always come first.
What does a blood thinner do?
The name is a little misleading. These medicines do not actually make your blood thin like water. They slow down the process your body uses to form clots. In AFib, where blood can pool in the top chambers, that helps lower the chance a clot forms and travels to the brain.
Does everyone with AFib need one?
Not always. Your doctor looks at your personal stroke risk, bleeding risk and overall health. Age, blood pressure, diabetes, past strokes and other heart problems all play a part. The decision is made with you, and it can change over time as your health changes.
Everyday safety tips
- Take it at the same time each day. A pill organizer and phone reminder help.
- Tell every doctor, dentist and pharmacist that you take a blood thinner.
- Ask before taking new medicines, pain relievers or supplements, since some can raise bleeding risk.
- Carry a medication list in your wallet.
- Call your doctor about unusual bruising or bleeding that will not stop.
Call 911 for serious bleeding, a hard fall with a head injury, or signs of stroke such as face drooping, arm weakness or slurred speech.
What if I miss a dose?
The answer depends on which medicine you take. Ask your doctor or pharmacist now, before it happens, and write down the instructions. Do not double up unless you have been told to.
What about procedures and surgery?
Before any surgery, dental work or heart procedure, tell the team you take a blood thinner. They may ask you to pause it for a short time, or they may want you to keep taking it. Never stop or change your blood thinner on your own. Stopping suddenly can raise your stroke risk.
Are there alternatives?
For some people, long-term blood thinners are a challenge. For certain patients, left atrial appendage closure is another option. It seals off the small pouch in the heart where AFib clots often form. At FCCI, Dr. Firas El Sabbagh is highly skilled in left atrial appendage occlusion with the Watchman and Amulet devices. Whether it fits you, and how it would change your medicine plan, is a conversation to have with your heart rhythm doctor.
Bring your questions
Write your questions down before your visit. It is your treatment, and you deserve to understand it. If cost is a worry, say so. FCCI accepts most major insurance plans and the office team can help you understand coverage.
Talking with your pharmacist
Your pharmacist is a great partner. Ask them to check every new prescription and over-the-counter product against your blood thinner. Use one pharmacy when you can so they see your full list. If cost makes it hard to fill your prescription, tell your doctor or pharmacist instead of skipping doses. There may be other options to discuss.
Getting care at FCCI
Questions about blood thinners can be talked through at any FCCI office, including Southside, Westside, Northside, University Blvd, Mandarin/Fruit Cove, Orange Park, Palatka and Waycross. Ask the office team to confirm your coverage when you book.
Never stop or change a blood thinner on your own after reading an article. Talk with the doctor who prescribed it first.
Have questions about your blood thinner? Call FCCI at 904.493.3333 between 8AM and 5PM on weekdays, or leave your name and number on the request form for a call back.
