Atrial Fibrillation, or AFib, is a condition with the characteristics of an irregular heartbeat. Having this condition may increase your risk of experiencing a stroke. A stroke occurs when not enough oxygen reaches the brain, either because of a blood clot or bleeding in the brain. Treatment for AFib can help reduce the risk of stroke.
Treatments for Stroke AFib
Here are several treatment options that can help you deal with your case of AFib in order to prevent a higher risk of having a stroke.
Blood Thinners
Blood thinners will thin the blood, so there is less chance that a blood clot may form. All of the several different blood thinners available require a prescription from a doctor or healthcare professional. The options include aspirin, apixaban (Eliquis), clopidogrel (Plavix), dabigatran (Pradaxa) and enoxaparin (Lovenox).
When using blood thinners, please be aware of the side effects. Some of these side effects include bruising more easily and a higher risk of bleeding.
Remember to talk with your doctor before you decide on which blood thinner is the most appropriate for your condition. You may have to get a blood test once a month in order to make sure the medication is working properly.
Heart Rate/Rhythm Medication
Heart rate medications will help to control your heartbeat by slowing it down, so it is easier for the heart to pump blood. Your doctor can prescribe these to help control your AFib and reduce your risk of stroke.
Similarly, heart rhythm medications work by slowing down the heartbeat. These use electrical signals and should be prescribed by a doctor or healthcare professional.
It is important to talk to a doctor before you consider taking any of these medications to help treat your AFib. Together you should be able to determine which treatment will work best for you and your condition.
Featured Image: DepositPhotos/ ocskaymark
Posted on May 28, 2018
