Vision Disturbance and Warfarin

[Kempsh0tt]

Hi, long term AF controlled by Pacemaker + Warfarin. I self test (Coaguchek) and usually I'm in therapeutic range (for me 3.0 after DVT 2011.

Just before Xmas I experienced vision Disturbance (including peripheral flashes) in my right eye. Eye Clinic clinician diagnosed 'Posterior Vitreous Detachment' (PVD). Said retina not damaged should get back to normal 6 to 8 weeks.

Not quite normal but getting there. However, yesterday my left eye went the same way - waiting appointment with GP.

Has anyone experienced this (PVD)? Any insights? Eye Clinic guy did mention slightly higher incidences reported with Warfarin users. Should I ask for move to a DOAC anticoagulant and if so, which is proving most effective? Thanks TC

[Clare11]

Hmm I’d want to ask about the evidence for that, I can find no evidence for increased frequency of PVD however there is an increase in vitreous haemorrhage with patients who suffer from PVD who are on all Anticoagulants and antiplatelets (aspirin & clopidogrel most common) but that is to be expected.

There is also real life well documented evidence of vitreous bleeding with Rivaroxaban, Apixaban and Dabigitran. I’ve never seen any for Edoxaban, but that is quite probably as it has been used less. So I really don’t think you’d have any advantage switching to a DOAC.

[Kempsh0tt in reply to Clare11]

Thank you Clare for your seemingly 'informed' input. Much appreciated.

I suspect the eye clinic Doctor although naming Warfarin (as I had to him) was actually in agreement with you that incidents of PVD increase with any form of anticoagulant.

Seems like a move to a DOAC won't reduce the risk. Presumably something to have to get used to? Best Wishes TC