AF and Blood Thinner Pradaxa

[JohnHassall]

Hi, I have suffered With AF for approx 18 years, biggest problems have been dizziness and anxiety greatly help recently by Sertraline. I have just been prescribed the blood thinner Pradaxa Dabigatran, since taking it I have developed painful swollen knuckles and sore elbow and shoulder joints. Anyone had similar experiences?

[jennydog]

No. I have been taking Pradaxa for over 2 years. The only side effect was a queasy stomach caused by the antacid tablets prescribed with it. Pradaxa needs an acid stomach so antacids are not appropriate.

[JohnHassall in reply to jennydog]

Thanks for getting back to me.

[gillyflower13]

I

[gillyflower13]

Hello john I also have been on Dabigatron - was not suitable - now on Apaxiban - havingmuch the same side effects!! ! ! Have just spent 5 days in Northampton Gen Hospital with persistant AF, whilst in there tho I asked if it would be possible to see Dr Pederson (specialises in AF) and is based at the John Radcliffe Hosp Oxford. She was here that day came to see me and im now on her list. She is fast forwarding operation to June this year!!!!! I am home now and still cannot quite get my head round the fact that - at last after 20 years I can have some medical help!!! I am delighted and can honestly say I AM ACTUALLY LOOKING FORWARD TO BEING IN HOSPITAL!!!!!!. Take care. Gillyflower 13

[JohnHassall in reply to gillyflower13]

Thanks for the reply, can i ask if you are seeing Dr Pederson private or NHS?

Also what operation are you expecting. I have had AF for at least 20 years and at age 65 (although I consider myself very fit) I have been told that i'm too old for surgery! Also my consultant believes that any corrective surgery will only result in the condition recurring,

[gillyflower13]

Hello John I shall be seeing Dr Pederson as a NHS patient - apparently she is based at John Radcliffe Hospital in Oxford (where the op will be carried out) but is currently spending 3 days at Northampton General Hospital..each week.

I'm a few years older than you John but she did not menton my age at all.

I am surprised that you feel that your age will determine whether or not you have this particular procedure which is called an av node ablation.

Keep in touch

Gillyflower13

[JohnHassall in reply to gillyflower13]

Thanks very much, I think I need to speak to my cardiologist.

Hope everythinggoes well for you.