New kid on the block

[Winnipeg-50]

New to this atrial fibrillation. Diagnosed last week, after feeling a fast heart beat, then as i described it "an inside hiccup ". Doc wants me to take wafarin, and possible, beta blockers. The first scares me as i have blood disorder that means my bloodclotting agent platelets are very low. With a risk of bleeding. Also have high blood pressure. What alternatives do i have can anyone advise??

[Hidden]

Difficult for you. Your GP needs to get your haematologist and cardiologist talking to each other to manage your care. Do you have the diagnosis for your low platelet count? How low is your platelet count? What is your CHADS2Vasc score which is a guide to your need for anticoagulation?

[Winnipeg-50 in reply to Hidden]

Platelet count can vary from 38ish to 50ish, however since taking vitamin d i can maintain 60ish. CHAD2 was 2 possibe 3. If i can get my blood pressure down 2.

[BobD Volunteer in reply to Winnipeg-50]

Just to be accurate. You can't reduce Chadsvasc score by treatment. Even if your BP is controlled it still counts I'm afraid.

[Hidden in reply to Winnipeg-50]

Have you looked at lifestyle changes as a way of reducing your AF burden? Important anyway, but essential in the event your Haemologist advises against AC.

Is your calcium level OK? Conflicting studies on excessive self dosing with Vit D, and increased risk of AF.

[Winnipeg-50 in reply to Hidden]

Studying life style changes now. I am out if the country for 6 weeks staying with my son in Dubai. It was touch and go at one point the doc wasnt happy about me travelling. However after 3 blood pressure results she agreed. I am 72 and retired so i think maybe now is the time to re evaluate my whole life style. I'm constantly on the go doing lots of volunteering. It's hard to stop when you have worked all your life, slowing down will not be easy. Thanks for your advice. Its good to know people out there can give time to help me learn how to manage this. It's much appreciated.

[CDreamer]

Hi and welcome.

The risks and benefits need to be balanced and as Oyster says - both conditions need to be considered and treatments discussed by and with both your specialists.

I have a similar difficulty with two conditions seeing 2 consultantans and meds prescribed for one being contraindicated for the other. As a result I never agree to anything without talking and putting it past the other and I ask for every letter to be cc to the other - and still the information flow is patchy. I found I need to know as much as I can about my own circumstances to make an arguement as to whether or not to agree to suggested treatment.

Ring your blood specialist’s secretary and ask for advice and possible affects.

Consult your GP who should oversee your overall being.

Platelets and coagulation work differently so one may not affect the other but I certainly don’t know enough about it so I would suggest you need expert advice.

Best wishes and let us know how you get on.

[Winnipeg-50 in reply to CDreamer]

Doc is talking to cardiologist and haemotologist while I'm away. She has given me a leaflet to study. My blood disorder restricts the medication i can take, also i have Health Anxiety. Not much hope is there :). Thanks for replying.

[jwsonoma]

I agree with Oyster - you need to check your CHADS2Vasc score . It evaluates your risk of a possible stroke and the need for anticoagulants. Life style changes besides removing stress should also include diet and exercise. I would also research fib triggers.

Welcome to the club.

[1Jerbear]

I welcome you Winnipeg -50 . I am on Eliquis blood thinner that might be an option .So far it has worked well with me ,you might mention it to the doc.