I’ve been on Flecainide, Bisoprolol and Rivaoxaban now for 5 years and have a pacemaker, my heart is in sinus rhythm at 60bpm. I understand that Rivaoxaban is to help prevent blood clots forming, but as my AF is now managed could I stop taking it? I get frequent gum bleeds despite excellent oral hygiene because of this blood thinner.
Your thoughts on this would be very appreciated, thank you.
What does your doctor(s) say? If you haven't spoken to them recently, ask for a medication review. We are not doctors here, nor do we know your complete medical history, so it would be unwise to advise one way or the other.
These are questions to discuss with your doctor or specialist. The medication are important to reduce your risks long term.If you are suffering bleeding gums it would be worth talking to the doctor or your dentist.
They may consider a change in dose or advise you on using a softer toothbrush or brushing your teeth in a way that reduces bleeding gums.
Rivaroxaban will not be the cause of bleeding gums. If there is an underlying condition that causes bleeding anywhere, then anticoagulants will make the bleeding worse.
Have you been to the dentist recently? Maybe worth getting checked.
Taking anticoagulants needs to be a balanced joint decision between you and a trusted cardiologist - if funds allow book private appointment today.
Bleeding gums is an issue as an entry door for infection to travel to the heart. All AFers are advised to raise their game when it comes to dental hygiene. I am pretty sure that was a contributory element to my AF starting.
I have been told by the consultant that I am Rivaroxaban now for life, I have my pacemaker and AF could come on at any time so I must keep taking it.
Thank you for the replies to my post. I have spoken to my GP and being advised to keep taking the Rivaoxaban and I have an appointment with my dentist.
I have hygienist appointments every 3 months rather than every 6 months to monitor oral health, particularly as I'm on Diltiazem which causes hyperplasia. More important now as I also have a valve issue.
Only just saw your post - agree with BobD, I don’t see why you’d want to put yourself at risk of a stroke - big risk with potentially devastating results
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