Activities with Warfarin

[Rob1112222]

Hello, I'm fairly new to taking Warfarin and, as I'll be taking it lifelong for my metal aortic valve, I was just wondered what activities other people do while taking it. I guess I'm hoping to find some reassurance that things will be okay. I'm hoping to carry on Rock Climbing (which goes against my surgeon's advice). And, I hope to get back to the gym, swimming, mountaineering, skiing and mountain biking. Before my surgery I was thinking about getting into BJJ and still really want to but have been told that contact sports are out of the question.

What activities do you do? Does anyone do any kind of martial arts like BJJ for example?

Many thanks

Rob

[Shar28]

Hi Rob, my husband has a mechanical aortic valve and is on Warfarin too. He’s in his 50s and it was fitted about 18 months ago now. He goes to the gym, swims, rides bicycles and motorbikes on the road and does some off-road motorcycling - but he has moderated the off -road riding. He goes to an Enduro site and in the countryside goes with friends and stays close to civilisation rather than venture further into the sticks where mobile signal is non-existent and help would be a long time in coming. He was a keen water skier but hasn’t done any since being diagnosed with Dilated Cardiomyopathy although he hasn’t ruled it out despite the warfarin and possibility of coming off and hitting the water hard. He’s also sailed, snow skied and has done some kick-boxing.

The point made to my husband is that external bleeding can be seen but internal bleeding can’t and if it’s to the head it can cause a lot if damage to the brain very quickly. And obviously nobody wants to end up brain damaged.

In other words, there’s lots you can do, but it’s wise to be extra sensible. Not just for your own sake, but for those people who love and care about you, the people who would to come to your aid and of course for the NHS.

Sorry if that sounds preachy or officious, it’s not meant like that.

I’m sure you’ll find your own path in time. Hope you have fun with whatever sports you choose, with just minor bumps and bruises along the way!

All the best.

[Fitandfearless]

Hi Rob - I've been on warfarin for 38 years for the same reason as you, I used to ski but I've given that up, it's just too risky in terms of possible fall and bleeding into a joint or head! I cycle but always with someone in case I fall off and need help - try telling a paramedic you're on warfarin when you're unconscious....it's not easy. I have taken up weights at the gym with a personal trainer and it's fantastic - would recommend to anyone - just try to avoid walking into any equipment! The only major bleed I had was when I used weights far too high for my ability and I'd failed to warm up properly first. Had a burst psoas muscle and nearly had to have my leg amputated. So take it easy and maybe work out with a partner or get a PT to ensure you do everything properly. Unfortunately warfarin does need to be taken seriously but there's still plenty you can do. Just no contact sports and definitely no horse-riding!!