Warfarin for af

[Sheilaheartbeat]

My 78 year old mother has lived with AF for around 8years and has so far managed without medication. Her episodes are becoming more frequent and longer lasting, to the point where she will have to just sit quietly for days on end to keep it in check. Doctor has recommended warfarin but she is dead set against any drugs that may have side affects. Does anyone have any thoughts on taking warfarin and it’s possible side affects?

[IanMK]

She should probably be on an anticoagulant, at least, because of her increased stroke risk. There are newer and (arguably better) alternatives to Warfarin. Most medications have potential side-effects and different medications affect people differently. It can take several months of trial and error to get a regime that works for an individual but it sounds to me as though it would definitely be worth the effort for your mother. I’d strongly recommend she ask her GP to be referred to a local cardiology unit where they should have a cardiac nurse who can work with her to find the best medications for her situation. I wish her well.

Do you know that there is another forum on HealthUnlocked dedicated to AF? Look for the AF Association forum.

[Sheilaheartbeat in reply to IanMK]

Thankyou, I will pass all that on😊

[Ernest76]

Try eliminating caffeine (drink decaffeinated tea and coffee ) and alcohol. 78 is young nowadays