AFIB, also known as Atrial Fibrillation, refers to an irregular (almost fluttering) heart rate. The heart usually functions through the sending of multiple electrical impulses: the atria and the ventricles send and receive impulses. In a heart that is beating irregularly, though, this results in a chaotic and unusual carrying out of the heart’s functions.
AFIB Treatments
There are three primary goals that all afib treatments aim to achieve: first, slow down the heart rate first; second, normalize the rhythm of the heart; and finally, prevent the possibility of a stroke.
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To achieve the first, doctors who are well-versed in afib treatments generally issue oral medicines, but they can also recommend IV transfusions. If the case is severe, IV transfusions are used. If it is not, however, oral medications may do.
When it comes to managing normal heart rhythms, again, careful attention is integral depending on the severity of the person’s case. Medication may or may not be prescribed. Similarly, if a person already has a medical condition that may increase the chances of a stroke, especially AFIB, blood-thinning medications like , , or aspirin are used.
You must take your medication as prescribed. Do not skip a dose or take a double dose if you miss a day. If you miss a dose, write it down and take this information with you to your next appointment. If you miss several doses, call your doctor for instructions. For instance, a daily pill box may help you keep track of your medications.
Your dose will be based on blood tests at regular intervals (your physician will tell you the schedule). Furthermore, the dose of the medicine you take may change based on this blood test. In short, regulating the dose of your blood thinner is like trying to balance a scale: the correct amount of medication needed to prevent clotting versus the risk of increased bleeding. Hence, proper dosing and taking your medication properly are both very important.
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Instructions for Taking Your Blood Thinners
– You can take blood thinners with other medications.
– Keep a consistent diet. Do not suddenly increase or decrease foods rich in Vitamin K.
– Be careful with objects that are sharp (such as knives and scissors).
– If you partake in a high-risk sport, be extra cautious.
– Always wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace.
– Wear shoes with nonskid soles (to prevent falling).
– If you do fall, go in to see the doctor or to the emergency room (You may not see bleeding under the skin).
– If you like to garden, wear protective gloves.
– Do not change your dose based on what a friend or relative takes. Each person’s dose of blood thinners is different.
– Do not binge drink. In fact, it is a good idea not to drink alcohol while on a blood thinner. However, if you must have a drink, limit yourself to 2 drinks maximum in a 24-hour period.
It is irrevocably crucial that you take your medications correctly and as instructed. Taken properly, afib treatments may help prevent heart attacks or strokes. Conversely, taken incorrectly, they may cause severe bleeding (and even death).
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