Atrial fibrillation: Taking anticoagulants safely
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Atrial fibrillation: Taking anticoagulants safely
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Why are anticoagulants used for atrial fibrillation?
Anticoagulants are used to treat atrial fibrillation because irregularly beating heart chambers cause blood to pool. Pooled blood is more likely to develop blood clots, which can travel from the heart to the brain and cause a stroke. Anticoagulants help prevent the blood clots from forming and reduce the risk of stroke caused by atrial fibrillation.
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People who have atrial fibrillation are at increased risk for stroke.
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Atrial fibrillation: Taking anticoagulants safely
Last Updated:
December 18, 2008- Author:
- Robin Parks, MS
- Medical Review:
-
Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine
John M. Miller, MD - Electrophysiology
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