Anticoagulants are medications used to prevent blood clots from forming in the body. They are used to treat and prevent a wide range of medical conditions, including atrial fibrillation (AF).
What is Atrial Fibrillation (AF)?
Atrial fibrillation is an irregular heart rhythm that affects the upper chambers of the heart (the atria). It is a type of arrhythmia, or abnormal heart rhythm. It can cause palpitations, shortness of breath, chest pain, and fatigue. AF increases the risk of stroke, heart failure, and other heart-related complications.
When Should Anticoagulants be Used in AF?
Anticoagulants are recommended for most people with AF. They can reduce the risk of stroke by up to 64%. They may also reduce other risks associated with AF, such as blood clots, heart failure, and death.
Anticoagulants are used for people who are at high risk of stroke. This includes people who have had a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) in the past, and people who have certain risk factors, such as advanced age, diabetes, high blood pressure, and a history of heart failure.
Types of Anticoagulants
There are two types of anticoagulants used to treat AF: warfarin and non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs). Warfarin is a medication that has been used to treat and prevent blood clots for more than 50 years. NOACs are a newer class of anticoagulants. They are easier to use than warfarin and have fewer side effects.
Conclusion
Anticoagulants are used to prevent blood clots in people with atrial fibrillation. They can reduce the risk of stroke and other complications associated with AF. Warfarin and NOACs are the two types of anticoagulants used to treat AF. People at high risk of stroke should talk to their doctor about their risk and whether anticoagulant therapy is right for them.