New here

I see several newbies here including me. Pacemaker surgery 12/16/16. I have afib and some too long pauses - the reason for the ICD. I really don't know how this is working yet. I attributed some of my symptoms to my age, I am 87, when in reality it was the afib. I see my PP tomorrow so maybe she can answer some of my questions. My question here - is were you automatically prescribed a blood thinner (eliquis) following the implant? I have gained 5lbs. in three days and couldn't sleep last night. Felt like I couldn't breathe. Not taking anymore eliquis. So pleased to find this group.

2 Comments

Blood -thinners and Implants

by IAN MC - 2016-12-27 13:07:32

Hi Liberty    No, having a PM implant does NOT mean that you automatically  have to take blood-thinners such as Eliquis

But having afib does mean that you need take them . Otherwise your chances of having a stroke increase . In fact you are around 5 times more likely to have a stroke if you have afib . Taking Eliquis will reduce that risk.

 The risk increases  because afib can cause you to  get a reservoir of unpumped blood in one of the heart chambers and stagnant, unpumped blood is more likely to clot.

Was it your decision to stop the Eliquis or your doctor's ??

Hope you get all your questions answered tomorrow.

Ian

Eliquis

by Artist - 2016-12-27 17:58:15

In my opinion, Eliquis is one of the better anti-coagulation drugs.  It doesn't require the frequent blood tests that warfin does.  AFIB makes you 5 times more likely to have a stroke.  The rapid beating of your heart churns the blood and has the potential of creating blood clots which might travel to the brain and cause a stroke. I take Eliquis even though I resist taking any medications.  There is plenty of information on line about the types and probability of experiencing any side effects.  Living with AFIB is minor compared to the very serious, life changing effects that a stroke can cause. Your sleeplessness and weight gain are  more likely to be caused by things like your PM settings or other medications like beta blockers needing adjustments.  Anxiety could also be contributing to your sleeplessness.  I feel certain that your doctor will strongly advise you to continue to take Eliquis as prescribed and will examine other causes for they symptoms you describe. They will occasionally test the coagulation factor of your blood to make sure that it falls in a safe range.

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