Actionsets help people take an active role in managing a health condition.  Atrial fibrillation: Taking anticoagulants safely

Why? - Why the action is important? 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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  1. People who have atrial fibrillation are at increased risk for stroke.

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Continue to How? - Learn the steps involved in taking action. How do I take anticoagulants safely?
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Author: Robin Parks, MSLast Updated: January 18, 2007
Medical Review: Caroline S. Rhoads, MD - Internal Medicine
Laurence Epstein, MD - Cardiac Electrophysiologist

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