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← Return to Economizing on Blood Thinners
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@predictable
When I was diagnosed with A-Fib by the Physician Assistant for my GP, the 1st drug prescribed was Warfarin ... within a week or 2 after starting it I felt (& was acting) like "A Space Cadet"! My next appt. was with my GP (Internist), I told him I'd like to either Go Off or have this Med. changed. His answer was, "Just Keep taking it, sooner or later the side effects will go away." I asked him why I wasn't seeing a Cardiologist, his answer, "If you want to see one, I'll refer you, but we can take care of this, you really don't need to see a Cardiologist!" Reluctantly he referred me to one, but she couldn't change a drug another Dr. had prescribed ... I asked her, "WHAT Do I Have to do to get off this Poison?" She advised, 'leave the practice you're using, I'll refer you to a new GP, then I can change your prescription.
Turns out I'm Much Happier with the new GP, & the Cardiologist can now prescribe appropriate Meds for A-Fib. I'm one of the 'Lucky Ones', from the beginning I'm totally unaware that I have A-Fib. I've Never had any noticeable symptoms ... Lots of problems with the Drugs prescribed, though!
Recently my Cardiologist referred me to an Electro-cardiologist, who performed a TEE & Electric Cardio Version ... (shocked my heart back into a more normal heartbeat). In addition he prescribed a daily medication. I still wonder just how serious my A-Fib was ... From Day 1 (4-1/2 years ago when 1st diagnosed) I never feel anything more than some fatigue from time to time. Reading side-effects of some of the drugs I've been given Fatigue can be one of the "side effects"! So ... I Have to wonder just how "life threatening" is my A-Fib really is!
Replies to "@predictable When I was diagnosed with A-Fib by the Physician Assistant for my GP, the 1st..."
@margaretfriel I had ablation 8 yrs ago and now am pretty much AF free although in 2024 I was experiencing a lot of ectopic beats-PVC and PACs which were producing AF symptoms like fatigue and shortness of breath. After adjusting my thyroid hormone to a lower dosage arrhythmias ceased. Some things I’ve learned, read or been told over the years-Ablation is the best treatment. Meds have side effects and will become less effective with time. It’s best to get ablation sooner as AF gets worse with time.
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@margaretfriel, I recognize the feelings of doubt you have dealt with effectively. I have had them too, primarily because my A-Fib has been asymptomatic from almost its diagnosis. I was on Warfarin for years but my surgeons switched me to Eliquis as I approached my colectomy surgery a little over two years ago. It's easier to start and stop around major surgery. One difference is the high cost of Eliquis (now $143 for a 90-day supply). The other difference is less need for regular lab tests to make sure its anticlotting level remains in effect. My cardiologist is content with my status and endurance, partly because a specialist in these "blood thinners" is on my medical team, so I can ask my cardiologist for less time and attention. He's pleased to see that a 50-year hypertensive patient (me) has found a way to normal blood pressure every day since the first week of 2026. I call it a miracle, but I know it results from great medical advice and attention from my medical team. Martin