Cardiologists are generally full of crap. I've been dealing with them for 11 years and had I not taken the initiative to research the medications they were trying to give me I would be dead right now. This is a conclusion I've reached after taking medication prescribed by one cardiologist or another and ended up in the ER with congestive heart failure or was given medications that conflicted and caused heavy uncontrollable bleeding after a surgery. This of course is not true of all cardiologists but enough for me to take pause and research any medications they suggest using. I will not tell you you can stop taking a blood thinner but do some research. If you are not in AFIB then why take one?
Drugs. com is a good source for just the facts info about any drug. The Mayo clinic is also a very reliable source. And last but not least a good pharmacist knows everything or knows where to find the information about any legal drug out there.
Why is that heart chamber there if it needs no blood. A watchman seems like a device invented by somebody wanting to make some easy money.
I came off blood thinners several years ago as they caused excessive bleeding, (nose bleeds, hemorrhoids bleeding, cuts won't stop bleeding....) I found out the reason is I eat foods that are natural anticoagulants such as vinegar, garlic, etc. etc. (check online for a complete list). I don't remember where online but it's easy to find.
In there defense, Cardiologists are in an era where medications are the solution they are taught in medical school. Anyway I guess this turned into a rant, but I feel better. I would just encourage you to take the initiative and do some of your own research and find your own workable solution to your issue. Remember the number 3 cause of death in the U.S, is PREVENTABLE medical mistakes made by medical professionals. Number 2 and 1 is Heart Disease and Cancer.