Warfarin Post Stroke

Much can be done to prevent the risk of having a stroke.  Warfarin is a drug which thins the blood and is very effective at reducing clots, which are a common cause of stroke, especially in patients with irregularity of the heart, as is present in your case.

WHAT ARE THE SIDE EFFECTS OF WARFARIN?
Unfortunately the treatment can cause serious side effects including bleeding from the:

• stomach
•  bowel
• bladder
•  and even brain, with serious consequences.
  

Side effects are more likely to occur in patients who have had previous bleeding problems or who take certain medications, such as NSAID’s/Steroids or excess alcohol.  Patient who fall are also at higher risk of serious bruising and bleeding.

To try and reduce the risk of serious side effects it is important that:

1. Patients attend the hospital or their general practitioner for regular blood tests
2. Change the dose of their Warfarin, depending on the results of these blood tests. 
3. It is often helpful to have a family member/carer to help with this monitoring process.
   

On balance we feel the benefits of Warfarin outweigh the risks in your case. However, we will be happy to further discuss any issues, which you or your family/carer may have, prior to your deciding if you wish to commence treatment.