If your physician finds you at risk for stroke, he may prescribe medications
as treatment. A daily low-dose aspirin is generally prescribed for those at
risk, especially if you are an older adult. Also, a blood thinner may be
prescribed. Blood thinners, or anticoagulants, help prevent blood clots from
forming. They do not dissolve blood clots already present, however. Blood clots
not only cause strokes but heart attacks as well.
If a blood thinner is
prescribed for you, it is imperative that you have blood tests performed
frequently. These can range from weekly to monthly. They determine how quickly
your blood clots and the dosage of your medication may be changed to affect the
proper clot rate. If you are taking these medications, be sure to keep your
doctor aware of any illnesses, diet changes, taking herbal supplements, or
medication changes, both prescription and over-the-counter drugs.
Blood
thinners come in different brands, but the proper name for a blood thinner is
warfarin. A common brand of warfarin is Coumadin. Some foods, especially those
high in vitamin K may change the effectiveness of warfarin. Also, alcohol
consumption is discouraged while taking this drug. It is imperative you avoid
situations or activities where you may be injured as warfarin will keep your
blood from clotting quickly due to injuries. Also, you’ll need to consult your
doctor before any dental or surgical procedure as he may want you to
discontinue use for a few days prior to your procedure.
If taking warfarin, you should call your doctor if you experience:
Breathing difficulties
Dizziness, fever, or headache
Heavy menstrual bleeding, if
unusual for you
Feeling more tired than usual
Paleness of your skin
Bruising for unknown reasons
Changes in appearance/texture
of your stools
Pain or swelling for unknown
reasons
Vomiting
Hard blow to the head
Bleeding that has not stopped
after ten minutes of pressure.