Atrial Fibrillation (AF):
Affects more than two million Americans, and nearly 9% of those over the age of 65.
It is responsible for 80,000 strokes annually due to the blood clot formation in
the irregularly-beating upper heart chambers. AF increases an individual's risk of
stroke four to five times.
Deep Venous Thrombosis
(DVT) and Pulmonary Embolism (PE): Here, blood clots form in the deep veins
of the legs, often following an injury, serious illness with bedrest, or surgery.
May occur without clear predisposing factors. These blood clots can break free,
travel to the lungs, and cause an embolism. Both DVT and PE are common and serious
conditions.
Mechanical Heart Valves:
Patients who have undergone heart valve replacement will often be instructed to
take anticoagulants to prevent blood clot formation, especially if they have received
mechanical valves. Bioprosthetic valves (using pig or cow tissue) require anticoagulation
less frequently.
Cerebrovascular and
Peripheral Vascular Diseases: Patients who have suffered strokes or have
severe disease of the arteries of the legs or arms may be
prescribed anticoagulants to prevent recurrent events and improve blood flow.
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