Anticoagulation for Chronic Atrial Fibrillation

Article Abstract:

Not all patients with atrial fibrillation should receive anticoagulants. Atrial fibrillation is an extremely rapid heart beat that affects the upper part of the heart. It is a risk factor for stroke because the rapidly beating heart can throw off blood clots. Anticoagulants can prevent the formation of blood clots. People with atrial fibrillation and valve disease should receive anticoagulants. Other patients who should receive anticoagulants are those with a history of transient ischemic attack or stroke, hypertension, diabetes, or age older than 75 years. Most of these patients should be treated with warfarin whereas those without these risk factors can take aspirin.

Usage, Anticoagulants (Medicine), Anticoagulants

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Update in general internal medicine

Article Abstract:

Cancer screening continues to be controversial, especially for prostate and colorectal cancer. Although HIV infection is still not curable, combination therapy can suppress virus levels and prolong life. Homocysteine levels have been linked to cardiovascular disease. Estrogen is the most effective drug to reduce osteoporosis and can lower mortality rates in women with risk factors for heart disease. Other advances include progress in understanding venous thromboembolic disease, stroke, asthma, hypertension, Alzheimer's disease and substance abuse.

Research, Analysis, Medical screening, Health screening, Thromboembolism, Internal medicine

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Stroke prevention in atrial fibrillation

Article Abstract:

Doctors should consider prescribing the anticoagulant drug warfarin for all their patients who have a heart arrhythmia called atrial fibrillation to lower their risk of stroke. Researchers participating in the Framingham Study have created a health risk assessment method doctors can use to determine which patients will benefit the most from warfarin treatment. The dosage should be adjusted to maintain an international normalized ratio (INR) between 2 and 3 to minimize the risk of bleeding.

Editorial, Evaluation, Drug therapy, Dosage and administration, Warfarin

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