Blood-thinning medicines can reduce your risk of a stroke by helping to prevent blood clots.
What is blood-thinning medication?
There are several types of blood-thinning medication that work in different ways. You might also hear them referred to as ‘blood thinners.’ Despite the name, they do not make your blood thinner. But they do reduce the risk of clots forming in your blood.
Why do I need blood-thinning medication?
Clotting helps the body protect itself. When skin or a blood vessel is cut or damaged, a blood clot naturally forms at the site of the injury. This stops the bleeding and helps prevent infection. But if a blood clot forms inside a blood vessel or in the heart and the blood supply to the brain gets blocked, it can cause a stroke or a transient ischaemic attack (TIA or mini-stroke).
You will probably need to start taking blood-thinning medication if you have a stroke due to a clot in the brain (known as an ischaemic stroke) or a TIA. This is a long-term treatment to reduce your risk of having another stroke.
People with heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat) may be given blood-thinning medication to reduce their risk of a stroke.
This section can only give general information about blood-thinning medication. If you have any questions or need support with your health, medication or treatment, talk to a medical professional, such as a GP or pharmacist for individual advice.
Where to get support and information
Stroke Support Helpline
Our Stroke Support Helpline is here to support anyone who has had a stroke or TIA, as well as their family, friends and carers. Call us on 0303 3033 100, from a textphone 18001 0303 3033 100 or email helpline@stroke.org.uk.
Other sources of help and information
- Arrhythmia Alliance provides support for people with all types of heart arrhythmias. Helpline: 01789 867 501.
- Atrial Fibrillation Association is a charity that supports people with AF. Helpline: 01789 867 502.
- NHS UK has information on all aspects of health, including different types of blood-thinning medications.
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