Finding Freedom From Blood Thinners: The Watchman Device Offers Hope for AFib Patients
Stacy Joslin, co-owner of the What Knot Shoppe in Austinburg, Ohio, knows firsthand the challenges of living with atrial fibrillation (AFib). Diagnosed with the condition, she faced a daily struggle with blood thinners, medications designed to prevent dangerous blood clots.
“I couldn’t tell you how many bruises I had. I would barely get tapped and I would bruise. It was horrible. I mean, it looked like I’d been through a war some days. I’d just touch a piece of furniture,” Joslin shared, highlighting the constant risk of bleeding associated with blood thinners.
Joslin’s story is not unique. Millions of Americans live with AFib, a condition characterized by irregular heart rhythms. According to the American Heart Association, AFib affects approximately 6 million Americans, making it the leading cause of stroke in the U.S.Dr. steven Filby, a cardiologist, explains, “Atrial fibrillation, or AFib, represents sort of an electrical storm in the heart, and it can led to blood clots in the upper chamber. More than 90 percent of the time, they form in a little pouch called the left atrial appendage. You form a clot in the heart, the heart is pumping blood, that clot can get trafficked or passed up from the heart to the circulatory system, and moast often goes to the brain, and that’s why it causes so many strokes.”
Fortunately, a groundbreaking solution exists: the Watchman device.
[[1]] describes the Watchman as a tiny, basket-like device implanted in the heart’s left atrial appendage. Its purpose? To prevent blood clots from forming in this pouch and traveling to the brain, effectively reducing the risk of stroke.
Dr. Filby elaborates, “So what the Watchman device does is it blocks that pouch, and caps the mouth. So that blood clot can then not come into the heart circulation and therefore be pumped into the body and cause a stroke.”
the Watchman device offers a compelling choice to lifelong blood thinner medication,notably for patients who struggle with the risks,inconvenience,or compliance associated with daily medication.
[[2]] highlights the procedure’s minimally invasive nature, stating, “The Watchman procedure can reduce your risk of stroke if you have atrial fibrillation and cannot take blood thinners. …”
Patients typically undergo the procedure as an outpatient, returning home the same day.
university Hospitals, renowned for its expertise in the Watchman procedure, boasts a success rate exceeding 99 percent and performs among the highest volume of these procedures globally.
However, despite the proven benefits, many patients remain unaware of this life-changing option.
Dr. Filby emphasizes, “As of various reasons like cost, side effects, the inconvenience of taking them daily, or even noncompliance, because patients don’t want to be on medication daily for the rest of their lives, only about 50 percent of those who are prescribed blood thinners are actually taking them. Doctor Filby says those patients are the ones who are really at risk and should consider this procedure.”
for stacy joslin, the Watchman device provided a sense of relief and empowerment.
“The main thing is it’s going to stop any blood clots trying to get through. So that made me feel a lot better,” she shared.
Joslin encourages others facing similar challenges to explore the Watchman option.
“I encourage other patients with AFib to consider what I consider to be a life-changing procedure,” she concluded.
While the Watchman device offers a promising solution, it’s essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional to determine if it’s the right choice for you.
Understanding AFib and Stroke Risk:
AFib increases the risk of stroke considerably. Blood clots forming in the heart, particularly in the left atrial appendage, can travel to the brain, blocking blood flow and causing a stroke.
Who Might Benefit From the Watchman Device?
Patients with AFib who:
Are unable to tolerate blood thinners due to bleeding risks or side effects.
Have difficulty adhering to daily medication regimens.
Are seeking a permanent solution to reduce stroke risk.
Critically important Considerations:
Consultation: Discuss your individual medical history, risk factors, and treatment options with your cardiologist.
Eligibility: Not all AFib patients are suitable candidates for the Watchman device.
Procedure Details: Understand the procedure, recovery time, potential risks, and benefits.
* Lifestyle Modifications: continue healthy lifestyle habits, including regular exercise, a balanced diet, and stress management, to further reduce stroke risk.
Remember, proactive management of AFib is crucial. Don’t hesitate to seek expert medical advice and explore all available options to protect your heart health.
Asking the Right questions: A conversation About the watchman Device for AFib
Time.news Editor: welcome, Dr. Filby. thank you for joining us today. Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a serious condition affecting millions, and we’re seeing increasing interest in the Watchman device as a potential solution. can you tell us more about how it works and who might benefit from it?
Dr. Steven Filby: Of course. Atrial fibrillation disrupts the heart’s normal rhythm, creating an electrical storm that can lead to blood clots forming in the heart, especially in the left atrial appendage. These clots can travel to the brain, causing a stroke.
The Watchman device is a small, implanted device placed in the heart’s left atrial appendage. It acts like a tiny umbrella, closing off this pouch and preventing blood clots from forming there in the first place.
Time.news editor: That sounds like a promising advancement. Who are the ideal candidates for the Watchman procedure?
Dr. Steven Filby: The Watchman is particularly beneficial for patients who:
Can’t tolerate blood thinners. Blood thinners are the standard treatment for AFib to prevent stroke, but they carry risks of bleeding, especially for those with a history of bleeds or certain medical conditions.
Struggle with medication adherence. Taking a blood thinner every day is crucial for effectiveness, but many patients find it inconvenient or forgetful. The Watchman offers a more permanent solution.
* Desire a stroke-risk reduction without lifelong medication. The Watchman can considerably reduce the risk of stroke without the need for ongoing blood thinner prescriptions.
Time.news editor: What’s crucial for patients to no about the procedure itself?
Dr. Steven Filby: The Watchman procedure is minimally invasive. It’s often done as an outpatient procedure, meaning patients can go home the same day.Recovery is typically quick and relatively comfortable.
Time.news Editor: Are there any risks associated with the Watchman device?
Dr. Steven Filby: Like any medical procedure, the Watchman has potential risks and complications. These can include bleeding, infection, or damage to the heart. It’s crucial for patients to discuss these risks with their cardiologist and make an informed decision based on their individual health profile.
Time.news Editor: Given the life-changing potential of the Watchman device, how come it’s not more widely known?
Dr. Steven Filby: That’s a great question. Sadly, many patients with AFib are unaware of this option. some might potentially be hesitant due to cost considerations or misconceptions about the procedure. It’s essential for healthcare providers to actively discuss the Watchman with eligible patients and ensure they understand the potential benefits and risks.
Time.news Editor: Do you have any final thoughts for our readers who might be living with AFib and contemplating their treatment options?
Dr. Steven Filby: Proactive management of AFib is paramount. Please don’t hesitate to talk to your cardiologist about your treatment plan. Be sure to ask about all available options, including the Watchman device. Making informed decisions about your health can empower you to live a longer, healthier life.