New Guidelines on Use of Blood Thinners During Surgery Published
People who have had a stroke often take blood thinners such as aspirin or warfarin to prevent another stroke. Blood thinners, or anticlotting drugs, are also used to prevent a first stroke in people with atrial fibrillation, an irregular or fast heartbeat. Blood thinners can prevent blood clots from forming that can cause strokes. However, these drugs also can increase the risk of bleeding. Increased bleeding is especially a concern when someone is having a procedure or operation.
