Study links popular blood thinner to heightened risk of bleeding issues

Over 50 million individuals in the U.S. are on blood thinners.  Precisely 55% of these users express concerns about experiencing life-threatening bleeding due to their medication.  While the potential for increased bleeding is a known side effect of blood thinners, it’s essential to weigh the pros and cons of these anticoagulant medications.

A recent research article from the University of Michigan, featured in the American Society of Hematology’s publication, underscores the critical role of patient education regarding the use and implications of blood thinners.

Recent research shapes our understanding of anticoagulant risks

Many are unaware that even with their profound medical knowledge, physicians can sometimes be swayed by factors beyond clinical expertise.  Elements such as personal judgments, financial motivations, and inherent biases can subtly influence their treatment decisions, potentially shaping their choices in prescription medications, including anticoagulants.

Illustrating this concern is a recent study that sheds light on the heightened risk associated with Xarelto (rivaroxaban) in terms of severe bleeding incidents when compared to its counterparts, warfarin and Eliquis (apixaban).  Given the implications of such research, it begs the question: shouldn’t patients be proactive in seeking and understanding the treatments they are prescribed?

Make an educated decision when taking a blood thinner

The University of Michigan researchers found that in a year-long observation of 100 patients, rivaroxaban would lead to approximately 40 bleeding incidents, whereas warfarin would result in about 25.  While apixaban and warfarin had comparable numbers of bleeding episodes, warfarin was linked to more severe bleeding.  It is worth noting the study was limited to patients suffering from atrial fibrillation and/or blood clots.

The study is considered a trailblazer as it is the first to analyze the amount of bleeding through a comparative analysis of Xarelto and Eliquis.  The results of the study will likely be confirmed or refuted by follow-up randomized clinical trials.

Nature’s solutions to maintaining a healthy blood flow

Rather than blindly following medical advice, patients are urged to approach their health decisions with thoughtful consideration.  While we are not suggesting that you simply disregard a doctor’s recommendations, it’s empowering to recognize that nature offers complementary avenues for well-being.  Various spices and herbs have been celebrated for their innate ability to support and optimize blood circulation.

A notable example is cayenne pepper, a favorite among athletes and wellness aficionados seeking to boost circulation.  The potency of cayenne pepper can be attributed to its active ingredient, capsaicin.  Additionally, the pepper contains capsicum, revered for its positive impact on nerve-related ailments.  Although cayenne pepper may evoke a brief warming sensation, this fleeting warmth is frequently perceived as beneficial.

Moving beyond cayenne pepper, staples like cinnamon, garlic, and ginger have also earned accolades for their circulatory-enhancing properties.  Cinnamon’s effectiveness is credited to compounds such as cinnamaldehyde, cinnamic acid, and cinnamate, which not only promote circulation but also aid in blood pressure management.

Garlic, packed with beneficial sulfur compounds, facilitates unobstructed blood flow.  Concurrently, ginger’s array of bioactive constituents, encompassing terpenes and phenolic compounds, serve as guardians against arterial obstructions.  Furthermore, ginger is renowned for its blood-cleansing attributes.  And, don’t forget to eat some shitake mushrooms – on a regular basis – to improve the quality of your blood circulation.