What Do Persistent Dizziness While On Warfarin Indicate?

Posted on Fri, 21 Oct 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Fri, 21 Oct 2016 Answered on

Thu, 10 Nov 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : I had been taking Warfarin for several years after a pulmonary embolism. About 6 months ago my physician switched me to Eliquis. While not having to have monthly blood checks is nice, I find the slight light headiness has become ongoing constant dizziness which is difficult to manage (through constant mindfulness-- very hard to do.) At 77 yo, I worry about falls and hitting my head. What are your suggestions? I am ready to just titrate on my own. The choice between having a stroke or a bleeding brain adds to my anxiety. I am XXXXXXX Milligin.

Answered by Dr. Ronald Schubert (59 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Dizziness

Detailed Answer:
Thank you for contacting HCM with your health care concerns

I am sorry to hear that you have been having more episodes of dizziness since starting Eliquis. I think that you should switch back to coumadin due to the high risk of fall because of your dizziness with Eliquis. I would also recommend that you have your blood work done because you may be anemic as a result of the Eliquis and if that is the case then you may need iron supplements or even blood transfusion. I believe you need to see your medical provider soon so you can resolve the dizziness issue because like you I am afraid of you falling and having significant injuries from a fall.

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar