Thinning Blood and Coumadin

I was recently hospitalized because my blood was dangerously thin. I was taking Coumadin as prescribed by my doctor. I would appreciate any information and also want to know if Bufferin or aspirin do thin the blood. Coumadin (trade name warfarin) “thins” the blood by interfering with its normal clotting processes. This action is important ... More

Question (and Answer) About Extra Heartbeats

By: Dr. Zipes

Q: I am an 83-year-old great-grandmother and was diagnosed with benign premature ventricular contractions 40 years ago. I’ve been asymptomatic all these years. My question is this: Have you encountered this particular arrhythmia in your study of electrophysiology? A: Leading cardiologist Dr. Douglas Zipes replies: Premature ventricular contractions are extra heartbeats coming from the bottom ... More

Blood Pressure Monitors Come Home

By: Cory SerVaas, M.D.

As an indicator of overall cardiovascular health, your blood pressure reading may be second to none. And research continues to affirm that the best place to measure it may be in your own home. Longtime Medical Mailbox readers know that it is normal for blood pressure to fluctuate throughout the day. We encourage regular use ... More