Talk to your doctor about how to lower your risk of stroke if you have atrial fibrillation. You may be able to take medication or make lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking or changing your diet, that can reduce your chances of stroke. Although warfarin offers the best protection against stroke, it can also cause serious bleeding and other problems. Some people cannot take warfarin because they have ulcers, a high risk of falling, or other conditions that increase the risk of serious bleeding. If you have a moderate to high risk of stroke but cannot take warfarin, your doctor will probably have you take another medication.

For more information, see the topic Atrial Fibrillation.