|
 |
|
Ladd, William
Houma, LA
Cardiologist - Dr. William Ladd is originally from Midland, Texas, and has been in Louisiana since 1971. He received a B.S. in Biology...
MORE >> |
|
|
|
 |
|
|
your guide to:
Blood Thinners
 what is a blood thinner?
Blood thinners are a type of medication that prevent clots from forming in your blood. Blood clots can stick to vessel walls or move around the body and cause serious problems.
It is important that your healthcare provider has your detailed medical history in order to determine if you are a candidate for this medication.
Warfarin, Coumadin and Jantoven are all blood thinners. These are just different names for the same type of medication.
why do I need a blood thinner?
There are many reasons why you may need a blood thinner. Severe blockages, lack of movement, heart arrhythmias and mechanical devices in the body are some of the things that could cause blood clots. If you have any of these risk factors, or if you already have a blood clot, your doctor will determine if you could benefit from a blood thinner.
why does my blood level have to be monitored so closely?
While blood thinners are a commonly used medication, too much can be harmful and too little can be ineffective. In order to monitor the levels of blood thinner in your body, a blood test must be taken monthly (perhaps more often if deemed necessary by your healthcare professional). Diet and other medications can also affect these levels, so they must also be closely monitored.
Blood thinners can have different names and come in several strengths. It is extremely important to know which blood thinner you are taking (warfarin, Coumadin, or Jantoven) and the exact strength of your medication. These are important facts that you will need to know when communicating with our office in order to regulate your blood thinner.
It is recommended that you take your blood thinner at 4 p.m. every day to keep the level consistent.
what type of blood test will I need to take?
The test is usually a finger prick and the results are known immediately. The test measures two levels. The first level is the blood clotting time or the prothrombin time (PT). Another number recorded is the International Normalized Ratio (INR) which is a consistent method that is used all over the world for recording levels. Together these numbers are called your PT/INR.
It is important to become familiar with your specific goal INR. Together, we should try to keep this number within a certain range.
what do I need to know about my diet and other medications?
Vitamin K was provided by nature to help clot the blood and stop excessive bleeding. When doctors wish to prevent blood clots, it is necessary to partially reverse this natural defense mechanism. Therefore, in order for your blood thinner to work properly, you must keep your intake of vitamin K consistent. Each time you visit CIS to have your blood checked, it’s important to let us know if you have eaten more foods containing vitamin K than normal.
Antibiotics, aspirin and aspirin products have the opposite effect. They can increase the effect of the blood thinners, which could cause bleeding.
Be particularly cautious with alcohol consumption. Since its effects on your INR level can be highly unpredictable, it should be consumed sparingly. You will be given a list of items that you must monitor use and consumption of while on blood thinners.
Different medications can have similar effects to those described above. Some can thin your blood and some can thicken it. For this reason, it is important that all of your physicians and family members know that you are on blood thinners. Always notify us of any medications that other doctors prescribe or discontinue so we can regulate your PT level accordingly. Examples would be antibiotics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, herbs (including garlic) and over-the-counter medications, including topical analgesics.
do I need to take any special precautions?
Absolutely. Don’t use a regular razor blade to shave anymore. Switch to an electric razor if possible. Use a soft toothbrush that isn’t as likely to damage your gums. Always wear shoes to prevent cuts on your feet, and have someone else carefully trim your nails. Don’t trim corns and calluses on your own. Protect yourself against falls.
You may wish to purchase a medical alert bracelet to let others know that you are on blood thinners in case of emergency.
Always check your prescription when having it filled. Be sure that the pharmacist gives you the same type of blood thinner each time, unless your doctor specifies a different one.
If you forget a dose of blood thinner, wait until the next scheduled dose to get back on schedule. Don’t double your medication.
Notify your dentist and other physicians that you are on a blood thinner before scheduling any procedure— even before having a routine dental cleaning.
what side effects should I report to my doctor?
You should report nosebleeds, blood in urine or stool, blood with coughing or vomiting, bruises that become larger, heavier than normal periods, any abnormal bleeding, and bleeding that doesn’t stop within 10 minutes.
You should also report if you have a hard fall, hit your head, have chest pain, head pain or pressure, shortness of breath, dizziness, weakness or any feeling that is unusual. You should also tell your physician if you have diarrhea, infection or fever. Remember, it is always better to be safe than sorry. Depending upon the circumstances, we may have you come to the office to have your PT checked.
Please note that this Web site cannot replace regular discussions with your doctor or healthcare professional.
|
|
