Deep vein thrombosis: Taking anticoagulants safely
How do I take anticoagulants safely?
People with a deep vein thrombosis use anticoagulants to slow down the clotting of their blood. Sometimes anticoagulants can cause blood to clot too slowly and bleeding can be difficult to stop. Consider the following safety tips when you are taking anticoagulants.
Medications
- Take the medication at the same time each day. Have a plan prepared if you miss a dose.
- Check with your doctor before using any other medications, including nonprescription medications that may contain aspirin. To help keep track of all of your medications, use a medication planner
(What is a PDF document?).
- Tell any new health professional you consult that you are taking anticoagulant medication.
Managing your increased bleeding risk
- Be on the alert for signs of unusual bleeding. Call your doctor immediately if signs of bleeding appear.
- Get regular blood tests to check your clotting time. When you are taking an anticoagulant, you will have blood drawn regularly so that your doctor can monitor the level of the anticoagulant in your blood. The test that measures how long it takes your blood to clot is called prothrombin time, or pro-time.
- Be aware of how some medications and diet affect anticoagulant medications. Tell your doctor about any new medications before you start them.
- Prevent accidents that may lead to excessive bleeding:
- Use precautions when you participate in activities with a risk of injury.
- Modify your environment to help prevent falls.
- Don't smoke. Smoking affects how the body uses medication and increases the blood's clotting effects.
Test Your Knowledge
Continue to
Where to go from here
Return to
| Author: | Robin Parks, MS | Last Updated: January 15, 2008 |
| Medical Review: | E. Gregory Thompson, MD - Internal Medicine Jeffrey J. Gilbertson, MD - Cardiovascular Surgery | |
 | ||
| |