How to Take Blood Thinners

A blood thinner was prescribed to you. You must take it properly. Failure to do so could result in another blood clot or pulmonary embolism or even a severe bleed. So follow these simple steps to take your blood thinners properly.

Instructions

1. Take the medication at the same time every day. Do not skip a dose or take a double dose. (If you miss a dose - write it down and take this information with you to the doctor at your next appointment. If you miss several doses call you doctor for instructions). An organized pillbox may help you keep track of your medications.

   Your dose will be based on blood tests at regular intervals (your physician will tell you the schedule). The dose of the medicine you take may change based on this blood test. Regulating the dose of your blood thinner is like trying to balance a scale. The correct amount of medication needed to prevent clotting versus the risk of increased bleeding. This is why proper dosing (and taking your medication properly) is so important.

2. Eat a consistent diet. Do not suddenly increase or decrease foods rich in Vitamin K.

3. Purchase and wear a medical alert bracelet or necklace. This alone could save your life in case of accident.

4. Wear protective gloves when gardening. This will keep you protective from those sharp thorns.

5. Purchase and wear shoes with non-skid soles. (This may help prevent falling).

Tips & Warnings

• Your health care provider prescribed this medication for a very important reason. It is very important that you take it correctly. Taken correctly it may help prevent heart attack or stroke. Taken incorrectly it may cause severe bleeding (and even death).

Resources

• more articles by Lu Young
• Boston Terrier Information and Resouces
• an amusing website
• Diabetes Information and Resources