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Blood Thinner
Blood thinners are medicines used to treat blood clots or prevent them from forming and are used in treating various heart or blood vessels conditions. Get medical advice from our Australian-registered doctors to discuss your condition in 15 minutes, 24/7.
About Blood Thinners
Medically reviewed by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC
Common uses and side effects of blood thinners
Blood thinners are used predominantly to prevent blood clots. These clots lead to a variety of medical issues such as:
- Atrial Fibrillation (Afib): To prevent clots formation as a result of irregular heartbeats.
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Used for clots in leg veins to prevent them from travelling to the lungs.
- Pulmonary Embolism (PE): Prevents or treats clots that reach the lungs.
- Stroke prevention: Especially in people with heart rhythm issues or certain heart valve conditions.
- After surgeries: For those who’ve had major surgeries, especially knee or hip replacements, to prevent clot formation.
Blood thinners, while essential for preventing clots, come with side effects that require careful monitoring. The most common side effect is an increased tendency to bleed, meaning cuts or injuries may bleed longer than usual, and bruising can occur from even minor bumps. Other side effects include nosebleeds, gum bleeding, or stomach discomfort. Some people may experience nausea, hair thinning, or mild skin rashes as well.
What symptoms should prompt me to seek medical attention while on blood thinners?
If you notice any unusual bruising or have bleeding that doesn’t stop, blood in your stool, severe headaches or coughing up blood, you should see a doctor immediately as they may signal internal bleeding or other complications. Other symptoms include unusual heavy menstrual bleeding for women, unexplained swelling and pain, vomiting and more.
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