Blood Thinner

Name: Hola Health
Address: Australia
Telephone: +611300014652
Price range: $

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.

This guide does not replace professional care. In emergencies, call 000 or visit a hospital immediately.

About Blood Thinners

Blood thinners are medicines that are used to reduce the risk of blood clots. This helps in preventing blockages in veins and arteries which can lead to serious health conditions such as heart attacks, strokes and other conditions. They do not thin out the blood despite their name but slow down the formation of clots or prevent them from getting larger if they already exist. There are two main types of blood thinners such as Anticoagulants prevent blood clot formation and Antiplatelets prevent blood platelets from sticking together. Get medical advice from a registered GP online about blood thinners or any symptom you are concerned about.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ammar AL-ANI, MBChB, CCBST, AMC

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When to consult a doctor for blood thinners?

You should consider speaking with a doctor if you have a medical history of blood clots or a risk of forming blood clots. They may provide advice for individuals with conditions like atrial fibrillation, which can cause irregular heartbeats that raise clotting risk. Here are some conditions that lead to doctors prescribing blood thinners:

History of stroke or heart attack: To lower risk and prevent future incidents.
Immobility: Prolonged immobility (like long travel or bed rest) can increase clotting risk.
Clotting disorders: Conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism may require blood thinners.
Frequent symptoms: Experiencing leg pain, swelling, chest pain, or unexplained breathlessness.
Pre-existing Conditions: Such as certain cancers, obesity, or vascular conditions.

Please note: For severe symptoms, dial 000 or visit the nearest hospital.

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.

How do I take blood thinners safely?

Taking blood thinners safely involves following your doctor’s guidance closely and being mindful of certain precautions. Always take the prescribed dose at the same time each day, and never skip or double up on doses. Avoid activities that could lead to cuts or bruising and use a soft toothbrush and electric razor to prevent minor injuries. Regularly check in with your doctor to monitor blood levels and adjust dosages as needed. Be sure to inform all healthcare providers, including dentists, that you are on blood thinners, as certain procedures or medications may interact with them.

How does telehealth for blood thinners work?

If you have a risk or history of blood clots, or heart issues or are recovering from an orthopaedic surgery, an online doctor will review your situation and provide treatment options. The online doctor might also issue a blood test referral if further testing is needed.

Can an online doctor help with my need for blood thinners if the GP near me is not available?

Yes, an online doctor can help you with diagnosing the situation and treatment or managing options.

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.

How can we help?

We provide a fast and convenient way for you to see a doctor from the comfort of your own home, or on the go with your phone or any smart device. Using our secure telehealth platform, you can have a video call with a registered health practitioner or a doctor on-demand in 15 minutes or less. We’re open every day, 24 hours a day – including public holidays – because we know illness and injury can happen anytime, day or night, and need immediate medical attention.

Much like an in-person GP clinic, our telehealth doctor will conduct a comprehensive assessment, including:

pre-existing conditions, family history and lifestyle.
preferred treatment options and how to access them.
individualised advice to manage your condition.
referrals or scripts for various conditions (if required) at the discretion of the doctor.

Talk to a doctor today

Telehealth helps you connect with an AHPRA-licensed online doctor within minutes. Hola Health provides 24/7 access to qualified medical practitioners in Australia within 15 minutes for:

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