Answer/Reply:

I've been on comadin for 3 years. As long as he remembers the beer/salad ratio he should be fine. After he finds the right dose (which can take several months) he can fine tune it by eating the correct greens and watching alcohol intake. Correct greens like salads, spinach, and broccali lower your number. Alcohol speeds it up. Too much alcohol will find him short of breath. Too many greens and he will clot (a bad thing). The key is consistency. My INI is always in range. I really try to keep it at 2.5 so I know the big problem will never develop. As he gets better it also means less testing. I go every 6 weeks. My friend who likes to drink has to go every week. Good luck and. Don't worry as long as he follows a careful routine. Email me if I can help any further. I'm dricke@yahoo.com

61 year old Male

Posted: 2009-08-19 07:55:45

Answer/Reply:

I have a mechanical valve and take coumadin since 2005 and have never had a problem eith INR.
I was too young for a tissue valve and had no choice.
You just have to watch that you do not eat too many green leafy veggies, they make your INR go lower.
People make a bigger deal out of it than it is.

58 year old Male

Posted: 2009-08-20 15:43:12

Answer/Reply:

I have been taking Coumadin for 12 years for an inherited blood disorder that causes clotting. The side effects that I have experienced include bruising and getting cold easily. The bruising problem seems to be intermittent, I work in construction and have taken some pretty hard knocks, some caused some significant bruising but most do not. The cold thing can be inconvenient, I take a sweater with me everywhere even in the summer, but has been reported by others taking Coumadin.

59 year old Male

Posted: 2009-08-20 16:56:23

Answer/Reply:

I have been on Coumadin for over 14 years do to a blood clotting disorder, (APS) Antiphospholipid Syndrome. This was discovered shortly after giving birth to my older daughter, when I suffered a series of TIA's. After regulating my dosage to keep my INR between the 2.5 and 3.5 level things have gone very well. I went through a second pregnancy having Heprin shots twice a day throughout the entire pregnancy, but all went well. I know there are things we need to be cautious about, certain foods, cuts, clots, etc. But, considering the alternatives, I will gladly deal with the minor inconveniences that come along with taking Coumadin the rest of my life if I have to.

42 year old female

42 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-28 22:40:26

Answer/Reply:

I had a mechanical heart valve installed in December 2002. I am glad that I got the mechanical valve instead of a tissue valve, because I would not want to have to go through that operation and recovery again. I take a full dose aspirin and 7.5 MG of Warfarin one day and 8 MG the next. Your PT numbers have to be higher than people who do not have a mechanical valve. I have to be more careful of cuts, and have to stop taking the Warfarin 4 days before seeing the dentist. I also have to take a high doseage of antibiodics 1 hour before getting my teeth cleaned. The biggest thing that I noticed after starting taking the Warfarin is that my bodies thermostat doesn't work like it used to. I never had a problem getting cold before, but I just have to wear more clothes now, and I get hot a lot easier than I used to. You will have to stay on the Warfarin for the rest of your life, but it is much better than having the heart surgery again every 10 to 15 years.

67 year old Male

Posted: 2009-08-20 17:41:57

Answer/Reply:

I have been on coumadin for about 7 years now due to a blood clot in my leg. We found out that I have a Factor V Ladin disorder which increases chances of clots. I haven't really had any side affects from the coumadin. You need to watch your diet and stay somewhat consistent on it (but I still have some of the things that can effect your INR every once in a while, not close to my monthly check) and if you start or stop some medications they can effect it. Other than that, I stay pretty consistent with my INR levels.

42 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-21 08:55:07

Answer/Reply:

I got my mechanical aortic heart valve in 2005 at the age of 53. My cardiologist recommend the mechanical valve because I was "so young". I have been on warfarin (brand name Coumadin) ever since. For about 3 months, as I was adjusting to the med, I went to my cardiologists office about every week or two for an INR level and finally got regulated. It's been smooth sailing ever since.
My cardiologist helped me get a home INR monitor which I highly recommended. Now I can test weekly at home. Very rarely have I gone outside the recommended parametersof INR (2.5 to 3.5).
I have had no side effects except cold hand and feet sometimes. I rarely change my dosage but regulate my INR by adjusting my diet. Such as eating greens, high in Vitamin K, 3 times a week.

57 year old female

58 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-22 15:36:57

Answer/Reply:

Im a 50 yr old male that was on coumadin and warphin (spelling?) for 20 yrs and I havent had any side effects to my knowledge. The only thing is my legs got a little discoloration in the calf areas. The only bad thing is now my body has out used the coumidin and I have to me on Lovenox which is a shot in th belly for me twice a day for the rest of my life. If you price the Lovenox you could buy a real nice house on a island in the middle of no where in a cpl yrs time. I was on the coumadin at the rate of 8 1/2 4 days a week and 7 1/2 3 the other days. Lots of pros and cons with it all. He will have to watch what kind of greens veggies he eats or dont eat them at all. I was told yo could have them but eat the same amopunt every day every time you had them. Not sure any of this helps just my side of the story. Good Luck Jay in Missouri

50 year old Male

Posted: 2009-08-27 16:26:33

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

The side effect that you are describing, petechiae, is considered a minor bleeding complication of Coumadin. This blood will not bleed out of your pores. However, if you notice that it worsens suddenly, you should contact your doctor immediately. The most important issue to reduce the risk of serious side effect while taking Coumadin is to have your blood work done regularly, so your doctor can monitor your PT and INR (lab values) to make sure you are on an appropriate dose of Coumadin.

Posted: 2009-08-08 15:05:49

Answer/Reply:

I am 61 and have been on coumadin for 7 years. I am also Diabetic with an insulin pump. Have lost some hair but that is lind of expected at my age in our family. I had 2 strokes 3 months apart and then put me on coumadin for that. I also have V-Liden factor in my genes so blood was too thick before the coumadin. Still have to do an INR every month but stays close to 2.5 most of the time.

62 year old Male

Posted: 2009-08-25 23:31:57

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Blood in your urine is a concerning side effect. It could be a sign that your warfarin dose is too high. You should contact your physician as soon as possible to determine its cause and receive the appropriate treatment.

Posted: 2009-07-28 22:40:14

Answer/Reply:

I would ask your doctor to check your PT/INR times. It may be that the dose of warfarin needs to be adjusted to avoid the bleeding. Of course, the other question is WHY you are bleeding in the first place. The warfaing may not be the cause, but is just allowing the bleeding to happen because your clotting time is slowed down by hte drug.

66 yr. old woman

67 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-16 21:47:35

Answer/Reply:

If you noticed blood in your urine, you should go to your dr and follow-up with a urologist. There are other things that may be causing you to bleed. I have been on coumadin/warfarin therapy since 2000 and what you say seems like all together something else.

63 year old Male

Posted: 2009-08-17 13:53:08

Answer/Reply:

it is possible that your blood is too thin. My nose would bleed after I started the drug. been on it for 3 yrs now and have learned to control what I eat. here is a good site to see what is good to eat and what is high in vit. k

www.ptinr.com

check it out. helped me plan menus and meals for me and my family till I got use to things. Been on the drug since Dec. 06.

47 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-17 18:32:11

Answer/Reply:

Anytime you see blood in your urine or have excessive bruising, you need to see your doctor and get your INR/protime checked and your medication adjusted. Also have you ever had a kidney stone?? sometimes the stone can scratch the urethra and cause bleeding.

48 year old Male

Posted: 2009-08-18 13:19:45

Answer/Reply:

My husband had blood in his urine a few months ago. He has been on warfarin for several years. His doctor is aware of this and if it shows up again, he will be scoped to see where the blood is coming from. It could just be a simple strain that caused the blood. It has not happened since. Warfarin sets you up for easy bruising and bleeding.

73 year old female

88 year old Male

Posted: 2009-08-18 23:56:59

Answer/Reply:

Blood in urine is something that you need to immediately address with your Dr. It is a sign of internal bleeding. Your dose of warfarin may be too high. When was the last time your PT/INR was checked? Also, if you take pain killers such as aspirin or ibuprofen the risk of a bleed increases. You may need to change doses or switch to a different anticoagulant such as Lovenox.

32 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-20 15:10:53

Answer/Reply:

This drug can be very dangerous and requires close monitoring. I would hope that you have talked to they physician that placed you on warfarin If you have not do so NOW. Wafarin can cause bleeding if the dosage is too high with a resultant increase in your INR. INRs about 4 can be dangerous and can lead to fatal bleeding. If you are going to be on this medication for the rest of your life, I recommend you consider home monitoring. Check with your insurance company will cover the cost of a monitor and the test strips.

56 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-22 07:30:40

Answer/Reply:

This info came from the www.mayoclinic.com website under warfarin:
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/drug-information/DR602425/DSECTION=precautions-

This medicine may increase your chance of bleeding. Check with your doctor right away if you notice any unusual bleeding or bruising; black, tarry stools; blood in the urine or stools; or pinpoint red spots on your skin. Avoid picking your nose. If you need to blow your nose, blow it gently.

I strongly advice you to follow this instructions and check with your doctor asap. This could be serious.

62 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-23 22:37:44

Answer/Reply:

what you eat will change your level green leafy vegies and eating them will raise the level you need a speical doctor to control your blood because veggies are a major no no

51 year old Male

Posted: 2009-05-27 09:26:03

Answer/Reply:

I believe you meant if you eat green leafy vegetable or those high in Vitamin K it should drop your levels when on Coumadin/Warafin! Please see dietician as well as your physician asap. Therapeutic levels when on Coumadin/Warafin remain to be an INR between 2.0 and 3.0. Numbers so high indicate blood is too thin and possibly other complications.

55 year old Female

Posted: 2009-07-29 23:46:57

Answer/Reply:

For 78 year old male, have you had any problems with constipation? If so that could slow down the amount of warfarin your body eliminates.

67 year old Male

Posted: 2009-06-03 18:50:05

Answer/Reply:

Yes I did and do at times.. My dr. put me on potassium chloride cr. and I don't get cramps as much.. Only when I forget to take them or if my blood is real thin....

I was told not to eat anything with k in it because it will mess up your levels.. I have enough trouble keeping it where I need it to be....

I hope this helps....

45 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-05 13:33:04

Answer/Reply:

I would strongly suggest that you get that checked out if you haven't already because that is where my clots started from sometimes you can have tiny clots in your legs and might need to have a stronger doses of your medication. I hope that you have checked with your physician so they can do a veinous doppler to check further what is happening.

35 year old Male

Posted: 2009-05-14 19:03:02

Answer/Reply:

I watch what Vit K I eat....maybe every 2-3 days, but about 1/2 cup at each serving. This seems to work for me. My Dr told me to maintain my normal routine, but watch the portion size of the Vit K intake. I was diagnosed with a PE in my left lung Dec 2007. My INR can be fine for months and then all of a sudden go out of control.....they say stress has nothing to do with it, but I can't help but believe it certainly does. I keep a log of all of my INR checks each time, as well as, what is going on in my office @ work. I can see that the spike and dips in the INR levels have to be related to stress.....it is too similiar NOT to be. Why wouldn't stress play a factor when it does in everything else?

50 Yr old Female

51 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-18 17:02:34

Answer/Reply:

Stress does play a part in your INR, mine always and I mine always goes bonkers when I get very stressed out in my life. They don't always kknow everything about any kind of side effects in meds or illness, but they will not admit to it...... Bambii

46 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-05 12:39:11

Answer/Reply:

I have been on Coumadin since 2004 and I finally changed to a Coumadin Clinic where they are allowing me to eat foods that have Vit. K. as for leg cramps, two things that might be causing this. one is lack of water, and another is Potassium. Have them do a test for your Potassium and see if it is low. that causes major cramps cause your body is trying to find sources cause it needs it.

What are your PT/INR.. and also it depends where your doctor wants your level. most want it between 2.0 and 3.0

45 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-19 13:56:38

Answer/Reply:

I keep my greens to an exact 3 per week. You also need to remember the salad to beer ratio.
If I do any drinking I balance it with a green. I learn this the hard way by having too many drinks on a cruise and my blood was too thin giving too little oxygen. I now watch it very carefully and have been in range every time for 2 years!

Good luck.

Dennis

61 year old Male

Posted: 2009-05-19 19:43:58

Answer/Reply:

I have not been on Coumadin long, but agree with finding the right amount of greens and portion size per week. I, also had to deplete many favorites that were big no-no's such as ice cream(soy), broccolli, most breads(soy), mustard, etc. However, thank-you regarding the beer to salad ratio. I feel better now and can enjoy a glass of wine or two using this method! I am in hopes to get off the medication soon. It seems many do not. Does this have to do with family history or history of blood clots or other heart conditions?

55 year old Female

Posted: 2009-07-30 00:01:04

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

How long a person takes Coumadin does depend on the reason for taking it. Some conditions require Coumadin therapy for life, while others only require a few months. Some genetic conditions, such as Factor V, cause the blood to clot more quickly. These people would require Coumadin therapy longer than someone who does not have this clotting disorder. If you are concerned about how long you need to take Coumadin, please follow up with your doctor.

Posted: 2009-08-04 01:47:50

Answer/Reply:

I have been on warfarin since Dec 2002 for blood clots in my lungs and legs and I eat a salad every day. If you normally eat salads, you shouldn't stop eating them just because of being on coumadin. I take 7 mg. warfarin every day and my PT is usually always in the 2.6 range. I do get a lot of leg cramps but don't know if its from the warfarin or one of the other medicines I take. Occasionally, my blood gets too thin and I can tell because my heart starts fluttering a lot so I just eat more vitamin k foods.

38 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-21 14:40:24

Answer/Reply:

As you, and the other's stated, you need to eat a consistant amount of Vit. K foods, if you're going to eat them at all. I love coleslaw with my Friday Fish Dinners. But, once aweek isn't good, and cabbage is bad. Eating it 3x a week might be okay depending on how high a dose you're on. Me, I take 15mg Coumadin daily. That's the highest any doctor wants to give (although there have been times where they've upped me to 20mg and 22.5mg to fix a bad INR). Since my dose is so high, and my INR's just barely in range, I should not eat any Vit. K foods ever. There is no lee-way. I wish I could eat Vit. K everyday...how else am I suppose to diet? If my dose was low, I could afford to eat those foods daily...the doctor would probably have to up my dose a little, but at least I'd be eating healthier than now. That's not an option for me. But, it might be for someone else.

40 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-22 13:02:37

Answer/Reply:

to the 38 year old female. I would say not to stop eating the foods,just eat less because your PT/INR will straighten out with your foods. I don't know what fods your eating but I would cut them down. I'm also on coumadin since nov. of 1998. I love broc. which is a vitamin K but I have it once a week.Now after my bloodwork adjust to what I eat. As far as your leg cramps go I don't think its coumadin. It could be muscle cramping. How active are you? Have you slowed down your activity level?

53 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-23 22:37:52

Answer/Reply:

Commenting on leg cramps. Are you on a water pill? If so these meds can drain potassium from your body. Low potassium can give you leg cramps. Also, this works for me: when you get the cramps drink a huge glass of water, odds are you will have instant relief. Your water intake is very important . . and this is important for everybody. Hope this helps you.

60 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-24 00:44:53

Answer/Reply:

My Dr advised me that if I eat any thing with vit K eat approx. the same amount every day so the coumadin and vitK levels stay about the same in my body.
My INR stays fine most of the time but once in a while it goes way up or down for no apparent reason. We think it might be hormones, but haven't gotten any proof of it.
Have your DR check your pottasium level, that could be cause of leg cramps, also if you're not hydrated enough that can cause the cramps.
Hope you find the answers.

46 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-29 16:19:15

Answer/Reply:

You might want your doctor to check and see if you are low on potassium. Low potassium can cause cramping in your legs and many oher problems. I'll keep you in my prayers. God bless you.

Colleen

45 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-30 20:51:36

Answer/Reply:

I've been on coumadin since June 2007, and had a devil of a time getting the right dosage. I was getting a pt every other week. They told me I could eat what ever i want as long as I'm consistant. 2 salads or greens a week or whatever but do it every week. I also get bad cramps in weird places and I've had all the tests done. Nothing out of whack but a banana split doesn't hurt......

53 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-31 18:02:50

Answer/Reply:

The best answer as to what to eat while on warfarin (Coumadin) was given to me by my pharmicist when I asked was, "just eat normally and the MD will adjust your warfarin doses until the proper blood thinness is reached". I like salads and green veges and after the initial dosing changes it stays steady. I have to be aware that many factors in the diet cause a magnified effect and make the blood too thin which is cause for concern for hemorrhage. I call it the G principle as it is caused by Garlic, Ginger, Ginko. It is also caused by Vit E, fish oil, etc. Overeating garlic is a frequent culprit when we go Italian!

Are the leg cramps a side effect of your medications? Low calcium levels and PAD (Peripheral Vascular Disease) can cause leg cramps. Have you checked with your MD?

64 year old Female

Posted: 2009-06-01 14:27:24

Answer/Reply:

In regards to my diet affecting my INR, I eat whatever I want. Major changes in diet on a weekly basis can affect your numbers though. If you are pretty consistant each week with the amount of foods you eat with Vit K, 1-3 as you stated, your INR should not fluctuate that much.

Keep in mind that antibiotics and some other meds can affect your numbers though. So can being running down or if you have had a cold or the flu.

42 year old Male

Posted: 2009-06-11 19:36:02

Answer/Reply:

leg cramps are usaully because of low potassium levels. You can get a bottle at you local drugstore. Just make sure to talk to the pharmasist about it. Low potassium and low magnisium levels cause brain dysfunction, I know because I collapsed and had to go to an emergency room to correct the problem. Taking a multi-vitamin helps.
63 yo male

64 year old Male

Posted: 2009-07-08 22:19:24

Answer/Reply:

Really easy way to test potassium shortage... add (two per day usually works for me) bananas to your diet until your pains go away (I'd expect a week or less). If not, I'd get to the doctors.

I'm convinced that most of my leg cramps have been undiagnosed blood clotting. My hematologist agrees, and we are confident that I'll continue to have them for the rest of my life, as my condition is not stoppable with coumadin/lovenox/hebron/warfarin/etc. The best that I can hope for is enough interference with the continual clotting to prevent any serious blockage above my legs.

God bless!

46 year old Male

Posted: 2009-08-05 03:45:59

Answer/Reply:

speaking from someone who totally left them off. My hair started falling out, and my nails would not grow. Since my level has balanced off, and my meds have not changed for about 5 months now, I eat something green, brussels sprouts, broccoli, salad about 3 times a week now. I even take vitamins w/o vit K in them and my hair was still falling out. here is a site you can visit for what is good, bad, and all to eat... www.ptinr.com

It helped me sustain my diet the first year.

I get leg cramps all the time. Or I did. I am no on balcofen to help me sleep, and hot showers just before bed helps relieve them. I was finally diagnosed with restless leg syndrom.

47 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-17 18:37:32

Answer/Reply:

I too am on warfarin along with other cholesterol and blood pressure medication. I also have had bleeding and constipation at times but you might want to try a stool softener daily. It helps most of the time along with drinking a lot of water. I have had blood clots in my legs that went to my lungs and a heart attack so I can sympathize with you. You may want to add more fiber to your diet also, like metamucial it really helps. Good luck

56 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-20 21:41:39

Answer/Reply:

I have taken Jantoven daily for over 3 years without difficulty. No side effects and my INR has been between 2 and 3 consistently, except for occasional spikes during very hot weather. When I was on warfarin my INR was up and down so much I was getting checked once or twice a week. A month on jantoven and everything was under control. Has this person been getting the necessary checks of his INR?

68 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-23 18:44:33

Answer/Reply:

I have experienced the same problem. Now I use prescription Anusul HC suppositories whenever the bum gets excited, and screams at me. I started eating a prune or two to help with passing stool (yuk - but I choke it down. Just consider it medication!). I also have added stool softner. I started with 100mg, and upped the number that I take, according to how my body is functioning. Now I rarely have bleeding from the rectum, and when I was having it, it was a scary, severe problem. Sheila age 59

60 year old Female

Posted: 2009-07-14 01:40:42

Answer/Reply:

you are lucky. I have been on it for 10 years. Just have to keep it under control and that means a blood test every month. I have no problem's with it. It keep's me ALIVE.

69 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-20 15:47:31

Answer/Reply:

You are so lucky! My husband has been on it for a year and he still isn't level. Every week blood tests - every week we have to adjust the Coumadin. He eats no green leafy veggies, nothing with Vitamin K. I've spoken to the Nurse on numerous occasions and she assured me that some folks are easy to level, and some like my husband, it's a constant adjusting and re-adjusting. The thing that gets me frustrated the most, is that he will be on it for life because of his illnesses. But it is keeping him alive as he is very prone to blood clots due to the Lupus, Protein S Deficiency and the other auto-immune disorders that go with it. So the benefits outweighs the hassle as I want him here for a looooong time :-).

57 year old Male

Posted: 2009-04-20 17:46:37

Answer/Reply:

I had a mitral valve replacement and have been on coumadin for 11 1/2 years, i will be on it the rest of my life as far as i know!
I have blood tests every two weeks and have a few complications from it, but most of the time i have problems because if you eat 7 like lots of leafy greens like i do ,it's hard to regulate!
Anyways it's better than the alternative! Lol!

62 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-27 20:42:05

Answer/Reply:

I have been taking warfarin for 4 years after a mechanical aortic valve replacement. I have a home monitor to check my INR weekly. Have had very good success keeping my levels between 2.5 and 3.5 as recommended by the cardiologist. Rarely have I had to change my med dose. I regulate what I eat instead. Eating greens 3 times a week works for me.

57 yr. old female

58 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-08 23:13:22

Answer/Reply:

I've had 2 DVT's (leg & groin) and 2 PT's. I'll be on Coumadin the rest of my life. I started on Coumadin, back when there was no generic for it. I was consistently in range. After 2 years, I was allowed to get off it (and I did). I suffered a lot of bleeding side-effects, was young, and didn't like it. ;) Eight years later they found another PT-I nearly died from it (as the clots were building up over those 8 yrs and debilitating me to the extreme). They put me on Warfarin. I was constantly out of range (too high/too low). After a year, my doctor put me on Coumadin and my INR's are consistently in-range. Once every 6-8 months something goes array, but otherwise it's more level than when I was on the generic. My doctor says it's not suppose to make a difference whether you're on Coumadin or the generic Warfarin. But, it does for me. One time in the last 7 years of Coumadin, my medication program screwed up and sent me the generic. I had no choice but to take it. My INR's were all over the place again. My suggestion to you (your hubby) is to share this with his doctor and see if trying the brand name Coumadin makes a difference. It might and I strongly believe it's worth it to try!

P.S. Someone mentioned fearing blood clots due to strange leg/groin cramps while being on Coumadin/Warfarin. If your INR is in range, you must trust that it's working. Year's ago I went in everytime I had this problem. They'd do the doppler thingy and find nothing. It's scary pain especially when you've gone through this. But, even if you had a clot, what you're taking now is the best treatment for it.

40 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-22 13:20:31

Answer/Reply:

I, TOO, WAS PUT ON COUMADIN 21/2 YEARS AGO AFTER A BLOOD CLOT IN MY LEFT LEG FOLLOWING BACK SURGERY. I WAS WONDERING IF IT IS WISE TO STAY ON COUMADIN AS THE DOCTOR HAS NOT MENTIONED TAKING ME OFF THE DRUG. I DON'T NOTICE ANY BRUISING AND HAVE PRO-TIMES DONE EVERY MONTH WHICH HAVE REMAINED IN THE NORMAL RANGE. 73 YEAR OLD FEMALE

75 year old Female

Posted: 2009-04-23 16:19:58

Answer/Reply:

My name is Timothy Sinkey and I take blood thinner also. I have had blood clots in my leg and other places. I have been taking coumadin for the last 8 to 9 years. Seems like I will never get
off the stuff.. I have been in buildings with Asbestos in them which thikens your blood. I was also healed of Epilepsy. But when you are in a old building of Asbestos in it which caused me to get dizzy and high blood pressure. I wanted to be transfered in a new building without so much Asbestos but they wouldn't do it so I resigned. I could be making $55,000.00 Fifty five
thousand right now but instead I am unemployed.
If you have any commets just drop me a line at tsinkey@hotmail.com P.S. don't resign, be
transfered.

54 year old Male

Posted: 2009-04-27 03:39:53

Answer/Reply:

i have not noticed more frequent bruising. I have been on it since dec 06. I have to continue the medication though because of a Protein S defiency. I did notice my hair falling out more, and nails not growing because of the lack of other vits in the veggies you are not allowed to eat.

47 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-17 18:42:27

Answer/Reply:

hey. i know for me it's been hard, even years later. im turning 25 next month and i have lupus, a blood clotting disorder, cardio vasculitis, a necrotic hip, rheumatoid arthritis and am showing signs of cervical cancer. i take coumadin, as well as others and have been on dozens of other pills over the year....so therapy is ABSOLUTELY necessary. i keep a pretty active life through the pain and the doc appoints. otherwise i would lose my mind. if you want to talk sometime, let me know (faithmerciful@yahoo.com). it's hard and support is necessary. i was diagnosed back in 2001 and it's never easy, but support makes it less depressing.

26 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-28 14:03:42

Answer/Reply:

I've only been on warfarin for 2-3 months because of a blood clot in my leg near the groin area. its getting scary reading what so many people are going through. i was diagnosed with Lupus when i was 27 and was off and on prednisone for 20 years with which most people have a love-hate relationship. You love the pain it takes away but the side effects can be just as debilitating as i gained alot of weight and the weight eventually gave me diabetes. Anyway, when i got menopause at 46 , the Lupus went into remission and i thank God for that. I still have arthritis in my knees but i think that because of my weight which i work on everyday to get down for the diabetes. This new thing with clots has me very worried but then i read how people live with them for years and take each set back as it comes and it gives me hope. I am amazed everyday at the human spirit!

56 year old Female

Posted: 2009-08-20 01:06:32

Answer/Reply:

From my understanding, anxiety and/or Panic Disorder can be attributed to various heart problems. One being a murmer (spelling?). Mine started at 28 yrs. old (Acute Panic Disorder) and I'm now 54.

57 year old Male

Posted: 2009-04-20 17:51:14

Answer/Reply:

I had my first heart attack at 21, diagnosed with "minor mitral valve prolapse"(liar), was finally diagnosed with bicuspid aortic valve at 32 . Turns out this was only part of the problems I actually had. At 39 I had alot of breathing, stamina, palpitations, tachycardia, high blood pressure, BLAH< BLAH. At 4o I had aortic valve and root replacement surgery. Lots of compolications and 5 years later stilll have stupid stuff left over.

All in all, it was worth every damn minute of the ride. Stay focused on what you have and be happy with what you get. My kids are just leaving the nest, I am still married, and the ugly truth behind the mask isn't as bad as I thought it could be.

The alternative isn't as pretty.

44 year old Female

Posted: 2009-07-20 19:05:23

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

I have been on Warfarin for 7 years. Have been told I have Leiden factor 5. Have had over 50 blood clots in my legs, lungs, arms, in the past 5 years. I am in so much pain all the time. I can no longer work or even walk. I am very depressed since all of this started. I do get my pt and inr checked weekly and have had to have greenfield filters put into my veins. In the summer of 2008 I had a terrible bleed in my stomach and had to have over 10 pints of whole blood and 10 pints of plasma. Since then I am very tired all of the time.

Posted: 2009-03-20 06:51:03

Answer/Reply:

I had a mitral valve replacement 2 years ago and I was fully informed about the warfin and have a doctor I see every 2 weeks to check my INR levels. It is not a bad drug but if I do not take it than it can cause blood clots and make matters worse. You need to stay in touch with your heart doctor. Sure there are some foods I had to give up but what the hay at least I have my health. So I have to take 1 little pill for the rest of my life. You need to grow up and live your life to the fullest and stop worring about a simple pill that will help you.

50 year old Male

Posted: 2009-03-27 16:35:13

Answer/Reply:

I have had a mechanical valve for eight years, but no other issues. I was concerned about possible bleeding problems, so I asked my cardiologist about my INR range. She had me at 2.5 to 3.0. She checked on the type of valve and found that an INR as low as 2.0 would be safe for me. My brother-in-law has a vein condition and has been on warfarin for over forty years with no ill effects. Ask you doctor about a minimum INR for your condition.

68 year old Male

Posted: 2009-03-30 01:47:58

Answer/Reply:

I have been on coumadin for over 20 years and have no ill effects. Now I find that just about any medical procedure must be closely monitored. This has not been the case in the past even though I am on coumadin. To have a procedure on my spine done would be a 5 day hospital stay for me but an outpatient procedure for other people. I cannot take some of the medications for pain management due to drug interactions. The vitamin K thing I don't understand. Some people are told to eat lots of green when on the drug and othes are told to avoid them. It makes no sense to me that people are given different directions on this.

69 year old Female

Posted: 2009-05-06 15:02:14

Answer/Reply:

I take Warfarin and found that I had hair loss and itchy scalp when first taking it. That is now gone. I had various blood clots on both lungs and was on heparin shots and hospitalized for 3 days and then put on Warfarin. I think you should see your gyn dr. about the vaginal dryness, etc. I don't think it is related and probably has more to do with your age and hormones. It is common for older women in their 50's and 60's and there is a creme that my doctor prescribed that really works. I hope this helps.

62 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-24 11:48:11

Answer/Reply:

I find this interesting. I am 61 and in very good health and physical shape. Last November I just got back from a long plane trip and noticed the unusual swelling in my left calf. The Dr immediatley sent me to get an ultra sound. They found 3 small clots. Immediately went on Lovenex for 1 week and Warfarin . I have to take Warfarin until May then have tests done to determine if I can stay off this drug. I get blood tests weekly and so far all OK. But I did notice that shortly after taking this drug I experienced difficulty in getting an erection. Up until then everything was fine. My wife thinks it is related to the Warfarin but have not read anywhere this is a side affect. Wondering if anyone else is having this experience?

62 year old Male

Posted: 2009-03-27 11:00:55

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

At the current time, there has not be reports of erectile dysfunction associated with warfarin use. Sometimes psychological conditions such as stress or anxiety or other medical conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, being overweight, or smoking can be causes of erectile dysfunction. You may want to follow up with your doctor if this problem continues to bother you. Your doctor can help you determine the cause and help you decide on the best treatment.

Posted: 2009-04-02 23:33:25

Answer/Reply:

You should be going to a Warfaren(Coumadin) clinic every few weeks to have you blood thickness or thin ness checked. Sounds like your Dr. is a Quack. My 80 yr old mom has to go in every 3 or 4 weeks. It is typicle that the Dr.s won't admit that what they percribed you caused your problem. Some times it feels like they are Catering to the Pharmaceutical big wigs instead of helping us the Patient.
Does the word Guenea Pig ring a Bell?
I wish you all the luck in pursuit of Good Heath.

46 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-05 17:52:06

Answer/Reply:

To the 45yr old Female........ Im a 57 yr old male & i to am on warfaren. My dose was changed not to long ago. U do have a point ! R we there lab rats or what!?

signed 57

58 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-30 14:07:52

Answer/Reply:

In my case, clots formed so extensively up my leg into my groin in a 2 week period from breaking my foot (one side bone only) I was hospitalized for 9 days, they started me on heferin shots and warfarin, but after 5 days had to do surgery, and another surgery the next night to start opening it up and start easing the pain. So a massive clot doesn't need months to form.

57 year old Male

Posted: 2009-03-31 12:10:01

Answer/Reply:

Your doctor DOES need to be concerned and you should be getting the PT tests at the least every month. My husband has to have the test weekly as he is still not level on Coumadin, and it is adjusted accordingly. Bottom line, if your blood is too thin, you can bleed to death, if your blood is too thick, you can develop more clots. This is why testing is SO IMPORTANT! I'd change Drs. > seriously! Coumadin/Wayfarin is a drug that needs to be followed very closely.

57 year old Male

Posted: 2009-04-20 17:56:27

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

March 2001 I had brain surgury to remove a 3cm tumor from my brain. 8 mos later I was back in the hospital with blood clots in my left leg. There was no explanation why this happened. I was then put on coumadin and stayed on it until Oct 08. No test was done, but I was told I would be on coumadin for the rest of my life. In Oct 08 I had no means to get any meds and I had no Dr. or clinic that would see me. They were all full or were not taking any new patients. So I stop taking the coumadin and I have not had any problems. I still don't know why I had to take this med. It was never found out why my blood clotted in my leg or why I was told I would have to take it for the rest of my life.

Posted: 2009-03-06 10:33:40

Answer/Reply:

My father had a colonoscopy done and they detected a heart murmur and also what was possibly a blood clot in his lung. He was immediately admitted into the hospital and put on coumadin by drip and kept for 3 days. He now takes it daily as a precautionary measure to keep any more clots formin.

76 year old Male

Posted: 2009-03-07 21:11:14

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Even though your clot has disappeared, you are at an increased risk for having another clot. Treatment with Coumadin (warfarin) helps to lower that risk and prevent another clot. The typical the length of treatment with Coumadin for a blood clot in the leg is 3 to 6 months. If you have higher risk of developing a clot, the length of treatment may be longer. Since every patient is different, your doctor is the best person to answer how long you will need to continue Coumadin.

Posted: 2009-03-09 00:25:00

Answer/Reply:

The reason that you may be still on coumadine or warfarin is because the doctor want to make sure that you no longer will get a clot any where no time soon. A clot can cause death. I have been taken this medication since 2007 and my doctor tells me that I still need it so that I do not get a clot. I have to get chemotherapy and in order for me to do so I had to have surgery to get a port put in for the medication but could not in many places that they tried to put it in because I had a stoppage or a clot. So I have had to take this med for a while now. I now walk around with scars on my chest because of the surgery I had due to the clots but I now have a medi port in my neck and it has not clotted up since I have been taking the medicine. My port has to be flushed every six weeks but its worth it as long as I don't get the clot.

47 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-10 23:27:16

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

i had a blood clot in my right leg about three years ago ,then i had to have a greenfield filter put in,the doctor did not tell me i would be on warfarin the rest of my life . it dont make any sense to me . i dont like being on it at all . it changes your whole body. can rat poison actually be good for your body? rosella elizabethton ,tennessee

Posted: 2009-03-12 22:00:04

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

I was diagnosed with a blood clot on april 2nd 08, and am now just last week (march 11) off of them. You are still on them because the standard is 3-6 months or longer. My dr insists on a year. I have read numerous numerous posts in a site called daily strength.com, and most people are on for at least a year. I think a year is good. My leg isn`t near as painful as someone that was off in 6 months. I go to a hematologist next week.
Female....40

Posted: 2009-03-19 15:15:45

Answer/Reply:

I have been on Coumadin for 30 years due to attrial fib, my sister had blood clots in her lungs in Nov,08 and all though they now say the clots are dissolved she will need to stay on the blood thinner for 6 to 12 months. To put your mind at ease I have had no bad side affects, just be real careful so that you don't injure yourself and get regular pt/inr tests done. Your blood should be between 2 and 3. Hope this helps. Debbie

57 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-20 12:23:54

Answer/Reply:

I had a bypass surgery on my left leg and was put on comadin lefterwards. I am told that I have to be on this medicine for only two years. Are they telling me the truth or just putting me on?I am 88 years old.

89 year old Female

Posted: 2009-03-23 18:04:11

Answer/Reply:

I do my own home testing with a home test kit from "INRatio" PT Monitoring System. I originally got it for monitoring when I travel, but because there is a difference in consistency, my clinic decided that I had to decide on all home testing or all clinic testing. The hospital is 16+ miles away, and I do travel a bit, so the answer was easy for me. My point is, the cost savings for you to do your own monitoring, vice having a nurse do it might surprise you (good or bad is up to you and your insurance company).

God bless!

46 year old Male

Posted: 2009-08-05 03:04:08

Answer/Reply:

i have been taking warfarin for three years the one thing i do know is to advoid chancing your diet a lot try to eat simular meals leafy greens contain a lot of vitamin k and k counter acts the effects of warfarin. they trick is consticency and testing

51 year old Male

Posted: 2009-01-16 15:49:56

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

A PERSON TAKEING THIS MED SHOULD NOT TAKE ASPAIN OR VERY LITTLE OR ANY THING WITH ASPAIN IN IT.SHOULD GET A LOT OF REST AND TAKE IT EASY WHEN YOU ARE DOING THINGS AND NOT DRIVE A LONE VERY FAR LIKE MORE THAN 50 MILES ONE WAY .
I HAVE A LINKIE HEART VALE AND ALSO 62 YEARS OLD AND DON'T FALL IF YOU CAN HELP IT .AND TRY TO GO OUT FOR A WALK EVER DAY AT LEAST FOR 15 MINS AND DON'T GAVE UP .LINDAWALKER

Posted: 2009-01-23 00:16:39

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Go to www.mayoclinic.com/health/warfarin-side-effects/HB/00101. It gives good details on what is ok

Posted: 2009-02-23 22:54:22

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

72 years old male and wonder if Vitalux would effect my level of blood?

Posted: 2009-02-28 08:51:05

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

72 years old male taking coumadin Do you think vitalux,would interfere in my blood

Posted: 2009-02-28 08:55:45

Answer/Reply:

I encourage you to seek the assistance of a Coumadin Clinic Pharmacist for the best answer suited for you.

46 year old Male

Posted: 2009-08-05 03:09:05

Answer/Reply:

http://www.cooperaerobics.com/archive/newsletters/082002_article02.asp
This page has a small list as well as a little information. Some doctors have a list made up also. Everything I looked at today says you don't have to change your diet, but listen to your Dr. Mine said to avoid most of these foods as a general rule. Others, the doctors have told them that these foods are okay in moderation. Depends on what is right for you.

29 year old Female

Posted: 2008-12-30 09:18:51

Answer/Reply:

There are foods that interact with Coumadin, but that does not necessarily mean you need to eliminate them. If you eat foods on the list 5-7 days a week (like a salad), your dose and therefore your PT/INR will be adjusted accordingly and should be maintained. On the other hand if you like to eat those foods only occasionally, that could cause a problem. If you do choose (and I'm not suggesting you do) to occasionally eat a food on the list, don't have your PT checked for at least 4-5 days afterward or the effects may cause your dose to be adjusted unnecessarily and will have to be adjusted back later.

59 year old Male

Posted: 2009-01-10 14:04:29

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

does coumadin cause bloodin urine?

Posted: 2009-01-22 09:21:42

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

www.drugs.com/coumadin.html

Posted: 2009-01-10 17:20:02

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

http://www.drgourmet.com/warfarin/vitaminkcontent.pdf
Stay away from those in HIGH Vitamin K foods. Medium and Low in moderation.

Posted: 2009-01-18 01:01:08

Answer/Reply:

Yes, blood clots can cause pain. With most surgeries, you should be told to be as active as possible. I don't know exactly why, but i think it deals with increasing your blood flow helps to avoid clots. As far as I know, the surgery/surgeon does not make a difference. It is different for everyone. Some people are on coumadin/warfarin for life. I am one of those. It depends on the severity and where the blood clot was. While on the blood thinners, you are supposed to be monitored by a doctor to insure the thickness of your blood falls at the right level. Your doctor should be able to tell you whether or not you will be one of us who has to be on it for life.

29 year old Female

Posted: 2008-12-16 21:23:07

Answer/Reply:

Hi my name is T and i also take coumadin.I finally found someone my age that takes it thank god.not thank god that you take it but,i felt alone in this.

30 year old Female

Posted: 2008-12-29 21:29:14

Answer/Reply:

Hi T. I thought I was alone too, going back through previous posts I noticed there are a few others, but I don't know them, just read their posts. I don't know if we are able to post email addresses or not. I will look into it and if it's okay, I will leave you mine in case you need to chat about anything.

29 year old Female

Posted: 2008-12-30 09:40:17

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

I have been on Coumadin/Warfarin for 15 years, I am now 39. I have to take it for life. I have a genetic blood disorder called Factor 5 Leiden Gene Mutation that causes blood clots. I also have Deep Vein Thrombophlebitis. I have had Pulmonary Embelosisms and and clots in my rights leg more times than I can count. I have a Vena Cava Filter/Greenfield filter put in to catch the clots and keep them from reaching my lungs. The filter works, but I still get clots that occassionally go through my heart, and are painful and my leg is constantly getting clots. My average dosage is 12.5mg 5 days a week and 10mg 2 days a week. The dosage of course fluctuates. I try to stay away from any green vegetables or eat less of them or boil them until they are a very light green. Vitamin K that is in all green vegetables will cause blood clots if you eat too much of them or eat them raw. Alot of exercise does not reduce my blood clots. Everyone is different, so what works for one person may not work for another. Lovenox injectable blood thinner, is something I cannot use. I am allergic to. If you have had the injections and feel any different like dizzy, lightheaded, lose your attention to detail, have any vision issues, or even feel lazy after taking the injections call your doctor immediately. Santo Aventis is the manufacturer of Lovenox. They did not do a very good study of Lovenox before they released it. I was in a study of thiers after I was in the hospital and was given the injections and was found to be allergic to it. I does cause side effects in some people.

Posted: 2009-01-07 11:56:11

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

Dear iGuard user,

You can leave your email address for others to email you but iGuard will not accept liability for any email that is sent to you. iGuard does not allow postings of email addresses for business and other commercial enterprises. iGuard also will never give out or sell your email address to any 3rd party. Please contact Support@iGuard.org with any questions you may have.

Thank you,
Ginny
iGuard Support

Posted: 2009-01-12 14:30:26

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

What are you taking coumnadin for!! I ask this cause I have an auto immune disease called APS!! I'm a 35 yr old male that has had several PE's.

Posted: 2008-12-30 12:37:29

Answer/Reply:

hi T. my name is jolene. i am 32 nad have been on this med for almost 5 years. i am one of the not so lucky that will be on it for the rest of my life. so dont feel as though u r alone. its surely no fun but we all get through it one way or nother.

34 year old Female

Posted: 2009-01-02 23:49:32

Answer/Reply:

Thanks for getting back.
that s cool to know that there someone going trough what i am going trough it's hard to explain to some people but i know i will get trough this.



Tanesha.
and again thanks it helps to hear i am not alone for awhile there i thought i was youngests but now i see i am not..what arwe you on it for?

30 year old Female

Posted: 2009-01-12 16:59:48

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

i am 33years old and i had aortic valve replacement 3 years back , using warfarin and i am worried as i am getting married . i need to know can i spend easy life/sex life with warfarin as i am using it now a days. i am extra worried what to do

Posted: 2009-02-02 06:09:18

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

i am 33years old and i had aortic valve replacement 3 years back , using warfarin and i am worried as i am getting married . i need to know can i spend easy life/sex life with warfarin as i am using it now a days. i am extra worried what to do. do not stop checking PT/INR its realy dangerous. i was paralized few months back

Posted: 2009-02-02 06:29:53

Answer/Reply:

Severe lower back pain and a severe shortness of breath was my introduction to a pulmonary embolism following a long RV trip of 5 weeks at age 68. I am under VA care and initially had blood tests weekly and now monthly to keep my INR level between 2 & 3. After a year I was offered to go off coumadin with the warning there is an approx. 40% chance of a reoccurrence of a blood clot after going off the drug. Since I am planning another trip (now age 70) I elected to stay on my current dosage of 5mg a day and 7.5mg once a week with a review perhaps a month or two after I return. I was told there is a newer theapy which involves a lifetime of a lower maintanence dosage which I may look into. A pulmonary embolism is nothing to ignor as they are fatal approx. 50% of the time and death is quite fast giving you little time for effective treatment. Being chained to the drug is not pleasant but the alternative 6 foot dirt nap is less so.

71 year old Male

Posted: 2008-12-30 11:13:16

Answer/Reply:

I was prescribed the birth control NuvaRing and was in my first month on the mediciation when I developed a clot in my left leg that embolized to my lungs (pulmonary embolism) after a long plane ride. Prior to the flight, I experienced some symptoms that I dismissed... frequent leg cramps, sore muscles, pain in my ankle. I figured it was because I was training for a 5K and brushed off these symptoms as consequences of my new exercise routine.

After a long flight to San Francisco, CA, I had a lot of pain in my left leg where the clot originated, but never experienced any of the symptoms of pulmonary embolism such as shortness of breath or chest pain. After a few visits to the ER and a three-day hospital stay for pulmonary embolism, I had to take twice daily injections of Lovenox for 10 days and take Warfarin once a day. I still take Warfarin every day, alternating doses of 10mg and 7.5mg.

The verdict is still out for how long I'll have to be on this medication, but I will never be allowed to take hormonal birth control for the rest of my life. I am still waiting to see how this experience will continue to affect my life, and while I'm hoping I'll be able to eventually quit taking Warfarin, I don't want to accept the risk having a potenially fatal blood clot again. I was lucky once, but I don't want to take any unnecessary chances.

28 year old Female

Posted: 2009-01-22 14:46:46

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

I understand where you're coming from. I had a DVT that turned into a Pulmonary Embolism back in 05' due to the OrthoEvra patch. I was on warfarin for about 6 months which was just about the time that the clots dissolved. I was told that I couldn't be on birth control for the rest of my life. In May of 07' I found out that I was pregnant with my son. I developed another DVT at 8wks pregnant which turned into another pulmonary embolism at 13wks. I had to go through so much to maintain my pregnancy. I had to have a filter inserted and a lot of xrays to make sure that I was going to be okay. Thank God that my son wasn't harmed through out this whole ordeal. I had to take daily shots of Lovenox then switch over to Heparin my last month of pregnancy. I couldn't breast feed my son and I had to have a tubal ligation or else I would have been putting my life at risk. Now, I'm on 12.5 mg of coumadin and although they are trying to find the right dosage for me I'll be on it for the rest of my life. I truly hope that this wont be the case with you when you decide to have kids. What I went through is something that I wish no one would have to experience.

Maria- 27 yrs Old
New Jersey

Posted: 2009-02-06 11:34:34

Answer/Reply:

I have alot of experience and education about blood clots...every since I got a massive clot that went from my ankle to my stoumach (sp?). I know it can be a very emotional time too. I don't know if you get this messege directly or not...but if you need or would like someone to talk to about any of it. You can feel free to email me: doublemgifts4less@gmail.com just please put needing 2 talk about blood clots in the subject line.

Many things can cause blood clots and there are different degrees of a blood clot. The sooner one is caught the better. Unfortunatly, it could take a while to get noticed so it is very important to talk with your Doctors about your concerns. Especially if your high risk like being on bed rest for long periods of time and not doing your rotation of movement,if there are things in your family line that has caused blood clots as the clot themselves aren't generally hereditary but the cause might be. If you take Estrogen (that's one of the ways I got mine). The list goes on and on. It really depends on the individual so like I said it really is good you talk with your doctor...ask the questions direct ones probably are the easiest to answer. Even if it is just a hypethetical one it is always good to get informed. If you would like the moral support from someone that understands or to share the experience feel free to email me. Jenny

35 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-18 16:36:39

Answer/Reply:

Please emai me immediately about Coumadin! You are in danger!!! I am a RN, BSN with Master's Degree and have been on Coumadin since July. I expect the injectable was LOVENOX. My email: distantwings4747@aol.com phone 352 728-6185 or cell 352 396--1203.
Patricia Brock Leesburg FL.. This is no joke. I need to inform you of several things. PLEASE. THIS IS FOR YOUR OWN GOOD,. HAVE PENCIL/PEN PAPER READY.

QUALITY HEALTH IS NOT A PRILEDGE IN 2009. IT IS A RIGHT!

IMPORTANT! CRITICAL!

63 year old Female

Posted: 2009-02-18 18:07:30

Answer/Reply:

I too taste blood after I birp, disgusing. I thought I was the only one. I have to ask my INR nurse how to get the taste out, or is it normal for somebody to taste blood after birping. Thanks for the heads up. I will be back with an answer.

48 year old Female

Posted: 2008-12-17 23:10:19

Answer/Reply:

I encourage you to get back to your hematologist and figure it out soon.

46 year old Male

Posted: 2009-08-05 03:19:22

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

What are Acceptable INR Scores for an 80 year old man?

Posted: 2008-10-29 16:11:18

Answer/Reply:

I know that Cranberry Juice is a no-no because of the effect it can have on your INR, usually they tell you not to consume certain foods/drinks out of your normal diet b/c it can rapidly change your INR. I have heard of quite a few of my friends having similar reactions to pomegranite juice though...you may just be sensitive to that juice...

75 year old Female

Posted: 2008-12-27 16:38:27

Answer/Reply:

i have taken warfarin for 10 years i was taking Q10 but stopped. after about a year and having bloodshot eyes i realised that this started after i stopped taking the Q10.i asked my dr if i could he said ok .bottom line after 2 years of taking 30mg Q10 i only had 1 time small blood in eye

69 year old Male

Posted: 2008-11-12 13:53:13

Answer/Reply:

i have this problem also.i used to get it 1 or 2 times a mo i started takeing CO Q10 30 mg and only had one in last 2 years

69 year old Male

Posted: 2008-11-12 14:30:31

Answer/Reply:

I too sometimes feel alone. Although I'm a little older than you, I feel that I am too young to already have health problems. Mine started with a blood clot in my left calf in Feb 2008. Fortunately they caught it in time before it broke loose. The clot extended all the way from my groin to my calf. Apparently I had it for quite some time because my body compensated by growing another vein in my leg. Anyway, after the clot, I developed other health issues over the next few months (one thing after another). Bottom line, I was diagnosed with Lupus and Fibromyalgia in Oct 2008, and low thyroid just yesterday. With all the meds they keep giving me, I've have to have my INR checked weekly for the last three months because of their interaction with Warfarin. It might take a few more months to get my INR levels stable, in the meantime I just need to be patient. Believe me, you ARE NOT ALONE!

46 year old Female

Posted: 2009-01-06 09:34:30

Answer/Reply:

I forgot to mention that along with Lupus, Fibromyalgia, and thyroid disease, I too have Raynaud's disease. Given my history of illnesses as a child and young adult, Dr. seems to think that I probably had these diseases most of my life...Bummer.

46 year old Female

Posted: 2009-01-06 09:38:55

Answer/Reply:

hello, i am wondering if since you have been on this medicine if you are seeing where you are gaining weight or losing hair? i have been on warfarin for just over a year and am seeing this. please respond to elowsmom21st@yahoo.com. Thank you,

49 year old Female

Posted: 2008-11-02 16:42:51

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

yes i have really noticed the loss of hair,,,,mostly since the dose has been increased,,,,,

Posted: 2009-01-15 13:09:21

Answer/Reply:

I am a 63 year-old male who had a stroke in 2007 and was placed on Coumadin to prevent blood clots, which are the main cause of strokes. You see, Coumadin is an anticoagualnt, which prevents clots, thus if you need surgery, as I did to repair a hernia, your surgeon will be very cautious because it is difficult to stop the bleeding after the surgery is finished. So, you would need to stop taking the Coumadin for 5 days prior to your surgery. The danger is that you could suffer a blood clot during the days you're off Coumadin. But the odds are that won't happen.

I stopped the Coumadin for 5 days, had the surgery and went back on Coumadin the next day. So, don't worry. Coumadin is safe. You can have surgery and survive. Your doctor should be able to answer all your questions.

Good luck.

65 year old Male

Posted: 2008-06-29 20:47:37

Answer/Reply:

I just turned 30 and was diagnosed with a blood clot from my knee to my ankle where part of it broke off and traveled to my lung. I'm on coumadin for at least 6 months. i have to go in every so often and get my levels checked to make sure I'm on the right dose. I didn't know it, but I apparently have a genetic disposition to getting blood clots. I have a protein S deficiency, but there are several other genetic issues that could cause "thicker blood". I was told that they can only test for these genetic dispositions when you're not on any blood thinning meds. They took my blood and tested it the day I was diagnosed, before I started the medication. I know of a few genetic dispositions: Protein S, Protein C, Factor 5 Leiden, and there are probably a lot more that I don't know of. The doctors think my clot was related to the birth control medications I was on. I think the doctors try to guess as much as possible, but every person is different. It may seem like they are not being honest, but really they don't know exactly how you will react to the medication. Hopefully this helps.

31 year old Female

Posted: 2008-07-05 12:58:31

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

I also had a very lage blood clot in my leg it went from my grone area to my ankel they said it was the largest hey had seen. I was also told that I have a blood disorder that causes clotting actuly I have two kinds factor5 and protine s defesentcey. I have been on warfin now sence 2000 and I have my blood checked once a month I'm doing fine on it and they said I would be on it forever. I just wanted to let ya know that there is other people with your same problem.

Posted: 2008-09-28 20:30:47

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In Feb 2008, I was hospitalized with a blood clot that extended from my groin to my calf. I had pain in my calf for about 10 days (felt like a muscle strain) before having it checked out. They did an ultrasound on my leg and found the clot. I was very luck that the clot never broke off to cause a pulmonary emboli. Anyway, apparently I had the clot for several months because my body actually grew another vein in my leg to compensate for the vein that was blocked with the blood clot. The body is an amazing thing. After many tests, I was told that I have a condition where I'm predisposed to getting blood clots. They called it LAC (Lupus Anticoagulation). You don't have to have Lupus to have this condition. Unfortunately for me, they found out several months later that I do have Lupus. Anyway, I was on birth control pills at the time of the clot and had to stop. Dr. told me that the birth control pill DOES NOT cause blood clots, but it does increase your chances of getting them through other means like my condition, long distance traveling, etc.

46 year old Female

Posted: 2009-01-06 09:54:39

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

A recent consumer guide about Coumadin was published by the Agency of HealthCare Research and Quality, a division of the U.S. government. It may answer some of the questions you have. You can find it here http://www.ahrq.gov/consumer/coumadin.htm

Most patients on Coumadin can have surgeries - it just takes some precautionary measures and closer monitoring by your doctors and surgeons.

Approximately 10% iGuard members who take Coumadin reported experiencing the side effects of bleeding or bruising. You are at higher risk of bleeding or bruising when you fall because Coumadin prevents or slows down the clotting of the blood. Bleeding and bruising are generally preventable by working with your health care provider to keep your blood clotting time (INR) in the right range. If you are experiencing any side effects that you think are caused by Coumadin - especially bleeding or bruising - it is important to further discuss them with your doctor or other health care provider.

Posted: 2008-07-07 15:42:44

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

I AM 80 YRS. OLD AND HAVE BEE ON COUMADIN FOR ABOUT 15 YEARS WITH NO SIDE AFFECTS. AND I HAVE HAD SEVERAL SURGERIES SINCE THEN. WHAT THEY DO IS HAVE ME TAKE SHOTS OF HEPERIN FOR SEVERAL DAYS BEFORE AND AFTER SURGERY ALTHOUGH THE LAST TWO SURGURIES THEY GAVE ME SHOTS OF LEVONOX THAT WORKED VERY WELL. NOW THESE SHOTS ARE EXPENSIVE SO MAYBE THAT WAS WHY THEY DIDN'T GIVE THEM TO YOU, UNLESS YOU CAN GO INTO THE H OSPITAL A COUPLE OF DAYS EARLY SO THEY CAN GIVE THEM TO YOU AND THEN MEDICARE AND ANY SUPPLEMENTAL INSURANCE WILL TAKE OVER THE COST. WITH THE PLANS I AM ON I HAD TO PAY $50 A SHOT OR 2 FOR $75, OTHERWISE WITHOUT A PLAN I WOULD HAVE HAD TO PAY OVER $150 A SHOT. ANYWAY THE THING IS THEY CAN DO SURGERY IF YOU ARE ON COUMADIN. I HAVE A HEART THA IS IN ATRIAL FIBRILLATION AND ALSO THEY REPLACED THE MITRAL VALVE WITH PIGS VALVE WHICH IS WHY I AM ON COUMADIN. HOPE THIS HELPS

Posted: 2008-07-10 16:52:04

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I have had cancer three times and as of this minute they say I am cancer free, yes it is a problem to take warfarin (rat Posion) I call it because we used it on the farm for just that reason. thinning the blood to the point the rats bled to death. but after my situation this year jan.2008 I started blood cloting, and long story short it was my bladder just went haywire. and four surgerys later the trouble was removed now I have a bag instead, but I'.m in better shape now then I have been for eight years (thats when the cancer began) and adjusting to the bag is easy if you think back to what I had before, I will have to take warfarin for the rest of my life, but thats a small pill to be alive and able to live again. Yes I have to get tested every month at the clinic but one minute out of my day to be alive is NO problem. just adapt to what youj have to do, instead of feeling sorry for your self.

68 year old Male

Posted: 2008-07-15 15:36:14

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I have been on coumadin for 3 years now and I have also had several surgeries before this and never before did anyone mention I was missing facor 5 of my 14 chromosomes. I fell and broke my ankle 3 years ago and my left leg filled with clots. I was 46 at the time and now I am 49....and just like you...only found out I had this deficiancy when I fell. I need a hysterectomy and several procedures done and being on the coumadin really makes it all very difficult. I have to take a very high dosage...10 milligrams a day...hope this helps...

72 year old Female

Posted: 2008-08-13 23:18:05

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

This is so enteresting. I too have the Leiden Factor V blood disorder. Found out it is hereditary. My sister has it. and her son and grandson have been tested and have it too. My sister found out she had it when she had surgery and had a blood clot to the lung. After testing, they told her for her kids to get tested. My dad has passed, but we think it came from his side of family as have had uncles and cousins that have died young from clots. My other sister doesnt have it. My daughter is free from it and my 2 sons refuse to get tested. It is worse if you have other factors, like C-protein factor. I am on 5 mg of warfarin daily, and my pt test is done every 2 weeks as for 2 yrs it is up and down. I have a history of blood clots in my legs, and have fibromyalgia so bad my legs, arms, back, every other place hurt all the time, and drs wont give me any thing but tylenol as other things cause bleeding too much and would be too dangerous with me on warfarin too. Pain is terrible. Have started taking Cymbalta 60 mg a day and has helped some but dont know what else to do for pain as several drs have poo pood pain meds. Anyone else have any ideas?

Posted: 2008-12-12 22:24:37

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I'm 41 and on a massive dose of coumadin. I think the name for the blood defect you're referring to is commonly referred to as sticky blood syndrome. The real medical term is Antiphospholipid Antibody syndrome. I'm not a doctor - just someone suffering with very thick blood as well. I've had 2 PEs and they never figured out what caused mine. I've been on coumadin for 2-1/2 years and I'm having to take 15 mg a day. The dosage varies anywhere from 15 to 17-1/2 mg a day, depending on what my blood decides to do. I take my meds at the exact same time everyday and I don't vary my diet. Good luck and I hope this helped a little.

42 year old Female

Posted: 2008-08-16 19:05:43

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I have been on Coumadin for several years, it was very expensive so I am now taking warfarin. I take 9mg every day except on Sunday I take 6mg. The reason I am taking it is because I have what they call "Sticky Blood" and I suffered a stroke in 1994 and therefore I am more likely to have a stroke again because my blood is thick, so I am taking warfarin to prevent another stroke. My blood also started making anti-gens to combat the coumadin, therefore giving a false reading on my pt/inr test. They have to adjust my warfarin to get an accurate reading. I eat lots of greens and salads. My doctor knows this and I have my blood checked every 2-4 weeks to regulate it. I was unaware that it could cause muscle and joint aches and only found out after ready comments on I-Guard. This is a great source of information for me. Anyway I have already suffered on stroke and don't want to have another one, so I will keep taking my warfarin. I think it is a very good drug to take, just make sure to have an INR blood test to make sure your in your safe range.
46 yr old female

48 year old Female

Posted: 2008-09-25 14:18:43

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I believe you may be protien S defficient. My mom has this disorder and has to take blood thinner for the rest of her life. She was told that this condition mostly afflicts women and usually isn't noticed until later in life. She is now 48 and has been on warfarin for about 5 years. Her biggest problem with taking the drug is keeping it regulated.

49 year old Female

Posted: 2008-09-15 02:53:55

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I don't know of any other med. that works like Coumadin/Wayfarin. My husband is in the same boat as you. 55 yrs. old, perfectly healthy, no issues, and then BING, BAM, BOOM - had a stroke and fall, cracked his head open, had a brain bleed. Then, he got double pneumonia with a pulmonary embolism, Sepsis (due the the "germ factory" hospital), gets more clots in the arms, legs, and so on. Ended up spending a month in the hospital with lots of residuals. He wasn't diagnosed with why he had a stroke until his family Dr. ran an ANA which came up abnormal. Had further testing with a Rhem., in which he tested positive twice for Lupus, Sjorns Syndrome, and Sclererderma. Other diagnosis was Protein S deficiancy. He will be on Coumadin the rest of his life and has already had interactions with other meds.he is on. He was placed on Flexeril for a pulled groin. It shot his weekly test to 5.5. Bottom line, iw I

57 year old Male

Posted: 2008-09-27 17:11:15

iGuard.org Answer/Reply:

You probilly have a Protein C or S Def. That will cause your blood to clot for no reason. Had minor surgery in 1996, then had blood clot, took about 4 weeks to find out what was wrong with me. I am on 7 mg every night, and will be for the rest of my life, i'm told

female 61 Anacoco, La

Posted: 2008-10-31 11:44:35

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If you need to have surgery you can stop taking the coumadin and there is a shot called lovinax that you can take for five days before the surgery and I also had to take for a couple of days after the surgery with the coumidan until the inr came back at a safe level. Also ask your doctor if you can have a test that is called facto VII this will tell you if you are pron to having blood clots I had surgey 12-27-07 and had two blood clot. I took the shot with the next surgery on 05-12-08 I was orginaly told that I would be off of coumidan after 6-9 months when they tried to take me off they said that I needed to take the vactor vii test. Well that is when I found out that I am pron to blood clots so I will need to be on coumidan for the rest of my life. I had 11 suggeries before the one on 12-27-07 and I never had a blod clot the doctor said that I would have had one sooner or late. Good luck.

47 year old Female

Posted: 2008-12-22 06:34:40

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I strongly recommend you seek the assistance of a hematologist who can answer some of the most important questions (I.E. Do I have blood protein mutation(s), blood-associated disease? And what is the root cause of my clotting?)

I have Factors II and 5 Leiden... exceptionally rare combination. Clotting wasn't an issue for me until I reached my early 20's... was misdiagnosed until June 2008 when I was found to have serious blood clots in both legs which were 12+ inches long. However, it was the prothrombin series blood test results that got me to the hematologist in the first place; hence the ultrasound that found the severe clotting.

I'll be on coumadin until something better comes along :)

God bless!

46 year old Male

Posted: 2009-08-05 03:33:09