Blood thinners can elevate the risk of heavy bleeding and impede the blood's clotting ability. Patients with uncommon heart rhythms, such as atrial fibrillation or AFib, are commonly prescribed blood thinners by doctors to prevent blood clots.

Although these medicines may decrease the likelihood of heart attack and stroke, they can also result in severe side effects that may cause excessive bleeding. Antiplatelet and anticoagulant agents are included in these medications. Nonetheless, it is crucial to understand that blood thinners are unable to change or reduce the viscosity of your blood.

What are Blood Thinners?

Blood thinners are a type of medication that can lower the risk of blood clots. They do not alter the volume of blood in the body but are vital in protecting individuals with severe heart conditions.

Anticoagulants, commonly known as blood thinners, are medications recommended by medical professionals to prevent the formation of blood clots. These drugs are available in the form of pills or injections and work by hindering the process of clot formation.

Why do People Need Blood Thinners?

Many individuals benefit from taking blood thinners to alleviate their discomfort, and healthcare professionals or cardiologists prescribe these medications for those experiencing conditions such as:

• Heart disease
• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
• Abnormal heartbeat
• Blood vessel disease
• Heart attack
• Obesity and overweight
• Lupus
• Recent surgery
• History of clots in their legs or lungs

Blood thinners are an effective treatment option for those who suffer from these ailments.

Common Blood Thinners Prescribed By Doctors

People with a prior history of stroke or heart attack may also be recommended to take blood thinner medications. There are several common blood thinners that physicians prescribe, including:

• Plavix
• Savaysa
• Aspirin
• Coumadin
• Eliquis
• Efficient
• Pradaxa
• Brilinta

These medications have been proven effective in preventing blood clots and reducing the risk of further heart-related complications.

Internal and excessive bleeding are severe risks associated with several complications that can lead to a dangerous hemorrhagic stroke. When this occurs, emergency care is necessary as it involves significant bleeding in the brain.

As a preventive measure, doctors often prescribe blood thinners to patients to reduce the risk of complications. Nevertheless, it's essential to note that these medications can also produce side effects, and individuals should be aware of these potential risks.

How Do Blood Thinners Work?

Blood thinners operate through various mechanisms. Some medications weaken vitamin K, while others entirely block its blood clotting effects. In contrast, some drugs hinder enzymes and proteins responsible for binding platelets and blood cells.

It's crucial to understand that blood thinners can't alter the volume or thinness of the blood, nor do they break up or dissolve existing clots. However, these medications are effective at preventing clots from growing larger, making them an essential tool for managing blood clot-related conditions.

What are the Side Effects of Blood Thinners?

Understanding the potential risks associated with blood thinner medications is essential for individuals considering their use. Some side effects of blood thinners include:

• Bleeding gums
• Dizziness
• Excessive blood in bowel movements
• Heavy periods
• Bleeding in nose
• Massive bleeding from cuts
• Weakness
• Blood in urine

If you experience any of these side effects while taking blood thinners, it's important to consult with your doctor promptly. Seeking timely and appropriate treatment is crucial to prevent further complications.

Things to Avoid while One is On Blood Thinners

Individuals who take blood thinner medications regularly must take numerous precautions and often need to avoid or limit certain foods to manage their condition effectively. Consulting with a doctor to determine which foods to avoid is crucial for patients taking blood thinners.

Patients taking blood thinners should also consult with a dietitian to create a customized diet plan that meets their specific needs. There are certain foods that individuals taking blood thinners should avoid, including:

1. Herbal Supplements

While many people take herbal supplements to promote better sleep, these supplements contain ingredients such as ginseng, licorice, chamomile, Echinacea, and cloves that are not suitable for heart patients.

2. Foods High in Vitamin K

Leafy greens such as kale, broccoli, spinach, cabbage, and asparagus are rich in Vitamin K, which is not ideal for individuals taking blood thinners.

3. Alcohol

Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to liver injury, which is especially concerning for individuals who take blood thinner pills daily. It is important to avoid alcohol consumption to protect the liver.

Conclusion

Blood thinners are designed to increase the number of platelets when an individual suffers from a heart injury, which provides relief. However, taking blood thinners can also cause several other health issues, which should be considered.

To avoid potential complications, it is essential to promptly address any side effects of blood thinners. If left unattended or neglected, these side effects can exacerbate and become challenging to manage. Thus, it is crucial to seek medical assistance immediately if you experience any adverse reactions to blood thinners.