Anticoagulant medicines are intended to treat and prevent blood clots from forming. Preventive use may be indicated in several circumstances, is always subject to medical prescription and aims to reduce the risk of thromboembolic events , including, for example: Stroke; Venous thrombosis; Pulmonary embolism. Anticoagulation is usually oral (in tablets or capsules), especially when it is a long-term one. When anticoagulants are prescribed for the first time, it is very important to clarify all doubts before leaving the consultation . If new questions arise, it is necessary to speak to the doctor. There are several types of anticoagulants, but when taking anticoagulation, most precautions are common to all. The probability of fatal bleeding when taking anticoagulation is very low. However, anticoagulants interfere with the blood clotting mechanisms and those who take them: Have a higher risk of bleeding; If there is bleeding, this will always be more severe and more difficult to control than when anticoagulants are not taken. Basic care Anyone taking anticoagulation must: Strictly follow the doctor's instructions regarding the prescribed medication , dose, interval between doses, time of intake and other advice. Do not stop anticoagulant medication suddenly . Do not take new medications , whether prescribed or over-the-counter, or supplements, natural products, herbs or teas, without talking to the doctor, as many can interfere with some types of anticoagulants, enhancing or reducing their action. Inform other doctors and in all circumstances where health care is needed that is taking anticoagulant medication. Preparing for the unexpected For safety reasons, it is very important to have information about what to do in various situations , whether unforeseen or not, for example: If a dose of medicine is missed. If you have vomiting or another health problem that prevents or may interfere with taking oral medications. If it is necessary to perform a medical procedure that involves puncturing blood vessels or that may be associated with a higher risk of bleeding, for example, blood collection for analysis, dental interventions, endoscopic examinations, surgeries. In women, when a pregnancy is planned or occurs. Whether or not it is necessary to have regular follow-up to check for the need to adjust medication. Whether or not it is necessary to limit certain foods that may interfere with anticoagulant medication. Further reinforce security In addition to what has already been mentioned, there are other precautions, mainly associated with lifestyle and daily routines, which help to reduce the risk of bleeding and reinforce safety when using anticoagulation. For example: Knowing the name of the medicine by heart and how it should be taken, or having this information quickly accessible is essential. There are multiple ways to do this, in case memory fails and also so that others are informed if necessary. For example: Write down on the cell phone health record and emergency contacts; Write it down on a piece of paper or card and always carry it in your wallet; Engrave on specific bracelets or medals that are always worn. For physical activity, avoid contact sports and activities, where the risk of injury is higher. Even the less serious ones are more frequent and more important in those who use anticoagulant medication. Comply with safety measures : helmets on motorbikes and bicycles, seat belts in cars, sitting or holding on tight when using public transport. At home, avoid wearing socks or slippery slippers and use non-slip protectors under rugs . Exercise caution when using scissors, knives, needles or other sharp or sharp-pointed instruments . Use gloves and other suitable protective devices when handling tools , whether in professional activities, gardening or other activities. When shaving, use a razor instead of a blade . To cut your nails, use a nail clipper or file instead of sharp scissors . For dental hygiene, use waxed dental floss, soft toothbrushes and brush your teeth carefully to prevent your gums from bleeding. When traveling : Carry some spare medication; Inform people you are traveling with about your medication. Author : Betânia Ferreira Meet the Internal Medicine clinical team from Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
