Coumadin Therapy

Are you looking for information about Coumadin therapy? Coumadin, also known as warfarin, is a drug that helps patients who are experiencing different cases of blood clots within their system. Blood clots are naturally occurring within our bodies, acting as barriers when there is damage to the blood vessel, helping to repair the damage. Unfortunately, blood clots can sometimes occur when they are not needed; in these cases, a blood clot is a very dangerous and deadly as they can stop the blood flow throughout the body, stopping the flow to the heart or breaking off and causing lung issues and even death if not treated.

Coumadin acts by preventing your blood from clotting, however the downside is that it interacts with common medications and foods that are considered high in vitamin K. If you will be placed on a Coumadin therapy or you are on Coumadin therapy, here are some things you should watch for:

• When you doctor places you on Coumadin therapy, s/he will most likely give you a list of things that you will need to do or eat.
• Your doctor may schedule routine blood tests in order to check the blood levels in your body; this will probably start at two times a week before getting gradually less.
• You will be advised to avoid certain foods, especially those that are very high in vitamin K. These include many leafy greens, such as lettuce, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, collard greens, spinach and more. Foods that are low in vitamin K, such as milk, cheeses and cauliflower, are okay to eat; however, it is advisable to speak to your doctor.

Having some idea on what to expect with Coumadin therapy will help you prepare before seeing your doctor. Your doctor of course will be able to answer any questions or concerns that you might have, as well as giving you more information on what you will need to do in order to use Coumadin without any side effects or issues.