Are you seeking solutions to get rid of bruises from blood thinners? The survey results released by the National Blood Clot Alliance (NBCA) reveal that 55% of Americans who have been prescribed anticoagulant medications (blood thinners) are somewhat or very much concerned about going through a life-threatening bleed. However, there is absolutely no need to worry about the bruises caused by blood thinners. In this article, we take you through various tips that will help you get rid of bruises from blood thinners.
What Is Nuisance Bleeding?
In most cases, bleeding caused by blood thinners is not serious or life-threatening. Termed as nuisance bleeding, some examples of such scenarios are
- Nosebleeds are experienced often, or ones that last longer than five minutes.
- A small cut happens during shaving with a razor and the bleeding lasts longer than usual, or for over five minutes.
- A minor cut, laceration, or skin tear that leads to bleeding for a long time.
How To Protect Yourself From Nuisance Bleeding?
As someone taking a blood thinner, you can continue to be part of most of the activities that you enjoy. It’s just that you have to take extra precautions such as:
- Exercise caution while engaging in activities such as high-risk sports which may cause injury. Make sure that you always wear proper safety gear.
- Wearing protective gloves is a must while using tools such as gardening shears or other sharp instruments.
- Take extra care while trimming your hair or nails.
- A soft toothbrush is recommended.
- Wear shoes as a safety measure to avoid cuts on your feet.
What To Do In Case Of Nuisance Bleeding?
However cautious you are, accidents can happen and it may cause nuisance bleeding. In such situations, there are several products such as special bandages, wound dressings, powders, and gels that are effective in stopping nuisance bleeding quickly. There is no need to produce a prescription for buying these products. They can be bought over the counter from medical stores or online.
Home Remedies To Get Relief From Bruises
As you know by now, most of the time, bruising caused by blood thinners does not lead to an emergency. In such scenarios, try out the following home remedies.
1. Rest is quite important. Also, make sure that you protect the bruised area.
2. Ice helps in reducing pain and swelling. As soon as you encounter the injury, apply ice or a cold pack so that it prevents or minimizes swelling. Continue doing this for 10 to 20 minutes, thrice a day or even more.
a. During the first 48 hours of the injury, stay away from practices that might increase swelling. Examples include hot showers, hot packs, hot tubs, or alcoholic beverages.
b. If the swelling subsides after 48 to 72 hours, apply heat and start doing gentle exercise with the aid of moist heat. This is done to help restore and maintain flexibility. Some experts suggest switching between hot and cold treatments.
3. During the time you are applying ice or whenever you are sitting or lying down, make sure to elevate the bruised area using pillows. Also, keeping that area at or above your heart’s level will aid in reducing swelling.
4. Gently massage or rub the bruised area. It helps relieve pain and facilitate blood flow. In case of pain, refrain from massaging the bruised area.
When To Call Your Doctor?
Get in touch with your doctor if you encounter any of the following situations during home treatment.
- A bruise that persists for more than 2 weeks.
- Starting signs of skin infection such as increased pain, swelling, redness around the area, warmth, red streaks leading from the area, pus, and a fever.
- Frequent symptoms or symptoms that become severe.
- Developing new symptoms.
Conclusion
Hope the article provides lesser-known information about how to get rid of bruises from blood thinners. Last, but not least, when you feel that your bruising is new or more significant than normal, consult your anticoagulation provider regarding the bruising. In such cases, they may ask you to get a blood test done. This is to check whether any other changes have happened to your health.
