Minor bleeding (usually not life-threatening)
- Small bruises
- Mild gum bleeding when brushing
- Occasional nosebleed that stops with pressure
Even “minor” bleeding can matter if it’s frequent, worsening, or associated with dizziness/weakness.
Red flags — urgent evaluation
Seek urgent medical assessment for:
- Bleeding that won’t stop with firm pressure
- Large or rapidly spreading bruises
- Black/tarry stools, maroon stools, or visible blood
- Pink/red/brown urine
- Vomiting blood or coffee-ground material
- Severe abdominal pain, fainting, or shortness of breath
Head injury and stroke symptoms — treat as emergency
Any significant head impact while on anticoagulants warrants urgent evaluation—even if you feel okay.
- New severe headache
- Confusion, drowsiness, seizure
- Weakness, numbness, speech or vision changes
Remember FAST for stroke:
- Face droop
- Arm weakness
- Speech difficulty
- Time to call emergency services