FAQs
“Can I drink alcohol?”
Alcohol can increase fall risk and may affect bleeding risk and INR control (warfarin). Discuss safe limits with your clinician.
Alcohol can increase fall risk and may affect bleeding risk and INR control (warfarin). Discuss safe limits with your clinician.
“Can I take painkillers?”
Many people should avoid NSAIDs (ibuprofen/naproxen) while anticoagulated. Ask about safer alternatives (often acetaminophen/paracetamol, but confirm for your situation).
Many people should avoid NSAIDs (ibuprofen/naproxen) while anticoagulated. Ask about safer alternatives (often acetaminophen/paracetamol, but confirm for your situation).
“Do I need a medical ID?”
Strongly recommended. In emergencies, responders need to know you’re anticoagulated.
Strongly recommended. In emergencies, responders need to know you’re anticoagulated.
“What about long flights?”
Your clot/bleed risks depend on why you’re on anticoagulants, mobility, and other factors. Follow your clinician’s guidance and stay hydrated/move regularly.
Your clot/bleed risks depend on why you’re on anticoagulants, mobility, and other factors. Follow your clinician’s guidance and stay hydrated/move regularly.
Plain-language terms
- DVT = deep vein thrombosis (leg clot)
- PE = pulmonary embolism (lung clot)
- AF = atrial fibrillation (irregular heart rhythm, stroke risk)
- INR = lab measure used to monitor warfarin effect
- PCC = prothrombin complex concentrate (used in some emergency reversals)