When we get an injury somewhere in our body, blood clotting is very important to stop bleeding. It is a defense mechanism of our body. But, what if blood clots start forming in the blood vessels inside the body without any injury? That can be a bit dangerous. One reason for this unnecessary blood clotting is the decrease in the protein Antithrombin III in the body. So today, in this article, we will talk about what this Antithrombin III is, about the vaccine given when it is low, and about what you need to know about it.
What exactly is Antithrombin III?
Simply put, Antithrombin III is a protein that is naturally present in our blood. Its main function is to control the blood clotting process in our body. Think of our blood clotting system as a car. Antithrombin III acts like a 'brake' that stops this car from going too fast and forming blood clots everywhere.
So, if a person's body has a low level of this Antithrombin III protein, that 'brake' becomes weak. Then the blood clotting process starts to occur uncontrollably. This greatly increases the risk of dangerous conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or pulmonary embolism (PE).
Who needs this vaccine and why?
This Antithrombin III vaccine is given to people who have been diagnosed by doctors as having a deficiency in this protein. This condition can also be hereditary.
The need for this vaccine arises most especially in the following risk situations:
- When undergoing major surgery: The risk of blood clots in the body is naturally higher after surgery. This risk is even higher in someone who also has Antithrombin III deficiency.
- During pregnancy and after childbirth: A pregnant mother with this deficiency is at a very high risk of blood clots, especially after childbirth.
So, in high-risk situations like these, doctors use this vaccine to prevent unwanted blood clots from forming or to treat a blood clot that has already formed.
Things to tell your doctor before getting vaccinated
It is extremely important to discuss these matters clearly with your doctor before starting this treatment.
- Allergies: Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any allergies to Antithrombin III or any other medicine, food, or dye. It is especially important to tell your doctor if you have any allergies to things like goat's milk or goat meat . Some Antithrombin III vaccines are made with proteins derived from goat's milk.
- If you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant: It is imperative to inform your doctor about this.
- If you are a breastfeeding mother: Discuss this with your doctor as well.
- Other medications you are taking: Give your doctor a complete list of any other medications you are taking, whether they are vitamins, herbal remedies, or traditional medicine.
How is this treatment given and what precautions should be taken?
This is an injection into a vein. This is not a medicine you can use at home. It is given to you by a trained medical professional in a hospital or clinic. So there is no need to worry about an overdose. However, if you think that this has happened in any way, immediately inform the National Poisons Information Centre at the National Hospital or the nearest Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) .
Keep these things in mind during treatment.
- Medical tests: Your doctor will order regular blood tests to monitor your condition. Don't skip any of these appointments.
- Beware of accidents: Since there is a slightly increased risk of bleeding while taking this medication, it is wise to stay away from sports and activities that can be dangerous. If you fall or hit something hard, you may bleed internally without being seen.
- Be careful with sharp objects: Be very careful when using sharp objects like knives and scissors. If you are shaving, it is safer to use an electric razor instead of a regular razor. Be very gentle when brushing and flossing your teeth.
- Interactions with other medications: Some medications may not be compatible with this vaccine. Therefore, it is important to tell your doctor about all medications you are taking.
| Medications to avoid in particular | Examples |
|---|---|
| Medications that prevent blood clotting or thin the blood | Medications like Aspirin, Warfarin, Heparin |
| Other medications | Mifepristone |
What are the possible side effects?
Like any medicine, this vaccine can cause side effects in some people. Some of these are serious, while others are mild. The important thing is to be aware of these symptoms and take action quickly if necessary.
| Side effect | What to do? |
|---|---|
| Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Severe allergic reaction Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. | Seek medical advice immediately . |
| Bleeding symptoms Black or bloody stools, dark brown or red urine, vomiting things that look like coffee grounds, red spots on the skin, easy bruising, unusual bleeding from the eyes, gums, or nose. | Inform your doctor immediately . |
| Signs of a new blood clot forming Chest pain, difficulty breathing, leg pain, swelling, or warmth. | Seek medical advice immediately . |
| Symptoms of Stroke Changes in vision, confusion, difficulty speaking or understanding, severe headache, sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm or leg, difficulty walking, dizziness. | Go to the nearest hospital's Emergency Department (ETU) immediately . |
| Side effects that are usually not serious, but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Dizziness | Tell your doctor if it persists or is bothersome. |
| Pain, redness, or swelling where the injection was given. | Tell your doctor if it persists or is bothersome. |
Take-Home Message
- Antithrombin III is a natural protein in our bodies that controls blood clotting. A deficiency in this protein increases the risk of unwanted blood clots.
- This vaccine is given in a hospital to prevent blood clots, especially during high-risk situations such as surgery or pregnancy.
- Before starting treatment, tell your doctor about all allergies you have and all medications you are taking.
- Be careful of accidents during treatment. Inform your doctor about any unusual bleeding or bruising.
- If you develop symptoms of bleeding, a new blood clot, or a stroke, consider it an emergency and seek immediate medical attention.
- Follow your doctor's instructions exactly, and don't skip scheduled tests and medical appointments.
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