Has your doctor prescribed you a shot of heparin to prevent a blood clot in your body or to stop an existing clot from getting bigger? Or do you give this medicine to someone in your family? You may be scared to hear this name. But don't worry. This is a very important medicine that is used often. Today, we will talk about this medicine called heparin in simple terms.
Simply put, what is Heparin?
Heparin is a drug that prevents blood clotting . In medical terms, we call this an ``anticoagulant''. Imagine, if a blood clot forms unnecessarily inside our blood vessels, it can interfere with blood flow. These blood clots can form in the veins, arteries, lungs, or heart. What the heparin injection does is stop such blood clots from forming or prevent an already formed blood clot from getting bigger.
In addition, it is also used on some special occasions.
- When performing open-heart surgery.
- During dialysis for kidney patients.
- Prevent blood clots in patients who are confined to bed for a long time after surgery or due to another medical condition.
Things to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
Before giving you heparin, your doctor will need to know your complete health history. Be sure to tell your doctor if you have any of the conditions listed below.
| Health condition or opportunity | Please tell the doctor. |
|---|---|
| Bleeding diseases | For example, a disease like hemophilia or a condition where there are low levels of blood platelets. |
| Digestive system diseases | Conditions such as bowel disease or diverticulitis. |
| Heart infections | Conditions such as `Endocarditis` (heart valve infection). |
| High blood pressure | If you are taking treatment for high blood pressure or if it is not controlled. |
| Liver diseases | Any type of liver disease. |
| Recent surgery or childbirth | If you have recently undergone surgery or given birth. |
| Stomach ulcers | Current or previous stomach ulcers. |
| Allergies | If you are allergic to heparin, sulfites, other medicines, foods, or preservatives. |
| Pregnancy and breastfeeding | If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding. |
How do you use this medicine?
This vaccine is usually given in a hospital or clinic by a trained medical professional. It is given as an injection into a vein (`injection`) or as a drip into a vein (`infusion`) like saline. Sometimes, small amounts are injected under the skin.
You may need to give yourself this injection at home. If so, you will be taught how to prepare and inject it correctly. It is very important to take the medicine exactly as prescribed, at the right time. Never stop taking the medicine without your doctor's advice. If you do, your risk of developing a blood clot may increase again.
What do you do with used needles and syringes?
This is very important. Never throw used needles and syringes in the trash. Use a special sharps container that is provided for them. If you don't have one, you can ask your doctor for one.
What if the medication dose increases?
If you think you have taken an overdose, go to the nearest Emergency Department (ETU) immediately. Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital for advice.
Things to be careful about when taking medicine
- Regular check-ups: Go to your doctor's scheduled check-ups. You may also need to have blood tests. Don't skip these appointments.
- Avoid getting injured: While taking this medicine, you may bleed easily. Therefore, stay away from sports and activities that may cause you to fall or get injured. Be very careful when using sharp objects like knives. If you shave, it is safer to use an electric razor. Be very gentle when brushing and flossing your teeth.
- Report any injuries: If you notice any bruises, red spots, or excessive bleeding from even a minor injury, tell your doctor immediately.
- Pre-surgery notification: If you are scheduled to undergo any surgery (even a tooth extraction), be sure to tell the doctor that you are taking heparin.
- Cold hands and feet: If your hands or feet feel cold and blue, it could be a problem with blood circulation. Tell your doctor right away.
- Long-term use: Taking heparin for a long time can weaken bones and increase the risk of bone fractures. So, talk to your doctor about getting enough calcium and vitamin D in your diet.
What are the possible side effects of the medication?
Like any medication, heparin can cause some side effects. Some of these are serious, while others are common.
| Side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
|---|---|
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips or tongue. |
| Bleeding symptoms | Black or tarry stools; red or dark brown urine; vomit that looks like coffee grounds; red spots on the skin; unusual bleeding from the eyes, gums, or nose. |
| Symptoms of a blood clot | Chest pain; difficulty breathing; leg pain, swelling, or a warm feeling. |
| Symptoms of Stroke | Vision changes; confusion; difficulty speaking or understanding; severe headache; sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arm, or leg; difficulty walking; dizziness. |
| Other features | Bone pain, fever, nausea, vomiting. |
| Common side effects that should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Hair loss | Temporary hair loss. |
| Pain at the injection site | Pain, redness, or slight swelling at the injection site. |
Other things that may interact with this medicine
If you are taking heparin, you should avoid taking certain other medications. Tell your doctor about all the medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal remedies).
The risk of bleeding is greatly increased when taking medications, especially aspirin and NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen), with heparin. Therefore, do not take any painkillers without medical advice.
Things like smoking and alcohol consumption can also affect the effectiveness of this medicine. So be honest with your doctor about that too.
Take-Home Message
- Heparin is a very important medicine that prevents blood clotting. Don't be afraid of it.
- Take the medicine exactly as your doctor tells you, in the right dose, at the right time. Never stop taking your medicine without advice.
- Be very careful while taking this medicine, as even a minor injury can cause bleeding.
- If you experience any serious symptoms such as unusual bleeding, severe headache, or chest pain, seek medical advice immediately.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
- Dispose of used needles and syringes safely in a special container.
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