Why? Because I have an artificial heart valve since 1987. Therefore I need to be anticoagulated. Since 1987 I use a self-monitoring device which allows me to control my INR values by myself. This breakthrough technological discovery has given me and worldwide 300,000 anticoagulated patients a great deal of freedom and independence.
Advice:
Patient self-management offers significant benefits, since it is proven that fewer complications occur if you self manage.
One drop of blood a week is enough to measure your INR yourself and to adjust your dose if necessary. You will have flexibility of when and where to test.
„Coagulation self-management involves great self-confidence. The experience of self-dealing with anticoagulation brings a higher quality of life.“*
* Schaefer C., Enabling patient self-management, Hospitalhealthcare 2014
Use simple tools, like a checking off a day on your diary, Apps.
such as:
Stable INR-values that are in the therapeutic target range over a long period of time. Consider your individual target range.
(Natalie Oake, et. al., CMAJ 2008: the lowest complication rate (4.3%) was shown for INR values between 2.0 and 3.0. The relative risk was a 2.7 fold increased for INR values between 3.0 and 5.0. For INR values > 5.0 the risk for bleeding is a 21.8 fold increase. INR values <2.0 increase the thrombosis risk 3.5 fold)
You can enjoy an active lifestyle if you are on anticoagulants, whether it is in the mountains or at the sea. It is important to measure you INR regularly and to listen to your own body.