About this topic
Bleeding precautions mean you have to take extra care because you are at a high risk for bleeding. This may be because of an illness or because of a drug you are taking. It is important to get help right away if you start bleeding and are at a high risk for a bleeding problem. Bleeding can be very serious and should be stopped as soon as possible. ‚
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What are the causes?
Platelets are made in the bone marrow. When your skin is broken or injured, the platelets clump together. This makes a clot and helps to stop the bleeding. When you do not have enough platelets, clots cannot form. When your platelet level is low, it is called thrombocytopenia. Many illnesses can affect your platelet count. The lower your platelet level, the higher your risk for bleeding. ‚
What are the main signs?
The signs of bleeding depend on the number of platelets. You may have low platelets but show no signs of bleeding. Other times, you may have severe bleeding. Common signs include: ‚
- Bleeding from your mouth or gums
- Unusual or easy bruising
- Faint rash that is often on your arms or legs. This is called petechia.
- Coughing up blood
- Blood in the stool or urine
- Nosebleeds
- For females, heavier than normal menstrual cycle
- More bleeding than normal from a cut
How does the doctor diagnose this health problem?
Your doctor will take your history and do an exam. The doctor will carefully look at your skin for bruising or a rash. Your doctor may order tests like: ‚
- Lab tests
- Ultrasound
- Bone marrow biopsy
How does the doctor treat this health problem?
If your platelet count is too low and you are having bleeding problems, you may need treatment. Your treatment will be based on what is causing your low platelet count. ‚
- You may need a platelet transfusion.
- Your doctor may change the amount or kind of drug you are taking.
- Your doctor may order new drugs.
What lifestyle changes are needed?
- Talk with your doctor before you take drugs like ibuprofen (Advil ‚ ®, Motrin ‚ ®). These are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). Also, talk with your doctor before you take aspirin or a drug with aspirin in it. These can all cause you to bleed more easily.
- Take extra care when using knives or tools.
- Talk with your doctor about what activities are best for you. Ask if it is safe for you to exercise, play sports, or have sex.
- Tell all doctors and dentists that your platelets are low and your risk of bleeding is high.
- Avoid activities that can cause bruising and bleeding.
- Use a soft bristled toothbrush. This will help to avoid bleeding from your gums.
- Wear shoes or slippers on your feet at all times.
Will there be any other care needed?
- If you start to bleed, apply pressure to the area. Ice may also help. You may need to call for emergency help or go to the nearest emergency room.
- For a nosebleed, put ice on the bridge of your nose and go to the nearest emergency room.
When do I need to call the doctor?
- Any unusual bleeding or bruising
- Any unusual or lengthy vaginal bleeding
- If you notice a faint rash over the arms, legs, or belly
- If you notice broken blood vessels in the white of the eye
- If you develop a headache or blurred eyesight
- Black bowel movements or blood in the stool or toilet bowl
- Blood in your urine
- Dizziness
Helpful tips
- Blow your nose gently.
- Use a stool softener so you will not have to strain with bowel movements. Do not use an enema or suppositories.
- Use electric razors when shaving. Avoid using scissors and nail clippers.
- Protect your hands from cuts.
- Wear gloves when you work in the garden or around the house.
- Always wear a seatbelt.
- Avoid climbing on ladders.
Where can I learn more?
National Heart Lung and Blood Institute ‚
http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/thcp/ ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚