Coumadin
(the brand name for Warfarin) is a medication that has offered
protection from strokes, heart attacks, pulmonary embolisms
other conditions resulting from blood clots. Coumadin is an
anti-coagulant, or blood thinner, that helps to prevent the
formation of blood clots. Those with certain heart conditions
or who are subject to irregular blood clotting can benefit
significantly from Coumadin. That’s the good news. The
bad news is that Coumadin is a medication that must be carefully
monitored to insure the correct balance in the user’s
system to avoid serious complications. Coumadin
dosage is a very precise science and is determined by the
specific condition being treated, certain characteristics
of the person with the condition and the rate of clotting
as determined by regular testing. In order to achieve the
proper levels of Coumadin it may be necessary to take different
doses each day. This requires that the user be very aware
of the schedule and keep good records of dosage requirements
and testing schedules.
Warfarin
(generic Coumadin) was actually used as rat poison. Large
doses of the compound caused rodents to hemorrhage internally
and die. While the doses for humans are relatively miniscule,
the dangers of excess bleeding are still a concern. The
delicate balance of Coumadin in the system is the reason
that many users will wear some form of medical alert identification.
In the event of an emergency or an accident, attendants
can readily identify a Coumadin user and attempt to discern
whether to avoid certain other medications that may interact
adversely with Coumadin. Emergency personnel can also determine
if Coumadin may be the culprit.
There
are many medical conditions and medications that can cause
a situation or a reaction whereby a person cannot communicate.
Conditions such as epilepsy, diabetes, food allergies and
the use of medications like Coumadin can be easily and readily
identified by wearing medical alert jewelry with the proper
information engraved or stored. A small problem can become
a large problem if someone takes the wrong course of action,
or no action, based on a lack of information. A small, attractive,
fashionable piece of jewelry can help you look sharp…and
save your life.
About the Author
J. Terrence McDermott is administrator and webmaster for
Prevamedic.com
a site featuring recommendations and resources for those
seeking information about medical identification jewelry
and devices. He can be reached at info@prevamedic.com.
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