Some time ago, someone posted a graph showing incidence of 'events' vs. INR. The curve was basically flat (at the minimum value) from 2.0 to 5.0
Below 2.0, there is a linear increase in incidents leading to stroke. Transient Ischemic Attacks (TIA's) MAY be an indicator.
Symptoms of TIA include:
blurring of vision (or other visual effects such as
jagged lines of 'kaleidoscopic' images)
slurring of speach
numbness
paralysis
syncope (fainting)
ASK your Doctor if chewing an Aspirin would be appropriate to help break up a clot and/or prevent further symptoms
Above 5.0 there MAY be an increase in bleeding incidents such as a bloody nose, bleeding gums, blood in the urine, rectal bleeding, or dark or black stools. Bright Red blood is an indicator of Serious Bleeding and IMMEDIATE Medical Attention (ER) should be sought. Pink bloody discharge indicates less severity but still should be treated medically. Light Spotting is usually not serious and may clear on it's own or with light pressure applied. Again, the higher the INR (above 5.0) the greater the likelihood of a bleeding event. This was also a linearly rising line versus INR.
The BEST way to know one's INR is to obtain a Home INR Test Meter. A Doctor's prescription and letter of medical necessity is necessary. QAS (sponsor of VR.com) is a provider of Home Testers. See their FORUM.
Difficulty obtaining a sufficient blood sample can be minimized by being WELL hydrated. Take a large glass of water before testing (preferably a few? hours before). For patients with CHF, fluid consumption should be limited to what will not induce symptoms.
'AL Capshaw'
Go figure. However - yummy big salad time. 
