INR range confusion & ?

[MNmom]

ug. I was in the waiting room to see my cardiologist for the first time post op at 8 weeks, and was looking over my Mayo discharge summary for about the 15th time, when I noticed it said INR range- 2-3. My local PA had me believing that it should be 2.5-3.5, and in my fog of recovery, I seemed to remember having the discussion with her, and she said it doesnt matter which valve was replaced- mitral or aortic- mechanical valves require 2.5-3.5. After complaining about the lovenox run for 17 days to my cardio- he asked about my range, and that is how the conversation took place. He said with my new aortic valve- 2-3 is the new standard recommended range.
Anyway, its all behind me now, but wanted to share my frustration yet again.
On a side note, everything else is going great! Almost 9 weeks now, and done with cardiac rehab and back at Golds gym- on the elliptical and in strength training classes again- yipee!
I do have a strange question- would it be a big problem to get my nose pierced while on coumadin? I wont likely do it, but just wondering.
Ingrid

 

[Bina]

Don't worry too much about the range....I was given 2.5---3.5 but my doc said that there is no risk if I stay between 2.0 and 4.0
Last week I tested at 2.8 which is perfect.
I'm sure that a tiny little nose piercing would be fine with a very sterile environment, check with your doc.

 

[Ross]

The standard, which is not written in stone is 2.0 to 3.0 for aortic without additional risks. 2.5 to 3.5 for mitral valves.

Bottom line, keep it between 2 and 4 and don't worry about it.

 

[dick0236]

There really isn't much difference in 2-3 and 2.5-3.5. I personally get a little uncomfortable when I get below 2.5 and I really don't like to be at 2. I am much more comfortable with an INR at 3+. From what I read, the valve science is moving towards limiting Warfarin(Coumadin) use, so a lower INR range may be appropriate for some newer valves. Work with your cardio or PCP to arrive at a dooable range that is comfortable to all. Also, understand that you will periodically go in and out of that range.....for no apparent reason.

 

[njean]

Speaking of going in & out of ranges ---- tested myself yesterday & I was at 4.2. So I just halved my 10mg & took 5mg & will take a 10 tonight & the rest of the week & test again Friday or Saturday.

Doctor wants me to be at the higher range, closer to 4.0 due to my 2 mechanicals but I feel more comfortable in the middle of 3.0 & 4.0.

 

[Guest]

Is there a risk of endocarditis with a nose piercing like there is with getting the teeth cleaned?

 

[Ross]

You want a swimming suit to cover your scar, but you thinking of getting your nose pierced? Personally, I'd much rather look at the scar then a nose ring.

 

[aussigal]

Good point Al...antibiotic coverage would be a good idea if one really wanted to get this done being that the nose and throat are connected....just in-case....

 

[MNmom]

You want a swimming suit to cover your scar, but you thinking of getting your nose pierced? Personally, I'd much rather look at the scar then a nose ring.

Hey, it was just a question- like I said, probably not gonna happen, but have been thinking about it. The pain and recovery are what are holding me back- I have heard it takes up to a year to fully heal- seems a bit rough.
And I wouldnt be putting a ring in my nose- more like a diamond.

To each their own

 

[ALCapshaw2]

Ingrid,

After all you have been through,
WHY would you want to risk an infection?

 

[MNmom]

Al, I really dont want to risk infection- or long term healing- its just that every now and then I think it would be cool- my husband thinks Im crazy to even think about it. I see others who have the diamond studs in their noses though and really want one, but then think about what a pain it could potentially be, so I chicken out.

 

[Bina]

How about getting a "stick on" version....don't they still sell those sparkly little things you can stick on fingernails?
You could then put it on when you go out, etc. and not be stuck with something permanent.

 

[MNmom]

How about getting a "stick on" version....don't they still sell those sparkly little things you can stick on fingernails?
You could then put it on when you go out, etc. and not be stuck with something permanent.

The irony, Bina, is that its not like I "go out" and party it up where I would get all dressed up. I cant even remember the last time I did that. The only places I go usually involve my kids- at least for the next three weeks. Then I am off to work again- yikes!

 

[Bina]

Well, then spend the money on some nice new earrings! You deserve it.

 

[MNmom]

Thanks, that is very sweet. Jewelry has been fun to buy, along with handbags and shoes- none require me to try on or fit into!

 

[Ross]

Hey, it was just a question- like I said, probably not gonna happen, but have been thinking about it. The pain and recovery are what are holding me back- I have heard it takes up to a year to fully heal- seems a bit rough.
And I wouldnt be putting a ring in my nose- more like a diamond.

To each their own

Yeah I know, to each his own. I just have to say that those things bug me more then most anything else. Probably because the people I've seen with them have gone out of there way to make sure it sticks out and can be seen. Sort of like screaming "Look at Me".

 

[perrypiratesdad]

Yeah I know, to each his own. I just have to say that those things bug me more then most anything else. Probably because the people I've seen with them have gone out of there way to make sure it sticks out and can be seen. Sort of like screaming "Look at Me".

Same here Ross. What really bugs me though are the tongue piercings. I really get grossed out when dining out and the waitress has one.

 

[Karlynn]

I'm a freelance makeup artist. I have run across many girls with nose piercings. It seems that infection seems to be an issue for some with this type of piercing. (Do my makeup - but don't touch my nose. I have an infection I'm trying to clear up.)

I don't think the actual piercing would be too much of an issue. Just take antibiotics to cover yourself. But I think you may want to reconsider doing it if you have to deal with infection from time to time. After all, the nose is what breathes in all sorts of junk.

 

[MNmom]

When worn tastfully, I think a diamond in the nose is very pretty- but I too have seen ugly versions too- such as an actual ring, or dots that look like pimples or other icky looking types. The bad thing is you never know how it will look until you do it- unless you try a stick on version- which I doubt would do the trick!
Like I said- what is keeping me from it- just like pre-surgery- is the amount of time it takes to heal- a women I worked with got one last summer and it she said it was still tender by spring. She and her daughter got them when they turned 30 and 60!