The saga Continues

[carlapv]

I went this morning to have my weekly coumadin check. 1.8 Last week it was 1.2. I was told to take 10mg that Friday and 5 mg per day. Also I stopped taking Amiodarone last Friday. Today I was instructed to take 7.5mg Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday and 5mg the rest.
I really thought it was going to be high again this week because I have been having little bruises appearing on my hands and arms. But oh well, what do I know!

Maybe someday I will finally get my coumadine regulated, until them I will continue to go to the clinic, missing work and getting docked for the time I miss!

Carla

 

[Karlynn]

Carla,
Sounds like you are a good candidate for a home testing unit. My INR wasn't stable for a long time and the home testing saved my sanity. QAS will do the leg work with your insurance provider and let you know what/if they'll cover.

 

[JimChicago]

I have read that as the amiodarone wears off you may tend to need more coumadin but also they say the amiodarone stays in your system for 3 to 6 months so it probably somewhat gradually wears off.

Like Karalyn says home testing may be a good option for you.

 

[Guest]

If you had a bovine graft in January you should be about done with warfarin unless you are still having atrial fibrillation.

 

[carlapv]

Thanks for the replies. My card isn't into home units. I guess he likes the $35.00 a week.

Al, I also have a St. Judes Aortic and Mitral valve, so getting off coumadin isn't an option for me. I truly wish it were.

Carla

 

[Ross]

Carla try to find a Doctor that will support the idea of you home testing. I had a heck of time finding one and finally did. It makes all the difference in the world and your arms will thank you too. If you need tons of evidence to drop on your current Doctor in support of home testing, let me know. I've got some stuff here and I'd be happy to help you gather more.

 

[Sherry]

Hey, Carla,
I can certainly sympathize with you. Mine fluctuates wildly. A few weeks ago, I had one of those visual curtains, went to my nurse, and it was 1.8. She then adjusted my dose and gave me a shot of lovenox. Did you ask your nurse about the shot? I agree with Ross about the home testing unit. I'm considering it myself this summer. I did find two docs (one cardio and one general practitioner) who said they'd both prescribe on for me. Have you tried your general doc? I would feel very confident with mine since he has a Coagucheck in the office and follows many patients.