Warfarin………….

Ok, so just to recap… a few days ago the haematologist told me I had a diagnosis of Antiphospholipid Syndrome and that I will need to be on an anticoagulant for the rest of my life. Apparently, Warfarin will help me manage the APS to prevent clots or reduce clots – can’t remember which - but at the moment there is no cure for APS.  I have to say I feel relieved, not sure why?

I am already on Plavix (Baby aspirin) but that’s apparently not enough. So, now I have to stop taking Plavix and start Warfarin therapy.

And today I had to go and tell my G.P.

She was great. Just as well as it’s all a bit overwhelming and I’m not sure everything has sunk in yet.

She explained that there are 3 colours of pills I will use,

brown = 1mg

blue = 3mg

pink = 5mg

I will be required to take these every day. I have to start with 5mg and I have to get my blood within a range of between 2 and 3 of a therapeutic range called the INR.

As it takes time to get to that range I also have to have a Fragmin injection on top of the Warfarin each day. Can I inject? she asked.  Well, no, I’ve never had cause to.  What you mean I have to inject myself?  What me?  No!

Okay, so I was given a masterclass on how to inject into my belly. I knew there was a reason I was never skinny.  Just in case the time ever came that I had to inject myself, better to have a roll of blubber for that I think! Woohoo, apparently I pass with flying colours – a natural.  Ha!

Okay so I have to take Warfarin at 6pm every night and get a blood test every day until they are happy. The doctor will tell me each night what dose to take.  Seems easy enough.

I am told to take care with high levels of green veg and don’t drink cranberry juice. Sounds a bit weird but I’m sure I can cope with that.

At least it’s not summer, I like green salads in summer, oh and I take wheatgrass every day, oh and I have green smoothies…oh oh. Okay there is a lot to think through.  I may need to do some digging.