Serious Side Effects Of Blood Thinners

Hair Loss

Some patients notice hair loss while taking blood thinners. Although this is not considered a serious side effect, it can be distressing for the patient. Patients might find their hair comes out more easily or in larger clumps when brushed, and the use of heated styling devices, hairspray, and hair gels could damage the hair and worsen hair loss. To ensure hair loss is the result of the blood thinners and is not due to an underlying medical condition, patients should speak to a doctor.

Blood tests will be performed, and patients should mention when they first noticed the hair loss and if they feel it is getting worse. The physician may want to examine the scalp to assess the extent of the hair loss. In some cases, patients may be able to take a medication that stimulates hair growth, and doctors will recommend the safest option available. It might also be helpful to consider hairstyles and accessories that could camouflage existing hair loss.

Stomachache Or Headache

A stomachache or headache might develop during treatment with blood thinners, both of which could be a sign of excessive internal bleeding. Patients who experience severe pain in their head or stomach should go to an emergency room right away. If headaches or stomachaches cause mild or moderate pain regularly, patients should make an appointment to discuss these symptoms with their doctor as soon as possible.

To evaluate these symptoms in patients who are taking blood thinners, doctors will begin with a physical examination. They will lightly press on the patient's abdomen to check for areas of tenderness, and they will also check for any areas of bruising. Imaging tests such as CT scans or MRI scans will be needed to check for internal bleeding. If internal bleeding is detected, treatment will depend on how severe it is. Mild internal bleeding may be treated with rest and symptom management, and severe internal bleeding will typically require surgery.