Doctor's check warning for blood thinning medications

It's been reported that blood-thinning medications are increasingly being used outside of a doctor's supervision. Experts warn that this situation can pose serious health risks.

Chief Physician and Cardiology Specialist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sarıkaya stated that with the increased life expectancy and the rise in modern treatment options, blood thinners are becoming more widely used. He also noted that the importance of managing and monitoring blood thinners has increased, particularly with the increase in rhythm disturbances and vascular interventions seen in older ages.

"It can cause serious health problems"

Speaking on the matter, Hospital Chief Physician and Cardiology Specialist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Remzi Sarıkaya stated that blood-thinning medications carry serious risks when used inappropriately and not in the appropriate dose and on the right patient. Excessive use or the wrong patient can lead to major bleeding, particularly brain hemorrhages or major hemorrhages, Cardiology Specialist Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sarıkaya explained, "Therefore, we are very meticulous when deciding whether to start or stop these medications; we evaluate every aspect. Otherwise, it can lead to clot formation. This can lead to unsuccessful procedures, strokes, or various other serious health problems depending on the organ in which the clot forms."

"Self-initiated treatment methods are definitely not right"

Sarıkaya emphasized that blood thinners should definitely be used only with a doctor's recommendation, saying, "Recently, self-initiated treatment methods like 'I'll take an aspirin a day' or 'I'll take aspirin twice a week' are absolutely not appropriate. Only if a doctor deems this treatment appropriate for you after an examination and evaluation should it be used. Another important point is that patients on blood thinners should self-discontinue their medications before simple medical procedures. For example, patients who have had stent placement, heart valve surgery, or are using blood thinners for similar reasons should definitely consult their physician before even seemingly simple procedures like dental treatment. Medication interruptions made without a doctor's supervision can have very serious consequences." Sarıkaya emphasized that blood thinners should never be started without a doctor's recommendation, continuing: "We never stop, interrupt, or adjust the dose of a blood thinner started by a doctor without a doctor's recommendation. In all these processes, the recommendations of our physician who follows us should be taken as a basis, and medication use and dosage adjustments should always be made under the supervision of a doctor."