Living With Antiphospholipid Antibody Syndrome
Antiphospholipid antibody syndrome (APS) has no
cure. However, you can take steps to control the disorder and prevent
complications.
Take all medicines as your doctor prescribes, get
ongoing medical care, and talk to your doctor about healthy lifestyle changes
and other concerns.
Medicines
You may need to take anticoagulants, or "blood
thinners," to prevent blood clots or to keep them from getting larger. You
should take these medicines exactly as your doctor prescribes.
Tell your doctor about all other medicines
youre taking, including over-the-counter or herbal medicines. Some
medicines, including over-the-counter ibuprofen or aspirin, can thin your
blood. Taking two medicines that thin your blood may increase your risk for
bleeding.
Ongoing Medical Care
If you have APS, its important to get regular
medical checkups. Have blood tests done as your doctor directs. These tests
help track how well your blood is clotting.
The medicines used to treat APS may cause bleeding.
Bleeding can occur inside your body (internal bleeding) or on its surface. Know
the warning signs of internal bleeding, so you can get help right away. They
include:
- Unexplained bleeding from the gums and nose
- Increased menstrual flow
- Bright red vomit or vomit that looks like coffee
grounds
- Bright red blood in your stools or black, tarry
stools
- Pain in your abdomen or severe pain in your
head
- Sudden changes in vision
- Sudden loss of movement in your limbs
- Memory loss or confusion
A lot of bleeding after a fall or injury or easy
bruising or bleeding also may mean that your blood is too thin. Talk to your
doctor about these warning signs and when to seek emergency care.
Lifestyle Changes
Talk to your doctor about lifestyle changes that can
help you stay healthy. Ask him or her whether your diet may interfere with your
medicines. Some foods or drinks may increase or decrease the effects of
warfarin.
Discuss with your doctor what amount of alcohol is
safe for you to drink if you're taking medicine. If you smoke, ask your doctor
about programs and products that can help you quit. Smoking can damage your
blood vessels and raise your risk for a number of health problems.
APS medicines may increase your risk for bleeding.
Thus, your doctor may advise you to avoid activities that have a high risk of
injury, such as some contact sports.
Other Concerns
Pregnancy
APS can raise your risk for a number of
pregnancy-related problems. Talk to your doctor about how to manage your APS if
your pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
With proper treatment, women who have APS are more
likely to carry babies to term than women whose APS isnt treated.
Birth Control
Women who have APS shouldnt use birth control
or hormone therapy that contains estrogen. Estrogen increases the risk for
blood clots. Talk to your doctor about other birth control methods.
Surgery
If you need surgery, your doctor may adjust the
amount of medicines you take before, during, and after the surgery to prevent
dangerous bleeding. |