Blood Thinners in Vermont

If you’ve had a blood clot, atrial fibrillation, or a heart valve replacement, your doctor may have prescribed a blood thinner to reduce your risk of stroke or serious complications. While these medications are highly effective, they require careful monitoring to stay safe and effective. At Vermont Family Medicine, Dr. Mark Hoffman provides expert guidance to help you stay on track with your anticoagulation plan.

With over 30 years of experience in family medicine, Dr. Hoffman helps patients manage blood thinner therapy with precision, personalized care, and peace of mind.

What Are Blood Thinners?

Blood thinners, or anticoagulants, help prevent clots from forming in your blood vessels. They don’t actually “thin” the blood, but they slow down the clotting process to reduce the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and other serious events.

There are two main types:

  • Vitamin K Antagonists: Warfarin (Coumadin), which requires regular blood testing
  • Direct Oral Anticoagulants (DOACs): Such as apixaban (Eliquis), rivaroxaban (Xarelto), and dabigatran (Pradaxa), which don’t usually require frequent testing

Conditions Treated with Blood Thinners

  • Atrial fibrillation (AFib)
  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
  • Pulmonary embolism (PE)
  • Mechanical heart valves
  • Stroke prevention in high-risk individuals

How Vermont Family Medicine Helps You Stay Safe

Managing blood thinners involves more than just taking a pill. Dr. Hoffman offers:

  • Regular INR testing for warfarin users with same-day results
  • Medication reviews to avoid interactions with other prescriptions or supplements
  • Guidance on consistent diet, especially with vitamin K for warfarin users
  • Monitoring of kidney and liver function for DOAC users
  • Support in transitioning between medications when needed

Safety Tips for Patients on Blood Thinners

  • Take your medication exactly as prescribed
  • Avoid contact sports or activities with a high risk of injury
  • Inform all providers, dentists, and surgeons about your medication
  • Watch for signs of bleeding, such as easy bruising, blood in urine or stool, or prolonged bleeding from cuts
  • Wear a medical alert bracelet that identifies you as being on anticoagulants

Why Choose Vermont Family Medicine for Blood Thinner Management?

  • On-Site INR Testing: Results and real-time adjustments for warfarin therapy
  • Personalized Dosing Plans: Adjusted based on your lifestyle, diet, and medical history
  • Collaborative Monitoring: Seamless communication with cardiologists and specialists
  • Education and Support: Clear instructions and ongoing guidance to help you stay informed and confident

Balance Protection and Peace of Mind

Blood thinners save lives, but they work best with proper support and monitoring. Vermont Family Medicine ensures your treatment is safe, effective, and tailored to your needs.

Call (802) 503-7092 today to schedule your blood thinner management visit with Dr. Mark Hoffman in Williston, VT

WE ARE HERE TO HELP

Contact Us Today

Phone

(802) 503-7092

Visit

300 Interstate Corporate Center
Suite 322
Williston, VT 05495

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