Can Blood Thinners Make You Tired?

All About Blood Thinners Facty Health from facty.com

Introduction

If you're taking blood thinners, it's possible that you might feel tired or fatigued. Blood thinners, also known as anticoagulants, are medications that help prevent blood clots from forming. They work by slowing down the clotting process in your blood. While they can be lifesaving, they can also have side effects. One of the most common side effects of blood thinners is fatigue. In this article, we'll explore why blood thinners can make you tired and what you can do about it.

What Causes Fatigue While Taking Blood Thinners?

There are several reasons why blood thinners can make you feel tired. One of the main reasons is that they can cause a drop in blood pressure. When your blood pressure drops, your body has to work harder to pump blood throughout your body. This can lead to feelings of fatigue and weakness. Another reason why blood thinners can make you feel tired is that they can cause anemia. Anemia is a condition in which you don't have enough red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout your body. When your body doesn't get enough oxygen, you can feel tired and lethargic. Lastly, blood thinners can also cause side effects like nausea, dizziness, and headaches. These side effects can contribute to feelings of fatigue and make it difficult to carry out your daily activities.

What Can You Do About Fatigue While Taking Blood Thinners?

If you're feeling tired while taking blood thinners, there are several things you can do to alleviate your symptoms. First, make sure you're getting enough rest. Aim for 7-8 hours of sleep each night and try to stick to a consistent sleep schedule. Next, try to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. Dehydration can contribute to feelings of fatigue, so it's important to stay hydrated. You may also want to consider adjusting your medication dosage or switching to a different blood thinner. Talk to your doctor about your symptoms and see if there are any changes you can make to your treatment plan. Lastly, make sure you're eating a healthy diet that's rich in iron and other nutrients. Iron is essential for red blood cell production, so it's important to make sure you're getting enough in your diet. Good sources of iron include red meat, poultry, fish, beans, and leafy green vegetables.

Comparing Blood Thinners

There are several different types of blood thinners available, each with its own set of benefits and side effects. Here's a comparison of some of the most commonly prescribed blood thinners:

Medication	Price (per month)	Benefits	Side Effects
Warfarin	$4	Effective at preventing blood clots	Requires regular blood tests to monitor dosage
Rivaroxaban (Xarelto)	$450	No need for regular blood tests	Can cause bleeding, muscle pain, and skin rash
Apixaban (Eliquis)	$500	No need for regular blood tests	Can cause bleeding, nausea, and fatigue
Dabigatran (Pradaxa)	$450	No need for regular blood tests	Can cause bleeding, stomach pain, and heartburn

Conclusion

If you're taking blood thinners and experiencing fatigue, it's important to talk to your doctor. Fatigue can be a sign of anemia or other underlying health issues. Your doctor may be able to adjust your medication dosage or switch you to a different blood thinner to alleviate your symptoms. Remember to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and eat a healthy diet to help manage your fatigue. With the right treatment plan, you can manage your blood clot risk and feel more energized throughout the day.