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Warning-sign checks

Acquired platelet function defect: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Use emergency services for uncontrolled bleeding, signs of major blood loss, bleeding after a serious injury, or symptoms that could suggest bleeding in the brain, chest, or digestive tract.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Contact your clinician promptly if bleeding becomes more frequent, lasts longer, or is accompanied by increasing fatigue or dizziness.

    And for anyone, someone who:

    • has a wound that is hot, spreading red, or leaking pus
  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine follow-up may include reviewing bleeding symptoms, blood counts, kidney or liver function, and the ongoing need for medicines that affect platelets.

    Follow-up is especially important after a medication change or a new diagnosis involving the kidneys, liver, or bone marrow.

    Before a planned procedure, ask which member of the care team will decide whether any medicine should be paused and when it should be restarted.

    Do not make this change on your own.

The article also says

Tell each clinician, dentist, and pharmacist about your bleeding history and current medicines.

Keep track of new bruising, nosebleeds, menstrual bleeding, or blood in urine or stool.

Note when symptoms occur in relation to medicines.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Acquired platelet function defect. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.