Hi, in March I had DVT and as soon as released from hospital, clots went to my lungs (scary as I am only 37). I am now on Warfarin until end September. Initially my INR levels were stable at 2.8, and remained like that for some time. All of a sudden my levels have dropped down to 2.0 and 2 weeks later down to 1.7. Doctor is stumped why this is happening. My dosage has been upped again to 6.5mg daily (was previously on 5.5) and back to weekly INR test. Any idea what could be causing my levels to drop. I have an appt with a haematologist at end September, but can't wait that long for info. Thanx in advance - I am very worried ... Cindy

Hi, in March I had DVT and as soon as released from hospital, clots went to my lungs (scary as I am only 37). I am now on Warfarin until end September. Initially my INR levels were stable at 2.8, and remained like that for some time. All of a sudden my levels have dropped down to 2.0 and 2 weeks later down to 1.7. Doctor is stumped why this is happening. My dosage has been upped again to 6.5mg daily (was previously on 5.5) and back to weekly INR test. Any idea what could be causing my levels to drop. I have an appt with a haematologist at end September, but can't wait that long for info. Thanx in advance - I am very worried ... Cindy
Unfortunately in the world of medical specialists the doctors do not always remember to take the whole body approach to medicine. You say you are 37. This is the age that your hormone levels may start to fluctuate. It is difficult for a lot of people including doctors to remember that almost all of our body's regulatory mechanisms are controlled directly by hormone feed back systems. Not all hormone regulation is related to reproduction. I would check with a gynecologist or GP to find out what your Thyroid is doing, what your FSH and LDH is . The doctor will know what this is and may have already done those tests. The main thing is to talk to some one and let them know your concerns if it is causing you to be stressed. Stress hormones will also interfere with normal function as well!!!
Take Care.

Thanx for that. I have had my thyroid tested and all is well. Apparently something is amiss with my liver - which sux as I don't drink (tho at times I think i deserve one hehehe) But anyways, it turns out that the liver regulates the way your blood clots, or something like that, so if indeed something is really wrong with my liver then maybe that is causing my INR to drop. Just did another test today and get results back this evening. Last week only went up to 1.8, hoping for a jump this week. I will, however, mention the hormone thingy with my doc - it sounds well worth checking out. I am so scared when the inr drops, because I am pretrified of another dangerous clot, I am dreading end of Sept when I am supposed to come of warfarin (well dependiing on specialists results) - I feel much safer whilst on it and know that my risk of DVT or LE is shortened.

Gugz Cindy