Coumadin and Gum Bleeding

Posted By Steven D. Ostrowsky on February 21, 1999 at 13:33:59:







In June 1989 (at age 47)I had a mechanical aortic valve implanted (along with a triple bypass).  I take coumadin.  Over the last few years, my basic dose has been plus/minus 5 mg per day.  My problem is that a night (and sometimes during the day) my gums will start bleeding uncontrollably.  Last night was an example.  My mouth fills with blood. I ave spoken with both my cardiologist and my denstist and neither seems to have any idea what to do about it.  Meanwhile, I continue to have this problem  
     Besides the loss of blood, I have ruined bed clothing, pajamas, etc.  When it happens during the day, it can be very hard to communicate with clients.  Face-to-face, they just kind of stare at me as blood begains dribbling out of my mouth.  Often, I'm not even aware it is happening until I see the expression on their faces.  I feel like they think I'm a vampire.
     Are there any suggestions?
     Thank you.