Re: Coumadin and Gum Bleeding

Posted By Steven D. Ostrowsky on February 24, 1999 at 19:11:54:

In Reply to: Coumadin and Gum Bleeding posted by CCF CARDIO MD - MTR on February 22, 1999 at 22:05:57:






: 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.
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Dear Steven
    
    I don't know if this helps or not but I have been on coumadin since a Mitral Valve repair in September.  My INR range is around 2-3 for six months.  I started using an ultrasonic toothbrus.  The one I use is Sonicare.  I found that my teeth feel cleaner and I have not had any bleeding gums at all.  It may be worth a try although the ultrasonic toothbrushes are expensive, it may be worth it.
     I also try to take care of dental hygene because of the concern that the heart valve is somewhat susceptable to infection.  I brush with a bacteria killing mouthwash as part of my brushing procedure.  
     I no longer have sore gums at all
Nathan Jones



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Dear Nathan, thank you for your input to the heart forum.