Overview
Heparin overdose is a condition where there is too much heparin in the blood and the body is unable to inhibit excessive bleeding. Heparin is an anticoagulant and prevents clotting. Overdose of heparin may result in quick life-threatening blood loss conditions.Signs and Symptoms
Nosebleeds, Coffee ground coloured vomit, Black tarry stools, Blood in stools and vomit, Blood in urine, Easy bruising, Coughing out blood, Unusually longer and heavier periods, Dark and bluish skin at hands and feet, PetechiaeCommon Causes
Accidental consumption of heparin more than the prescribed amount, Inaccurate coagulation test, Lack of monitoring, Taking other types of anticoagulant, HemodialysisRisk Factors
Accidental consumption of heparin more than the prescribed amount, Inaccurate coagulation test, Lack of monitoring, Taking other types of anticoagulant, HemodialysisInvestigation Techniques
Physical examination, Full blood count, International Normalized Ratio (INR), Bleeding and clotting time, Liver function test, Renal function test, Urinalysis, Occult stool test, Ultrasound, CT scanTreatment and Prevention
Discontinue heparin intake immediately, Protamine sulphate, Consume prescribed dose by a doctor, Clinical monitoring on liver and kidney functions
