There are a number of things that you can do to help lessen your risk of bleeding while on warfarin:

• Talk to your healthcare professional about your therapy, tell them how you are going, what problems you're having, and about anything that's concerning you.
• You should have your INR monitored regularly and make sure you obtain the result, and any change in dose, from your doctor or healthcare professional. It can helpful to record the INR result and any dose changes on a record form. Click here to print a record sheet.
• You should notify your healthcare professional of any changes in factors which may alter the way your warfarin works (such as big changes in diet, other medications you may have started, smoking-either if you start or plan to quit, illnesses, or any plans you have to travel).
• Avoid contact sports and other physical activities that may cause injury or bleeding.
• Report any falls, blows or injuries to your doctor. You might not always see visible signs of bruising.
• Around the home, minimise your risk of bleeding by:
  • Using a non-slip bath mat.
  • Using a soft bristle toothbrush.
  • Using an electric shaver.
  • Wearing gloves while gardening.
  • Being careful around pets.
  • Wearing non-slip footwear/sturdy shoes to avoid trips and slips.
  • Taking care with sharp objects such as kitchen knives.