High aPTT: Understanding the Causes and Management Strategies

Are you experiencing unusual symptoms such as easy bruising, excessive bleeding or blood clots? If yes, you might have a high aPTT, which is a blood test that measures the time it takes for your blood to clot. In this article, we will discuss the causes and management strategies of high aPTT.

Photo by Trinity Treft on Unsplash

Symptoms of high aPTT

  • Easy bruising
  • Excessive bleeding
  • Blood in urine or stools
  • Prolonged menstrual bleeding
  • Blood clots in legs or lungs

Possible causes of high aPTT

  • Hemophilia (a genetic disorder that affects blood clotting)
  • Liver disease
  • Lupus (a chronic autoimmune disease)
  • Von Willebrand disease (a genetic bleeding disorder)
  • Heparin (a blood thinner) or Warfarin (a medication used to prevent blood clots) use

Possible side effects of medicines that may cause high aPTT

  • Heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) caused by heparin use
  • Overdose of Warfarin
Photo by Mehmet Talha Onuk on Unsplash

Herbal and natural remedies

Suggestions to change bad living habits that can cause high aPTT

  • Avoid smoking
  • Maintain a healthy weight
  • Exercise regularly
  • Eat a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Photo by Camylla Battani on Unsplash

Questions and Answers

Q: Can high aPTT be inherited?

A: Yes, some genetic disorders such as hemophilia and von Willebrand disease can cause high aPTT.

 

Q: Is high aPTT dangerous?

A: High aPTT can be a sign of a serious medical condition such as a bleeding disorder or clotting disorder, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.

 

Q: Can stress cause high aPTT?

A: Stress itself does not cause high aPTT, but stress can cause an increase in adrenaline and other hormones that can affect blood clotting.

 

Q: How is high aPTT treated?

A: The treatment for high aPTT depends on the underlying cause. This can range from medication to lifestyle changes to surgery in some cases.

 

Q: Can high aPTT affect pregnancy?

A: Yes, high aPTT can increase the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, or premature delivery in pregnant women.

 

Q: Can herbal supplements interfere with medical treatments for high aPTT?

A: Yes, some herbal supplements can interfere with blood thinners and other medications used to treat high aPTT. It is important to talk to your doctor before taking any herbal supplements.

 

Q: Can high aPTT cause infertility?

A: High aPTT itself is not a direct cause of infertility, but underlying medical conditions that cause high aPTT can affect fertility.

 

Q: Can high aPTT be caused by vitamin deficiencies?

A: Yes, low levels of vitamin K or vitamin C can affect blood clotting and lead to high aPTT.

 

Q: How often should a person with high aPTT have their blood checked?

A: The frequency of blood tests depends on the underlying cause and severity of high aPTT. Your doctor will determine how often you should have your blood checked.

 

Q: Can exercise worsen high aPTT?

A: Exercise itself does not worsen high aPTT, but certain high-impact activities may increase the risk of injury and bleeding in people with high aPTT. It is important to talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise program.

Suggested