Coumadin noob - lifer - factor V

Laurie/Angela,

My husband developed a blood clot in his leg after having knee surgery. Fortunately, he was able to get a new procedure where the blood clot was sucked out of his vein. The doctor put him on 80 mg of Lovenox for two weeks, then switched him to coumadin (warfarin). He has been on warfarin for one month, but has been unable to get an INR over 1.9. I have kept track of all dosages and test results. After entering 7 tests results in an Excel spreadsheet, I determined that I think he needs at least 10 MG, 7 days a week, but the doctor won't let him go up that high. The doctor is now having him alternate between 7.5 mg and 5.0 mg for two weeks and FORBADE him to test his INR until then. Our biggest problem right now is he cannot get back to work until his INR is between 2-3 for 30 days. He also must provide copies of weekly INR tests. We are very frustrated with the doctor and his assistant and we don't know what to do. We cannot financially afford for him to be wrong again.

Denise - if his doctor is forbidding him- he needs to find a new doctor. That is absolutely incompetent on his part. He should be increasing his dose just a little to get him into range. You are the one paying his salary so he needs to accomodate your needs and not his own. What has the amount of his weekly coumadin dose been? You at least are doing the right thing - you can tell your doctor - his work is "requiring" he be tested! Your right Denise and I applaud you for taking the time to document your husbands dosages and his INR's.

Hello Angela,
I too will be using Coumadin for the rest of my life and I am also a a Martial Artist. I practice Taekwondo and at this present time, I am a Red Belt.
I really don't want to give up the art and at leat want to practice to my 1st Degee.
My wife is petrified for me to continue and I will speak with my instructor.
I have read your threads.
Any advice will be appreciated.
Thx.