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Maintain your independence

See how self-testing gives you the freedom and confidence to live the life you want.

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The freedom to stay independent

If you’re on anticoagulation therapy with a vitamin K antagonist such as warfarin, going to your doctor for regular blood tests may be burdensome and time-consuming.

Self-testing is a convenient and reliable alternative to regular clinic visits. With a small mobile measuring device such as the CoaguChek® INRange or CoaguChek® XS, you can measure your INR levels at home or on the move. This provides you more freedom and independence—and the security of knowing that you only need to go to your clinic when it’s truly necessary.

The freedom to keep your own schedule

Anticoagulation medication is intended to manage your condition so you can live a long and healthy life, but too often the visits to your clinic or pharmacy required to monitor INR levels get in the way of truly living your life!

With a CoaguChek® device to self-test your coagulation levels, you control your monitoring schedule. That allows you the flexibility to make last-minute plans, take advantage of opportunities as they arise, and not need to worry about cancelling because of an assigned appointment time.

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The freedom to travel

Travel is about freedom, discovery, and just taking a break from “real life.” But changes in diet and climate can have an impact on coagulation.

Thanks to self-testing, and a little preparation, people requiring oral anticoagulation can enjoy the freedom to travel the world without worrying about their INR levels.

Travel checklist: A little preparation goes a long way

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Speak to your doctor. Ensure there are no concerns about the climate and double-check that any necessary travel vaccinations or medications won’t adversely affect your coagulation. (For example, anti-malaria medication can influence blood clotting.)

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Clarify the medical care options at your destination and ensure you know how to reach a local hospital or clinic as well as the location of the nearest doctor.

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Look into travel insurance. If you have private health insurance, you may already be covered. Otherwise, consider whether supplemental travel insurance makes sense in your case.

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Ensure you have packed a sufficient amount of anticoagulant medications, as well as any other medications you take. Consider the impact of travel delays when deciding the quantity of medication to pack.

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Pack all necessities in your hand luggage. This includes your medication, coagulometer and related self-testing accessories, health insurance information, medical alert ID or tag, a doctor’s note, etc.

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Consider using an impact-resistant bag to protect your medical equipment while travelling.

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When travelling, wear comfortable clothing. Remember that compression socks/stockings, plenty of liquids, and plenty of movement are all recommended for people at risk of or with a history of thrombosis.

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If you self-test, monitor your INR values more frequently. If you notice a sudden change in your INR (either higher or lower than normal), try to have this checked via blood test at the local hospital.

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Don’t forget about time changes. If your destination is in a different time zone, take that into consideration and ensure you adjust the time you take your medicine accordingly. This particularly applies to oral anticoagulants.

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Enjoy in moderation. Remember that the same rules apply to the food you eat and any alcohol you consume while away as they do at home.

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Nutrition and coagulation

Learn more about the connection between nutrition and coagulation.

Learn more

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Your travel cheat sheet

Use our travel cheat sheet to help ensure you have a happy and healthy holiday.

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