Is prothrombin time 14.8 severe

A prothrombin time of 14.8 seconds is considered mildly prolonged and in most cases not severe. Prolonged prothrombin time may be related to factors such as vitamin K deficiency, warfarin anticoagulant therapy, chronic liver disease, congenital coagulation factor deficiency, disseminated intravascular coagulation, etc.

1. Vitamin K deficiency:

Vitamin K is an essential substance for the synthesis of coagulation factors II, VII, IX, and X. Insufficient intake or absorption disorders can lead to prolonged prothrombin time. Green leafy vegetables, animal liver and other foods can supplement vitamin K, and mild deficiencies can be improved through dietary adjustments.

2. Effects of anticoagulant drugs:

Anticoagulants such as warfarin exert their effects by inhibiting the synthesis of vitamin K-dependent coagulation factors. Controlling prothrombin time between 14-18 seconds during medication is within the effective range of treatment, and regular monitoring of INR values is necessary to adjust dosage.

3. Chronic liver disease:

Liver diseases such as cirrhosis can lead to reduced synthesis of coagulation factors. The patient may have symptoms such as jaundice and ascites, and liver protection treatment and plasma transfusion are needed to improve coagulation function.

4. Congenital abnormalities:

Genetic deficiencies in coagulation factors II, V, VII, and X can lead to prolonged prothrombin time. These patients have a tendency to bleed since childhood and need to be diagnosed through genetic testing and supplemented with targeted coagulation factors.

5. Diffuse intravascular coagulation: DIC caused by severe infections, malignant tumors, etc. can consume a large amount of coagulation factors. Patients usually have symptoms such as thrombocytopenia and fibrinogen reduction, and require urgent treatment of the underlying disease and supplementation of clotting substances.

It is recommended that individuals with mild prolongation of prothrombin time increase their intake of foods rich in vitamin K, such as spinach, broccoli, pig liver, etc., to avoid excessive exercise that may cause external bleeding. Long term use of anticoagulant drugs requires monthly follow-up of coagulation function. If symptoms such as gum bleeding and subcutaneous bruising occur, timely medical attention should be sought. Patients with abnormal liver function should quit drinking and undergo regular liver ultrasound and Child Pugh score checks. If necessary, procoagulant drugs should be used under the guidance of a doctor.