What causes long clotting time

Prolonged clotting time may be caused by factors such as vitamin K deficiency, thrombocytopenia, hemophilia, liver disease, and the use of anticoagulant drugs. Specific causes need to be determined through laboratory tests.

1. Vitamin K deficiency:

Vitamin K is an essential coenzyme for the synthesis of coagulation factors II, VII, IX, and X. Long term imbalanced diet, biliary obstruction, or broad-spectrum antibiotic use may lead to vitamin K deficiency, manifested as mild bleeding tendencies such as skin bruising and gum bleeding. supplementing with vitamin K supplements or increasing intake of green leafy vegetables can improve the condition.

2. Thrombocytopenia: When the platelet count is below 50 × 10 ⁹/L, it will affect the primary hemostatic function. Immune thrombocytopenia, aplastic anemia, or chemotherapy drugs can all cause thrombocytopenia, with common symptoms such as skin purpura and nosebleeds. Mild cases can be treated with glucocorticoids, while severe cases require platelet transfusion. Hemophilia: Hemophilia caused by genetic deficiency of coagulation factor VIII or IX, manifested as spontaneous bleeding such as joint cavity bleeding and muscle hematoma. The clotting time is significantly prolonged, and the activated partial thromboplastin time is abnormal. Alternative therapy requires regular infusion of concentrated clotting factor preparations, and preventive treatment can reduce bleeding episodes.

4. Abnormal liver function:

Liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatitis can lead to impaired synthesis of coagulation factors. In addition to prolonged clotting time, it is often accompanied by symptoms such as jaundice and ascites. Treatment should be targeted at the primary disease, and in cases of severe bleeding, fresh frozen plasma can be infused to supplement clotting factors.

5. Effects of anticoagulant drugs:

Anticoagulants such as warfarin and heparin prolong clotting time by interfering with coagulation factor function. Regular monitoring of INR values is required during medication. If abnormal bleeding occurs, medication should be stopped immediately and medical attention sought. Vitamin K or protamine can be used to counteract drug overdose. Individuals with abnormal coagulation function should avoid vigorous exercise and trauma, and use a soft bristled toothbrush to reduce the risk of gum bleeding. Pay attention to supplementing vegetables such as spinach and broccoli that are rich in vitamin K in diet, and limit the intake of high-fat foods to avoid affecting the effectiveness of anticoagulant drugs. Regularly review coagulation parameters, platelet count, and other indicators. If there are severe bleeding symptoms such as large subcutaneous bruising and hematuria, emergency treatment is required. Long term use of anticoagulant drugs requires carrying a medical warning card with them.