What should I do if my prothrombin time is 13.5

The prothrombin time of 13.5 seconds needs to be evaluated in conjunction with a specific reference range. If it exceeds the normal range, it may indicate abnormal coagulation function. Intervention can be carried out by supplementing vitamin K, adjusting anticoagulant drugs, treating liver diseases, screening for genetic coagulation factor deficiency, and controlling infections.

1. Supplementing with Vitamin K:

Vitamin K deficiency is a common cause, especially seen in long-term fasting, biliary obstruction, or users of broad-spectrum antibiotics. Vitamin K is involved in the synthesis of coagulation factors II, VII, IX, and X. It can be supplemented by oral intake of vitamin K1 or dark green vegetables such as spinach and broccoli. In severe cases, intramuscular injection is necessary for treatment.

2. Adjusting anticoagulant drugs:

Anticoagulants such as warfarin specifically inhibit vitamin K-dependent coagulation factors. If the patient is taking this type of medication, the INR value should be rechecked and the dosage adjusted based on the results to avoid the risk of bleeding caused by excessive anticoagulation. The adjustment plan must strictly follow the doctor's advice and cannot be stopped on one's own.

3. Treatment of liver diseases:

Liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatitis can lead to impaired synthesis of coagulation factors. Patients often experience symptoms such as jaundice and ascites, and liver protection drugs such as reduced glutathione, antiviral therapy, or artificial liver support are needed to improve liver function. In severe cases, liver transplantation evaluation is required.

4. Screening for genetic diseases:

Hemophilia B factor IX deficiency or rare genetic coagulation factor deficiency may be manifested as isolated PT prolongation. Diagnosis needs to be confirmed through coagulation factor activity testing, and after diagnosis, regular infusion of coagulation factor concentrate or fresh frozen plasma is required to prevent bleeding.

5. Control infection and inflammation: Severe infections such as sepsis can consume clotting factors and induce disseminated intravascular coagulation. Patients often have fever and thrombocytopenia, and require active anti infective treatment such as third-generation cephalosporin antibiotics and monitoring of D-dimer levels. If necessary, clotting substances should be supplemented.

Avoid vigorous exercise and trauma in daily life, and reduce the use of drugs such as aspirin that affect platelet function. It is recommended to consume animal liver, egg yolks, and other foods rich in vitamin K 2-3 times a week. Patients with liver disease should limit their protein intake. Regularly check the four coagulation tests and liver function. If symptoms such as spontaneous gum bleeding and subcutaneous bruising occur, seek medical attention immediately. It is recommended to monitor PT/INR values every 3 months for elderly patients or those receiving long-term anticoagulant therapy, and if necessary, perform precise tests such as thromboelastography.