Can I use a heating pad while on blood thinners?

Asked by: Dr. Kraig Durgan  |  Last update: March 8, 2025
Score: 4.1/5 (52 votes)

We discourage the use of heat during the first three days after sustaining an injury, especially if you are taking blood thinners as it can increase bleeding and swelling more than desired. The rule of thumb is to not apply heat if the swelling is still getting worse.

Can you use a heating pad when taking blood thinners?

For the first 48 hours after an injury, avoid things that might increase swelling (such as hot showers, hot tubs, hot packs, or drinking alcohol). After 48 to 72 hours, if the swelling is gone, apply heat for comfort using a warm moist washcloth or heating pad.

Who should not use heating pads?

Application of heat is considered unsuitable in the presence of the following health conditions:
  • Dermatitis. ...
  • Deep vein thrombosis. ...
  • Chronic heart failure. ...
  • Diabetes. ...
  • Peripheral vascular disease. ...
  • Open wound. ...
  • Severe cognitive impairment.

Does a heating pad help with blood clots?

Treatments. It is possible for DVT to resolve itself, but there is a risk of recurrence. To help reduce the pain and swelling that can occur with DVT, patients are often told to elevate their legs, use a heating pad, take walks and wear compression stockings.

What can you not do while on blood thinners?

Because you are taking a blood thinner, you should try not to hurt yourself and cause bleeding. You need to be careful when you use knives, scissors, razors, or any sharp object that can make you bleed. You also need to avoid activities and sports that could cause injury. Swimming and walking are safe activities.

Can I stop my Blood Thinner?

32 related questions found

Why can't you eat salad on blood thinners?

However, for some individuals on the medication Coumadin, eating salads can be worrisome because many lettuces and trendy greens are rich in vitamin K, which can interfere with this medication. Coumadin is prescribed to reduce the risk of forming blood clots.

What can you take for pain if you are on blood thinners?

Key Takeaways:
  • Acetaminophen is the safest pain reliever while taking an anticoagulant – but do not exceed the recommended daily dose!
  • Avoid taking oral nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) if you take an anticoagulant. ...
  • Consider topical pain relivers for muscle or joint pain.

What does a heating pad do to your blood?

“Heating pads increase blood flow to the affected area, leading to increased oxygen and nutrient delivery and waste removal,” she says. “Heat can also relax muscles and relieve cramping. Infrared heating pads can penetrate heat more deeply into muscles than traditional electric heating pads.”

Can you wear compression socks while on blood thinners?

Despite the shift in practice, patients are still routinely given compression stockings in addition to blood thinners after surgery at some hospitals. Unlike blood thinners, compression stockings do not increase the risk of bleeding after surgery.

What are the odds of getting a blood clot while on blood thinners?

You can have recurrent DVT while on anticoagulation, but your chances go way down. Some studies show about 2% to 5.5% of people with either DVT or PE have a recurrence within the first 3 months of treatment. Ask your doctor about risks and side effects.

Why shouldn't you lay on a heating pad?

A: EVERY heating pad should say that in the instructions. Of course, many people do it any way but it raises the risk of you getting burned. You're trapping the heat against yourself as well as whatever surface the pad is on- bed, chair, etc.

Why should older persons avoid using heating pads?

Heating pads are another common cause of minor burns and may lead to major burns in older adults with sensory or cognitive deficits.

Can you use a heating pad with peripheral artery disease?

Heat therapy has been shown to safely and effectively generate cardiovascular adaptations in PAD as well as reduce pain and improve overall physical function [13,14,15].

When should you not use a heating pad?

Dr. Behr advises against using heat treatments after activity or after an acute injury because heat can cause the swelling to worsen. Heating pads are the most common heat source, but even a hot, wet towel can bring relief.

Should I elevate my leg with a blood clot?

If you have DVT in your leg, you may be advised to raise it whenever you're resting. This helps to relieve pressure in the veins of the calf and stops blood and fluid pooling in the calf.

What can I take for a cold while on blood thinners?

Always check with your doctor, but these medications can be safely used when taking warfarin:
  • Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
  • Benylin cough syrup.
  • Chlor-Trimeton.
  • Coricidin HBP.
  • Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
  • Drixoral.
  • Robitussin.
  • Mucinex.

What can you not drink on blood thinners?

Do not use or only drink small amounts of the following when taking warfarin:
  • Alcohol.
  • Chamomile or green tea.
  • Cranberry juice.
  • Grapefruit juice.

What not to do when you have a blood clot in your leg?

Don't: Sit Too Long

Try not to stay seated for more than 2 hours at a time -- get up and walk around regularly. If you had a DVT in one of your legs, don't cross your legs when you sit down. That position can affect your circulation. Be mindful of this when you're on long flights or driving for a long time.

What are the long-term side effects of blood thinners?

Gastrointestinal issues: Chronic use of blood thinners can lead to gastrointestinal problems, such as ulcers in the stomach or intestines. Hemorrhagic stroke: Blood thinners can increase the risk of a hemorrhagic stroke, which occurs when a blood vessel in the brain ruptures.

What damage can a heating pad do?

Yet, leaving a heating pad on for too long can result in injury from burns and can potentially create a scenario of extreme inflammation in the body as the dilated blood vessels bring pro-inflammatory cells to the area warmed.

Can lying on a heating pad raise your blood pressure?

Heat therapy is an effective therapeutic tool to reduce blood pressure and improve macrovascular function.

What vitamins cannot be taken with blood thinners?

Supplements that can raise your risk of bleeding if they're combined with blood thinners include:
  • Garlic.
  • Ginkgo biloba.
  • Ginseng.
  • Turmeric.
  • Ginger.
  • Vitamin E.
  • Evening primrose.
  • Omega-3 and fish oil supplements.

What is the number one prescribed blood thinner?

Warfarin remains the preferred choice for people with liver disease, kidney failure, mechanical heart valves, and certain clotting disorders (thrombophilia). Warfarin offers protection for several days, whereas DOACs have much shorter half-lives.

Can you use muscle rub while on blood thinners?

Interactions between your drugs

Using warfarin with methyl salicylate topical can cause you to bleed more easily. If you receive treatment with warfarin you should avoid or limit self-medication with these products. Your warfarin levels could be affected by absorption of methyl salicylate topical.