What is heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT)?
Heparin is a type of medicine called a blood thinner. It is used to prevent blood clots. But with heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT), your body reacts to heparin in a way that may cause clots instead of preventing them.
Thrombocytopenia means you have a low level of platelets, which are blood cells that help your blood clot. Usually, low platelets would cause you to bleed. But the reaction to heparin may cause clots instead.
How is heparin-induced thrombocytopenia (HIT) treated?
The first step of treatment is stopping heparin. The goal is to lower your risk of blood clots. You may get a different blood thinner through an I.V. while you stay in the hospital. Your medical team will monitor things like your breathing and pulse. You also will have more blood drawn. Blood tests will show whether your blood is back to normal.
After HIT, it usually takes several days for your blood to return to normal.
You will probably take a non-heparin blood thinner for a few months after having HIT. This helps prevent the serious problems caused by blood clots. Depending on your other health conditions, you may take a blood thinner long-term.
If you take a blood thinner, be sure to get instructions about how to take your medicine safely. Blood thinners can cause serious bleeding problems.
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