When severe heparin-induced bleeding occurs, protamine sulfate may be used to counteract the bleeding tendency. Similarly in the presence of warfarin therapy, bleeding may be treated with vitamin K supplements or transfusions. Fibrinolytic, or thrombolytic, agents are used to break up clots. Bleeding depends on the dose, length of therapy, and the individual patient. Bleeding requires immediate treatment, often with cryoprecipitate, platelets, or antifibrinolytic drugs.
Hematological symptoms arise due to bleeding or clotting in the specific organ affected.
These include difficulty breathing, unconsciousness and confusion, swelling in the limbs, bruising, petechiae, purpura, blood in the urine and stool, and bleeding of wounds. The disorder is diagnosed based on patient history, physical examination, and laboratory testing. Although it often exists as a low-grade problem, it can quickly result in death. If possible, the underlying disease should be treated aggressively. When several blood transfusions have been administered, the fibrin in the blood may become too dilute.