Final answer:
The main issue with warfarin and heparin is bleeding due to their anticoagulant nature. Patients must be closely monitored for signs of bleeding, and management includes dosage adjustments and regular blood testing.
Step-by-step explanation:
A major issue that is seen in patients who take warfarin or heparin is bleeding. Both drugs are anticoagulants, which means they work by preventing blood clots from forming or growing larger. While this is useful for preventing conditions such as strokes or heart attacks, it also carries a risk of excessive bleeding. Because anticoagulants interfere with the blood's ability to clot, even minor injuries can lead to significant blood loss.
Patients on warfarin or heparin must be carefully monitored for signs of bleeding, which can occur internally or externally. Symptoms of severe bleeding can include dizziness, fever, and hypotension. In certain cases, complications can be life-threatening and may lead to organ failure and death. Therefore, close medical supervision is essential for patients on these medications. Management strategies may include adjusting the dosage and regular blood testing to monitor the drug's effects.