What is homozygous factor V Leiden mean?
Homozygous means that both copies of a gene are the same; in your case both of your Factor V genes code for Factor V Leiden. When this happens there is a greater risk of a blood clot than if only one gene codes for Factor V Leiden. Factor V Leiden is due to an error in the DNA sequence of the Factor V gene.
What is heterozygous factor V Leiden?
Heterozygous means that the 2 copies of a gene are different. In your case, one of your Factor V gene codes is for normal clotting Factor V and the other Factor V gene code is for Factor V Leiden. There is more risk of a blood clot if both gene codes are for Factor V Leiden (ie in the homozygous state).
What are the two types of factor V Leiden?
Having 1 Factor V Leiden gene (heterozygous type) slightly increases the chance of developing a blood clot. Having 2 Factor V Leiden genes (homozygous type) makes the risk much greater. Having Factor V Leiden does not appear to increase the chances of developing a heart attack or stroke.
What is the best blood thinner for factor V Leiden?
Warfarin: Warfarin is indicated for both the prophylaxis and treatment of venous thrombosis and PE.
What should you avoid with Factor V Leiden?
If your factor V Leiden requires you to take anticoagulant medication, here are some steps that might help you prevent injury and avoid excessive bleeding: Avoid playing contact sports or engaging in other activities that could result in physical injury.
Is Factor V Leiden an autoimmune disease?
Examples include abnormalities in Protein C, Protein S, Antithrombin, and Prothrombin 20210. Another disorder which leads to increased clotting is the Anti-Phospholipid Syndrome. This is an autoimmune disorder in which one’s own immune system attacks normal anti-clotting mechanisms.
Can you take ibuprofen with Factor V Leiden?
It is important that people with Factor V deficiency should not use Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs such as ibuprofen) as this greatly increases the risk of bleeding. Other methods of pain relief should be used instead.
Should you wear a medical bracelet for factor V Leiden?
Blood thinners can cause serious bleeding problems. Let doctors you see know that you have factor V Leiden. Wear medical alert jewelry that lists your clotting problem.
Can I donate blood if I have factor V Leiden?
People with factor V Leiden may donate blood, platelets or plasma safely, as long as they are not on an anticoagulant such as warfarin.