Science has shown that because of the effect stress can have on your body, vitamin K antagonists, such as warfarin, can stay in your system longer than normal causing a spike in INR levels.1 If you are able to recognize when you are stressed, you can take steps to manage it. Understanding what is causing your stress may help you to find ways to manage it. Consider the external pressures that you may be able to manage, or find ways to build your own emotional resilience, to help you cope during tough situations.
There are different ways to help deal with your stress:
- Identify what may trigger your stress to help you predict when you may need more support
- Make adjustments to the way you organize your time to help you feel less pressurized
- Accept the things you can’t change
It is also helpful to find ways to relax: read a book, go for a walk, listen to music, or meditate, which has been scientifically proven to reduce the symptoms of stress.2