Two years ago, my life changed forever.
I was a healthy 42-year-old who was very active and exercised daily. My symptoms at first were not typical of those of a blood clot.
I had an ache in the back of my right knee for a few days, which turned into a cramp. I did not think much about it since I work out on a daily basis. I just thought I pulled a muscle.
I also had a Baker’s cyst behind that knee, so I thought it had popped.
Four days went by and the pain was not getting any better. In fact, it was getting worse. My leg felt heavy and I could barely pick it up.
I was supposed to have a hair appointment the day I drove myself to the emergency room. I am glad I did and did not go to my hair appointment, or I may not be here to tell my story.
At first, they diagnosed me with the Baker’s cyst behind my knee. Then the ultrasound further revealed a DVT starting in my femoral vein all the way down to my calf.
They tested me for a clotting disorder since my paternal grandmother had it, but it came back negative.
I had an infection prior to the DVT, which may have contributed to my blood clotting experience.
Still to this day, they cannot tell me exactly why it happened. It is considered an unprovoked DVT.
I am passionate now about educating others on blood clots. They can happen to anyone. They do not discriminate.
I am still active and work out and try to stay as active as possible, but my experience has made me leery and cautious of pain in my leg.
My advice to others is: Know the symptoms. Learn to listen to your body.
