Just Because You Don’t Check the Boxes Doesn’t Mean You Don’t Have a PE
In October 2020, I survived 3 pulmonary embolisms.
It Started as Something Familiar
It started with feeling unwell with some problems breathing.
Because I had asthma, I thought it was that.
However, it got much worse the next day.
No Chest Pain — But Something Was Wrong
I had no chest pain.
But I started to sweat — and that drove me to go to the hospital.
The Diagnosis
At the hospital I was treated with a clot busting drug.
If I hadn’t gone in, my heart would have failed and I would have died.
I was also found to have a saddle pulmonary embolism and underwent a thrombectomy.
What Contributed
Becoming more sedentary due to being at home during the pandemic contributed to my blood clotting experience.
Life After
It has made me more active and aware.
What I Want Others to Know
Just because you don’t check the boxes with all symptoms doesn’t mean you don’t have a PE.
Everyone’s symptoms can be different.
Listen to your body and don’t give up until you get answers.
