I’ve been in and out of the hospital throughout the year, starting in January, when I underwent surgery to treat a pulmonary embolism (PE) and deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
I had been experiencing pain and swelling in my leg, but I didn’t have any symptoms of a pulmonary embolism, like chest pain or shortness of breath. Doctors were shocked when a CT scan showed clots on both sides of my lungs.
Around that time, I was diagnosed with a factor II clotting disorder. To restore blood flow, doctors placed four stents in my femoral vein.
Despite treatment, the clots kept coming back. I was hospitalized again in July for another DVT surgery, and then again in October.
Now, I’m on blood thinners for life. The four stents in my femoral vein have also left me somewhat disabled. I can’t jump or bend my right leg or hip.
Looking back, I’ve learned how critical family medical history can be. I have factor II, and my mother has factor V Leiden — another inherited clotting disorder.
My advice to others is simple but important: know your family medical history. It can truly save your life.
