At 45, I was a healthy, active mom and just thought I was having ongoing respiratory issues from a previous cold and cough. I suddenly had pain in my chest, shortness of breath, and a rapid heart rate, which got worse if I walked around.
I went to a walk-in clinic the next day, where the doctor gave me prednisone. The medicine made no difference, so four days later, my family talked me into going to the ER. I’m so thankful I did! After blood tests and a CT scan, I was told I had saddle pulmonary emboli and right cor pulmonale, a condition that causes the right side of the heart to fail.
I was admitted to the hospital and had a thrombectomy the next day. They were able to remove the two largest clots blocking my airway and put me on blood thinners.
In terms of risk factors, I had taken birth control in the past, but I don’t know yet what caused this. I hope to learn more through further blood work.
This experience has scared me! I am working on recovery. I already try to eat healthily and move daily. The Facebook group has been so much help for questions!
My advice is to never ignore any symptoms, especially if it involves your heart or breathing!
Resources
Signs and Symptoms
Living Your Best Life on Blood Thinners
Blood Clot Treatment
