It was one of the most exciting times! After six long weeks of wearing an air cast, I had just received news that I could get it removed. I told the doctor that my leg had been cramping, but he said it should subside once the cast was off and I moved around.
Later that night, the cramping in my leg worsened and had me in tears. I took some Tylenol and went to bed. When I woke up, my leg was cramping beyond belief and was purple and green.
I went to the doctor and he sent me directly to the hospital. They diagnosed me with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and admitted me. I was discharged three days later and started on the blood thinners that were prescribed.
The next morning, I passed out in my living room and my 6-year-old called 9-1-1. When I woke up in the hospital, they told me I had a massive pulmonary embolism. The doctor told me I could start treatment or go home and let God’s will be done because he didn’t think I would live. Of course, I chose to be treated.
I have had several DVTs since then, but I am still here. I have also had another child since then and managed to keep myself healthy and clot-free during and after my pregnancy. Life is great!
Through this experience, I learned how serious blood clots can be. I have a family member who wasn’t as lucky as I was and dropped dead from a blood clot. I’m currently going through genetic testing to determine if I have an identified clotting disorder. I still have pain in my leg from post-thrombotic syndrome.
It’s important to be your biggest advocate. If something doesn’t feel right, seek help. It could save your life!
Resources
Hospitalization and Surgery
Know Your Risk
Signs and Symptoms
