On January 13, 2025, I was diagnosed with an unprovoked pulmonary embolism lodged in the main artery on the right side of my lung, blocking and restricting blood flow. I also have right-sided heart strain due to the clot.
Just before Christmas, my right leg behind my knee became swollen and extremely painful. I have a previous injury to that knee and thought I irritated it or hyperextended it at a yoga class.
I managed to continue working and walked as best I could, even though the pain was so intense that it brought me to tears.
On January 4, my 36th birthday, I noticed blue lacing throughout my leg, but it faded quickly. I was preparing for my birthday celebrations, so I ignored it.
The following week, my leg felt better, and the swelling was significantly reduced, so I continued to rest what I still thought was an injury due to yoga.
The weekend came and my chest was extremely tight and painful, my heart was racing, and I was short of breath. I thought it was intense anxiety, but the DVT had dislodged and traveled to my lungs.
On Monday, January 13, as I was getting ready for work, the chest pain and shortness of breath became unbearable and my heart continued to race. My fiancé brought me to the emergency room, and I was quickly diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism and admitted to the ICU, where I spent three days.
I’m a long way from a full recovery, but I am expected to make one. In terms of risk factors, I have a family history of blood clots.
I am hyper-vigilant regarding my body and get very anxious with little physical changes. My physical activity has reduced significantly.
My advice: Don’t ignore sudden or ongoing swelling or pain. Get it checked out.
Resources
How is a PE Diagnosed?
Facebook Support Group
Psychological Impact of Blood Clots
