On Thursday, August 15, 2024, I had right knee surgery to repair a torn meniscus. On Saturday, I experienced cramping in my calf that radiated up to my knee and behind it. By Sunday I had shortness of breath and a racing heart, the pain in my leg was excruciating – hot and radiating up behind my knee.
I went to the ER. I explained my symptoms to the doctor and asked if he could test for blood clots. I read the post-op instructions and what I was feeling was spot on with DVT. I could tell he was a bit skeptical, but he agreed to run labs, CT with contrast, and a sonogram of my leg.
After many hours, he gave me the news: It was DVT in my right leg. The clot broke off and traveled to my lungs resulting in pulmonary embolism. Since this was a small, standalone ER, I was transported to the hospital by ambulance and admitted for treatment. I spent a few days in the hospital and was discharged home on apixaban.
My lifestyle has changed considerably. I was previously very active, in the gym three days a week. It’s taken some time to get back to the gym. I am short of breath just walking, and at times my heart rate spikes and I need to lay down.
I’m so thankful for the NBCA resources and support from other survivors, especially the Facebook group and community.
This was probably the scariest thing I’ve ever experienced and I am glad I listened to my body and took action. I’m also grateful to the hospital staff for taking care of me! I am a DVT and PE survivor!
My advice would be to listen to your body, follow post-op instructions and know the signs of DVT and PE.
Resources
Hospitalization and Surgery
Facebook Support Group
NBCA Resource Center
