The first pulmonary embolism I had was in 2015, six weeks after having foot surgery. I was terrified as I couldn’t breathe. I was put on a blood thinner and hospitalized for three days.
My second pulmonary embolism was at the end of 2022. I had chest pain, so I went to the ER. They found the PE with a CT scan just like before.
But this time I hadn’t had surgery. My PE was completely unprovoked. I was so scared and asked what had I done to cause this. The doctor said, “Nothing.”
I am now on a blood thinner, apixaban, for life. It is good but bad. I shouldn’t have any more PEs now that I’m taking it, I need to be on this medication for life.
I do feel lucky that the PEs didn’t take my life. But I have a new awareness that these things can happen.
This experience has taught me that life goes on after blood clots. My advice to others is to stay as active as possible after having a surgical procedure, and always listen to your body.
Resources
Living Your Best Life on Blood Thinners
Hospitalization and Blood Clots
About Clots
