After leaving the gym in 2017, I experienced the worst pain imaginable in my right leg without having an injury. I thought maybe the pain would leave after icing and elevating it. But, as the day went on, the pain and swelling worsened to the point I couldn’t stand or walk on it.
I went to the emergency room and told them that blood clots are common in my family. Still, I was misdiagnosed with a bursa cyst, also known as a Baker’s cyst, characterized by swelling behind the knee, without having blood work or an ultrasound taken. I was sent home and told to keep my leg elevated.
The next day, the pain was still unbearable and the swelling had worsened. So, I went to my primary care doctor and explained my family history of blood clots. I was once again sent home and told to keep my leg elevated, and eventually the pain and swelling would go away.
Not truly knowing what was going on with my leg, I listened to both doctors and did not pursue another opinion. I just dealt with the pain and swelling because I believed the experts knew what they were talking about.
It was not until November 2022, after experiencing continued pain and swelling, that I was diagnosed with a DVT. In addition to the pain and swelling, dark spots began to appear on my leg, which prompted me to go to a different doctor for another opinion.
I was given an ultrasound and blood work to provide me with a proper diagnosis. Thankfully, I am alive today.
Through this experience, I have learned how family medical history plays a role in blood clots. NBCA’s monthly educational Zoom meetings (PEP Talks) have been an excellent resource for keeping me informed and educated.
My advice to others is to always trust your instincts when it comes to your health. Advocate for the best health care practices for yourself. Get as many medical opinions as necessary until you feel heard and validated.
Resources
Family Testing for Clotting Disorders
Signs and Symptoms
PEP Talk
