In September 2022, I underwent a foam sclerotherapy on the great saphenous vein in my left leg to treat a varicose vein. This is a minimally-invasive, non-surgical procedure that involves injecting a foam mixture into varicose veins to treat underlying vein conditions.
At the time, I was unknowingly Covid positive for the second time in 12 months.
Almost immediately after the procedure, I started to develop breathing issues and excruciating cramping in my left leg, preventing me from walking or sitting properly.
I queried my symptoms and was told by two doctors that it was normal after such a procedure and put it down to anxiety. I trusted their judgement as they’re doctors after all. At this point, I had already developed multiple, smaller emboli in both of my lungs.
A few days passed and the pain in my left leg subsided slightly, but my leg had turned a dark purple color. I still put it down to part of the healing process and went out to get my nails done.
On my walk to the salon, I felt something huge plug my chest and I was suffocating as I could not catch my breath. I somehow managed to call an ambulance. Paramedics had no idea what was wrong with me.
I will never forget this moment where I actually told myself, “This is it, I’m going to die.” My heart was pounding in my chest so fast that I thought there’s no way it can withstand this pressure. It was absolutely terrifying.
Upon admission to the ER, an ECG showed elevated troponin levels and I also had a very high D-dimer level in my blood results.
Testing confirmed a saddle embolus which was causing huge burden on my airways. I had to spend all of my time in isolation due to Covid and feeling like I could die at any stage. I have never ever felt so alone or vulnerable in my entire life.
I’m a rivaroxaban lifer, despite my clot event being provoked based on Covid and botched vascular surgery. A Doppler ultrasound confirmed that the previous ablation attempt failed and that the proximal portion of my great saphenous vein remains open. I’m happy to be alive.
Resources
Covid and Blood Clotting
How is a PE Diagnosed?
New Patient Resource Guide
